2008 Honda CR V Owners Manual

OnLXmodel Your vehicle also has cargo hooks on side panel in the cargo area. They are designed to hold light items. Heavy objects may damage the hook. Make sure any items put on each hook weigh less than 6.5 lbs (3 kg).

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Driving

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the automatic transmission. It also includes important information on parking your vehicle, the braking system, the vehicle stability assist (VSA) system, the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and facts you need if you are planning to tow a trailer or drive off-highway.

Driving Guidelines

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

Preparing to Drive Starting the Engine Automatic Transmission Parking Braking System Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Vehicle Stability Assist

(VSA) System

............................ Tire Pressure Monitoring System ...................................... ...........................

Towing a Trailer Towing Your Vehicle Behind a

(TPMS)

. 244
. 245
. 246
. 247
. 252
. 253
. 254

. 256

. 258
. 261

Motorhome

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

. 266

Off-Highway Driving

Guidelines

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

. 268

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Do not modify your vehicle in any way that would raise the center of gravity.

Do not carry heavy cargo on the roof.

Four-wheeldrivemodels Your vehicle is equipped with a four- wheel drive (4WD) system. When the system senses a loss of front- wheel traction, it automatically transfers some power to the rear wheels. This gives you better traction and mobility.

You still need to exercise the same care when accelerating, steering, and braking that you would in a two- wheel drive vehicle.

Seepage foroff-highwaydriving guidelines.

268

Driving Guidelines

Your vehicle has higher ground clearance that allows you to travel over bumps, obstacles, and rough terrain. It also provides good visibility so you can anticipate problems earlier.

Because your vehicle rides higher off the ground, it has a high center of gravity that can cause it to roll over if you make abrupt turns. Utility vehicles have a significantly higher roll over rate than other types of vehicles.

To prevent rollovers or loss of control:

Take corners at slower speeds than you would with a passenger vehicle.

Avoid sharp turns and abrupt maneuvers whenever possible.

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Driving Guidelines

Preparing to Drive You should do the following checks and adjustments before you drive your vehicle.

5.

6.

1.

Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice.

2.

Check that the hood is fully closed.

8.

Check the seat adjustment (see page

95

).

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

111

).

7.

Check the steering wheel adjustment (see page 79

).

Make sure the doors and the tailgate are securely closed and locked.

3.

4.

Visually check the tires. If a tire looks low, use a gauge to check its pressure (see page

302

).

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

9.

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

14

10.

When you start the engine, check the gauges and indicators in the ). instrument panel (see page

59

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Starting the Engine

1.

Apply the parking brake.

4.

2.

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

3.

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

Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. Do not hold the key in the START (III) position for more than 15 seconds at a time. If the engine does not start right away, pause for at least 10 seconds before trying again.

6.

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

The immobilizer system protects your vehicle f rom thef t. If an improperly- coded key (or other device) is used, the engine’s f uel system is disabled. For more inf ormation, see page

80

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

5.

If the engine does not start within 15 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 4 with the accelerator pedal pressed halfway down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

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Shift Lever Position Indicators

U.S. model is shown

These indicators on the instrument panel show which position the shift lever is in.

The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission.

If the malfunction indicator lamp comes on along with the ‘‘D’’ indicator, there is a problem with the automatic transmission control system. Avoid rapid acceleration, and have the transmission checked by your dealer as soon as possible.

Automatic Transmission

Shifting

RELEASE BUTTON

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

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Press the brake

Reverse (R) pedal and press the release button on the side of the shift lever to shift from Park to reverse. To shift from reverse to neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift. Press the release button before shifting into reverse from neutral.

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Automatic Transmission

To shift from:

Do this:

Press the brake pedal and press the shift lever release button.

Press the shift lever release button.

Move the shift lever.

Press the D button.

P to R

R to P N to R D to 2
2 to 1
1 to 2
2 to D D to N N to D R to N D to D D to D

248

−

This position mechani-

Park (P) cally locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift out of Park, you must press on the brake pedal and have your foot off the accelerator pedal. Press the release button on the side of the shift lever to move it.

If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see on page 251

Shift Lock Release

To avoid transmission damage, come to a complete stop before shifting into Park. You must also press the release button to shift into Park. The shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch.

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−

Use neutral if you

Neutral (N) need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to the Park position if you need to leave your vehicle for any reason. Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from neutral to another gear.

