2000 Honda Odyssey Owners Manual

restrained with a seat belt.

All Children Must Be Restrained Each year, many children are injured or killed in vehicle crashes because they are either unrestrained or not properly restrained. In fact, vehicle accidents are the number one cause of death of children ages 12 and under.

To reduce the number of child deaths and injuries, every state and Canadian province requires that infants and children be restrained whenever they ride in a vehicle.

Any child who is too small to wear a seat belt should be properly restrained in a child seat. (See page 26.)

A larger child should always be restrained with a seat belt. (See page 39.)

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChildren Should Sit in the Back Seat According to accident statistics, children of all ages and sizes are safer when they are restrained in the back seat, not the front seat. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that all children ages 12 and under be properly restrained in a back seat.

In a back seat, children are less likely to be injured by striking hard interior parts during a collision or hard braking. Also, children cannot be injured by an inflating airbag when they ride in the back.

The Passenger's Airbag Poses Serious Risks to Children Airbags have been designed to help protect adults in a moderate to severe frontal collision. To do this, the passenger's airbag is quite large, and it inflates with tremendous speed.

Infants Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front seat of a vehicle equipped with a passenger's airbag. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the back of the child seat with enough force to kill or very seriously injure an infant.

Protecting Children

Small Children Placing a forward-facing child seat in the front seat of a vehicle equipped with a passenger's airbag can be hazardous. If the vehicle seat is too far forward, or the child's head is thrown forward during a collision, an inflating airbag can strike the child with enough force to kill or very seriously injure a small child.

Larger Children Children who have outgrown child seats are also at risk of being injured or killed by an inflating passenger's airbag. Whenever possible, larger children should sit in a back seat, properly restrained with a seat belt. (See page 39 for important information about protecting larger children.)

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

U.S. Models To remind you of the passenger's airbag hazards, and that children must be properly restrained in a back seat, your vehicle has warning labels on the dashboard and on the driver's and front passenger's visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these labels.

Canadian Models To remind you of the airbag hazards, your vehicle has warning labels on the driver's and front passenger's visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these labels.

CAUTION TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY: FOR MAXIMUM SAFETY PROTECTION IN ALL TYPES OF CRASHES, YOU MUST ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SAFETY BELT. DO NOT INSTALL REARWARD-FACING CHILD SEATS IN ANY FRONT PASSENGER SEAT POSITION. DO NOT SIT OR LEAN UNNECESSARILY CLOSE TO THE AIR BAG. DO NOT PLACE ANY OBJECTS OVER THE AIR BAG OR BETWEEN THE AIR BAG AND YOURSELF. SEE THE OWNER'S MANUAL FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND EXPLANATIONS.

PRECAUTION: POUR EVITER DES BLESSURES GRAVES: POUR PROFITER D'UNE PROTECTION MAXIMALE LORS D'UNE COLLISION BOUCLEZ TOUJOURS VOTRE CEINTURE DE SECURITE. N'lNSTALLEZ JAMAIS UN SIEGE POUR ENFANTS FAISANT FACE A L'ARRIERE SUR LE SIEGE DU PASSAGER AVANT. NE VOUS APPUYEZ PAS ET NE VOUS ASSEYEZ PAS PRES DU COUSSIN GONFLABLE. NE DEPOSEZ AUCUN OBJET SUR LE COUSSIN GONFLABLE OU ENTRE LE COUSSIN GONFLABLE ET VOUS. LISEZ LE GUIDE UTILISATEUR POUR DE PLUS AMPLES RENSEIGNEMENTS.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

If a Child Requires Close Attention Many parents say they prefer to put an infant or small child in the front passenger seat so they can watch the child, or because the child requires attention.

Additional Safety Precautions

Use childproof door locks to prevent children from opening the doors. Using this feature will prevent children from opening the doors and accidentally falling out (see page 85).

Placing a child in the front seat exposes the child to hazards from the airbag, and paying close attention to a child distracts the driver from the important tasks of driving, placing both of you at risk.

If a child requires physical attention or frequent visual contact, we strongly recommend that another adult ride with the child in a back seat. The back seat is far safer for a child than the front.

