Changing the Oil and Filter
Always change the oil and filter according to the maintenance messages shown on the multi- information display. The oil and filter collect contaminants that can damage your engine if they are not removed regularly.
314
Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle should be raised on a service station- type hydraulic lift for this service. Unless you have the knowledge and proper equipment, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.
1.
Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then shut it off.
2.
Open the hood, and remove the engine oil fill cap.
SCREW
SCREWS CLIP
3.
Remove the screws with a Phillips- head screwdriver, and clips with a flat-tip screwdriver, then pull the under-cover down.
BOLT
WASHER
OIL FILTER
4.
Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.
5.
Remove the oil filter, and let the remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your dealer) is required.
Make sure the oil filter gasket is not stuck to the contacting surface of the engine. If it is, remove it before installing a new oil filter.
Changing the Oil and Filter
6.
Install a new oil filter according to the instructions that come with it. Make sure to clean off any dirt and dust on the contacting surface of a new oil filter.
7.
Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten the drain bolt to:
29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)
8.
Refill the engine with the recommended oil.
Engine oil change capacity (including filter):
3.4 US qt (3.2 )
CONTINUED
315
Changing the Oil and Filter
9.
Reinstall the engine oil fill cap.
Start the engine. The oil pressure
indicator should go out within 5
seconds. If it does not, turn off the
engine, and check your work.
10.
Let the engine run for several minutes, then check the drain bolt and oil filter for leaks.
11.
Turn off the engine, let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick. If necessary, add more oil.
12.
Put the under-cover back in place and reinstall the holding clips and screws. Lock the clips securely by pushing on the center of each clip.
Improper disposal of engine oil can be harmf ul to the environment. If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed container and take it to a recycling center. Do not discard it in a trash bin or dump it on the ground.
316
Adding Engine Coolant
RESERVE TANK
If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to between the MIN and MAX lines. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.
Always use Honda Long-life Anti- freeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent distilled water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.
If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement. Make sure it is a high-quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. Continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.
Engine Coolant
If you regularly drive your vehicle under severe conditions in very low temperature (under 35°C), a higher concentration of coolant should be used. Consult your Honda dealer f or more inf ormation on the proper coolant.
31°F,
−
−
CONTINUED
317
Engine Coolant
If the reserve tank is completely empty, you should also check the coolant level in the radiator.
Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.
318
4.
The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low.
Pour the coolant slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.
5.
Put the radiator cap back on, and tighten it fully.
6.
Pour coolant into the reserve tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back on the reserve tank.
Do not add any rust inhibitors or other additives to your vehicle’s cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine components.
RADIATOR CAP
1.
Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.
2.
Relieve any pressure in the cooling system by turning the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pressing down.
3.
Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.
Check the fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal use.
OnU.S.models Check the fluid level by removing the cap and looking at the level gauge.
OnallCanadianmodels If the washer fluid is low, a ‘‘WASHER FLUID LOW’’ message appears on the multi-information display.
Fill the reservoir with a good-quality windshield washer fluid. This increases the cleaning capability and prevents freezing in cold weather.
When you refill the reservoir, clean the edges of the windshield wiper blades with windshield washer fluid on a clean cloth. This will help to condition them.
Windshield Washers
Do not use engine antif reeze or a vinegar/water solution in the windshield washer reservoir. Antif reeze can damage your vehicle’s paint, while a vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield washer pump. Use only commercially-available windshield washer f luid.
319
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) Check the fluid level with the engine at normal operating temperature.
1.
Park the vehicle on level ground. Start the engine, let it run until the radiator fan comes on, then shut off the engine. For accurate results, wait about 60 seconds (but no longer than 90 seconds) before doing step 2.
320
HOT Range
UPPER MARK LOWER MARK
DIPSTICK
2.
3.
Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission, and wipe it with a clean cloth.
Insert the dipstick all the way into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration.
4.
Remove the dipstick and check the fluid level. There is a HOT side and a COLD side on the dipstick. The fluid level should be between the upper and lower marks on the HOT side.
Automatic Transmission Fluid, Brake Fluid
5.
If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the dipstick hole to bring it to the level between the upper and lower marks.
Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.
6.
Insert the dipstick all the way back into the transmission securely.