−

Use this position for

Drive (D) your normal driving. The transmission automatically selects a suitable gear (1 through 5) for your speed and acceleration. You may notice the transmission shifting up at higher engine speeds when the engine is cold. This helps the engine warm up faster.

Automatic Transmission

D3Mode

D3 SWITCH

Press the D3 switch on the side of the shift lever to turn this mode on or off; the D3 mode indicator comes on whenever the D3 mode is selected.

D3 mode can be turned on or off only when the ignition switch is in the ON (II) position and the shift lever is in the D position.

D3 MODE INDICATOR

When the D3 mode is on, the transmission selects only the first three gears. Use D3 mode when towing a trailer, or to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D3 mode can also keep the transmission from cycling between third and fourth gears in stop-and-go driving.

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Automatic Transmission

Shifting out from the D position will cancel the D3 mode, and the D3
indicator will go out. Selecting the D position again will resume the D3
mode and the indicator comes on.

Turning the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position turns this mode off. When you restart the engine, select the D position and press the D3 mode switch again to use this mode.

The D3 mode indicator also comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

−

To shift to second,

Second (2) press the release button on the side of the shift lever. This position locks the transmission in second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop.

250

Use second gear:

For more power when climbing.

To increase engine braking when going down steep hills.

If you shift into first position when the vehicle speed is above 31 mph (50 km/h), the transmission shifts into second gear first to avoid sudden engine braking.

Engine Speed Limiter If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer’s red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine’s computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the rpm below the red zone.

For starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow.

To help reduce wheel spin.

When driving downhill with a trailer.

−

First (1) To shift from second to first, press the release button on the side of the shift lever. This position locks the transmission in first gear. By upshifting and downshifting through 1, 2, D , and D, you can operate the transmission much like a manual transmission without a clutch pedal.

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Shift Lock Release This allows you to move the shift lever out of Park if the normal method of pushing on the brake pedal and pressing the release button does not work.

1.

Set the parking brake.

2.

3.

Remove the key from the ignition switch.

Put a cloth on the edge of the shift lock release slot cover. Using a small flat-tipped screwdriver or metal fingernail file, carefully pry on the edge of the cover to remove it.

4.

5.

Automatic Transmission

COVER

RELEASE BUTTON

Insert the key in the shift lock release slot.

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

6.

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT Remove the key from the shift lock release slot, then reinstall the cover. Make sure the notch on the cover is on the right side. Press the brake pedal, and restart the engine.

If you need to use the shift lock release, it means your vehicle is developing a problem. Have the vehicle checked by your dealer.

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Parking

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

Set the parking brake before you put the transmission in Park. This keeps the vehicle from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission.

252

If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb.

If the vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb.

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

Parking Tips

Make sure the moonroof (if equipped) and the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

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

Lock the doors and the tailgate.

OnEXandEX-Lmodels

Check the indicator on the instrument panel to verify that the security system is set.

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

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Braking System

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

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

Check your brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them gently and frequently until they do. Be extra cautious and alert in your driving.

Braking System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels.

Your vehicle is equipped with disc brakes at all four wheels. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps you retain steering control when braking very hard.

Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, builds up heat, and reduces their effectiveness and reduces brake pad life. In addition, fuel economy can be reduced. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you.

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

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You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and you may hear some noise. This is normal: it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before the ABS activates. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

The anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps prevent the wheels from locking up, and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly, much faster than a person can do it.

The electronic brake distribution (EBD) system, which is part of the ABS, also balances the front-to-rear braking distribution according to vehicle loading.

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

254

ABS Indicator

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

If the ABS indicator comes on while driving, test the brakes as shown on page

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If the ABS indicator and the brake system indicator come on together, and the parking brake is fully released, the EBD system may also be shut down.

Important Safety Reminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the vehicle. It only helps with the steering control during braking.

A vehicle with ABS may require a longer distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, than a vehicle without anti- lock.

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

326

. If the brakes feel normal,

Test your brakes as instructed on page drive slowly and have your vehicle repaired by your dealer as soon as possible. Avoid sudden hard braking which could cause the rear wheels to lock up and possibly lead to a loss of control.

The VSA indicator will come on along with the ABS indicator.

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

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

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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

VSA Activation Indicator

When VSA activates, you will see the VSA activation indicator blink.

