2004 Honda Civic Sedan Owners Manual

Playing a Tape

− Press the RPT button

REPEAT to continuously play a song or passage. You will see RPT displayed. The track will repeat until you press the RPT button again.

The SKIP and REPEAT

NOTE: functions use silent periods on the tape to find the end of a song or passage. These features may not work if there is almost no gap between selections, a high noise level, or a silent period in the middle of a selection.

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Comfort and Convenience Features

Caring for the Tape and Player The tape player picks up dirt and oxides from the tape. This contamination builds up over time and cause the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the player after every 30 hours of use.

If you do not clean the tape player regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the contamination with a normal cleaning kit. Your Honda dealer has a cleaning kit available.

Use 100-minute or shorter tapes. Tapes longer than that may break or jam the drive.

If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning the hub with a pencil or your finger. If the label is peeling off, remove it or it could cause the cassette to jam in the player. Never try to insert a warped or damaged

cassette in the player.

Store tapes in their cases to protect them from dust and moisture. Never place tapes where they will be exposed to direct sunlight, high heat, or high humidity. If a tape is exposed to extreme heat or cold, let it reach a moderate temperature before inserting it into the player.

Never insert foreign objects into the cassette player.

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LXandEXmodelsintheU.S.,andLX andSimodelsinCanada Your vehicle’s audio system will disable itself if it is disconnected from electrical power for any reason. To make it work again, you must enter a specific five-digit code in the preset buttons. Because there are hundreds of number combinations possible from five-digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible.

You should have received a card that lists your audio system code number and serial number. It is best to store this card in a safe place at home. In addition, you should write the audio system’s serial number in this Owner’s Manual.

If you should happen to lose the card, you must obtain the code number from a Honda dealer. To do this, you will need the system’s serial number.

If your vehicle’s battery is discon- nected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. If this happens, you will see ‘‘COdE’’ in the frequency display the next time you turn on the system. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code. The code is located on the radio code card included in your Owner’s Manual kit. When it is entered correctly, the radio will start playing.

If you make a mistake entering the code, do not start over; complete the five-digit sequence, then enter the correct code. You have ten tries to enter the correct code. If you are unsuccessful in ten attempts, you must then leave the system on for one hour before trying again.

Radio Theft Protection

If the code card is lost, a Honda dealer can access your code with your radio’s serial number. To access the serial number, turn the radio on. It must display ‘‘COdE’’, then turn the radio off. Push the preset 1, preset 6, and power buttons at the same time, then quickly release.

You will have to store your favorite stations in the Preset buttons after the system begins working. Your original settings were lost when the power was disconnected.

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Setting the Clock

DX Model

CLOCK BUTTON

U.S.: LX, EX, Canada: LX, Si Models

CLOCK (SCAN/RPT) BUTTON

H BUTTON

M BUTTON

R BUTTON

If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected or goes dead, you will need to reset the clock.

Press and hold the CLOCK button until you hear a beep. Change the hours by pressing the H (Preset 4) button until the numbers advance to the desired time. Change the minutes by press the M (Preset 5) button until the numbers advance to the desired time. When you are

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Comfort and Convenience Features

finished, press the CLOCK button.

Vehicles without CD Player Adjust the hours by pressing and holding the CLOCK button, then pressing the H (Preset 4) button. A

Adjust the minutes by pressing and holding the CLOCK button, then pressing the M (Preset 5) button.

H BUTTON

M BUTTON

R BUTTON

You can quickly set the time to the nearest hour. If the displayed time is before the half hour, press and hold the CLOCK button until you hear a beep, then press the R (Preset 6) button to set the clock back to the previous hour. If the displayed time is after the half hour, the clock sets forward to the beginning of the next hour. For example:

1:06 will reset to 1:00
1:52 will reset to 2:00

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OnLXandEXmodelsintheU.S.,and LXandSimodelsinCanada Cruise control allows you to maintain a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal. It should be used for cruising on straight, open highways. It is not recommended for city driving, winding roads, slippery roads, heavy rain, or bad weather.

Improper use of the cruise control can lead to a crash.

Use the cruise control only when traveling on open highways in good weather.

Using the Cruise Control

CANCEL BUTTON

Cruise Control

RESUME/ accel BUTTON

SET/decel BUTTON

1.

