1997 Honda CR V Owners Manual

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90509-2260 (310) 781-4565 Northwestern Zone P.O. Box 20186 12439 N.E. Airport Way Portland, Oregon 97230 (503) 256-0943 (also includes Alaska and Hawaii) South Central Zone 4529 Royal Lane Irving, Texas 75063 (972) 929-5481 Central Zone 101 South Stanfield Road Troy, Ohio 45373 (937) 332-6250 Northeastern Zone P.O. Box 337 Eastgate Industrial Park 115 Gaither Drive Mt. Laurel, New Jersey 08054 (609) 235-5533 Includes: NYC Metro area and Fairfield County, CT area Mid-Atlantic Zone 902 Wind River Ln., Suite 200 Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878 (301)990-2020 Southeastern Zone 1500 Morrison Parkway Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 (770) 442-2045 North Central Zone 601 Campus Drive, Suite A-9 Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004 (847) 870-5600 New England Zone 555 Old County Road Windsor Locks, Connecticut 06096 (860) 623-3310 See Zone 5 for: NYC Metro area and Fairfield County, CT area West Central Zone 1600 South Abilene Street, Suite D Aurora, Colorado 80012 (303) 696-3935 Puerto Rico and U.S. V.I. Bella International P.O. Box 190816 San Juan, PR 00919-0816 (787) 250-4318 The above addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannot reach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the current information. Warranty and Customer Relations Canada Zone Office Map CUSTOMER RELATIONS RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENT Honda Canada Inc. 715 Milner Avenue Toronto, ON M1B 2KB Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9 Fax Toll-free 1-877-939-0909 (416) 299-3400 Toronto Warranty and Customer Relations Honda Canada Inc. National Office Warranty Coverages U.S. Owners Your new Honda is covered by these warranties: Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat belt that fails to function properly is covered for the useful life of the car. New Car Limited Warranty — covers your new car, except for the battery, emissions control systems and accessories, against defects in materials and workmanship. Rust Perforation Limited Warranty — all exterior body panels are covered for rust-through from the inside for the specified time period with no mileage limit. Emissions Control Systems Defects Warranty and Emissions Performance Warranty — these two warranties cover your car's emis- sions control systems. Time, mileage, and coverage are conditional. Please read the warranty manual for exact information. Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty — this warranty gives up to 100 percent credit toward a replacement battery. Accessory Limited Warranty — Genuine Honda Accessories are covered under this warranty. Time and mileage limits depend on the type of accessory and other factors. Please read your warranty manual for details. Replacement Parts Limited Warranty — covers all Genuine Honda replacement parts against defects in materials and workman- ship. Replacement Battery Limited Warranty - provides prorated coverage for a replacement battery purchased from a Honda dealer. Replacement Muffler Lifetime Limited Warranty — provides coverage for as long as the pur- chaser of the muffler owns the car. Restrictions and exclusions apply to all these warranties. Please read the 1997 Honda Warranties booklet that came with your car for precise information on warranty coverages. Your Honda's original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty information is in a separate booklet. Canadian Owners Please refer to the 1997 Warranty Manual that came with your car. Warranty and Customer Relations Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Cars) If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying American Honda Motor Co., Inc. If NHTSA receives similar com- plaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or American Honda Motor Co., Inc. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline. Warranty and Customer Relations Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals (U.S. only) The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be obtained from Helm Incorporated, either by filling out the attached form or, for credit card holders, by calling the toll-free phone number on the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below, contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit, Michigan 48207 or call 1-800-782-4356. Authorized Manuals Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners should contact thier authorized Honda dealer. By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can pay by check or money order or charge to your credit card. Mail to Helm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form. OR Authorized Manuals Service Manual: This manual covers maintenance and recommended procedures for repair to engine and chassis components. It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simple enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under- stand. Electrical Troubleshooting Manual: This manual complements the Service Manual by providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit in your car. Body Repair Manual: This manual describes the procedures involved in the replacement of damaged body parts. These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14 days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order P.O. BOX 07280 DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207 1-800-782-4356 Off-Highway Driving Guidelines General Information...................... 234 Important Safety Precautions ...... 235 Off-Highway Guidelines............... 236 Check Out Your Vehicle........... 236 Controlling Speed...................... 236 Accelerating and Braking......... 236 Turning....................................... 236 Driving on Slopes....................... 237 Avoiding Obstacles.................... 237 If You Encounter Water ........... 238 If You Get Stuck........................ 238 General Information Your CR-V has been designed primarily for use on pavement. But its unique 4-wheel drive system allows you to occasionally travel on unpaved roads, to campgrounds, picnic sites, and similar locations. It is not designed for trailblazing, mountrain climbing, or other challenging off-road activities. If you decide to drive on unpaved roads, you will find that it requires somewhat different driving skills. Your CR-V will also handle somewhat differently than it does on pavement. So be sure to read this owner's manual, pay special attention to the precautions and tips in this section, and get acquainted with your vehicle before you leave the pavement. Remember that your CR-V has higher ground clearance and a higher center of gravity than passenger cars designed for use only on pavement. This means your vehicle can more easily tip or roll over if you make abrupt turns or drive on slopes. To avoid loss of control or rollover, be sure to follow all recommendations and precautions on page 106 and in this section. Seat belts are just as important off- highway as on pavement. Wherever you drive, make sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts. If children or infants are along for the ride, see that they are properly secured. Improperly operating this vehicle on or off-pavement can cause an accident or rollover in which you and your passengers could be seriously injured or killed. Follow all instructions and guidelines in the owner's manual. Keep your speed low and don't drive faster than conditions permit. On many unpaved roads, you won't find lane markers, traffic signals, or signs to warn you of possible trouble ahead. It's up to you to continually assess the situation and drive within limits. Important Safety Precautions The route presents limits (some roads are too steep and bumpy for example). You have limits (in driving skills and comfort). And your vehicle also has limits (traction, stability, and power, for instance). Driving off-highway can be hazardous if you fail to recognize limits and take proper precautions. For example, you can have an accident or rollover during maneuvers such as turning, driving on hills, or over large obstacles. Be sure to store cargo properly, and do not exceed your CR-V's cargo or trailer load limits (see pages 103 and 122). Off-Highway Guidelines The following pages contain practical tips on basic off-highway operation. Check Out Your Vehicle Driving off-highway can be hard on a vehicle. Before yon leave the pavement, be sure all scheduled maintenance and service has been done, and that you have inspected your vehicle. Pay special attention to the condition of the tires, and use a gauge to check the tire pressures. After you return to the pavement, carefully inspect your vehicle