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System Indicator

If this indicator comes on while driving, pull to the side of the road when it is safe, and turn off the engine. Reset the system by restarting the engine. If the VSA system indicator stays on or comes back on while driving, have the VSA system inspected by your dealer.

The vehicle stability assist (VSA) system helps to stabilize the vehicle during cornering if the vehicle turns more or less than desired. It also assists you in maintaining traction while accelerating on loose or slippery road surfaces. It does this by regulating the engine’s output and by selectively applying the brakes.

When VSA activates, you may notice that the engine does not respond to the accelerator in the same way it does at other times. There may also be some noise from the VSA hydraulic system. You will also see the VSA activation indicator blink.

The VSA system cannot enhance the vehicle’s driving stability in all situations and does not control your vehicle’s entire braking system. It is still your responsibility to drive and corner at reasonable speeds and to leave a sufficient margin of safety.

256

If the indicator does not come on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position, there may be a problem with the VSA system. Have your dealer inspect your vehicle as soon as possible.

If the low tire pressure indicator or TPMS indicator comes on, the VSA system automatically turns on even if the VSA system is turned off by pressing the VSA OFF switch (see page cannot turn the VSA system off by pressing the VSA off switch again.

). If this happens, you

257

Without VSA, your vehicle will have normal braking and cornering ability, but it will not have VSA traction and stability enhancement.

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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

VSA Off Switch

VSA OFF SWITCH

This switch is under the driver’s side vent. To turn the VSA system on and off, press and hold it until you hear a beep.

When VSA is off, the VSA activation indicator comes on as a reminder. Press and hold the switch again. It turns the system back on.

VSA is turned on every time you start the engine, even if you turned it off the last time you drove the vehicle.

In certain unusual conditions when your vehicle gets stuck in shallow mud or fresh snow, it may be easier to free it with the VSA temporarily switched off. When the VSA system is off, the traction control system is also off. You should only attempt to free your vehicle with the VSA off if you are not able to free it when the VSA is on.

Immediately after freeing your vehicle, be sure to switch the VSA on again. We do not recommend driving your vehicle with the VSA and traction control systems switched off.

VSA and Tire Sizes Driving with varying tire or wheel sizes may cause the VSA to malfunction. When replacing tires, make sure they are the same size and type as your original tires (see page

307

).

If you install winter tires, make sure they are the same size as those that were originally supplied with your vehicle. Exercise the same caution during winter driving as you would if your vehicle was not equipped with VSA.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Your vehicle is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that turns on every time you start the engine and monitors the pressure in your tires while driving.

Each tire has its own pressure sensor (not including the spare tire). If the air pressure of a tire becomes significantly low while driving, the sensor in that tire immediately sends a signal that causes the low tire pressure indicator to come on.

Low Tire Pressure Indicator

When the low tire pressure indicator is on, one or more of your tires is significantly underinflated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure as indicated on the vehicle’s tire information placard.

If you think you can safely drive a short distance to a service station, proceed slowly, and inflate the tire to the recommended pressure shown on the driver’s doorjamb.

If the tire is flat, or if the tire pressure is too low to continue driving, replace the tire with the compact spare tire (see page 312

).

If you cannot make the low tire pressure indicator go out after inflating the tires to the specified values, have your dealer check the system as soon as possible.

258

Driving on a significantly under- inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.

Because tire pressure varies by temperature and other conditions, the low tire pressure indicator may come on unexpectedly.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

For example, if you check and fill your tires in a warm area, then drive in extremely cold weather, the tire pressure will be lower than measured and could be underinflated and cause the low tire pressure indicator to come on. Or, if you check and adjust your tire pressure in cooler conditions, and drive into extremely hot conditions, the tire may become overinflated. However, the low tire pressure indicator will not come on if the tires are overinflated.

Refer to page guidelines.

302

for tire inflation

Although your tire pressure is monitored, you must manually check the tire pressures monthly.

Each tire, including the spare, should be checked monthly when cold, and set to the recommended inflation pressure as specified on the tire

information label and in the owner’s manual (see page

303

).

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Indicator This indicator comes on and stays on if there is a problem with the tire pressure monitoring system.

If this happens, the system will shut off and no longer monitor tire pressures. Have the system checked by your dealer as soon as possible.