Push in the Cruise Control Master Switch. The indicator in the switch will light.

2.

Accelerate to the desired cruising speed above 25 mph (40 km/h).

3.

Press and release the SET/decel button on the steering wheel. The CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel comes on to show the system is now activated.

Comfort and Convenience Features

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Cruise Control

The cruise control may not hold the set speed when you are going up and down hills. If your speed increases going down a hill, use the brakes to slow down. This will cancel the cruise control. To resume the set speed, press the RESUME/accel button. The CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will come back on.

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Comfort and Convenience Features

Changing the Set Speed You can increase the set cruising speed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the RESUME/ accel button. When you reach the desired cruising speed, release the button.

To increase your speed in very small amounts, tap the RESUME/ accel button. Each time you do this, your vehicle will speed up about 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

Push on the accelerator pedal. Accelerate to the desired cruising speed and press the SET/decel button.

You can decrease the set cruising speed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the SET/decel button. Release the button when you reach the desired speed.

To slow down in very small amounts, tap the SET/decel button. Each time you do this, your vehicle will slow down about 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

Tap the brake or clutch pedal lightly with your foot. The CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out. When the vehicle slows to the desired speed, press the SET/ decel button.

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Even with the cruise control turned on, you can still use the accelerator pedal to speed up for passing. After completing the pass, take your foot off the accelerator pedal. The vehicle will return to the set cruising speed.

Resting your foot on the brake or clutch pedal will cause the cruise control to cancel.

Cancelling the Cruise Control You can cancel the cruise control in any of these ways:

Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

Push the CANCEL button on the steering wheel.

Press the Cruise Control Master Switch.

Cruise Control

When you push the CANCEL button, or tap the brake or clutch pedal, the system remembers the previously- set cruising speed. To return to that speed, accelerate to above 25 mph (40 km/h) and then press and release the RESUME/accel button. The CRUISE CONTROL light comes on. The vehicle will accelerate to the same cruising speed as before.

Pressing the Cruise Control Master Switch turns the system completely off and erases the previous cruising speed.

Comfort and Convenience Features

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Before Driving

Before you begin driving your Honda, you should know what gasoline to use, and how to check the levels of important fluids. You also need to know how to properly store luggage or packages. The information in this section will help you. If you plan to add any accessories to your vehicle, please read the information in this section first.

Break-in Period Gasoline Type Service Station Procedures Fuel Economy Accessories Modifications Carrying Cargo

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

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Break-in Period, Gasoline Type

Break-in Period Help assure your vehicle’s future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you drive during the first 600 miles (1,000 km). During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

Avoid hard braking for the first 200 miles (300 km).

Do not change the oil until the scheduled maintenance time.

You should also follow these re- commendations with an overhauled or exchanged engine, or when the brakes are replaced.

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Gasoline Type Your Honda is designed to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 86 or higher. Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause a persistent, heavy metallic rapping noise in the engine that can lead to mechanical failure.

We recommend using a gasoline containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits.

In addition, in order to maintain good performance, fuel economy, and emissions control, we strongly recommend, in areas where it is available, the use of gasoline that does NOT contain manganese-based fuel additives such as MMT. Use of gasoline with these additives may adversely affect performance, and cause the Malfunction Indicator Lamp on your instrument panel to come on. If this happens, contact your authorized Honda dealer for service. Some gasoline today is blended with oxygenates such as ethanol or MTBE. Your vehicle is designed to operate on oxygenated gasoline containing up to 10 percent ethanol by volume and up to 15 percent MTBE by volume. Do not use gasoline containing methanol. For further important fuel-related information, please refer to your Quick Start Guide.

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Fueling

Push

1.

Park with the driver’s side closest to the service station pump.

2.

Open the fuel fill door by pushing on the handle to the left of the driver’s seat.

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away. Handle fuel only outdoors. Wipe up spills immediately.

3.

4.

Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. Place the cap in the holder on the fuel fill door.

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.

Service Station Procedures

Ifthefuelnozzlekeepsclickingoff even though the tank is not full, there may be a problem with your vehicle’s fuel vapor recovery system. The system helps keep fuel vapors from going into the atmosphere. Consult your dealer.

5.

Screw the fuel fill cap back on until it clicks at least three times. If you do not properly tighten the cap, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp may come on (see page 183

).

