2008 Honda Fit Owners Manual

not part of the monitor display, manually check the hood.

) to see if the doors and

62

To see if the system is set

NOTE: after you exit the vehicle, press the LOCK button on the remote transmitter within 5 seconds. If the system is set, the horn will beep once.

Do not attempt to alter this system or add other devices to it.

SECURITY SYSTEM INDICATOR

Once the security system is set, opening any door, the tailgate, or the hood without using the key or the remote transmitter, will cause it to alarm. It also alarms if the radio is removed from the dashboard or the wiring is cut.

The alarm will also be activated if the passenger inside the locked vehicle turns the ignition switch on.

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

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

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

Using the Cruise Control

CRUISE BUTTON

RES/ACCEL BUTTON

CANCEL BUTTON

DECEL/SET BUTTON

1.

Push the CRUISE button on the steering wheel. The CRUISE MAIN indicator on the instrument panel comes on.

The main switch can be left NOTE: on, even when the system is not in use.

2.

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

Cruise Control

3.

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

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

When climbing a steep hill, the automatic transmission may downshift to hold the set speed.

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Cruise Control

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

Press and hold the RES/ACCEL button. When you reach the desired cruising speed, release the button.

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

Push on the accelerator pedal. Accelerate to the desired cruising speed, then press the SET/ DECEL button.

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

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

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

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

132

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

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

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Tapping either of the paddle shifters shifts the gear up or down, but does not cancel the cruise control. For more information on driving with paddle shifters, see page

162

Canceling Cruise Control

CRUISE BUTTON

CANCEL BUTTON

You can cancel cruise control in any of these ways:

Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

Push the CANCEL button on the steering wheel.

Push the CRUISE button on the steering wheel.

Cruise Control

Resuming the Set Speed When you push the CANCEL button, or tap the brake or clutch pedal, the system will remember the previously set cruising speed. To return to that speed, accelerate to above 25 mph (40 km/h), and then press and release the RES/ACCEL button. The CRUISE CONTROL indicator comes on. The vehicle will accelerate to the same cruising speed as before.

Pressing the CRUISE button turns the system off and erases the previous cruising speed.

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Before Driving

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

Break-in Period Fuel Recommendation Service Station Procedures

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

Refueling Opening and Closing

. 136
. 136
. 137
. 137

the Hood

Oil Check Engine Coolant Check

. 138
. 139
. 140
Fuel Economy . 141
Accessories and Modifications . 144
Carrying Cargo . 146

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

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Break-in Period, Fuel Recommendation

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

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

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

Do not change the oil until the scheduled maintenance time.

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

Fuel Recommendation Your vehicle is designed to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 87 or higher. Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause a persistent, heavy metallic rapping noise that can lead to engine damage.

We recommend using quality gasolines containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits.

In addition, in order to maintain good performance, fuel economy, and emissions control, we strongly recommend, in areas where it is available, the use of gasoline that does NOT contain manganese-based fuel additives such as MMT.

Use of gasoline with these additives may adversely affect performance, and cause the malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel to come on. If this happens, contact

136

your authorized dealer for service.

Some gasoline today is blended with oxygenates such as ethanol or MTBE. Your vehicle is designed to operate on oxygenated gasoline containing up to 10 % ethanol by volume and up to 15 % MTBE by volume. Do not use gasoline containing methanol.

If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another service station or switch to another brand of gasoline.

For further important fuel-related information, please refer to your Quick Start Guide

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Refueling 1.

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

2.

Outside of the vehicle, open the fuel fill door by pulling its notched edge.

ATTACHMENT

FUEL FILL CAP

TETHER

3.

Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. The fuel fill cap is attached to the fuel filler with a tether. Put the attachment on the fuel fill cap into the slit on the fuel fill door.

Service Station Procedures

4.

Stop filling the tank after the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off. Do not try to ‘‘top off’’ the tank. Leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes.

Ifthefuelnozzlekeepsclickingoff even though the tank is not full, there may be a problem with your vehicle’s fuel vapor recovery system. The system helps keep fuel vapor from going into the atmosphere. Try filling at another pump. If this does not fix the problem, consult your dealer.

CONTINUED

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Service Station Procedures

Opening and Closing the Hood

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

LATCH

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

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

5.

Screw the fuel fill cap back on until it clicks at least once. If you do not properly tighten the cap, the malfunction indicator lamp may come on (see page will also see a ‘‘CHECK FUEL CAP’’ message on the information display.

). You

231

6.

Close the fuel fill door.

138

1.

Park the vehicle, and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle under the lower left corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.

2.

Put your fingers under the front edge of the hood near the center. Slide your hand to the left until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle up to release it. Lift up the hood.

