2006 Honda Civic Sedan Owners Manual

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Mileage

Maintenance Performed

Signature

Date

Mileage

Maintenance Performed

Signature

Date

Maintenance Record

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

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Fluid Locations

POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap)

WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

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ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop)

BRAKE FLUID (Black cap)

CLUTCH FLUID (Manual Transmission only) (Light gray cap)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop)

ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR

RADIATOR CAP

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ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

Recommended Engine Oil Oil is a major contributor to your engine’s performance and longevity. Always use a premium-grade 5W-20
detergent oil displaying the API Certification Seal. This seal indicates the oil is energy conserving, and that it meets the American Petroleum Institute’s latest requirements.

Unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on the valve cover. Pour in the oil slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately. Spilled oil could damage components in the engine compartment. Reinstall the engine oil fill cap, and tighten it securely. Wait a few minutes, and recheck the oil level on the engine oil dipstick. Do not fill above the upper mark; you could damage the engine.

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

Adding Engine Oil

Honda Motor Oil is the preferred 5W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. It is highly recommended that you use Honda Motor Oil in your vehicle for optimum engine protection. Make sure the API Certification Seal says ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’

The oil viscosity or weight is provided on the container’s label. 5W-20 oil is formulated for year- round protection of your vehicle to improve cold weather starting and fuel economy.

Ambient Temperature

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Adding Engine Oil, Changing the Engine Oil and Filter

Synthetic Oil You may use a synthetic motor oil if it meets the same requirements given for a conventional motor oil: it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight. You must follow the oil and filter change intervals shown on the information display.

Engine Oil Additives Your vehicle does not require any oil additives. Additives may adversely affect the engine or transmission performance and durability.

Changing the Engine Oil and Filter Always change the oil and filter according to the maintenance messages shown on the information display. The oil and filter collect contaminants that can damage your engine if they are not removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle should be raised on a service station- type hydraulic lift for this service. Unless you have the knowledge and proper equipment, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled technician.

1.

Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then shut it off.

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DRAIN BOLT

WASHER

2.

Open the hood, and remove the engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.

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Changing the Engine Oil and Filter

OIL FILTER

5.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten the drain bolt to:

29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)

9.

Turn off the engine and let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick. If necessary, add more oil.

3.

Remove the oil filter, and let the remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your dealer) is required.

Make sure the oil filter gasket is not stuck to the engine block. If it is, remove it before installing a new oil filter.

4.

Install a new oil filter according to the instructions that come with it.

6.

Refill the engine with the recommended oil.

Engine oil change capacity (including filter):

3.9 US qt (3.7

7.

Reinstall the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator should go out within 5
seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine and check your work.

8.

Let the engine run for several minutes, then check the drain bolt and oil filter for leaks.

Improper disposal of engine oil can be harmf ul to the environment. If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed container, and take it to a recycling center. Do not discard it in a trash bin or dump it on the ground.

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Engine Coolant

Adding Engine Coolant

RESERVE TANK

If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

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If the reserve tank is completely empty, you should also check the coolant level in 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.

Always use Honda Long-life Anti- freeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.

If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement. Make sure it is a high-quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. Continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

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RADIATOR CAP

1.

Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.

2.

Relieve any pressure in the cooling system by turning the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pressing down.

3.

Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.

Engine Coolant, Windshield Washers

4.

The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low. Pour the coolant slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

5.

Put the radiator cap back on, and tighten it fully.

6.

Pour coolant into the reserve tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back on the reserve tank.

Do not add any rust inhibitors or other additives to your vehicle’s cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine components.

Windshield Washers Check the fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal use. The low washer OnCanadianmodels: level indicator will come on when the level is low. Fill the reservoir with a good-quality windshield washer fluid. This increases the cleaning capability and prevents freezing in cold weather. When you refill the reservoir, clean the edges of the windshield wiper blades with windshield washer fluid on a clean cloth. This will help to condition them.

Do not use engine antif reeze or a vinegar/water solution in the windshield washer reservoir. Antif reeze can damage your vehicle’s paint, while a vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield washer pump. Use only commercially-available windshield washer f luid.

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Transmission Fluid

Automatic Transmission

DIPSTICK

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

Check the fluid level with the engine at normal operating temperature.

1.

Park the vehicle on level ground. Shut off the engine.

2.

Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission, and wipe it with a clean cloth.

3.

4.

Insert the dipstick all the way into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration.

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

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5.