6.

Push the fuel fill door closed until it latches.

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Service Station Procedures

Opening the Hood

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

1.

2.

Park the vehicle 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.

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.

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To Close the Hood

LATCH

GRIP

If the hood latch handle moves stiffly, or if you can open the hood without lifting the handle, the mechanism should be cleaned and lubricated.

3.

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

SUPPORT ROD

CLIP

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. Make sure it is securely latched.

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Oil Check

DIPSTICK

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

Wait a few minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

1.

Remove the dipstick (orange loop).

4.

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

2.

Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel.

3.

Insert it all the way back in its tube.

If it is near or below the lower mark, see

Adding Oil

on page

144

Service Station Procedures

Engine Coolant Check

RESERVE TANK

MAX

MIN

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 147
information on adding the proper coolant.

on page

Owner’s Maintenance on page

Refer to Checks on checking other items in your Honda.

138

for information

Before Driving

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Fuel Economy

Try to maintain a constant speed. Every time you slow down and speed up, your vehicle uses extra fuel. Use the cruise control when appropriate.

Combine several short trips into one.

The air conditioning puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Use the fresh-air ventilation when possible.

Improving Fuel Economy

Always maintain your vehicle according to the maintenance Owner’s schedule. See Maintenance Checks 138

).

(see page

an underinflated tire Forexample, causes more ‘‘rolling resistance,’’ which uses fuel.

The build-up of snow or mud on your vehicle’s underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

Drive moderately. Rapid acceleration, abrupt cornering and hard braking use more fuel.

Always drive in the highest gear possible.

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Modifying your vehicle, or installing some non-Honda accessories, can make your vehicle 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 vehicle. These accessories have been designed and approved for your vehicle, and are covered by warranty.

Improper accessories or modifications can affect your vehicle’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.

Although aftermarket accessories may fit on your vehicle, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your vehicle’s handling and stability. (See ‘‘Modifications’’ on page 118
additional information.)

for

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

Accessories and Modifications

Before installing any accessory:

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

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

) or interfere with

186

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

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Accessories and Modifications

Larger or smaller wheels and tires can interfere with the operation of your vehicle’s anti-lock brakes and other systems.

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

28

If you plan to modify your vehicle, consult your Honda dealer.

Modifying Your Vehicle Removing parts from your vehicle, or replacing components with non- Honda (aftermarket) components could seriously affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, and reliability.

Some examples are:

Lowering your vehicle with an aftermarket suspension kit that significantly reduces ground clearance can allow the undercarriage to hit speed bumps or other raised objects, which could cause the airbags to deploy.

Raising your vehicle with an aftermarket suspension kit can affect the handling and stability.

Aftermarket wheels, because they are a universal design, can cause excessive stress on suspension components.

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CONSOLE COMPARTMENT ＊

FRONT DOOR POCKET

TRUNK

SEAT-BACK POCKET ＊

GLOVE BOX

＊

: On LX, U.S. EX, and Canadian Si models

Carrying Cargo

Your vehicle has several convenient storage areas:

Glove box Front door and seat-back pockets Console compartment Trunk Roof-rack (if installed)

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

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Carrying Cargo

The maximum load for your vehicle is 850 lbs (395 kg). This figure includes total weight of all occupants, cargo, and accessories.

To determine the correct cargo and luggage load limit:

1.

2.

Locate the statement, ‘‘the combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed 850 lbs (395 kg)’’ on your vehicle’s placard (on the driver’s doorjamb).

Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in the vehicle. (Five is seating capacity of your vehicle.)

3.

Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from 850 lbs (395 kg).

4.

The resulting figure equals the available load capacity.

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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 vehicle during a crash.

Be sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll under the seats and interfere with the pedals or seat operation.

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

For example, if there will be four 150
lbs (70 kg) occupants in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 250 lbs (115
kg). × kg) 850 lbs (395 kg) 250 lbs (115 kg) 5.

150 lbs (70 kg) = 600 lbs (280

Determine the combined weight of accessories, luggage, and cargo being loaded in the vehicle. The weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in step 4.

600 lbs (280 kg) =

−

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.