Do not leave children alone in your vehicle. Leaving children without adult supervision is illegal in most states and Canadian provinces, and can be very hazardous. For example, infants and small children left in a vehicle on a hot day can die from heatstroke. And children left alone with the key in the ignition can accidentally set the vehicle in motion, possibly injuring themselves or others.

If You Must Drive with Several Children Your vehicle has two rows of back seats where children can be properly restrained.

If you ever have to carry a group of children (when carpooling for example), and a child must ride in front:

Place the largest child in the front seat, provided the child is large enough to wear a seat belt properly (see page 39).

Move the vehicle seat as far to the rear as possible (see page 12).

Have the child sit upright and well back in the seat (see page 19).

Make sure the seat belt is properly positioned and secured (see page 15).

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

General Guidelines for Using Child Seats The following pages give general guidelines for selecting and installing child seats for infants and small children.

Selecting a Child Seat To provide proper protection, a child seat should meet three requirements:

1. The child seat should meet safety standards. The child seat should meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS 213) or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 (CMVSS 213). Look for the manufacturer's statement of compliance on the box and seat.

2. The child seat should be of the

proper type and size to fit the child.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Infants: Children up to about one year old should be restrained in a rear-facing, reclining child seat. Only a rear-facing seat provides the proper support to protect an infant's head, neck, and back. See page 30 for additional information on protecting infants.

Small Children: A child who is too large for a rear-facing child seat, and who can sit up without support, should be restrained in a forward- facing child seat. See page 35 for additional information on protecting small children.

Main MenuTable of Contentsst3. The child seat should fit the vehicle seating position (or positions) where it will be used.

Due to variations in the design of child seats, vehicle seats, and seat belts, all child seats will not fit all vehicle seating positions.

Before purchasing a child seat, we recommend that parents test the child seat in the specific vehicle seating position (or positions) where they intend to use the seat. If a previously purchased child seat does not fit, you may need to buy a different one that will fit.

However, Honda is confident that one or more child seat models can fit and be properly installed in all recommended seating positions in your vehicle.

Protecting Children

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

Placing a Child Seat This page briefly summarizes Honda's recommendations on where to place rear-facing and forward- facing child seats in your vehicle.

Airbags Pose Serious

Risks to Children

The passenger's airbag inflates with enough force to kill or seriously injure an infant in a rear-facing child seat.

A small child in a forward-facing child seat is also at risk. If the vehicle seat is too far forward, or the child's head is thrown forward during a collision, an inflating airbag can kill or seriously injure the child.

If a small child must ride in the front, follow the instructions provided in this section.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Front Passenger's Seat Infants: Never in the front seat, due to the passenger's airbag hazard.

Small children: Not recommended,

due to the passenger's airbag hazard. If a small child must ride in front, move the vehicle seat to the rear-most position and secure a front-facing child seat with the seat belt (see page 36).

Back Seats Infants: Recommended positions. Secure a rear-facing child seat with the seat belt (see page 31).

Small children: Recommended

positions. Secure a front-facing child seat with the seat belt (see page 36).

Main MenuTable of ContentsstInstalling a Child Seat After selecting a proper child seat, and a good position to install the seat, there are three main steps in installing the seat:

To provide security during normal driving maneuvers as well as during a collision, we recommend that parents secure a child seat as firmly as possible.

1. Secure the child seat to the vehicle

with a seat belt. All child seats must be secured to the vehicle with the lap part of a lap/shoulder belt. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the vehicle can be endangered in a crash. See pages 31 and 36 for instructions on how to secure child seats in this vehicle.

2. Make sure the child seat is firmly

secured. After installing a child seat, push and pull the seat forward and from side to side to verify that it is secure.

However, a child seat does not need to be "rock solid." In some vehicles or seating positions, it may be difficult to install a child seat so that it does not move at all. Some side-to- side or back-and-forth movement can be expected and should not reduce the child seat's effectiveness.

If the child seat is not secure, try installing it in a different seating position, or use a different style of child seat that can be firmly secured in the desired seating position.

Protecting Children

3. Secure the child in the child seat.

Make sure the child is properly strapped in the child seat according to the child seat maker's instructions. A child who is not properly secured in a child seat can be thrown out of the seat in a crash and seriously injured.