If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the dipstick hole to bring it to the upper mark.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

Always use Honda ATF-Z1
(automatic transmission fluid). If it’s not available, you may use a DEXRON III automatic transmission fluid as a temporary replacement. However, continued use can affect the shift quality. Have the transmission flushed and refilled with Honda ATF-Z1 by your dealer as soon as it is convenient.

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6.

Insert the dipstick all the way back in the transmission.

If you are not sure how to add fluid, contact your dealer.

Manual Transmission

FILLER BOLT

Transmission Fluid

If Honda MTF is not available, you may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40
viscosity motor oil with the API Certification seal that says ‘‘FOR GASOLINE ENGINES’’ as a temporary replacement. However, motor oil does not contain the proper additives, and continued use can cause stiffer shifting. Replace as soon as it is convenient.

Correct Level

If you are not sure how to add fluid, contact your dealer.

Check the fluid level with the transmission at normal operating temperature and the vehicle sitting on level ground. Remove the transmission filler bolt, and carefully feel inside the bolt hole with your finger. The fluid level should be up to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is not, add Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall the filler bolt, and tighten it securely.

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Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake Fluid Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir monthly. Replace the brake fluid according to the time recommendation in the maintenance minder schedule.

Always use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement.

Using any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your vehicle’s braking system and can cause extensive damage.

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MAX

Clutch Fluid ManualTransmissiononly

MIN

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If the level is at or below the MIN mark, your brake system needs attention. Have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

MAX

MIN

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If it is not, add brake fluid to bring it up to that level. Use the same fluid specified for the brake system.

A low fluid level can indicate a leak in the clutch system. Have this system inspected as soon as possible.

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Power Steering Fluid

Always use Honda Power Steering Fluid. You may use another power steering fluid as an emergency replacement, but have the power steering system flushed and refilled with Honda PSF as soon as possible.

A low power steering fluid level can indicate a leak in the system. Check the fluid level frequently, and have the system inspected as soon as possible.

Turning the steering wheel to f ull lef t or right lock and holding it there can damage the power steering pump.

UPPER LEVEL

LOWER LEVEL

Check the level on the side of the reservoir when the engine is cold. The fluid should be between the UPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL. If not add power steering fluid to the UPPER LEVEL mark.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

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Lights

Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk or pull a trailer, readjustment may be required. Adjustments should be performed by your dealer or other qualified mechanic.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb Your vehicle has halogen headlight bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its 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.

HighBeamHeadlight

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

1.

To change the headlight bulb on the driver’s side, remove the engine coolant reserve tank by pulling it out of its holder.

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4.

5.

Push the electrical connector back onto the new socket. Make sure it is on all the way.

Insert the socket into the hole, and turn it one-quarter turn clockwise to lock it in place.

6.

Turn on the headlights to test the new socket.

7.

If you replaced a headlight bulb on the driver’s side, reinstall the engine coolant reserve tank.

LowBeamHeadlight

Lights

HOLDING CLIP

1.

2.

To change 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. To change the bulb on the passenger’s side, turn the steering wheel to the left.

Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to remove the two holding clips from the inner fender, and pull the inner fender cover back.

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SOCKET

TAB

2.

3.

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

Remove the electrical connector from the socket by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector down.

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Lights

SOCKET

TAB

3.

4.

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

Remove the electrical connector from the socket by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector down.

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5.

6.

Insert the new socket into the hole, and turn it one-quarter turn clockwise to lock it in place.

Push the electrical connector back onto the new socket. Make sure it is on all the way.

7.

Turn on the headlights to test the new socket.

8.

Reinstall the inner fender cover. Then reinstall the holding clips, and lock them in place by pushing on their centers.

Replacing the Front Side Marker/ Parking/Turn Signal Light Bulb

HOLDING CLIP

1.

To change 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. To change the bulb on the passenger’s side, turn the steering wheel to the left.

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4.

Remove the bulb from the socket by pushing the bulb in and turning it counterclockwise until it unlocks.

5.

Install the new bulb in the socket. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

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.

Reinstall the inner fender cover. Then reinstall the holding clips, and lock them in place by pushing on their centers.

Replacing Rear Bulbs (in Fenders)

Lights

FASTENER

FASTENER

1.

Open the trunk.

Remove the screw from the center of each fastener on the side of the trunk lining. Pull the lining back.

2.

Determine which of the four bulbs is burned out: stop/taillight, back- up light, turn signal, or side marker.

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2.

Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to remove the two holding clips from the inner fender, and pull the inner fender cover back.

3.

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

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Lights

BULBS

Replacing Rear Bulbs (in Trunk Lid)

BULB

SOCKETS

SOCKETS

BULB

3.

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

6.

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

4.

5.

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

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

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.

FASTENERS

1.

Open the trunk.

2.

OnLXandEXmodels Remove the screw from the center of each fastener on the trunk lid trim. Pull the trim back.

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BULB

SOCKET Remove the socket by turning it 3. one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

4.

5.

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

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.

7.

8.

OnLXandEXmodels Push the trunk lid trim back into position.

Put the fasteners into the holes on the trunk lid trim. Reinstall the screws.

Lights

Replacing a High-mount Brake Light Bulb

BULB

SOCKET

1.

2.

3.

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

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Cleaning the Seat Belts, Floor Mats, Dust and Pollen Filter

Cleaning the Seat Belts

Floor Mats

LOOP

If your seat belts get dirty, use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean them. Do not use bleach, dye, or cleaning solvents. Let the belts air dry before you use the vehicle. 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.

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Ifequipped The floor mats that came with your vehicle hook over the floor mat anchors. This keeps them from sliding forward and possibly interfering with vehicle operation.

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

If you use non-Honda floor mats, make sure they fit properly and that they can be used with the floor mat anchors. Do not put additional floor mats on top of the anchored mats.

Dust and Pollen Filter OnmodelswithA/C This filter removes the dust and pollen that is brought in from the outside through the heating and cooling system.

Have your dealer replace the filter when this service is indicated by a maintenance message on the information display. It should be replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000
km) if you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air, or if the flow from the heating and cooling system becomes less than usual.

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Check the condition of the wiper blades at least every 6 months. Replace them if you find signs of cracking in the rubber, and areas that are getting hard or if they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.

Wiper Blades

COVER

WIPER ARMS

To replace a wiper blade:

1.

Lift the wiper arm off the windshield, raising the driver’s side first, then the passenger’s side.

Do not open the hood when the wiper arms are raised, or you will damage the hood and wiper arms.

2.

Remove the cover, by squeezing the two tabs and pulling it straight out.

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Wiper Blades

TAB

BLADE ASSEMBLY

REINFORCEMENT STRIP

WIPER BLADE

4.

Remove the blade from the blade assembly:

Find the side of the blade labeled ‘‘LOCK.’’ This is the side you pull out. Pull back the end of the blade assembly on the ‘‘LOCK’’ side of the blade. Then grab the end of the blade, and slide it out.

5.

Examine the new wiper blades. If they have no plastic or metal reinforcement along the back edge, remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade, and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade.

3.

Disconnect the blade assembly from the wiper arm:

Press and hold the lock tab. Slide the blade assembly toward the lock tab until it releases from the wiper arm.

When replacing a wiper blade, make sure not to drop the wiper blade or wiper arm down on the windshield.

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Wiper Blades, Tires

6.

Install the new blade onto the blade assembly:

Pull back either end of the blade assembly. Place the side of the blade not labeled ‘‘LOCK’’ on the end of the blade assembly, and slide the blade onto the assembly until it is fully installed.

7.

Slide the wiper blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place.

8.

Reinstall the cover.

9.

Make sure the blade is completely installed and that its edge is not bunched up.

10.

Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield, the passenger’s side first, then the driver’s side.

Tires To safely operate your vehicle, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated.

Inflation Guidelines Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best combination of handling, tread life, and riding comfort.

The following pages give more detailed information on how to take care of your tires and what to do when they need to be replaced.

Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

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.

Overinflated tires can make your vehicle 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.

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Tires

Use a gauge to measure the air pressure in each tire at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose 1 to 2 psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month. Remember to check the spare tire at the same time.

Check the air pressures when the tires are cold. This means the vehicle has been parked for at least 3
hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6
km). Add or release air, if needed, to match the recommended cold tire pressures.

If you check air pressures when the tires are hot (driven for 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 readings. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the recommended cold air 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.

While tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured, you should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.

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Recommended Tire Pressures The following charts show the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving conditions.

(DX, Canadian DX-G)

Tire Size

P195/65R15 89H

(LX, EX)

Tire Size

P205/55R16 89H

Cold Tire Pressure Front/Rear: 30 psi (210 kPa ,

2.1 kgf/cm )

Cold Tire Pressure Front/Rear: 32 psi (220 kPa ,

2.2 kgf/cm )

Thecompactsparetirepressureis: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

For convenience, the recommended tire sizes and cold tire pressures are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb. For additional information about your tires, see page

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Tire 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.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR

Your tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down, you will see a band 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire.