to make sure there is no damage that could make driving it unsafe. Check the tires for damage and for proper pressure. Controlling Speed Off-highway, the general rule is to keep your speed low. Of course, you'll need enough speed to keep moving forward. But at higher speeds, you have less time to assess conditions and make good decisions. There's also a greater chance of sliding if you brake or turn too quickly on wet soil, gravel, or ice. In any situation, never go faster than conditions allow. Accelerating and Braking For better traction on all surfaces, accelerate slowly and gradually build up speed. If you try to start too fast on wet soil, mud, snow, or ice, you might not have enough traction to get underway. You may even dig yourself into a hole. Generally, the best off-pavement braking technique is to gently depress the brake pedal, then increase pressure as more braking is needed. Avoid hard braking. Keep in mild that you will usually need more time and distance to brake to a stop on unpaved surfaces. Test your brakes from time to time to make sure they are operating properly. This will also give you a feel for how much traction you have on a given surface. Turning Off-highway, the basic turning technique is to drive at low speed and gradually adjust the amount of steering to suit the surface. You should have no problem making sharp turns at low speed on level ground. But never make an abrupt turn at higher speeds, on or off pavement. With a higher center of gravity, your vehicle can more easily tip or roll over. Off-Highway Guidelines Driving on Slopes Before driving up or down a hill, stop and assess the situation. If you can't clearly see all road conditions (good traction, no bumps, holes or other obstacles, a safe way out, etc.) walk the slope before you drive on it. If you have any doubt about whether you can safely drive on the slope, don't do it. Find another route. If you are driving up a hill and find that you cannot continue (because of the steepness, a large obstacle, etc.), do not try to turn around. Your vehicle could roll over. Slowly back down the hill, following the same route you took up the hill. Avoiding Obstacles Bumps, holes, rocks, and other obstacles can be hazardous. Debris in the road can damage your suspension or other components. Even small rocks can cut your tires. More important, because your vehicle has a high center of gravity, driving over a large obstacle, or allowing a wheel to drop into a deep hole, can cause your vehicle to tip or roll over. Drive slow enough to observe obstacles ahead and maneuver around them. If you can't avoid a serious obstacle, turn around and look for a better route. Off-Highway Guidelines If You Get Stuck Avoid driving on soft sand, deep mud, or other surfaces where you could get stuck. If you do happen to get stuck because of inclement weather or other conditions, choose a safe and appropriate course of action. You should never use a jack to try getting unstuck. A jack only works on firm, level ground. Also, your vehicle could easily slip off the jack and hurt you or someone else. If you spin the wheels excessively trying to get unstuck, you may overheat the components of the 4-wheel drive system. If this happens, the 4-wheel drive system shuts off and only the front wheels receive power. If this happens, stop and allow everything to cool down. The 4-wheel drive system will work again after its temperature drops. If You Encounter Water Avoid driving through deep water. If you encounter water in your route (a small stream or large puddle, for example), evaluate it carefully before going ahead. Make sure it is shallow, flowing slowly, and has firm ground underneath. If you are not sure of the depth or the ground, turn around and find another route. Driving through deep water can also damage your vehicle. The water can get into the transmission and differential, diluting the lubricant and causing an eventual failure. It can also wash the grease out of the wheel bearings. Accessories Installation.................................. 104 ACCESSORY (Ignition Key Position)........................................ 50 Accessory Power Socket................ 69 Adding Automatic Transmission Fluid........................................ 150 Brake Fluid................................. 152 Engine Coolant........................... 144 Engine Oil................................... 140 Power Steering Fluid................. 153 Rear Differential Fluid.............. 151 Windshield Washer Fluid......... 149 Additional Safety Information........ 18 Door Locks................................... 19 Driving with Pets......................... 19 Head Restraint Position.............. 18 Scat-back Position........................ 18 Storing Cargo Safely................... 19 Additives, Engine Oil..................... 141 Adjustments Headlights.................................. 170 Head Restraints........................... 56 Mirrors.......................................... 63 Seats.............................................. 54 Steering Wheel............................ 44 Airbag (SRS).................................... 12 Air Cleaner Element...................... 153 Air Conditioning............................... 74 Maintenance............................... 161 Usage............................................. 74 Air Conditioning Filter.................. 162 Air Outlets (Vents).......................... 76 Air Pressure. Tires........................ 163 Normal Driving.......................... 164 Alcohol and Drugs........................... 27 Alcohol in Gasoline.......................... 96 Antifreeze....................................... 144 Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Indicator Light.................... 35, 119 Operation.................................... 117 Anti-theft Steering Column Lock............................................... 50 Appearance Care........................... 181 Ashtrays............................................ 70 Audio System................................... 82 Automatic Speed Control................ 46 Automatic Transmission............... 110 Capacity, Fluid........................... 216 Index Checking Fluid Level................ 150 Shifting........................................ 110 Shift Lever Position Indicator.. 110 Shift Lever Positions................. 110 Shift Lock Release..................... 114 Battery Charging System Indicator........................... 34, 205 Jump Starting............................. 200 Maintenance............................... 157 Specifications............................. 217 Before Driving................................. 95 Belts, Seat........................................... 5 Beverage Holder.............................. 65 Body Repair.................................... 188 CONTINUED Index Brakes Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 117 Break-in, New Linings................. 96 Fluid............................................ 152 Light, Burned-out...................... 174 Parking.......................................... 64 System Indicator.......................... 34 Wear Indicators......................... 116 Brakes, ABS Operation.................................... 117 System Indicator.................. 35, 119 Braking System.............................. 116 Break-in, New Car........................... 96 Brightness Control, Instruments... 41 Brights, Headlights......................... 40 Built-in Table.................................... 66 Bulb Replacement Back-up Lights........................... 174 Brake Lights............................... 174 Cargo Area Light....................... 178 Front Parking Lights................. 173 Front Side Marker Lights......... 173 Headlights.................................. 172 High-mount Brake Light.......... 177 Interior Light.............................. 178 License Plate Lights.................. 175 Rear Side Marker Lights.......... 176 Specifications............................. 217 Spotlight...................................... 178 Turn Signal Lights..................... 173 Bulbs, Halogen............................... 172 Cables, Jump Starting With.......... 200 Capacities Chart............................. 216 Carbon Monoxide Hazard .............. 28 Cargo Area Light............................. 72 Cargo Floor Pockets........................ 68 Cargo Hooks..................................... 70 Cargo, Loading............................... 103 Cassette Player Care............................................... 90 Operation...................................... 88 CAUTION, Explanation of............... ii CD Changer...................................... 91 CD Player.......................................... 