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

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GRIP

DIPSTICK

Oil Check

Service Station Procedures

SUPPORT ROD

CLIP

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

3.

Holding the grip, pull the support rod out of its clip. Insert the end into the designated hole in the hood.

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

1.

Remove the dipstick (orange loop).

4.

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

To close the hood, lift it up slightly to remove the support rod from the hole. Put the support rod back into its holding clip. Lower the hood to about a foot (30 cm) above the fender, then let it drop. Make sure it is securely latched.

2.

Wipe off the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel.

3.

Insert the dipstick all the way back into its hole.

If it is near or below the lower mark, see 187

Adding Engine Oil

on page

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Owner’s Maintenance on page

Refer to Checks information about checking other items on your vehicle.

184

for

Service Station Procedures

Engine Coolant Check

MAX

RESERVE TANK

MIN

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If Adding it is below the MIN line, see Engine Coolant for 190
information on adding the proper coolant.

on page

140

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Actual Mileage and EPA Fuel Economy Estimates Comparison. Fuel economy is not a fixed number. It varies based on driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle condition. Therefore, it is not possible for one set of estimates to predict fuel economy precisely for all drivers in all environments.

The EPA fuel economy estimates shown in the example to the right are a useful tool for comparison when buying a vehicle. EPA estimates include:

−

Represents urban

City MPG driving in a vehicle in light traffic. A range of miles per gallon achieved is also provided.

−

Represents a

Highway MPG mixture of rural and interstate driving, in a warmed-up vehicle, typical of longer trips in free-flowing traffic. A range of miles per gallon

Fuel Economy

City MPG

Highway MPG

Combined Fuel Economy

Estimated Annual Fuel Cost

(Sample U.S. EPA label shown)

achieved is also provided.

−

Combined Fuel Economy Represents a combination of city and highway driving. The scale represents the range of combined fuel economy for other vehicles in the class.

Estimated Annual Fuel Cost − Provides an estimated annual fuel cost, based on 15,000 miles (20,000
km) per year multiplied by the cost per gallon (based on EPA fuel cost data) divided by the combined fuel economy.

For more information on fuel economy ratings and factors that affect fuel economy, visit fueleconomy.gov vehicles.gc.ca

www. (Canada: Visit

www.

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Fuel Economy

Fuel Economy Factors The following factors can lower your vehicle’s fuel economy:

Aggressive driving (hard acceleration and braking) Excessive idling, accelerating and braking in stop-and-go traffic Cold engine operation (engines are more efficient when warmed up) Driving with a heavy load or the air conditioner running Improperly inflated tires

Improving Fuel Economy

VehicleMaintenance A properly maintained vehicle maximizes fuel economy. Poor maintenance can significantly reduce fuel economy. Always maintain your vehicle according to the maintenance messages displayed on the information display (see Maintenance Checks For example:

Owner’s on page 184

).

142

Use the recommended viscosity motor oil, displaying the API Certification Seal (see page 187

).

Maintain proper tire inflation An under-inflated tire increases − ‘‘rolling resistance,’’ which reduces fuel economy.

Avoid carrying excess weight in your vehicle It puts a heavier load on the engine, increasing fuel consumption.

−

−

Keep your vehicle clean In particular, a build-up of snow or mud on your vehicle’s underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel economy.

DriveEfficiently

−

Drive moderately acceleration, abrupt cornering, and hard braking increase fuel consumption.

Rapid

−

Observe the speed limit Aerodynamic drag has a big effect on fuel mileage at speeds above 45
mph (75 km/h). Reduce your speed and you reduce the drag. Trailers, car top carriers, roof racks and bike racks are also big contributors to increased drag.

−

If your vehicle has a

Always drive in the highest gear possible manual transmission, you can boost your fuel economy by up shifting as early as possible.

Avoid excessive idling − results in 0 miles per gallon.

Idling

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

The A/C

−

Plan and combine trips Combine several short trips into one. A warmed-up engine is more fuel efficient than a cold one.

−

Calculating Fuel Economy

MeasuringTechniques Direct calculation is the recommended source of information about your actual fuel economy. Using frequency of fill-ups or taking fuel gauge readings are NOT accurate measures of fuel economy. Fuel economy may improve over the first several thousand miles.

CheckingYourFuelEconomy

Fuel Economy

Miles driven

Gallons of fuel

Miles per

Gallon

100

Liter

Kilometers

L per 100 km

1) 2) 3) 4)

Fill the fuel tank until the nozzle automatically clicks off. Reset trip counter to zero. Record the total gallons (liters) needed to refill. Follow one of the simple calculations above.