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Carrying Cargo

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 fold down the back seat, tie down items that could be thrown about the vehicle 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 poisoning on page

, follow the instructions

carbon monoxide

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Before Driving

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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 vehicle, and the braking system.

Preparing to Drive Starting the Engine 5-speed Manual Transmission Automatic Transmission Parking Braking System Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Towing a Trailer

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

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4.

5.

6.

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

9.

Fasten your seat belt. Check that your passengers have fastened their seat belts (see page ).

14

Check the seat adjustment (see page

74

).

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

80

).

When you start the engine, check the gauges and indicator lights in the instrument panel (see page 51

).

7.

Check the steering wheel adjustment (see page ). 66

8.

Make sure the doors are securely closed and locked.

Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checks and adjustments every day before you drive your vehicle.

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.

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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 halfway down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

If the engine fails to start, press the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting to clear flooding. If the engine still does not start, return to step 5.

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.

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. Do not hold the key in START for more than 15 seconds at a time. If the engine does not start right away, pause for at least 10 seconds before trying again.

Starting the Engine

NOTICE: The engine is harder to start in cold weather. Also, the thinner air f ound at altitudes above 8,000 f eet (2,400 meters) adds to this problem.

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5-speed Manual Transmission

Come to a full stop before you shift into Reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into Reverse with the vehicle 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 in the U.S., and all models in Canada, 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.

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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.

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5-speed Manual Transmission

Engine Speed Limiter OnEXandLXmodelsintheU.S.,and allmodelsinCanada 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.

OnDXmodelintheU.S. 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 car speed is low enough that you will not activate the engine speed limiter in the lower gear.

Recommended Shift Points Drive in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you better fuel economy and effective emissions 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)

Driving

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Automatic Transmission

Shift Lever Position Indicators

Shifting

SHIFT LEVER

LX, U.S. EX, and Canadian Si models

Canadian DX model

RELEASE BUTTON

These indicators on the instrument panel show which position the shift lever is in. The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II). If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission. Avoid rapid acceleration and have the trans- mission checked by a Honda dealer as soon as possible.

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U.S. DX model

To shift from any position, press firmly on the brake pedal and press the release button on the front of the shift lever. You cannot shift out of Park when the ignition switch is in LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I).

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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

−

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.

If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see Shift Lock Release on page 130

Automatic Transmission

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.

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.

−

Press the brake

Reverse (R) pedal and press the release button to the front of the shift lever to shift from Park to Reverse. To shift from Reverse to Neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift.

−

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 the Park position if you need to leave your vehicle for any reason. Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from Neutral to another gear.

−

Drive (D) Use this position for your normal driving. The transmis- sion automatically selects a suitable

−

This position is similar

Drive (D ) 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.

−

Second (2) This position locks the transmission in second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop. Use Second gear:

For more power when climbing. To increase engine braking when going down steep hills. For starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow.

Driving

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Automatic Transmission

Engine Speed Limiter OnEXandLXmodelsintheU.S.,and allmodelsinCanada 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.

OnDXmodelintheU.S. 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.

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Driving

Shift Lock Release Do this if pushing on the brake pedal and pressing the release button does not shift the transmission out of park:

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. Using a small flat- tipped screwdriver or small metal plate, carefully pry on the edge of the cover to remove it.

COVER

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.

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RELEASE BUTTON

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT

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, press the brake pedal, and restart the engine.

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

Automatic Transmission, Parking

Parking Always use the parking brake when you park your vehicle. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly or your vehicle may roll if it is on an incline.

If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, set the parking brake before you put the transmission in Park. This keeps the vehicle from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission.

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.

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

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

If the vehicle 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.

Driving

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Braking System

Braking System Your Honda is 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 some models) helps you retain steering control when braking very hard.

Check the 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. Be extra cautious in your driving.

Braking System Design

Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, builds up heat, and reduces their effectiveness. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you.

Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by taking your foot off the accelerator and downshifting to a lower gear.

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Driving

Front

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.

Brake Wear Indicators If the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive, metallic screeching sound when you apply the brake pedal. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will screech all the time. It is normal for the brakes to occasionally squeal or squeak when you apply them.

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Anti-lock Brakes OnU.S.EXandCanadianLXandSi models The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) helps prevent the brakes from locking up and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly; much faster than a person.