If the low tire pressure indicator or TPMS indicator comes on, the VSA system automatically turns on even if the VSA system is turned off by pressing the VSA OFF switch (see page cannot turn the VSA system off by pressing the VSA off switch again.

). If this happens, you

257

When you restart the vehicle with the compact spare tire, the TPMS indicator may also come on and stay on after driving several miles (kilometers).

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The low tire pressure indicator or the TPMS indicator will go off, after several miles (kilometers) driving, when you replace the spare tire with the specified regular tire equipped with the tire pressure monitor sensor.

Never use a puncture-repairing agent in a flat tire. If used, you will have to replace the tire pressure sensor. Have the flat tire repaired by your dealer as soon as possible.

AsrequiredbytheFCC: ThisdevicecomplieswithPart15ofthe FCCrules.Operationissubjecttothe followingtwoconditions:(1)Thisdevice maynotcauseharmfulinterference,and (2)thisdevicemustacceptany interferencereceived,including interferencethatmaycauseundesired operation.

Changesormodificationsnotexpressly approvedbythepartyresponsiblefor compliancecouldvoidtheuser’s authoritytooperatetheequipment.

ThisdevicecomplieswithIndustry CanadaStandardRSS-210. Operationissubjecttothefollowingtwo conditions:(1)thisdevicemaynotcause interference,and(2)thisdevicemust acceptanyinterferencethatmaycause undesiredoperationofthedevice.

Changing a Tire with TPMS If you have a flat tire, the low tire pressure indicator will come on. Replace the flat tire with the compact spare tire (see page

312

).

Each wheel (except the compact spare tire wheel) is equipped with a tire pressure sensor mounted inside the tire behind the valve stem. You must use TPMS specific wheels. It is recommended that you always have your tires serviced by your dealer or qualified technician.

After you replace the flat tire with the compact spare tire, the low tire pressure indicator stays on. This is normal; the system is not monitoring the spare tire pressure. Manually check the spare tire pressure to be sure it is correct. After several miles (kilometers) driving with the compact spare tire, the TPMS indicator comes on and the low tire pressure indicator goes off.

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Your vehicle has been designed primarily to carry passengers and their cargo. You can also use it to tow a trailer if you carefully observe the load limits, use the proper equipment, and follow the guidelines in this section.

Break-InPeriod Avoid towing a trailer during your vehicle’s first 600 miles (1,000 km) (see page

226

).

Be sure to read the Driving Guidelines 268
surfaces.

if you plan to tow off paved

Off-Highway section on page

Exceeding any load limit or improperly loading your vehicle and trailer can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Check the loading of your vehicle and trailer carefully before starting to drive.

Towing a Trailer

Load Limits

The

Total Trailer Weight: maximum allowable weight of the trailer and everything in or on it must not exceed 1,500 lbs (680 kg). Towing a load that is too heavy can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling and performance. It can also damage the engine and drivetrain.

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Towing a Trailer

To achieve a proper tongue load, start by loading 60% of the load toward the front of the trailer and 40% toward the rear, then re-adjust the load as needed. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) allowable weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all accessories, all cargo, and the tongue load is 4,560 lbs (2,070 kg).

The maximum

−

Tongue Load: The weight that the tongue of a fully-loaded trailer puts on the hitch should be approximately 10% of the total trailer weight. Too much tongue load reduces front-tire traction and steering control. Too little tongue load can make the trailer unstable and cause it to sway.

262

−

The maximum

Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR) allowable weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all accessories, all cargo, and the tongue load must not exceed 2,310 lbs (1,050 kg) on the front axle, and 2,290 lbs (1,040 kg) on the rear axle.

−

The maximum

Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle and trailer is 6,060 lbs (2,750
kg)

Checking Loads The best way to confirm that all loads are within limits is to check them at a public scale. For public scales in your area, check your local phone book, or contact your trailer dealer or rental agency for assistance.

If you cannot get to a public scale, you can estimate the total trailer weight by adding the weight of your trailer (as quoted by the manufacturer) with everything in or on the trailer.

If you normally pull the same load each time you tow a trailer, you can use a suitable scale or a special tongue load gauge to check the tongue load the first time you set up a towing combination (a fully loaded vehicle and trailer), then recheck the tongue load whenever the conditions change.