91 Center Pocket.................................. 68 Center Table..................................... 64 Certification Label......................... 214 Chains............................................. 169 Change Oil How to......................................... 142 When to....................................... 134 Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 190 Changing Engine Coolant............. 146 Charging System Indicator.... 34, 205 Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid........................................ 150 Battery Condition...................... 157 Brake Fluid................................. 152 Drive Belts.................................. 162 Engine Coolant........................... 101 Engine Oil................................... 100 Fuses.......................................... 207 Power Steering Fluid................. 153 Rear Differential Fluid.............. 151 Checklist, Before Driving............. 107 Childproof Door Locks................... 52 Child Safety...................................... 20 Cleaner, Air.................................... 153 Cleaning Exterior....................................... 182 Interior........................................ 185 Seat Belts.................................... 186 Vinyl............................................ 185 Windows..................................... 186 Clock, Setting the ............................ 87 CO in the Exhaust......................... 221 Cold Weather, Starting in............. 109 Consumer Information*................ 225 Controls, Instruments and.............. 31 Coolant Adding......................................... 144 Checking..................................... 101 Proper Solution.......................... 144 Replacing.................................... 146 Temperature Gauge.................... 37 Corrosion Protection..................... 187 Crankcase Emission Control System......................................... 221 Cruise Control Operation ............... 46 Customer Relations Office........... 226 DANGER, Explanation of................. ii Dashboard........................................ 32 Daytime Running Lights................. 40 Dead Battery, What to Do............ 200 Defects, Reporting Safety............. 230 Defog and Defrost........................... 79 Defogger, Rear Window................. 43 Defrosting the Windows................. 79 DEXRON® III Automatic Transmission Fluid.................... 150 Dimensions..................................... 216 Dimming the Headlights................ 40 Dipstick Automatic Transmission........... 150 Engine Oil................................... 100 Directional Signals........................... 41 Disabled, Towing Your Car If...... 212 Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 116 Disposal of Used Oil...................... 143 Doors Locking and Unlocking............... 50 Power Door Locks....................... 50 DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 219 Drive Belts...................................... 162 Driving............................................ 105 Economy..................................... 102 In Bad Weather.......................... 120 Index In Foreign Countries................... 97 Driving Guidelines......................... 106 Economy, Fuel............................... 102 Emergencies on the Road............. 189 Battery, Jump Starting.............. 200 Changing a Flat Tire................. 190 Charging System Indicator ...... 205 Checking the Fuses................... 208 Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 204 Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 206 Overheated Engine................... 202 Emergency Brake............................ 64 Emergency Flashers....................... 43 Emission Controls......................... 221 Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 37 Malfunction Indicator Lamp................................. 34, 206 Oil Pressure Indicator......... 34, 204 Oil, What Kind to Use............... 140 Overheating................................ 202 Specifications............................. 216 CONTINUED Index Ethanol in Gasoline ......................... 97 Evaporative Emission Controls.... 221 Exhaust Fumes................................ 28 Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat Belts by......................................... 11 Exterior, Cleaning the................... 182 Fabric, Cleaning............................. 185 Fan, Interior...................................... 74 Features, Comfort and Convenience................................. 73 Filling the Fuel Tank....................... 98 Filters Air................................................ 153 Air Conditioning........................ 162 Oil................................................ 142 Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 43 Flat Tire, Changing a .................... 190 Fluids Automatic Transmission............ 150 Brake........................................... 152 Power Steering........................... 153 Rear Differential........................ 151 Windshield Washer................... 149 FM Stereo Radio Reception...................................... 85 Folding Rear Seat............................ 59 Foreign Countries, Driving in........ 97 Four-way Flashers........................... 43 Front End, Towing by Emergency Wrecker................. 212 Fuel................................................... 96 Fill Door and Cap......................... 98 Gauge............................................ 37 Octane Requirement................... 96 Oxygenated.................................. 96 Reserve Indicator......................... 35 Tank, Filling the........................... 98 Fuses, Checking the...................... 207 Gas Mileage, Improving................ 102 Gasohol............................................. 97 Gasoline............................................ 96 Fuel Reserve Indicator................ 35 Gauge............................................ 37 Octane Requirement................... 96 Tank, Filling the........................... 98 Gas Station Procedures................... 98 Gauges Engine Coolant Temperature .... 37 Fuel............................................... 37 Gearshift Lever Positions............. 110 Glass Cleaning............................... 186 Glove Box......................................... 54 Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 172 Hazard Warning Flashers............... 43 Headlights Aiming......................................... 170 Daytime Running Lights............. 40 High Beam Indicator................... 35 High Beams, Turning on............ 40 Low Beams, Turning on............. 40 Reminder Beeper......................... 40 Replacing Halogen Bulbs ......... 172 Turning on.................................... 40 Head Restraints............................... 56 Heating and Cooling........................ 74 High Altitude, Starting at.............. 109 High-Low Beam Switch .................. 40 High-mount Brake Light............... 177 Rood, Opening the .......................... 99 Horn.................................................. 39 Hot Coolant, Warning about........ 144 Hydroplaning.................................. 121 Identification Number, Vehicle.... 214 If Your Car Has to be Towed....... 212 Ignition Keys.............................................. 49 Switch............................................ 49 Timing Control System............. 222 Indicator Lights, Instrument Panel............................................. 33 Infant Restraint................................ 22 Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 163 High Speed Driving................... 219 Normal Driving.......................... 164 Inside Mirror.................................... 63 Inspection, Tire.............................. 165 Instrument Panel............................. 32 Instrument Panel Brightness......... 41 Interior Cleaning............................ 185 Interior Light.................................... 71 Introduction......................................... i Index Fuel Fill Door............................... 98 Glove Box..................................... 54 Power Door.................................. 50 Tailgate......................................... 52 Low Coolant Level......................... 101 Low Fuel Indicator .......................... 35 Low Oil Pressure Indicator.... 34, 204 Lubricant Specifications Chart.... 216 Maintenance................................... 129 Owner Maintenance Checks.... 138 Record................................. 136-137 Required Indicator....................... 