Storing a Child Seat When you are not using a child seat, either remove it and store it in a safe place, or make sure it is properly secured. An unsecured child seat can be thrown around the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop and injure someone.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

Protecting Infants

Child Seat Type Only a rear-facing child seat provides proper support for a baby's head, neck, and back. Infants up to about one year of age must be restrained in a rear-facing child seat.

Two types of seats may be used: a seat designed exclusively for infants, or a convertible seat used in the rear- facing, reclining mode.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Placing a rear-facing child seat in the front seat can result in serious injury or death if the airbags inflate.

Always place a rear-facing child seat in the back seat, not the front.

We recommend that an infant be restrained in a rear-facing child seat until the infant reaches the seat maker's weight or height limit and is able to sit up without support.

Rear-Facing Child Seat Placement In this vehicle, a rear-facing child seat can be placed in any seating position in a back seat, but not in the front seat.

Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front seat. If the passenger's airbag inflates, it can hit the back of the child seat with enough force to kill or seriously injure an infant. If an infant must be closely watched, we recommend that another adult sit in a back seat with the baby.

Do not put a rear-facing child seat in a forward-facing position. If placed facing forward, an infant could be very seriously injured during a frontal collision.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstInstalling a Rear-Facing Child Seat with a Lap/Shoulder Belt The lap/shoulder belts in the outer back seats have a locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat.

The following pages provide instructions on how to secure a rear- facing child seat with this type of seat belt.

See page 33 for how to secure a rear- facing child seat in the center position on the third seat with the lap part of the lap/shoulder belt.

For tips on installing a rear-facing child seat with either type of seat belt, see page 34 .

Protecting Children

1. With the child seat in the desired back seating position, route the belt through the child seat according to the seat maker's instructions, then insert the latch plate into the buckle.

2. To activate the lockable retractor, slowly pull the shoulder part of the belt all the way out until it stops, then let the belt feed back into the retractor (you might hear a clicking noise as the belt retracts).

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

3. After the belt has retracted, tug on it. If the belt is locked, you will not be able to pull it out. If you can pull the belt out, it is not locked and you will need to repeat these steps.

Driver and Passenger Safety

4. After confirming that the belt is

locked, grab the shoulder part of the belt near the buckle and pull up to remove any slack from the lap part of the belt. Remember, if the lap part of the belt is not tight, the child seat will not be secure. To remove slack, it may help to put weight on the child seat, or push on the back of the seat, while pulling up on the belt.

5. Push and pull the child seat

forward and from side to side to verify that it is secure enough to stay upright during normal driving maneuvers. If the child seat is not secure, unlatch the belt, allow it to retract fully, then repeat these steps.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTo deactivate the locking mechanism and remove a child seat, unlatch the buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let the belt fully retract.

Installing a Rear-Facing Child Seat in the Center Position of the Third Seat

Finally, follow instruction number 5
on page 32 to verify that the child seat is secure.

Protecting Children

To install a rear-facing child seat in the center position of the third seat, use the lap part of the lap/shoulder belt. Follow instruction number 1 on page 31 for routing and latching the seat belt.

Then pull hard on the loose end of the belt to remove any slack (it may help to put weight on the child seat while pulling on the belt).

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

Rear-Facing Child Seat Installation Tips

For proper protection, an infant must ride in a reclined, or semi-reclined position. To determine the proper reclining angle, check with the baby's doctor or follow the seat maker's recommendations.

To achieve the desired reclining angle, it may help to put a rolled up towel under the toe of the child seat, as shown.

Driver and Passenger Safety

When properly installed, a rear- facing child seat may prevent the driver or a front-seat passenger from moving the seat as far back as recommended (see page 12). Or it may prevent them from locking the seat-back in the desired upright position (see page 13).

In either case, we recommend that you place the child seat in another back seating position, or leave the affected seat unoccupied. If the problem cannot be solved, you may wish to get a smaller rear-facing child seat.

Additional Precautions for Infants Never hold an infant on your lap. If you are not wearing a seat belt in a crash, you could be thrown forward into the dashboard and crush the infant.

If you are wearing a seat belt, the infant can be torn from your arms. For example, if your vehicle crashes into a parked vehicle at 30
mph (48 km/h), a 20-lb (9 kg) infant will become a 600-lb (275
kg) force, and you will not be able to hold on.

Never put a seat belt over yourself and an infant. During a crash, the belt could press deep into the infant and cause very serious injuries.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Small Children

Of the different seats available, we recommend those that have a five- point harness system as shown.