Youshouldneverpumpthebrakepedal. Let the ABS work for you by always keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal. This is sometimes referred to as ‘‘stomp and steer.’’

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. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before the ABS activates. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

ABS Indicator

ABS INDICATOR

If the ABS indicator comes on, the anti-lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system, but without anti-lock. You should have the dealer inspect your vehicle as soon as possible.

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Important Safety Reminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the vehicle; control during braking.

It only helps with steering

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.

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 vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road.

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.

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Towing a Trailer

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

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Driving

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Maintenance

This section explains why it is important to keep your vehicle well maintained and how 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.

211

Maintenance Safety Maintenance Schedule Maintenance Record Fluid Locations Adding Engine Oil Changing the Oil and Filter Engine Coolant Windshield Washers Automatic Transmission Fluid Manual Transmission Fluid Timing Belt Brake and Clutch Fluid Power Steering Fluid Hood Latch Lights Seat Belts Floor Mats Dust and Pollen Filter Wiper Blades Tires Checking Your Battery Vehicle Storage

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

. 136
. 137
. 141
. 143
. 144
. 145
. 147
. 148
.149
. 150
. 150
. 151
. 152
. 152
. 153
. 159
. 159
. 159
. 160
. 161
. 167
. 168

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Maintenance Safety

All service items not detailed in this section should be performed by a Honda technician or qualified mechanic.

Important Safety Precautions To eliminate potential hazards, read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.

Make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground, the parking brake is set, and the engine is off.

To clean parts, use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline.

To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.

Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working

136

Maintenance

with the battery or compressed air.

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

Do

Improperly maintaining this vehicle 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.

Potential Vehicle Hazards

Carbon Monoxide poison 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.

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.

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.

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The maintenance schedule assumes you will use your vehicle as normal transportation for passengers and their possessions. You should also follow these recommendation:

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

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

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

Maintenance Schedule

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

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

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

Always use unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating (see page 112

).

−

Follow the

U.S. Owners Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions if you drive your vehicle 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.

Used primarily as a delivery vehicle or taxi that is driven mostly in stop-and-go traffic and/ or parked with the engine idling.

If you only

NOTE: OCCASIONALLY drive under a ‘‘severe’’ condition, you should follow the Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule.

Canadian Owners Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

−

Maintenance

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Maintenance Schedule

Servicing Your Vehicle Your authorized Honda dealer knows your vehicle 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 skilled person to keep your warranties in effect. 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 more information.

We recommend the use of Honda parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done.

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.

＃

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.

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Maintenance

Owner’s Maintenance Checks You should check the following items at the specified intervals. If you are unsure of how to perform any check, turn to the appropriate page listed.

−

−

−

115

Check the

Check every

Engine oil level time you fill the fuel tank. See page Engine coolant level radiator reserve tank every time you fill the fuel tank. See page 115
Check Automatic transmission the fluid level monthly. See page 149
Brakes monthly. See page Tires Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign objects. See page 162
Lights the headlights, parking lights, taillights, high-mount brake light, and license plate lights monthly. See page

Check the operation of

Check the fluid level

153

151

−

−

−

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Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given). 90
144

miles x 1,000
km x 1,000

80
128

10
16

20
32

30
48

50
80

40
120
64
192
Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

70
112

100
160

110
176

60
96

130
208

140
224

150
240

Check engine oil and coolant Check tires Replace engine oil

Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 164) Replace engine oil filter Check parking brake adjustment Inspect the following items:

Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and boots Suspension components Driveshaft boots Front and rear brakes 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 air cleaner element Replace spark plugs Inspect valve clearance

＃

＃

Replace automatic transmission fluid ＊ Replace manual transmission fluid

Inspect idle speed Replace timing belt, and inspect auto-tensioner and water pump Replace engine coolant

Check inflation and condition once a month

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Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)

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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)

Replace brake fluid 1: ＊ ＃

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 emission warranty on page

138

Follow the Normal Maintenance Schedule if the severe driving conditions specified in the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule on the next page do not apply.

NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLY drive under a ‘‘severe’’ condition, you should follow the Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule.

Maintenance 139

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Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given). 90
144

miles x 1,000
km x 1,000

80
128

20
32

30
48

10
16

50
80

40
120
64
192
Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

70
112

100
160

110
176

60
96

130
208

140
224

150
240