38 Safety...........................................130 Schedule.............................. 134-135 Malfunction Indicator Lamp.. 34, 206 Maximum Speeds.......................... 113 Meters, Gauges................................ 36 Methanol in Gasoline...................... 97 Mirrors, Adjusting........................... 63 CONTINUED Jacking up the Car......................... 192 Jack, Tire........................................ 191 Jump Starting................................. 200 Keys................................................... 49 Label, Certification........................ 214 Lane Change, Signaling.................. 41 Lap Belt............................................... 7 Lap/Shoulder Belts........................... 6 Leaking of Exhaust into Car.......... 28 Lights Bulb Replacement..................... 172 Indicator........................................ 33 Parking.......................................... 40 Turn Signal................................... 41 Loading........................................... 103 LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 50 Locks Anti-theft Steering Column........ 50 Index Neutral Gear Position.................... 111 New Vehicle Break-in ..................... 96 NOTICE, Explanation of.................... i Numbers, Identification................ 214 Occupant Protection System............ 4 Octane Requirement, Gasoline...... 96 Odometer.......................................... 36 Odometer, Trip................................ 36 Off-Highway Driving Guidelines................................... 233 Oil Change, How to......................... 142 Change, When to....................... 134 Checking Engine....................... 100 Pressure Indicator............... 34, 204 Selecting Proper Viscosity Chart....................................... 141 ON (Ignition Key Position)............ 50 Opening the Hood ........................... 99 Opening the Tailgate....................... 52 Operation in Foreign Countries..... 97 Outside Mirrors............................... 63 Overheating, Engine..................... 202 Paint Touch-up............................... 184 Panel Brightness Control............... 41 Park Gear Position......................... 111 Parking............................................ 115 Parking Brake.................................. 64 Parking Lights.................................. 40 Parking Over Things that Bum... 223 PGM-FI System.............................. 222 Polishing and Waxing................... 183 Power Door Locks................................... 50 Mirrors.......................................... 63 Steering....................................... 153 Windows....................................... 62 Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts.......... 11 Proper Seat Belt Usage..................... 7 Radiator Overheating.................... 202 Radio/Cassette Sound System....... 82 Rear Differential Fluid.................. 151 Rear End Towing........................... 212 Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 174 Rear Seat, Folding........................... 59 Rear View Mirror............................. 63 Rear Window Defogger.................. 43 Rear Window Wiper and Washer.. 43 Reclining the Seat Backs................ 55 Reminder Lights.............................. 33 Replacement Information Air Cleaner Element.................. 153 Air Conditioning Filter.............. 162 Coolant........................................ 146 Engine Oil and Filter................. 142 Fuses........................................... 208 Light Bulbs................................. 172 Schedule..................................... 132 Spark Plugs................................. 155 Timing Belt................................. 163 Tires............................................ 167 Wiper Blades.............................. 159 Replacing Seat Belts After a Crash............................................. 11 Reserve Tank, Engine Coolant.... 101 Restraint, Child................................ 20 Reverse Gear Position................... 112 Rotation, Tire................................. 166 Safety Belts......................................... 5 Safety Defects, Reporting* .......... 230 Safety Labels, Location of.............. 29 Safety Messages................................ ii Seat Belts............................................ 5 Advice for Pregnant Women...... 11 Child Seat Anchor Plate.............. 25 Cleaning...................................... 186 Frayed or Torn............................. 11 Maintenance................................. 11 Reminder Light and Beeper....... 34 Replacement................................. 11 System Components...................... 6 Tether Attachment Points.......... 25 Use During Pregnancy................ 11 Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7 Wearing the Lap Belt.................... 9 Seats, Adjusting the......................... 54 Serial Number................................ 214 Service Intervals............................ 134 Service Manual*............................ 231 Service Station Procedures ............ 98 Setting the Clock............................. 87 Shifting The Automatic Transmission .. 110 Shift Lever Position Indicator...... 110 Shift Lock Release......................... 114 Side Marker Lights, Bulb Replacement in.......................... 173 Signaling Turns................................ 41 Snow Tires...................................... 168 Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 182 Sound System................................... 82 Spark Plugs, Replacing................. 155 Specifications Charts..................... 216 Speed Control................................... 46 Speedometer.................................... 36 SRS Indicator.............................. 16, 34 START (Ignition Key Position)..... 50 Starting the Engine........................ 108 In Cold Weather at High Altitude................................... 109 With a Dead Battery ................. 200 Steam Coming from Engine......... 202 Steering Wheel Adjustment................................... 44 Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 50 Stereo Sound System ...................... 82 Index Storage Box...................................... 68 Storing Your Car............................ 179 Supplemental Restraint System..... 12 Important Facts............................ 13 Service Precautions..................... 17 Servicing....................................... 16 SRS Indicator.......................... 16, 34 System Components.................... 12 Synthetic Oil................................... 141 Tachometer...................................... 36 Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 174 Taking Care of the Unexpected .. 189 Tape Player....................................... 88 Technical Descriptions Emission Control Systems........ 221 Three Way Catalytic Converter............................... 223 Tire Information........................ 218 Temperature Gauge........................ 37 Tether Attachment Points.............. 25 Three Way Catalytic Converter... 223 Time, Setting the ............................. 87 CONTINUED Index Timing Belt..................................... 163 Tire Chains..................................... 169 Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 190 Tires................................................ 163 Air Pressure............................... 163 Checking Wear.......................... 165 DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 219 Inflation....................................... 163 Inspection................................... 165 Maintenance............................... 165 Replacing.................................... 167 Rotating....................................... 166 Snow............................................ 168 Specifications............................. 217 Technical Information .............. 218 Technical Information................... 213 Emission Controls..................... 221 Identification Numbers............. 214 Specifications............................. 216 Three Way Catalytic Converter................................ 223 Tire Information........................ 218 Tools,Tire Changing.................... 190 Torn Seat Belts................................ 11 Towing A Trailer...................................... 122 Behind a Motorhome................ 127 Emergency Wrecker................. 212 Transmission Checking Fluid Level, Automatic............................... 150 Fluid Selection............................ 150 Identification Number............... 