The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid when this service is indicated by a maintenance message on the multi-information display.
If you are not sure how to add fluid, contact your dealer.
Always use Honda CVTF (continuously variable transmission fluid).
Brake Fluid Check the brake fluid level in the reservoirs monthly.
You will also see the ‘‘BRAKE FLUID LOW’’ message on the multi- information display when the brake fluid level is low.
Independent of the Maintenance Minder information, replace the brake fluid every 3 years.
CONTINUED
321
Brake Fluid
Always use Honda Heavy Duty
Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not
available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed
container, as a temporary
replacement.
Using any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible.
Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your vehicle’s braking system and can cause extensive damage.
322
MAX
MIN
The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If the level is at or below the MIN mark, your brake system needs attention. Have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.
Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the cargo area, readjustment may be required. Adjustments should be done by your dealer or another qualified technician.
Replacing a Headlight Bulb Your vehicle has halogen headlight bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its base, and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.
Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.
HighBeamHeadlight
HOLDING CLIP
Lights
CONNECTOR
1.
Open the hood. To change the bulb on the right side, remove the upper part of the windshield washer reservoir tank. Use a flat-tip screwdriver to remove the holding clip, then remove the upper part by pulling it straight up.
2.
Remove the electrical connector from the cover by pushing on the tab to unlock it, then slide the connector off the cover.
3.
Remove the cover on the back of the headlight assembly by turning it counterclockwise.
CONTINUED
323
Lights
CONNECTOR
BULB
COVER
4.
Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector down.
5.
Remove the bulb from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
324
6.
7.
8.
Install the new bulb, and turn it one-quarter turn clockwise to lock it in place.
Push the electrical connector back onto the bulb. Make sure it is on all the way.
Reinstall the cover over the back of the headlight assembly and turn it clockwise to lock it in place. Push the electrical connector back onto the cover.
9.
Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.
10.
(Right side) Install the upper part of the windshield washer reservoir tank in the reverse order of removal.
LowBeamHeadlight
BULB
CONNECTOR
1.
Open the hood.
2.
Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector down.
3.
Remove the bulb from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
Lights
4.
5.
Install the new bulb, and turn it one-quarter turn clockwise to lock it in place.
Push the electrical connector back onto the bulb. Make sure it is on all the way.
6.
Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.
325
Lights
Replacing a Front Parking Light Bulb
HOLDING CLIP
BULB
1.
Open the hood. To change the bulb on the right side, remove the upper part of the windshield washer reservoir tank. Use a flat-tip screwdriver to remove the holding clip, then remove the upper part by pulling it straight up.
SOCKET
2.
3.
Remove the socket from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.
326
4.
Install the socket back into the headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.
5.
Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.
6.
(Right side) Install the upper part of the windshield washer reservoir tank in the reverse order of removal.
Replacing the Front Turn Signal Light Bulb
SOCKET
BULB
COVER
NOTCH
1.
Place a cloth on the notch of the light assembly garnish to prevent scratches. Remove the cover by carefully prying in the notch with a flat-tip screwdriver.
BOLTS
2.
3.
Remove the bolts and pull the front turn signal light assembly from the bumper while taking the tab out from the holder.
Remove the socket from the front turn signal light assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
Lights
4.
5.
Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.
Insert the socket back into the front turn signal light assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.
6.
Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.
7.
Install the light assembly in the reverse order of removal. Make sure to secure the bolts.
8.
Install the garnish in the original position securely.
327
Lights
Replacing a Front Side Marker Light Bulb
BULB
3.
4.
Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.
Install the socket back into the headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.
5.
Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.
SOCKET
1.
Open the hood.
2.
Remove the socket from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
328
Replacing the Rear Bulbs
HOOKS
TRIM
HOOKS
Lights
CLIP
CLIP
1.
Open the hatch.
2.
Push on the area of the trim as shown in the illustration above to detach the upper hooks from the light assembly.
3.
Pry on the gap between the trim and light assembly carefully with a flat-tip screwdriver to detach the lower hooks.
4.
Make sure that all hooks are removed from the light assembly. Unclip the top half of the trim from the body by pulling it out. Then unclip the bottom half.
CONTINUED
329
Lights
BOLT
Front
Left side
Front
ORIGINAL POSITION
Left side
SOCKET
SNAP FASTENERS
BULB
5.