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Towing Equipment and Accessories Towing can require a variety of equipment, depending on the size of your trailer, how it will be used, how much load you are towing, and where you tow. Discuss your needs with your trailer sales or rental agency, and follow the guidelines in this section. Also make sure that all equipment is properly installed and maintained, and that it meets federal, state, province, and local regulations.

Hitches Any hitch used on your vehicle must be properly bolted to the underbody.

SafetyChains Always use safety chains when you tow a trailer. Make sure the chains are secured to the trailer and hitch, and that they cross under the tongue and can catch the trailer if it becomes unhitched. Leave enough

slack to allow the trailer to turn corners easily, but do not let the chains drag on the ground.

TrailerBrakes Honda requires that any trailer with a total weight of 1,000 lbs (455 kg) or more be equipped with its own electric or surge-type brakes.

If you choose electric brakes, be sure they are electronically actuated. Do not attempt to tap into your vehicle’s hydraulic system. No matter how successful it may seem, any attempt to attach trailer brakes to your vehicles hydraulic system will lower braking effectiveness and create a potential hazard.

See your trailer dealer or rental agency for more information on installing electric brakes.

Towing a Trailer

TrailerLights Trailer lights and equipment must comply with federal, state/province, and local regulations. Check with your local trailer sales or rental agencies for the requirements in the area where you plan to tow, and use only equipment designed for your vehicle.

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Towing a Trailer

TAILLIGHT (RED)

LEFT TURN SIGNAL (ORANGE)

GROUND (BLACK)

TRAILER (WHITE)

HAZARD (PINK)

BRAKE LIGHT (LIGHT GREEN)

RIGHT TURN SIGNAL (BROWN)

Your vehicle has a trailer lighting connector located behind the left side panel in the cargo area. Refer to the drawing above for the wiring color code and purpose of each pin.

If you use a non-Honda trailer lighting harness and converter, you can get the connector and pins that mate with the connector in your vehicle from your dealer.

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Since lighting and wiring vary by trailer type and brand, you should have a qualified technician install a suitable connector between the vehicle and the trailer. Improper equipment or installation can cause damage to your vehicle’s electrical system and affect your vehicle warranty.

AdditionalTowingEquipment Many states and Canadian provinces require special outside mirrors when towing a trailer. Even if they don’t, you should install special mirrors if you cannot clearly see behind you, or if the trailer creates a blind spot.

Ask your trailer sales or rental agency if any other items are recommended or required for your towing situation.

Pre-Tow Checklist When preparing to tow, and before driving away, be sure to check the following:

The vehicle has been properly serviced, and the suspension and the cooling system are in good operating condition.

The trailer has been properly serviced and is in good condition.

All weights and loads are within limits.

The hitch, safety chains, and any other attachments are secure.

All items in or on the trailer are properly secured and cannot shift while you drive.

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The lights and brakes on your vehicle and the trailer are working properly.

Your vehicle tires and spare are properly inflated, and the trailer tires and spare are inflated as recommended by the trailer maker.

Driving Safely With a Trailer The added weight, length, and height of a trailer will affect your vehicle’s handling and performance, so driving with a trailer requires some special driving skills and techniques.

For your safety and the safety of others, take time to practice driving maneuvers before heading for the open road, and follow the guidelines in this section.

TowingSpeedsandGears Drive slower than normal in all driving situations, and obey posted speed limits for vehicles with trailers. Use the D position when towing a trailer on level roads. D is the proper shift lever position to use when towing a trailer in hilly terrain. (See ‘‘ following column for additional gear information.)

DrivingonHills

’’ in the

MakingTurnsandBraking Make turns more slowly and wider than normal. The trailer tracks a smaller arc than your vehicle, and it can hit or run over something the vehicle misses. Allow more time and distance for braking. Do not brake or turn suddenly as this could cause the trailer to jackknife or turn over.

DrivingonHills When climbing hills, closely watch your temperature gauge. If it nears the red (Hot) mark, turn the air

Towing a Trailer

conditioning off, reduce speed and, if necessary, pull to the side of the road to let the engine cool.

When driving down hills, reduce your speed and use the D3 position. Do not ‘‘ride’’ the brakes, and remember it will take longer to slow down and stop when towing a trailer.

If you must stop when facing uphill, use the foot brake or parking brake. Do not try to hold the vehicle in place by pressing on the accelerator, as this can cause the automatic transmission to overheat.