214 Shifting the Automatic.............. 110 Treadwear...................................... 219 Trip Meter........................................ 36 Turn Signals..................................... 41 Underside, Cleaning...................... 187 Unexpected, Taking Care of the........................................... 189 Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 219 Unleaded Gasoline........................... 96 Upholstery Cleaning...................... 185 Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 143 Vehicle Capacity Load .................. 103 Vehicle Dimensions....................... 216 Vehicle Identification Number..... 214 Vehicle Storage.............................. 179 Ventilation......................................... 77 VIN.................................................. 214 Vinyl Cleaning................................ 185 Viscosity, Oil................................... 141 Warning Beepers Headlights on............................... 40 Key in Ignition.............................. 50 Seat Belts...................................... 34 WARNING, Explanation of............. ii Warning Labels, Location of.......... 29 Warranty Coverages*................... 229 Washer, Windshield Checking the Fluid Level......... 149 Operation...................................... 42 Washing.......................................... 182 Waxing and Polishing................... 183 Wheels Adjusting the Steering................ 44 Alignment and Balance............. 165 Wrench....................................... 192 * : U.S. and Canada only Index Windows Cleaning...................................... 186 Operating the Power................... 62 Rear, Defogger............................ 43 Windshield Cleaning........................................ 42 Defroster...................................... 79 Wipers, Windshield Changing Blades........................ 159 Operation...................................... 42 Worn Tires..................................... 165 Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 212 Gas Station Information Gasoline: UNLEADED gasoline Pump octane number of 86 or higher Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.3 US gal (58 l, 12.8 Imp gal) Recommended Engine Oil: API SJ or SH grade "Energy Conserving" or "Energy Conserving II" oil SAE 5W-30 viscosity Tire Pressure (measured cold): Front: 26 psi (180 kPa, 1.8kgf/cm2) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Honda Premium Formula Auto- matic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Rear: 26 psi (180 kPa , 1.8 kgf/cm2) 1997 CR-V Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com. Contents Owner's Identification Form Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i A Few Words About Safety.................................................................................................................ii Important Handling Information.....................................................................................................iii Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................3 Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls.................................................................................................................31 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................. .73 How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. .95 What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving ..............................................................................................................................................105 The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................129 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care..............................................................................................................................181 Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected......................................................................................................189 This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information.....................................................................................................................213 ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................225 A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................231 How to order manuals and other technical literature. Off-Highway Driving Guidelines...................................................................................................233 Index...................................................................................................................................................... I Gas Station Information Information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump. Introduction NOTICE As you read this manual, you will find information that is preceded by information is intended to help you avoid damage to your Honda, other property, or the environment. symbol. This Congratulations ! Your selection of a 1997 Honda CR-V was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure. One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Honda is to read this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls and convenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner's manual in your vehicle so you can refer to it at any time. Several warranties protect your new Honda. Read the warranty booklet thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights and responsibilities. Maintaining your vehicle according to the schedules given in this manual helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment. When your vehicle needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's staff is specially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns. A Few Words About Safety Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And operating this vehicle safely is an important responsibility. To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others. Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or maintaining your vehicle. You must use your own good judgement. You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms, including: Safety Labels — on the vehicle. Safety Messages — preceded by a safety alert symbol three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION. These signal words mean: and one of You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions. You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions. You CAN be HURT if you don't follow instructions. Safety Headings — such as Important Safety Reminders or Important Safety Precautions. Safety Section — such as Driver and Passenger Safety. Instructions — how to use this vehicle correctly and safely. This entire book is filled with important safety information — please read it carefully. Important Handling Information Your CR-V has higher ground clearance than a passenger car designed for use only on pavement. Higher ground clearance has many advantages for off-highway driving. It allows you to travel over bumps, obstacles, and rough terrain. It also provides good visibility so you can anticipate problems earlier. These advantages come at some cost. Because your vehicle is taller and rides higher off the ground, it has a high center of gravity. This means your vehicle can tip or roll over if you make abrupt turns. For proper driving techniques, read "Driving Guidelines" on page 106 of this manual and the Off-Highway Driving Guidelines section on page 233 . Failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or an accident. This section gives you important information about occupant protec- tion. It shows how to use seat belts properly. It explains the Supple- mental Restraint System. And it gives useful information about how to protect infants and children in your car. Your Occupant Protection System.. 4 The Seat Belt System and How It Works...................... 5 Why Wear Seat Belts.................... 5 Important Safety Reminders........ 5 Seat Belt System Components..... 6 Lap/Shoulder Belt......................... 6 Lap Belt........................................... 7 Wearing Seat Belts Properly........ 7 Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7 Wearing the Lap Belt.................... 9 Advice for Pregnant Women...... 11 Seat Belt Maintenance................ 11 Supplemental Restraint System..... 12 SRS Components......................... 12 What Happens In a Crash........... 12 Important Facts About Airbags...................................... 13 How the Driver's Airbag Works....................................... 14 How the Passenger's Airbag Works........................................ 15 How the SRS Indicator Light Works........................................ 