Remove the two mounting bolts with an 8 mm wrench.
6.
), then push the
Pull the rear of the light assembly out as shown in the illustration above ( assembly back to the original position carefully ( part of the rear light assembly raises slightly (
). The front
).
7.
Determine which of the three bulbs is burned out: back-up light, turn signal, or side marker.
330
8.
Pull the whole light assembly outwards from the body carefully.
9.
Remove the socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
10.
Remove the burned out bulb by pulling it straight out of its socket.
11.
Install the new bulb in the socket by pushing it straight in the socket until it bottoms.
12.
Reinstall the socket into the light assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.
13.
Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.
14.
When reinstalling the taillight assembly, align and pop the snap fasteners in place. Reinstall and tighten the two mounting bolts.
Lights
15.
To reinstall the trim, set the bottom edge of the trim in the original position and push the bottom half of the trim to clip it back securely. Then push the upper half of the trim to secure the top clip.
16.
Secure the hooks by pushing on the areas of the trim as shown in the illustration above.
331
Lights
Stop/taillights The stop/taillights should be replaced by your dealer.
Side Turn Signal Lights EXmodels Each outside mirror has side turn signal lights. The lights should be replaced by your dealer.
Rear License Plate Light Bulbs The license plate has two lights above it. The bulbs should be replaced by your dealer.
High-mount Brake Light The high-mount brake light should be replaced by your dealer.
332
Audio Antenna, Cleaning the Seat Belts, Floor Mats
Audio Antenna
Cleaning the Seat Belts
Floor Mats
LOOP
Before using an automatic car wash, remove the audio antenna so it does not get damaged. Remove the antenna by unscrewing it. When you reinstall the antenna, tighten it securely.
Before entering or parking in areas with low ceiling height, remove the antenna.
If your seat belts get dirty, use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean them. Do not use bleach, dye, or cleaning solvents. Let the belts air dry before you use the vehicle. Dirt build-up in the loops of the seat belt anchors can cause the belts to retract slowly. Wipe the insides of the loops with a clean cloth dampened in mild soap and warm water or isopropyl alcohol.
To unlock
Driver’s floor mat is shown.
OnLXandEXmodels The driver’s floor mat that came with your vehicle hooks over the floor mat anchors. To lock each anchor, turn the knob clockwise. This keeps the floor mat from sliding forward and possibly interfering with the pedals.
When cleaning or replacing, turn the knob counterclockwise to unhook the floor mat.
CONTINUED
333
Floor Mats, Dust and Pollen Filter, Wiper Blades
If you remove a floor mat, make sure to re-anchor it when you put it back in your vehicle.
If you use a non-Honda floor mat, make sure it fits properly and that it can be used with the floor mat anchors. Do not put additional floor mats on top of the anchored mats.
Make sure the rear floor mats are properly positioned. If not, the floor mat will interfere with the seat operation and make the front passenger’s weight sensors ineffective.
Dust and Pollen Filter This filter removes the dust and pollen that is brought in from the outside through the climate control system.
Have your dealer replace the filter
when this service is indicated by a
maintenance message on the multi-
information display. It should be
replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000
km) if you drive primarily in urban
areas that have high concentrations
of soot in the air, or if the flow from
the climate control system becomes
less than usual.
Wiper Blades Check the condition of the wiper blades at least every 6 months. Replace them if you find signs of cracking in the rubber, and areas that are getting hard or if they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.
334
WIPER ARMS
To replace a wiper blade:
1.
Raise each wiper arm off the windshield, lifting the driver’s side first, then the passenger’s side.
Do not open the hood when the wiper arms are raised, or you will damage the hood and wiper arms.
COVER
2.
Disconnect the blade assembly from the wiper arm:
Put a cloth on the edge of the lock tab to prevent scratches, then push up on the lock tab carefully with a flat-tip screwdriver.
Wiper Blades
WIPER ARM
Pivot the blade assembly toward the wiper arm until it releases from the wiper arm.
When replacing a wiper blade, make sure not to drop the wiper blade or wiper arm down on the windshield.
CONTINUED
335
Wiper Blades
BLADE
4.
Examine the new wiper blades. If they have no plastic or metal reinforcement along the back edge, remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade, and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade.