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Accessories and Modifications

Modifying your vehicle, or installing some non-Honda accessories, can make it unsafe. Before you make any modifications or add any accessories, be sure to read the following information.

Accessories Your dealer has Honda accessories that allow you to personalize your vehicle. These accessories have been designed and approved for your vehicle, and are covered by warranty.

Although non-Honda accessories may fit on your vehicle, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your vehicle’s handling and stability.

Improper accessories or modifications can affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, and performance, and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding accessories and modifications.

When properly installed, cellular phones, alarms, two-way radios, and low-powered audio systems should not interfere with your vehicle’s computer controlled systems, such as your airbags, anti-lock brakes, and tire pressure monitoring system (if equipped).

144

Before installing any accessory:

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

Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits (see page the proper operation of your vehicle.

) or interfere with

234

Before installing any electronic accessory, have the installer contact your dealer for assistance. If possible, have your dealer inspect the final installation.

Do not install accessories on the side pillars or across the rear windows. Accessories installed in these areas may interfere with proper operation of the side curtain airbags.

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Accessories and Modifications

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

Non-Honda wheels, because they are a universal design, can cause excessive stress on suspension components and will not be compatible with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) .

＊

Here are some examples:

＊

: If equipped

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

Raising your vehicle with a non-Honda suspension kit can affect the handling and stability.

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

Modifying your steering wheel or any other part of your vehicle’s safety features can make the systems ineffective.

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

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Carrying Cargo

FRONT DOOR POCKETS

CENTER POCKET

CARGO AREA

REAR SIDE POCKET (RIGHT SIDE)

SEAT-BACK POCKET

GLOVE BOX

146

Your vehicle has several convenient storage areas:

Glove box Front door pockets Seat-back pocket Center pocket Cargo area side pocket Cargo area, including the rear seats when folded up or down.

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

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Carrying Cargo

Load Limits (Payload) The maximum load for your vehicle is 850 lbs (385 kg) for U.S. vehicles, and 395 kg for Canadian vehicles.

See Tire And Loading Information label attached to the driver’s doorjamb.

Label Example

−

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit (1)

Locate the statement ‘‘The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.’’ on your vehicle’s placard.

This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and accessories, and the tongue load if you are towing a trailer.

(2)

Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

(3)

Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.

Overloading or improper loading can affect handling and stability and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and other loading guidelines in this manual.

CONTINUED

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Carrying Cargo

(4)

The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the ‘‘XXX’’ amount equals 1,400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1,400

150) = 650 lbs.)

750 (5

−

×

(5)

Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.

(6)

If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.

148

Example 1

Example 2

Example 3

Max Load (850 lbs)

Passenger Weight (150 lbs x 2 = 300 lbs)

Cargo Weight (550 lbs)

Max Load (850 lbs)

Passenger Weight (150 lbs x 4 = 600 lbs)

Cargo Weight (250 lbs)

Max Load (850 lbs)

Passenger Weight (150 lbs x 5 = 750 lbs)

Cargo Weight (100 lbs)

In addition, the total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, accessories, cargo, and trailer tongue load must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Both are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

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Carrying Cargo in the Passenger Compartment

Store or secure all items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash.

Be sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll underneath and interfere with the proper operation of the seats, the sensors under the seats, or the driver’s ability to operate the pedals.

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

Carrying Cargo

If you fold the rear seats up or down, tie down items that could be thrown about the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop. Also, keep all cargo below the bottom of the windows. If it is higher, it could interfere with the proper operation of the side curtain airbags.

Carrying Cargo in the Cargo Area

Distribute cargo evenly on the floor of the cargo area, placing the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible. Tie down items that could be thrown about the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop.

Do not stack items higher than the back of the rear seats. They can block your view and be thrown around the vehicle during a crash.

If you carry large items that prevent you from closing the tailgate, exhaust gas can enter the passenger area. To avoid the possibility of poisoning on page

, follow the instructions

carbon monoxide

.53

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Carrying Cargo

Optional Separation Net The separation net can be used to hold back soft, lightweight items stored in the cargo area. Heavy items should be properly secured on the floor of the cargo area. The net may not prevent heavy items from being thrown forward in a crash or a sudden stop.

HOOK

The four hooks on the floor can be used to install a net for securing items.

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Driving

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the manual and automatic transmissions. It also includes important information on parking your vehicle, the braking system, and the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) .