We also recommend that a small child stay in the child seat as long as possible, until the child reaches the weight or height limit for the seat.

Child Seat Type A child who can sit up without support, and who fits within the child seat maker's weight and height limits, should be restrained in a forward-facing, upright child seat.

Protecting Children

Child Seat Placement In this vehicle, the best place to install a forward-facing child seat is in one of the seating positions in a back seat.

Placing a forward-facing child seat in the front seat of a vehicle equipped with a passenger's airbag can be hazardous. If the vehicle seat is too far forward, or the child's head is thrown forward during a collision, an inflating passenger's airbag can strike the child with enough force to cause very serious or fatal injuries. If a small child must be closely watched, we recommend that another adult sit in a back seat with the child.

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstInstalling a Child Seat with a Lap/ Shoulder Belt The lap/shoulder belts in the outer back and front passenger seating positions have a locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat.

The following pages provide instructions on how to secure a forward-facing child seat with this type of seat belt.

See page 38 for how to secure a forward-facing child seat in the center position on the third seat with the lap part of the lap/shoulder belt.

1. With the child seat in the desired

seating position, route the belt through the child seat according to the seat maker's instructions, then insert the latch plate into the buckle.

Protecting Children

Improperly placing a forward- facing child seat in the front seat can result in serious injury or death if the airbags inflate.

If you must place a forward- facing child seat in front, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible and properly restrain the child.

If it is necessary to put a forward- facing child seat in the front, move the vehicle seat as far to the rear as possible, be sure the child seat is firmly secured to the vehicle, and the child is properly strapped in the seat.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

2. To activate the lockable retractor, slowly pull the shoulder part of the belt all the way out until it stops, then let the belt feed back into the retractor (you might hear a clicking noise as the belt retracts).

3. After the belt has retracted, tug on it. If the belt is locked, you will not be able to pull it out. If you can pull the belt out, it is not locked and you will need to repeat these steps.

4. After confirming that the belt is

locked, grab the shoulder part of the belt near the buckle and pull up to remove any slack from the lap part of the belt. Remember, if the lap part of the belt is not tight, the child seat will not be secure. It may help to put weight on the child seat, or push on the back of the seat, while pulling up on the belt.

5. Push and pull the child seat

forward and from side to side to verify that it is secure enough to stay upright during normal driving maneuvers. If the child seat is not secure, unlatch the belt, allow it to retract fully, then repeat these steps.

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

To deactivate the locking mechanism in order to remove a child seat, unlatch the buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let the belt fully retract.

Installing a Child Seat in the Center Position of the Third Seat

on page 37 to verify that the child seat is secure.

To install a forward-facing child seat in the center position of the third seat, use the lap part of the lap/ shoulder belt. Follow instruction number 1 on page 36 for routing and latching the seat belt.

Then pull hard on the loose end of the belt to remove any slack (it may help to put weight on the child seat while pulling on the belt). Finally, follow instruction number 5

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Precautions for Small Children

Never hold a small child on your lap. If you are not wearing a seat belt in a crash, you could be thrown forward into the dashboard and crush the child.

If you are wearing a seat belt, the child can be torn from your arms during a crash. For example, if your vehicle crashes into a parked vehicle at 30 mph (48 km/h), a 30-lb (14 kg) child will become a 900-lb (410 kg) force, and you will not be able to hold on.

Never put a seat belt over yourself and a child. During a crash, the belt could press deep into the child and cause very serious injuries.

Protecting Larger Children When a child reaches the recommended weight or height limit for a forward-facing child seat, the child should sit in the back seat and wear a lap/shoulder belt.

If a child is too short for the shoulder part of the belt to properly fit, we recommend that the child use a booster seat until tall enough to use the seat belt without a booster.

The following pages give instructions on how to check proper seat belt fit, what kind of booster seat to use if one is needed, and important precautions for children who must sit in the front seat.

Protecting Children

Allowing a larger child to sit improperly in the front seat can result in injury or death if the airbags inflate.

If a larger child must sit in front, make sure the child moves the seat as far back as possible and wears the seat belt properly.

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

Checking Seat Belt Fit

To determine if a lap/shoulder belt properly fits a child, have the child put on the seat belt. Follow the instructions on page 15. Then check how the belt fits.