BLADE
3.
Remove the blade from its holder by grabbing the tabbed end of the blade. Pull firmly until the tabs come out of the holder.
5.
Place the top of the wiper blade on the end of the blade assembly, and slide the blade onto the assembly. Make sure the blade is completely installed.
REINFORCEMENT
Make sure the two rubber tabs inside the blade fit to each notch of the reinforcement, as shown.
336
6.
7.
8.
Slide the wiper blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place.
REAR
Make sure the blade is completely installed and that its edge is not bunched up.
Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield, the passenger’s side first, then the driver’s side.
Wiper Blades
To replace a rear wiper blade:
1.
Raise the wiper arm off the rear window.
COVER
2.
Disconnect the blade assembly from the wiper arm by pulling up the cover.
CONTINUED
337
Wiper Blades
WIPER ARM
BLADE
3.
Push the blade assembly toward the base of the arm.
When replacing a wiper blade, make sure not to drop the wiper blade or wiper arm down on the windshield.
4.
Remove the blade from its holder by grabbing the tabbed end of the blade. Pull firmly until the tabs come out of the holder.
338
5.
Examine the new wiper blades. If they have no plastic or metal reinforcement along the back edge, remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade, and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade.
REINFORCEMENT
TOP
BLADE
Make sure the two rubber tabs inside the blade fit to each notch of the reinforcement, as shown.
6.
Place the top of the wiper blade on the end of the blade assembly, and slide the blade onto the assembly. Make sure the blade is completely installed.
7.
8.
Slide the wiper blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place.
Make sure the blade is completely installed and that its edge is not bunched up.
9.
Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield.
Wiper Blades
CONTINUED
339
Tires
Tires To safely operate your vehicle, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated.
Inflation Guidelines Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best combination of handling, tread life, and riding comfort.
The following pages give more detailed information on how to take care of your tires and what to do when they need to be replaced.
Using tires that are excessively worn or improperly inflated can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding tire inflation and maintenance.
340
Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated. Overinflated tires can make your vehicle ride more harshly, are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.
OnU.S.models The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warns you when a tire pressure is low. See page more information. OnallCanadianmodels We recommend that you visually check your tires every day. If you think a tire might be low, check it immediately with a tire gauge.
291
for
OnU.S.models Even though your vehicle is equipped with TPMS, we recommend that you visually check your tires every day. If you think a tire might be low, check it immediately with a tire gauge.
Use a gauge to measure the air pressure in each tire at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose 1 to 2 psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month. Remember to check the spare tire at the same time.
Check the air pressures when the
tires are cold. This means the
vehicle has been parked for at least 3
hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6
km). Add or release air, if needed, to
match the recommended cold tire
pressures.
If you check air pressures when the
tires are hot (driven for several
miles/kilometers), you will see
readings 4 to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3
to 0.4 kgf/cm ) higher than the cold
readings. This is normal. Do not let
air out to match the recommended
cold air pressure. The tire will be
underinflated.
You should get your own tire pressure gauge and use it whenever you check your tire pressures. This will make it easier for you to tell if a pressure loss is due to a tire problem and not due to a variation between gauges.
While tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured, you should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.
Tires
Recommended Tire Pressures The following chart shows the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving conditions.
Tire Inspection Every time you check inflation, you should also examine the tires for damage, foreign objects, and wear.
Tire Size
P185/60R15 84T
Cold Tire Pressure Front/Rear: 33 psi (230 kPa , 2.3 kgf/cm )
The compact spare tire pressure is: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )
For convenience, the recommended tire sizes and cold tire pressures are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.
You should look for:
Bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if you find either of these conditions.
Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side of the tire. Replace the tire if you can see fabric or cord.
Excessive tread wear.
For additional information about your tires, see page
384
341
Tires
INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS
TREAD WEAR INDICATOR
Your tires have wear indicators
molded into the tread. When the
tread wears down, you will see a 1/2
inch (12.7 mm) wide band across the
tread. This shows there is less than
1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on
the tire.
A tire this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see three or more tread wear indicators.
342
Tire Service Life The service life of your tires is dependent on many factors, including, but not limited to, driving habits, road conditions, vehicle loading, inflation pressure, maintenance history, speed, and environmental conditions (even when the tires are not in use).