16 System Service.............................. 16 System Service Precautions....... 17 Additional Safety Information........ 18 Seat-back Position........................ 18 Head Restraint Position.............. 18 Door Locks................................... 19 Driver and Passenger Safety Storing Cargo Safely................... 19 Driving with Pets......................... 19 Child Safety...................................... 20 Where Should Children Sit?....... 20 Important Safety Reminders...... 21 General Guidelines for Restraining Children Under 40 Ibs (18 kg) ............... 22 Restraining an Infant Who Weighs Less Than 20 Ibs (9 kg).......... 22 Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 20 and 40 Ibs (9 and 18 kg)..... 23 Restraining a Child Who Weighs Over 40 Ibs (18 kg).................. 24 Securing a Child Seat with a Lap/ Shoulder Belt........................... 24 Using Child Restraints with Tethers............................. 25 Storing a Child Seat..................... 26 Alcohol and Drugs........................... 27 Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 28 Safety Labels.................................... 29 Driver and Passenger Safety Your Occupant Protection System Your Honda is equipped with seat belts and other features that work together to protect you and your passengers during a crash. Seat belts are the most important part of your occupant protection system. When worn properly, seat belts can reduce the chance of serious injury or death in a crash. For added protection during a severe frontal collision, your Honda has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with airbags for the driver and a front seat passenger. Two indicator lights are also part of your safety system. One reminds you to make sure you and your passen- gers wear seat belts. The other alerts you to a possible problem with your supplemental restraint system (see page 16 ). The seats, head restraints and door locks also play a role in occupant safety. For example, reclining the seat-back can decrease the effec- tiveness of your seat belt. Head restraints can help protect your neck and head, especially during rear-end impacts. Door locks help keep your doors from being accidentally opened during a crash. Driver and Passenger Safety To get the maximum protection from your occupant protection system, check the following before you drive away: Everyone in the car is wearing a seat belt properly (see page 7 ). Infants and small children are properly secured in child safety seats (see page 20 ). All doors are closed and locked (see page 19 ). Seat-backs are upright and head restraints are properly adjusted (see pages 18 and 56 ). There are no loose items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash or sudden stop (see page 19 ). By following these guidelines, you can reduce injuries to yourself and your passengers in many crash situations. Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in severe crashes. Why Wear Seat Belts Wearing seat belts, and wearing them properly, is fundamental to your safety and the safety of your passengers. During a crash or emergency stop, seat belts can help keep you from being thrown against the inside of the car, against other occupants, or out of the car. Of course, seat belts cannot com- pletely protect you in every crash. But, in most cases, seat belts reduce your chance of serious injury. They can even save your life. That is why many states and all Canadian pro- vinces require you to wear seat belts. The Seat Belt System and How It Works Not wearing a seat belt increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash. Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly. Important Safety Reminders Seat belts are designed for adults and larger children. All infants and small children must be properly restrained in child safety seats (see page 20 ). Never let passengers ride in the cargo area or on top of the folded- down seat. Carry passengers in the rear only when they are sitting on the locked, upright seat, and are properly restrained by seat belts. Passengers should not stand up or change seats while the vehicle is moving. If they are not wearing seat belts during a crash or emergency stop, they can be thrown against the inside of the vehicle, against other occupants, or out of the vehicle. A pregnant woman needs to wear a seat belt to protect herself and her unborn child (see page 11 ). Two people should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash. Do not place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. This could increase the chance of serious injuries in a crash. Do not put shoulder belt pads or other accessories on seat belts. They can reduce the effectiveness of the belts and increase the chance of injury. Driver and Passenger Safety The Seat Belt System and How It Works Seat Belt System Components Your Honda has seat belts in all five seating positions. The front seats and the outside positions of the rear seat have lap/shoulder belts. The center position of the rear seat has a lap belt. Your seat belt system also includes a light on the instrument panel to remind you to fasten your seat belt, and to make sure your passengers fasten theirs. This light comes on when you turn on the ignition if you have not fastened your seat belt. A beeper also sounds for several seconds (see page 34 ). The following pages cover more about the seat belt components and how they work. Driver and Passenger Safety Lap/Shoulder Belt SHOULDER PORTION UPPER SEAT BELT ANCHOR LATCH PLATE To retractor The lap/shoulder belt retractor in each passenger seating position has an additional locking mechanism intended to secure a child seat (see page 24 ). If the shoulder part of the belt is pulled all the way out, this mechanism will engage. The belt will retract, but it will not allow the passenger to move freely. If the belt feels too tight, unlatch it, let it retract fully, then pull it out as far as needed. BUCKLE LAP PORTION This style of seat belt has a single belt that goes over your shoulder, across your chest, and across your hips. Each lap/shoulder belt has an emergency locking retractor. In normal driving, the retractor lets you move freely in your seat while it keeps some tension on the belt. During a collision or sudden stop, the retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body. The Seat Belt System and How It Works Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt Before putting on the seat belt, move the driver's seat as far back as is practical while still allowing you to maintain full control of the vehicle. Make sure the seat-back is upright (see page 18 ). The front seat passenger should move the seat as far back as possible. Wearing Seat Belts Properly You can increase the effectiveness of your seat belts if you take a little time to read the following pages and make sure you know how to wear seat belts properly. Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash. Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly. Lap Belt BELT END BUCKLE LATCH PLATE The lap belt has one manually- adjusted belt that fits across the hips. It is similar to safety belts used in airplanes. CONTINUED Driver and Passenger Safety The Seat Belt System and How It Works 1. Pull the latch plate across your body and insert it into the buckle. Tug on the belt to make sure the latch is securely locked. 2. Check that the belt is not twisted. 