Driver and Passenger Safety

If the shoulder part of the belt rests over the child's collarbone and against the center of the chest, as shown, the child is large enough to wear the seat belt.

However, if the belt touches or crosses the child's neck, the child needs to use a booster seat.

Do not let a child wear a seat belt across the neck. This could result in serious neck injuries during a crash.

Do not let a child put the shoulder part of a seat belt behind the back or under the arm. This could cause very serious injuries during a crash. It also increases the chance that the child will slide under the belt in a crash and be injured.

Do not put any accessories on a seat belt. Devices intended to improve occupant comfort or reposition the shoulder part of a seat belt, severely compromise the protective capability of the seat belt and increase the chance of serious injury in a crash.

Two children should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstUsing a Booster Seat

A child may continue using a booster seat until the tops of the ears are even with the top of the seat-back. A child of this height should be tall enough to use the lap/shoulder belt without a booster.

When Can a Larger Child Sit in Front The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that all children ages 12 and under be properly restrained in a back seat.

Protecting Children

If a child needs a booster seat, we recommend choosing a style that allows the child to use the lap/ shoulder belt directly, without a shield, as shown.

Whichever style you select, follow the booster seat maker's instructions.

The back seat is the safest place for a child of any age or size.

In addition, the passenger's airbag poses serious risks to children. If the seat is too far forward, or the child's head is thrown forward during a collision, or the child is unrestrained or out of position, an inflating airbag can kill or seriously injure the child.

Of course, children vary widely. And while age may be one indicator of when a child can safely ride in the front, there are other important factors you should consider.

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

Physical Size Physically, a child must be large enough for the lap/shoulder belt to properly fit over the hips, chest, and shoulder (see pages 15 and 39). If the seat belt does not fit properly, the child should not sit in the front.

Maturity To safely ride in front, a child must be able to follow the rules, including sitting properly and wearing the seat belt properly throughout a ride.

Driver and Passenger Safety

If you decide that a child can safely ride up front, be sure to:

Carefully read the owner's manual and make sure you understand all seat belt instructions and all safety information.

Move the vehicle seat to the rear- most position.

Have the child sit up straight, back against the seat, and feet on or near the floor.

Check that the child's seat belt is properly positioned and secured.

Supervise the child. Even mature children sometimes need to be reminded to fasten the seat belts or sit properly.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

Second Seat Installation:

Using Child Seats with Tethers Your vehicle has attachment points for a tether-style child seat to be installed on the second or third row as shown.

Since a tether can provide additional security, we recommend using a tether whenever one is required or available.

TETHER ATTACHMENT POINT

Each second row bucket seat has a tether attachment point on the underside of the seat cushion.

Lift the head restraint, then route the tether strap over the seat-back between the legs of the head restraint.

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children

Third Seat Installation:

Attach the tether strap hook to the tether attachment point and tighten the strap according to the child seat maker's instruction. Make sure the strap is not twisted.

There are three attachment points on the tailgate sill. Select the attach- ment point you want to use, and remove the plug with a small flat- tipped screwdriver or fingernail file.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Install the anchor plate and mounting hardware. The hardware is available for purchase from your Honda dealer (part number 82410- SE3-C01). For Canadian models, the hardware is supplied with the vehicle.

When installing tether hardware, make sure the toothed washer is on the bottom of the bolt. Tighten the bolt to: 16 lbf.ft (22 N.m , 2.2 kgf.m)

If a torque wrench was not used, see your Honda dealer as soon as possible to verify proper installation.

To attach the tether to the child seat, follow the child seat maker's instructions.

If you are not sure how to install the tether, or you need mounting hardware, contact your Honda dealer.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Seat Belts

Lap/Shoulder Belt Your vehicle has two types of lap/ shoulder belts. The center position of the third seat has a combination of a lap belt and a shoulder belt. For maximum safety, they are designed to be used together.

Seat Belt System Components Your seat belt system includes lap/ shoulder belts in all seven seating positions.

The system also includes a light on the instrument

panel to remind you and your passengers to fasten your belts. If the driver's seat belt is not fastened before the ignition is turned ON (II), the light will come on and a beeper will also sound. The beeper will stop after a few seconds, but the light will stay on until the driver's seat belt is fastened.