In addition to your regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance, it is recommended that you have annual inspections performed once the tires reach five years old. It is also recommended that all tires, including the spare, be removed from service after 10 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their condition or state of wear. The last four digits of the TIN (tire identification number) are found on the sidewall of the tire and indicate Tire the date of manufacture (See Labeling
on page
385
).
Tire Maintenance In addition to proper inflation, correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer check the wheel alignment.
Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This increases riding comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.
Improper wheel weights can damage your vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Use only Honda wheel weights f or balancing.
Tires
Tire Rotation
Front
Front
Replacing Tires and Wheels Replace your tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall).
It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that is not possible or necessary, replace the two front tires or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling.
(Front Non-directional Tires and Wheels)
(Front Directional Tires and Wheels)
To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, rotate the tires according to the maintenance messages displayed on the multi-information display. Move the tires to the positions shown in the illustration each time they are rotated. If you purchase directional tires, rotate only front-to-back.
Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the ABS and vehicle stability assist system (VSA) to work inconsistently.
The ABS and VSA system work by comparing the speed of each wheel. When replacing tires, use the same size originally supplied with the vehicle. Tire size and construction can affect wheel speed and may cause the system to activate.
If you ever replace a wheel, make sure that the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheels.
OnU.S.models Also be sure you use only TPMS specific wheels. If you do not, the tire pressure monitoring system will not work.
Replacement wheels are available at your dealer.
CONTINUED
343
Tires
Installing improper tires on your vehicle can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this owner’s manual.
Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheels:
15 x 6J
Tires:
P185/60R15 84T
384
for DOT tire quality
See page
grading information, and page
for tire size information.
384
344
TireChains Mount tire chains on your tires when required by driving conditions or local laws. Install them only on the front tires.
Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, Honda strongly recommends using the chains listed below, made by Security Chain Company (SCC).
Cable-type: SCC RADIAL CHAIN
SC1026
Winter Driving Tires marked ‘‘M S’’ or ‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- weather tread design suitable for most winter driving conditions.
+
For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions.
SnowTires If you mount snow tires on your vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may be lower than your original tires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.
When installing cables, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and mount them as tight as you can. Make sure they are not contacting the brake lines or suspension. Drive slowly with them installed. If you hear them coming into contact with the body or chassis, stop and investigate. Remove them as soon as you begin driving on cleared roads.
Traction devices that are the wrong size or improperly installed can damage your vehicle’s brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if they are hitting any part of the vehicle.
Using the wrong chains, or not properly installing chains, can damage the brake lines and cause a crash in which you can be seriously injured or killed.
Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding the selection and use of tire chains.
Tires
Wheels Clean the wheels as you would the rest of the exterior. Wash them with the same solution, and rinse them thoroughly.
Ifequipped Aluminum alloy wheels have a protective clear-coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing. Cleaning the wheels with harsh chemicals (including some commercial wheel cleaners) or a stiff brush can damage the clear-coat. To clean the wheels, use a mild detergent and a soft brush or sponge.
345
Checking the 12 Volt Battery
TEST INDICATOR WINDOW
Check the condition of the 12 volt battery monthly by looking at the test indicator window. The label on the battery explains the test indicator’s colors.
346
Check the terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To remove it, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent further corrosion.
If additional 12 volt battery maintenance is needed, see your dealer or a qualified technician.
Battery posts,
WARNING: terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling.
If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damaging your vehicle’s electrical system. Always disconnect the negative ( − reconnect it last.
) cable first, and
The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.
A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.
Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled technician do the battery maintenance.
If your vehicle’s 12 volt battery is disconnected or goes dead, the IMA battery level gauge reading will not be correct the next time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. It will show less than the actual level temporarily. It will show the correct level after you drive for at least 30 minutes.
If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected, or goes dead, the time setting may be lost. To reset the time, see page
222
If your vehicle’s battery is
disconnected or goes dead, the audio
system may disable itself. The next
time you turn on the radio, you will
see ‘‘ENTER CODE’’ in the
frequency display. Use the preset
buttons to enter the code (see page
221
).
Checking the 12 Volt Battery
Onvehicleswithnavigationsystem The navigation system will also disable itself. The next time you turn on the ignition switch, the system will require you to enter a PIN before it can be used. Refer to the navigation system manual.