A tire this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see three or more tread wear indicators.

Tires

Tire 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.

Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This increases riding comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

On vehicles with aluminum wheels, improper wheel weights can damage your wheels. Use only genuine Honda wheel weights f or balancing.

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Replacing Tires and Wheels Replace your tires 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 vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the ABS to work inconsistently.

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

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

Tires

Tire Rotation

Front

Front

(Front Non-directional Tires and Wheels)

(Front Directional Tires and Wheels)

To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, rotate the tires according to the maintenance messages displayed in the information display. Move the tires to the positions shown in the chart each time they are rotated. If you purchase directional tires, rotate only front-to-back.

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Tires

Installing improper tires on your vehicle 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.

Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheels:

Tires:

(DX, Canadian DX-G) 15 x 6 J (LX, EX) 16 x 6 1/2 JJ

(DX, Canadian DX-G) P195/65R15 89H (LX, EX) P205/55R16 89H

244

for DOT tire quality

See page grading information, and page 246
for tire size information.

Winter Driving Tires marked ‘‘M Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- weather tread design suitable for most winter driving conditions.

S’’ or ‘‘All

＋

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 vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads maybelowerthanyouroriginaltires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.

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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.

Tires

TireChains Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’ cable-type traction devices, with rubber chain tensioners, 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.

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

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TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

Check the condition of the battery monthly by looking at the test indicator window. The label on the battery explains the test indicator’s colors.

Check the terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To remove it, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent further corrosion.

If additional battery maintenance is needed, see your dealer or a qualified technician.

Battery posts,

WARNING: terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling.

Checking the Battery

If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damaging your vehicle’s electrical system. Always disconnect the negative ( − reconnect it last.

) cable first, and

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled mechanic do the battery maintenance.

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Vehicle Storage

If you need to park your vehicle for an extended period (more than 1
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 vehicle back on the road. If possible, store your vehicle indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Block the rear wheels.

If the vehicle 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 vehicle is being stored indoors).

Change the engine oil and filter.

Disconnect the battery.

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 (manual) or Park (automatic).

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.

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

If possible, periodically run the engine until it reaches full operating temperature (the cooling fan cycles twice). Preferably, do this once a month.

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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 vehicle towed.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If the Engine Won’t Start Jump Starting If the Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp Brake System Indicator Fuses Fuse Locations Emergency Towing

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Compact Spare Tire

Use the compact spare tire as a temporary replacement only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced, and put it back on your vehicle 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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Follow these precautions:

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).

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

Do not mount tire chains on the compact spare tire.

Do not use your compact spare tire on another vehicle unless it is the same make and model.

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

Replace the tire 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 spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the spare 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. 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 vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

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

1.

2.

Park the vehicle on firm, level, and non-slippery ground. 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 the LOCK (0) position. Have all passengers get out of the vehicle while you change the tire.

Changing a Flat Tire

JACK

TOOL CASE

TRUNK FLOOR SPARE TIRE Open the trunk. Raise the trunk 3. floor by lifting up on the back edge.

4.

Take the tool case out of the spare tire.

5.

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

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Changing a Flat Tire

JACKING POINTS

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

6.

Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turn with the wheel nut wrench.

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

EXTENSION

7.

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.

8.

9.

Use the extension and the wheel nut wrench as shown to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground.

Remove the wheel nuts, then remove the flat tire. Handle the wheel nuts carefully; they may be hot from driving. Place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface facing up.

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WHEEL NUTS

WHEEL NUTS WHEEL COVER

BRAKE HUB

DX,LX,andCanadianDX-Gmodels: Do not attempt to forcibly pry the wheel cover off with a screwdriver or other tool. The wheel cover cannot be removed without first removing the wheel nuts.

10.

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.

Changing a Flat Tire

11.

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

12.

Lower the vehicle to the ground, and remove the jack.

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Changing a Flat Tire

WING BOLT

SPACER CONE

18.

Store the jack and tools in the tool case. Place the tool case in the center of the flat tire.

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.

19.

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

20.

Lower the trunk floor, and close the trunk lid.

For normal tire

For spare tire

15.

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

16.

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

17.

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

13.

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)

14.

EXmodel: Remove the center cap before storing the flat tire in the trunk well.