＊

＊

: If equipped

Driving Guidelines Preparing to Drive Starting the Engine Manual Transmission Automatic Transmission Driving with the Paddle Shifters (Sport only)

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

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

Parking Braking System Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Tire Pressure Monitoring

. 152
. 153
. 154
. 155
. 157

. 162
. 166
. 167
. 168

System (TPMS)

Towing a Trailer

＊

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

. 170
. 173

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Driving Guidelines

OnSportmodel Your vehicle is designed to give you optimum handling and performance on well-maintained roads. As part of this design, your vehicle has a minimum of ground clearance.

Use caution if you ever drive your vehicle on very rough or rutted roads. You could damage the suspension and underbody by bottoming out. Going too fast over parking lot ‘‘speed bumps’’ can also cause damage.

152

Curbs and steep inclines could damage the front and rear bumpers. Low curbs that do not affect the average vehicle may be high enough to hit the bumper on your vehicle. The front or rear bumper may scrape when trying to drive onto an incline, such as a steep driveway or trailer ramps.

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Preparing to Drive

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

1.

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

2.

Check that the hood is fully closed.

3.

4.

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

209

).

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

5.

6.

Check the seat adjustment (see page

86

).

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

95

).

7.

Check the steering wheel adjustment (see page 75

).

8.

9.

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

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.

3.

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

Manualtransmission: Press the clutch pedal down all the way. The START (III) position does not function unless the clutch pedal is pressed.

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

154

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 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.

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

77

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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Come to a full stop before you shift into reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into reverse with the vehicle moving. Push down the clutch pedal, and pause for a few seconds before shifting into reverse, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This stops the gears so they won’t ‘‘grind.’’

When slowing down, you can get extra braking from the engine by shifting to a lower gear. This extra braking can help you maintain a safe speed and prevent your brakes from overheating while going down a steep hill. Before downshifting, make sure the engine speed will not go into the tachometer’s red zone in the lower gear.

Manual Transmission

Rapid slowing or speeding up can cause loss of control on slippery surfaces. If you crash, you can be injured.

Use extra care when driving on slippery surfaces.

155

The manual transmission is synchronized in all forward gears for smooth operation. It has a lockout so you cannot shift directly from fifth to reverse. When shifting up or down, make sure you push the clutch pedal down all the way, shift to the next gear, and let the pedal up gradually. When you are not shifting, do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal. This can cause the clutch to wear out faster.

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Manual Transmission

Recommended Shift Points Drive in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you good fuel economy and effective emissions control. The following shift points are recommended:

Shift up

Normal acceleration

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th

15 mph (24 km/h) 27 mph (43 km/h) 39 mph (62 km/h) 53 mph (85 km/h)

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.

The engine speed limiter only works when you upshift; engine speed is not limited during downshifts. Before downshifting, make sure the engine will not go into the tachometer’s red zone.

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Shift Lever Position Indicators

Shifting

SHIFT LEVER

Automatic Transmission

Sport model

All models except Sport

RELEASE BUTTON Sport 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.

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

CONTINUED

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Automatic Transmission

AllmodelsexceptSport To shift from:

Do this:

Sportmodel To shift from:

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

Press the shift lever release button.

Move the shift lever.

P to R

R to P N to R D to S S to D D to N N to D R to N

P to R

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

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Do this:

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

Move the shift lever.

− 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 front 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 161

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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Automatic Transmission

−

Press the brake

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

−

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.

−

This position is similar

AllmodelsexceptSport Drive (D ) to D, except only the first three gears are selected. Use D to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D can also keep the transmission from cycling between third and fourth gears in stop-and-go driving.

−

To shift to second,

AllmodelsexceptSport Second (2) press the release button on the front 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.

Use second gear:

For more power when climbing.

To increase engine braking when going down steep hills.

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

To help reduce wheel spin.

CONTINUED

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Automatic Transmission

−

AllmodelsexceptSport First (1) To shift from second to first, press the release button on the front 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.

−

OnSportmodel S position (S) To shift into the S position, press the release button on the front of the shift lever, and move the lever to S. This position is similar to D, except only gears from first to fourth are selected. The S position keeps the transmission from cycling between fourth and fifth gears in stop-and-go driving.

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.

With the shift lever in D or S, you can also use the paddle shifters to shift the transmission up or down. With the paddle shifters, you can operate the transmission much like a manual transmission without a clutch pedal. For more information on driving with the paddle shifters, see page

162

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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.

Automatic Transmission

COVER

RELEASE BUTTON

2.

Remove the key from the ignition switch.

NOTCH

3.

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

4.

Insert the key in the shift lock release slot.

5.

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

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT Remove the key from the shift 6. lock release slot, then reinstall the cover. Make sure the notch on the cover is on the left 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 it checked by your dealer.

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Driving with the Paddle Shifters (Sport only)

Using the Paddle Shifters in D position (D-Paddle Shift Mode) When you are driving in D position, you can shift the transmission up or down manually with the paddle shifters.