347
Vehicle Storage
If you need to park your vehicle for
an extended period (more than 1
month), there are several things you
should do to prepare it for storage.
Proper preparation helps prevent
deterioration and makes it easier to
get your vehicle back on the road. If
possible, store your vehicle indoors.
If the vehicle is to be stored for a longer period, it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground.
Leave one window open slightly (if the vehicle is being stored indoors).
Fill the fuel tank.
Disconnect the 12 volt battery.
Wash and dry the exterior completely.
Clean the interior. Make sure the carpeting, floor mats, etc., are completely dry.
Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in Park.
Block the rear wheels.
Support the front and rear wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield.
To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door and hatch seals. Also, apply a vehicle body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and hatch seals.
Cover the vehicle with a ‘‘breathable’’ cover, one made from a porous material such as
cotton. Non-porous materials, such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture, which can damage the paint.
Reconnect the 12 volt battery and drive your vehicle every month for about 30 minutes. This will keep the IMA battery charged and in good condition.
If possible, periodically run the engine until it reaches full operating temperature (the cooling fans cycle on and off twice). Preferably, do this once a month.
If this vehicle is unused f or over one month, the service lif e of the 100V Nickel-Metal Hydride battery will be reduced and the battery may be permanently damaged.
348
Taking Care of the Unexpected
This section covers the more common problems that motorists experience with their vehicles. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your vehicle towed.
Compact Spare Tire ...................... Changing a Flat Tire .................... If the Engine Won’t Start ............. Jump Starting ................................ If the Engine Overheats .............. Low Oil Pressure Indicator ......... 12 Volt Battery Charging System ..................................... ....... ............... .............................................. .............................. ...................... ..........
Malfunction Indicator Lamp Brake System Indicator Fuses Fuse Locations Emergency Towing If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck
Indicator
. 350
. 351
. 358
. 360
. 362
. 365
. 366
. 367
. 368
. 369
. 374
. 376
. 377
349
Compact Spare Tire
Use the compact spare tire as a temporary replacement only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced, and put it back on your vehicle as soon as you can.
Check the air pressure of the compact spare tire every time you check the other tires. It should be inflated to: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )
Follow these precautions:
Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).
This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road surfaces. Use greater caution while driving.
Do not mount snow chains on the compact spare tire.
Do not use your compact spare tire on another vehicle unless it is the same make and model.
OnU.S.models
After the flat tire is replaced with the spare tire, the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator stays on while driving. After several miles (kilometers) driving, this indicator begins to flash, then stays on again. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display. This is normal; the system cannot monitor the spare tire pressure. Manually check the spare tire pressure to be sure it is correct.
INDICATOR LOCATION MARK
TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR
Replace the tire when you can see the tread wear indicator bars. The replacement tire should be the same size and design, mounted on the same wheel. The spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the spare wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.
350
If you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area to stop that is far away from the traffic lanes.
The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.
Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the vehicle when it is supported only by the jack.
1.
2.
Park the vehicle on firm, level, and non-slippery ground. Put the transmission in Park. Apply the parking brake.
Turn on the hazard warning lights, and turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position. Have all passengers get out of the vehicle while you change the tire.
Changing a Flat Tire
TAB
HOLDER
FLOOR
3.
Open the hatch.
4.
Remove the cargo area floor by carefully pulling the front edge of the floor straight up.
CONTINUED
351
Changing a Flat Tire
BOX
JACK
KNOB
SPARE TIRE CASING
5.
Take the box out of the spare tire.
6.
Take the spare tire casing out of the cargo area.
7.
Unscrew the wing bolt and take the spare tire out of its well.
SPARE TIRE
COVER
WHEEL NUT WRENCH
8.
Remove the jack compartment cover by pulling the knob.
10.
Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turn with the wheel nut wrench.
9.
Turn the jack’s end bracket counterclockwise to loosen it, then remove the jack.
352
JACKING POINTS
EXTENSION
WHEEL NUT
Changing a Flat Tire
11.
Place the jack under the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.
WHEEL COVER
WHEEL NUT WRENCH
EXTENSION
InsightandLXmodels 12.
Remove the wheel cover by carefully prying under its edge with the flat tip of the extension.