HandlingCrosswindsandBuffeting Crosswinds and air turbulence caused by passing trucks can disrupt your steering and cause the trailer to sway. When being passed by a large vehicle, keep a constant speed, and steer straight ahead. Do not try to make quick steering or braking corrections.

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Towing a Trailer, Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome

Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome Your vehicle can be towed behind a motorhome at legal highway speeds up to 65 mph (100 km/h). Do not exceed 65 mph (100 km/h). Otherwise, severe transmission damage will occur. To avoid damage to the 4WD system, your vehicle must be towed with all four wheels on the ground (flat towing).

When purchasing a tow bar, make sure you select a reputable manufacturer and installer. Follow the manufacturer’s attachment instructions carefully.

Perform the following procedure every day immediately before you begin towing. Otherwise severe automatic transmission damage will occur.

BackingUp Always drive slowly and have someone guide you when backing up. Grip the wheel; then turn the wheel to the left to get the trailer to move to the left, and turn the wheel right to move the trailer to the right.

of the steering

bottom

Parking Follow all normal precautions when parking, including firmly setting the parking brake and putting the transmission in Park. Also, place wheel chocks at each of the trailer’s tires.

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287

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Check the transmission fluid level ). (see page Start the engine. Press on the brake pedal. Move the shift lever through all its positions. Shift to D position and hold for 5
seconds, then to N. Let the engine run for 3 minutes, then turn it off. Release the parking brake. Leave the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I) position so the steering wheel does not lock. Make sure the radio and any items plugged into the accessory power sockets are turned off so you do not run down the battery.

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The steering system can be damaged if the steering wheel is locked. Leave the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I) position, and make sure the steering wheel turns f reely bef ore you begin towing.

ExtendedTowing If you tow more than 8 hours in one day, you should repeat the above procedure at least every 8 hours (when you stop for fuel, etc.)

Failure to f ollow the recommended instructions exactly will result in severe automatic transmission damage. If you cannot shif t the transmission or start the engine, your vehicle must be transported on a f lat-bed truck or trailer.

Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome

When towing your vehicle for long periods, remove the 7.5 A Accessory Radio fuse to reduce drain on battery. This fuse is located in the interior fuse box and is shown as number 34
below.

INTERIOR FUSE BOX

ACCESSORY RADIO FUSE

the vehicle.

Severe transmission damage will occur if the vehicle is shif ted f rom reverse to neutral and then towed with the drive wheels on the ground.

If you tow a CR-V behind a motorhome, the transmission fluid must be changed every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km), whichever comes first.

Only remove the fuse after you have performed the transmission shifting procedure, and the key is in the ACCESSORY (I) position. Store the fuse in an obvious location (center tray, coin pockets, etc) as a reminder to re-install the fuse before driving

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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

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 this owner’s manual. Keep your speed low, and don’t drive faster than conditions permit.

General Information Your vehicle has been designed primarily for use on pavement. But its higher ground clearance allows you to occasionally travel on unpaved roads, such as campgrounds, picnic sites, and similar locations. It is not designed for trail-blazing, mountain 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 vehicle 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.

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Important Safety Precautions To avoid loss of control or rollover, be sure to follow all precautions and recommendations.

Be sure to store cargo properly and do not exceed your cargo load limits (see page

and

237

262

).

Wherever you drive, make sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts.

Keep your speed low, and never go faster than the conditions allow.

It’s up to you to continually assess the situation and drive within the limits.

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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

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, and you may dig yourself a hole. Starting with the shift lever in second (2) gear will help you have a smoother start on snow or ice.

Keep in mind that you will usually need more time and distance to brake to a stop on unpaved surfaces. Avoid hard braking. Do not ‘‘pump’’ the brakes; let the anti-lock braking system pump them for you.

Check Out Your Vehicle Before you leave the pavement, be sure to do all scheduled maintenance and service, and inspect your vehicle for any problems. Pay special attention to the condition of the tires, and 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. Recheck the condition of the tires and the tire pressures.

Remember The route presents limits (too steep or bumpy roads). You have limits (driving skill and comfort). And your vehicle has limits (traction, stability, and power).

Driving off-highway can be hazardous if you fail to recognize limits and take the proper precautions.

Avoiding Obstacles Debris in the road can damage your suspension or other components. 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.