To shift up or down, use the (right) or each side of the steering wheel.

(left) paddle shifter on

＋

−

＋

Each time you pull the (right), the transmission shifts to a higher gear. Pull the (left) to downshift. You will see the selected gear number on the instrument panel.

−

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GEAR POSITION INDICATOR

When you pull either paddle shifter, the gear position indicator shows you the selected gear number.

When the transmission returns to drive mode (D), the displayed gear number goes out.

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Driving with the Paddle Shifters (Sport only)

Downshifting with the paddle shifter allows you to increase the engine braking when going down steep or long hills, and provides more power when climbing uphills. You can upshift the transmission manually to reduce the rpm. Driving in the higher gear helps fuel economy.

The transmission control system monitors the accelerator pedal use and your driving conditions. When you press the accelerator pedal as in normal driving, the system judges that you are driving at a constant cruising speed without using the paddle shifters. Under these conditions, D-paddle shift mode is canceled, and the transmission automatically returns to drive mode (D).

The transmission remains in the selected gear if you do not accelerate.

Each time you pull either paddle shifter, the transmission shifts one gear up or down. If you want to shift up or down more than two gears, pull the paddle shifter twice, pause, and then pull it again.

You cannot downshift with the paddle shifter before the engine speed reaches the upper limit of the lower gear. If you try to do this, the gear position indicator will flash the number of the lower gear several times, then return to a higher gear position.

Also, you cannot upshift with the paddle shifter before the engine speed reaches the lower limit of the higher gear.

The transmission downshifts to first gear and returns to drive mode (D) when the vehicle comes to a complete stop and the vehicle speed is about 6 mph (10 km/h).

If there is a problem in the transmission while you are driving with the paddle shifters, the D indicator flashes, the D-paddle shift mode is canceled, and the transmission returns to drive mode (D).

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Driving with the Paddle Shifters (Sport only)

Using the Paddle Shift in S position (Sequential Shift Mode) With the shift lever in S position, you can select the sequential shift mode to shift gears; much like a manual transmission using the paddle shifters, but without a clutch pedal.

To enter the sequential shift mode, press the release button on the front of the shift lever, move the lever to the S position, then pull either paddle shifter. To return to drive mode (D), move the shift lever to the D position. While you are driving in the sequential shift mode, the transmission will not automatically return to drive mode (D).

GEAR POSITION INDICATOR

‘‘M’’ INDICATOR

When you move the shift lever from ‘‘D’’ to ‘‘S’’ position and pull either paddle shifter, the gear position indicator displays on ‘‘M’’ along with the selected gear number.

To upshift, pull the shifter. To downshift, pull the (left) paddle shifter.

＋

(right) paddle

−

When you accelerate from a stop, the transmission starts in first gear, and you must manually upshift between first and fifth gears. Make sure you upshift before the engine speed reaches the tachometer’s red zone.

The transmission remains in the selected gear (5, 4, 3, 2, or 1). There is no automatic downshift when you push the accelerator pedal to the floor.

When you are driving in 4th or 5th gear, the transmission downshifts to the lower gear under the following conditions:

The vehicle slows down to a certain speed.

You press the brake pedal.

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Driving with the Paddle Shifters (Sport only)

Downshifting gives you more power when climbing, and provides engine braking when going down a steep hill.

The transmission also shifts automatically as the vehicle comes to a complete stop. It downshifts to first gear when the vehicle speed reaches 6 mph (10 km/h) or less.

You cannot downshift with the paddle shifter before the engine speed reaches the upper limit of the lower gear. If you try to do this, the gear indicator will flash the number of the lower gear several times, then the indicator will display the higher gear number.

If the vehicle speed decreases below the redline of the selected lower gear while the indicator is flashing, the transmission downshifts, and the indicator displays the selected gear.

Here are the speed ranges for upshifting and downshifting.

To shift from

→

→

→

→

To shift from

→

→

→

Speed range

over 0 mph (0 km/h)

over 6 mph (10 km/h)

over 21 mph (34 km/h)

over 30 mph (48 km/h)

Speed range

under 25 mph (40 km/h)

under 47 mph (75 km/h)

under 75 mph (121 km/h)

StartinginSecondGear When you are in sequential shift mode, and the vehicle is stopped, pull the shift to second gear. You will see ‘‘M 2’’ in the display. Starting in second gear helps to reduce wheelspin in deep snow or on a slippery surface.

(right) paddle shifter to

＋

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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.

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

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Parking Tips

Make sure 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.

OnSportmodel 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.

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

If the vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb. If you have a manual