3. Position the lap portion of the belt as low as possible across your hips, not across your stomach. This lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash. 4. Pull up on the shoulder part of the belt to remove any slack. Make sure the belt goes over your collarbone and across your chest. Driver and Passenger Safety The Seat Belt System and How It Works Wearing the Lap Belt To unlatch the seat belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle. Guide the belt across your body to the door pillar. After you exit the vehicle, make sure the seat belt is out of the way and will not get closed in the door. 1. Pull the latch plate across your hips and insert it into the buckle marked CENTER. If the belt is too short, hold the latch plate at a right angle, and pull to extend the belt. Insert the latch plate into the buckle. CONTINUED Driver and Passenger Safety 5. If the belt crosses your neck, you need to adjust the belt anchor height or your seating position. Front seats: Adjust the belt anchor by pressing the release button and sliding the anchor downward (it has four positions). Rear seat: Move toward the center of the seat until the belt fits over your collar- bone. The Seat Belt System and How It Works 2. Position the belt as low as possible across your hips and pelvic bones, not across your stomach. Pull the loose end of the belt to adjust for a snug but comfortable fit. To unlatch the belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle. Before folding the rear seat, or when the lap belt is not in use, store the latch plate by rolling up the belt and pushing it into the seat pocket. Driver and Passenger Safety The Seat Belt System and How It Works Advice for Pregnant Women If possible, use a lap/shoulder seat belt, remembering to keep the lap portion as low as possible (see page 7 ). Each time you have a check-up, ask your doctor if it's okay for you to drive and how you should position a lap/shoulder seat belt. Protecting the mother is the best way to protect her unborn child. Therefore, a pregnant woman should wear a properly-positioned seat belt whenever she drives or rides in a car. Seat Belt Maintenance For safety, you should check the condition of your seat belts regularly. Pull out each belt fully and look for frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check that the latches work smoothly and the lap/shoulder belts retract easily. Any belt not in good condition or not working properly should be replaced. If a seat belt is worn during a crash, have your dealer replace the belt and inspect the anchors for damage. For information on how to clean your seat belts, see page 186 . Driver and Passenger Safety Supplemental Restraint System Your car is equipped with a Supple- mental Restraint System (SRS) to help protect the head and chest of the driver and front seat passenger during a severe frontal collision. This system does not replace your seat belts. It supplements, or adds to, the protection offered by seat belts and other occupant protection features. The SRS is designed to provide protection under a wide range of driving conditions, including off- highway driving. When driving off- highway, it is important that everyone wear their seat belts properly, and that you drive at speeds that are safe for the road and conditions. Refer to the Off-Highway Driving Guidelines section on page 233. Not wearing a seat belt increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even if you have airbags. Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly. SRS Components Your supplemental restraint system includes: One airbag in the steering wheel for the driver and another in the dashboard for the passenger. Sensors that can detect a severe frontal collision. A sophisticated electronic system that continually monitors the sensors, control unit, airbag activators, and all related wiring when the ignition switch is ON (II). An indicator light on the instru- ment panel to alert you to a possi- ble problem with the system. Emergency backup power in case your car's electrical system is disconnected in a crash. What Happens In a Crash If you ever have a severe frontal collision, the sensors will detect rapid deceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate the airbags. Driver and Passenger Safety Supplemental Restraint System During a crash, your seat belts will help to restrain your lower body and torso. The airbags will provide a cushion to absorb crash energy and help keep the head and chest of the driver and front passenger from striking the interior of the car. After inflating, the airbags will immediately deflate. The entire process, from detection to deflation, takes a fraction of a second. This process occurs so quickly that you may not hear the loud noise created by the airbag inflators, or realize what has happened. After the crash, you may see what looks like smoke. This is actually powder from the airbag's surface. People with respiratory problems may experience some temporary discomfort from the chemicals used by the airbag's activators. Important Facts About Airbags Airbags inflate only when needed; in a severe frontal collision. A severe collision would be similar to a crash into a parked vehicle of similar size and weight at 25 mph (40 km/h). Airbags will not inflate in a moderate irental collision, or during a rear impact, side impact, or rollover — even if the impact is severe. Frontal Collision Range Airbags inflate and deflate only once. They cannot protect you during any additional impacts that can occur during a crash sequence. Injuries, including fatal injuries, can occur in a severe collision, even if seat belts are worn properly and the airbags inflate. No safety system can provide complete protection in a severe crash. Just from viewing the vehicle damage after a crash, it is very difficult to accurately determine if the airbags should or should not have inflated. In some cases where the airbag did not inflate, extensive visible damage indicated that the car absorbed much of the crash energy, and the airbags were not needed. In other cases, a severe jolt, such as an impact to the undercarriage, may not cause extensive body damage but may still cause the airbags to inflate. Driver and Passenger Safety Supplemental Restraint System How the Driver's Airbag Works To do its job, the airbag inflates with considerable force. So, while it can reduce serious injuries and even save your life, the airbag might cause some facial abrasions or other injuries. To reduce the possibility of injury, you should always sit back as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control. If you ever have a severe frontal collision, your airbag will instantly inflate to help protect your head and chest. Driver and Passenger Safety After the bag completely inflates, it immediately starts deflating so it won't interfere with your visibility, ability to steer, or ability to operate other controls. The total time for inflation and deflation is a fraction of a second. You may not even be aware that the airbag has been fully inflated. Supplemental Restraint System How the Passenger's Airbag Works The driver's airbag is stored in the center of the steering wheel. For your safety, do not attach any items to the steering wheel. They could interfere with the proper operation of the airbag. Or, if the airbag inflates, they could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone. If you ever have a severe frontal collision, the passenger's airbag will inflate at the same time as the driver's airbag. This airbag is quite large and inflates with considerable force. It can seriously hurt a front seat passenger who is not in the proper position and wearing the seat belt properly. Front seat passengers should move the seat as far back as practical and sit well back in the seat. We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant. If a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger's airbag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained. CONTINUED Driver and Passenger Safety Supplemental Restraint System The passenger's airbag is stored near the top of the dashboard, under a lid marked SRS AIRBAG. Do not place any objects on top of this lid. If the airbag inflates, those objects can be propelled inside the car and possibly hurt someone. How the SRS Indicator Light Works SRS The purpose of the SRS light on your instrument panel is to alert you to a potential problem with your supple- mental restraint system. Have the system checked if: The light does not come on when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). The light stays on after the engine starts. The light comes on or flashes while you are driving. If you see any of these indications, the airbag may not work when needed in an accident. Take the car to your dealer promptly for diagnosis and service. System Service Your supplemental restraint system is virtually maintenance-free. The only scheduled maintenance is an inspection of the system by the dealer when the car is ten years old. For your convenience, the car's production date is on a label on the driver's doorjamb. If either of the following happens, you must have an authorized Honda dealer service the system. There are no parts you can safely service. If your airbags ever inflate, the airbags and control unit must be replaced. Do not try to remove or discard the airbags yourself. This must be done by a Honda dealer. Driver and Passenger Safety If the SRS indicator light alerts you to a problem, have the supplemental restraint system inspected as soon as possible. If you ignore this indication, the airbags might not inflate when you need them. Supplemental Restraint System Scrapping an entire car that has uninflated airbags can be dangerous. Get assistance from a Honda dealer if your car must be scrapped. If you sell your car, please be sure to tell the new owner that the car has a supplemental restraint system. Alert them to the information and precau- tions in this part of the owner's manual. System Service Precautions Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of the supplemental restraint system. Modifications could make the system ineffective. Do not tamper with the system's components or wiring. This could cause the airbags to inflate inadver- tently, possibly injuring someone very seriously. Tell anyone who works on your car that you have a supplemental restraint system. Failure to follow the procedures and precautions in the official Honda service manual could result in personal injury or damage to the system. Driver and Passenger Safety Additional Safety Information The seat belts and airbags are obvi- ously important parts of your occu- pant protection system. In addition, you should know that sitting upright, adjusting the head restraints properly, locking the doors, and stowing things properly can also increase your safety and possibly even save your life. Seat-back Position The seat-backs should be in an upright position for you and your passengers to get the most protec- tion from the seat belts. If you recline a seat-back, you reduce the protective capability of your seat belt. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk that you will slide under the belt in a severe crash and be very seriously injured. For information on how to adjust the seat-back, see page 55 . Head Restraint Position Head restraints can help protect you from whiplash and other injuries. For the best protection, adjust the top of the restraint so it is even with the tops of your ears, or as high as possi- ble. For instructions on adjusting the head restraints, see page 56. Driver and Passenger Safety Additional Safety Information Door Locks It is not safe to leave your car doors unlocked. A passenger, especially a child, could open a door and acci- dentally fall out. Also, there is a greater chance of being thrown out of the car during a crash when the doors are not locked. Storing Cargo Safely Before you drive, make sure you first securely store or tie down any items that could be thrown around the car and hurt someone, or interfere with your ability to operate the controls. Be sure to keep compartment doors closed when the car is moving. If a front passenger hits the door of an open glove box, for example, he could injure his knees. For information on loading cargo, see page 103 . Driving with Pets Loose pets can be a hazard while you are driving. An unrestrained pet can interfere with your ability to drive the car. In a crash or sudden stop, loose pets or cages can be thrown around inside the car and hurt you or your passengers. It is also for their safety that pets should be properly restrained in your car. The recommended way to restrain a medium-sized or larger dog is with a special traveling harness. This har- ness can be secured to the rear seat with a seat belt. Travel harnesses are available at pet stores. A small dog, cat, or other small animal will be safest in a pet carrier with rigid sides. Choose a style that allows you to secure it to the car's seat by routing a seat belt through the carrier's handle. For further information, contact your veterinarian or local animal protec- tion society. Driver and Passenger Safety Child Safety Children depend on adults to protect them. To help make sure we do, every state and Canadian province has laws requiring infants and young children to be properly restrained whenever they ride in a car. Driver and Passenger Safety An infant or child who is not properly restrained can be killed or seriously injured in a crash. Be sure any child too small for seat belts is properly secured in a child restraint. Where Should Children Sit? According to accident statistics, children of all sizes and ages are safer when they are properly restrained in the rear seat rather than the front seat. We recommend that, whenever possible, you secure your child's infant or toddler seat in the center position of the rear seat with the lap belt. We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant. If a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained. We also recommend that any child who is too large to use an infant or toddler seat ride in one of the out- side positions of the rear seat. The child should then wear the lap/ shoulder belt properly for protection. If the child is not large enough to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly, you should use a booster seat. Important Safety Reminders Never hold a baby or child on your lap when riding in a car. If you are wearing your seat belt, the violent forces created during a crash will tear the child from your arms. The child could be seriously hurt or killed. If you are holding a child and not wearing a seat belt in a crash, you could crush the child against the car's interior. Never put your seat belt over yourself and a child. During a crash, the belt could press deep into the child, causing serious internal injuries. Two children should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash. Child Safety If you are driving with small children in the car, you should use the childproof door locks to prevent them from opening the rear doors (see page 52 ). For their safety, do not leave children alone in your car without adult supervision. Driver and Passenger Safety Child Safety General Guidelines for Restraining Children Under 40 Ibs (18 kg) Use an approved child seat. The seat must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS-213) or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Look for the manufac- turer's statement of compliance on the box and seat. Use a seat of the right size. Make sure the seat fits your child. Check the seat manufacturer's instructions and labels for height and weight limits. Secure the child seat to the car. All approved child seats are designed to be secured to the car seat by the lap belt or the lap belt portion of a lap/ shoulder belt. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the car can be endangered in a crash. Driver and Passenger Safety Restraining an Infant Who Weighs Less Than 20 Ibs (9kg) To properly route a seat belt through a child seat, follow the seat maker's instructions. If you use a lap/ shoulder belt, be sure to follow the instructions for securing a child seat with a lap/shoulder belt on page 24 . Secure the child in the child seat. Make sure the infant or child is firmly secured to the child seat. Use the straps provided, and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions. An infant up to about 20 Ibs (9 kg) must be restrained in an infant seat or a convertible seat designed for a baby. Because infants must ride in a reclining position, be sure the infant seat always faces the REAR of the car as shown. We recommend that, whenever possible, you put the infant seat in the center position of the rear seat and secure it to the car with the lap belt. If you decide to put an infant seat in any other seating position, be sure to follow the instructions for securing a child seat with a lap/shoulder belt on page 24. We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant. Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 20 and 40 Ibs (9 and 18 kg) Toddler seats are designed for children who weigh between 20 and 40 Ibs (9 and 18 kg). Child Safety The preferred place to put a toddler seat is in the center position of the rear seat. Use the car's lap belt to secure the seat to the car. If you decide to put a toddler seat in any other seating position, be sure to follow the instructions for securing a child seat with a lap/shoulder belt on page 24 . If you are using a toddler seat in the front passenger's seat, move the passenger's seat as far back as possible before installing the child seat. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained. Driver and Passenger Safety Child Safety Restraining a Child Who Weighs Over 40 Ibs (18 kg) We recommend that, whenever possible, a child who has outgrown a toddler seat ride in one of the outside positions of the rear seat and use a lap/shoulder belt. Driver and Passenger Safety Put the lap/shoulder belt on your child and check its fit. The shoulder belt should fit over the collarbone and across the chest. The lap belt should sit low on your child's hips, not across the stomach. If the shoulder belt crosses the neck, have your child move toward the center of the rear seat until the belt fits properly. If the belt still crosses the child's neck, you should use a booster seat. Several styles of booster seats are available. We recommend a design that allows the child to use the car's lap/shoulder belt. Whichever style you select, follow the booster seat manufacturer's instructions. Securing a Child Seat with a Lap/

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1997 Honda CR V Owners Manual