Driving on Slopes If you can’t clearly see all conditions or obstacles on a slope, walk the slope before you drive on it. If you have any doubt whether or not 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, turnaround over. Slowly back down the hill, following the same route you took up the hill.

. Your vehicle could roll

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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

Crossing a Stream 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.

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.

4-WheelDriveVehicles 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 slip the clutch for a long time while trying to get unstuck, you may overheat and damage it.

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Maintenance

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

This section also includes instructions on how to read the maintenance minder messages on the information display, and instructions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself.

If you have the skills and tools to perform more complex maintenance tasks on your vehicle, you may want to purchase the service manual. See page for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your dealer.

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Maintenance Safety Maintenance Minder Fluid Locations Adding Engine Oil Changing the Engine Oil and

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

. 272
. 273
. 280
. 281

Filter

. 282
. 284
Engine Coolant Windshield Washers . 286
Automatic Transmission Fluid . 287
. 289
Rear Differential Fluid Brake Fluid . 289
. 290
Power Steering Fluid . 291
Lights . 297
Cleaning the Seat Belts . 297
Floor Mats Audio Antenna . 298
. 298
Dust and Pollen Filter . 299
Wiper Blades . 302
Tires Wheels . 308
. 308
Checking the Battery Vehicle Storage . 310

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

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Maintenance Safety

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

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

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

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

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

Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with the battery or compressed air.

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

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

Injury from moving parts. not run the engine unless instructed to do so.

Do

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

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

Potential Vehicle Hazards

Carbon Monoxide poison from engine exhaust. Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.

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

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

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Your vehicle displays engine oil life and maintenance service items on the information display to show you when you should have your dealer do engine oil replacement and indicated maintenance service.

Based on the engine operating conditions, the onboard computer in your vehicle calculates the remaining engine oil life and displays it as a percentage.

Maintenance Minder

Engine Oil Life Display

SELECT/RESET KNOB

The remaining engine oil life is shown on the display according to this table:

Calculated Engine

Displayed

ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR

To see the current engine oil life, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, then press and release the select/reset knob repeatedly until the engine oil life indicator appears (see page

66

).

Oil Life (%) 100 % 91 % 90 % 81 % 80 % 71 % 70 % 61 % 60 % 51 % 50 % 41 % 40 % 31 % 30 % 21 % 20 % 16 % 15 % 11 % 10 % 6 % 5 % 1 %

− − − − − − − − − − − − 0 %

Engine Oil Life (%)

100 % 90 % 80 % 70 % 60 % 50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 15 % 10 % 5 % 0 %

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Maintenance Minder

MAINTENANCE MINDER INDICATOR

ENGINE LIFE INDICATOR

MAINTENANCE ITEM CODE (S)

If the remaining engine oil life is 15
to 6 percent, you will see the engine oil life indicator every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. The maintenance minder indicator will also come on, and the maintenance item code(s) for other scheduled maintenance items needing service will be displayed below the engine oil life indicator.

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The 15 and 10 percent oil life indicator reminds you that the time is coming soon to take your vehicle in for the required maintenance.

When the remaining engine oil life is 5 to 1 percent, you will see a ‘‘SERVICE’’ message along with the same maintenance item code(s), every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

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Maintenance Minder

The maintenance item code or codes indicate the main and sub items required at the time of the oil change (see page

279

).

You can switch the information display from the engine oil life display to the odometer or the average fuel mileage, press and release the select/reset knob on the instrument panel.

When the engine oil life is 15 to 1
percent, the maintenance minder indicator ( ) comes on every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, then it goes out if you switch the information display.

When you see this message, have the indicated maintenance performed by your dealer as soon as possible.

When the remaining engine oil life is 0 percent, the engine oil life indicator will blink. The display comes on every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. The maintenance minder indicator on in the instrument panel. When you see this message, immediately have the indicated maintenance done by your dealer.

) also comes on and remains

If you do not perform the indicated maintenance, negative mileage is displayed and begins to blink after the vehicle has been driven 10 miles (10 km) or more.

Negative mileage means your vehicle has passed the maintenance required point. Immediately have the indicated maintenance done by your dealer.

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Maintenance Minder

To change the information display from the engine oil life display to the odometer or the average fuel mileage, press and release the select/reset knob.

When the engine oil life is 0 percent or negative mileage, the maintenance minder indicator ) remains on even if you change the information display.

Immediately have the service