All other seating positions have a one-piece lap/shoulder belt. This seat belt goes over your shoulder, across your chest and across your hips.

To fasten the belt, insert the latch plate into the buckle, then tug on the belt to make sure the buckle is latched.

To unlock the belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle. Guide the belt across your body so that it retracts completely. After exiting the vehicle, be sure the belt is out of the way and will not get closed in the door.

All seat belts have an emergency locking retractor. In normal driving, the retractor lets you move freely in your seat while it keeps some tension on the belt. During a collision or sudden stop, the retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body.

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Seat Belts

The seat belts in all positions except the driver's and the center position of the third seat have an additional locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat. (See pages 31 and 36 for instructions on how to secure child seats with this type of seat belt.)

If the shoulder part of the belt is pulled all the way out, the locking mechanism will activate. The belt will retract, but it will not allow the passenger to move freely.

To deactivate the locking mechanism, unlatch the buckle and let the seat belt fully retract. To refasten the belt, pull it out only as far as needed.

See page 15 for instructions on how to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly.

Driver and Passenger Safety

The combination lap belt and shoulder belt in the center position of the third seat goes over your shoulder, across your chest and over your hips. The shoulder belt has an emergency locking retractor that works in combination with the lap belt.

To fasten the seat belt, unlatch the metal plate of the shoulder belt from the anchor on the ceiling and extend the belt by pulling the metal plate.

Attach the metal hook on the edge of the shoulder belt to the metal loop on the latch plate of the lap belt marked CENTER, then tug on the shoulder belt to make sure it is securely attached.

Insert the latch plate of the lap belt into the buckle marked CENTER, then tug on the lap belt to make sure the buckle is latched.

To unlock the belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle and detach the shoulder belt from the lap belt.

See page 17 for how to lengthen the lap belt, and how to properly position the lap and shoulder belts.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Seat Belts

For information on how to clean your seat belts, see page 286.

Seat Belt Maintenance For safety, you should check the condition of your seat belts regularly.

Pull each belt out fully and look for frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check that the latches work smoothly and that the lap/shoulder belts retract easily. Any belt not in good condition or not working properly will not provide good protection and should be replaced as soon as possible.

U.S. Models Honda provides a lifetime warranty on seat belts. Honda will repair or replace any seat belt component that fails to function properly during normal use. Please see your Honda Warranty Information booklet for details.

If a seat belt is worn during a crash, you should have your dealer inspect the belt, and replace it if necessary. A belt that has been worn during a crash may not provide the same level of protection in a subsequent crash. The dealer should also inspect the anchors for damage and replace them if needed.

Not checking or maintaining seat belts can result in serious injury or death if the seat belts do not work properly when needed.

Check your seat belts regularly and have any problem corrected as soon as possible.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your SRS

How Your Airbags Work

related wiring when the ignition is ON (II).

An indicator light on the instrument panel that alerts you to a possible problem with the system (see page 50 ).

Emergency backup power in case your vehicle's electrical system is disconnected in a crash.

If you ever have a moderate to severe frontal collision, the sensors will detect rapid deceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate the airbags and activate the automatic seat belt tensioners.

SRS Components Your Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) includes:

Two front airbags. The driver's airbag is stored in the center of the steering wheel; the front passenger's airbag is stored in the dashboard. Both are marked "SRS AIRBAG."

Automatic seat belt tensioners that tighten the front seat belts during a moderate to severe frontal collision.

Sensors that can detect a moderate to severe frontal collision.

A sophisticated electronic system that continually monitors and records information about the sensors, the control unit, the airbag activators, driver and passenger seat belt use, and all

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstDuring a crash, your seat belt helps restrain your lower body and torso, while the tensioner tightens and locks the seat belt to help keep you in place. Your airbag provides a cushion to help restrain and protect your head and chest.

Since both airbags use the same sensors, both airbags normally inflate at the same time. However, it is possible for only one airbag to inflate.

This can occur when the severity of a collision is at the margin, or threshold, that determines whether or not the airbags will deploy. In such cases, the seat belt will provide sufficient protection, and the supplemental protection offered by the airbag would be minimal.

Additional Information About Your SRS

After a crash, you may see what looks like smoke. This is actually powder from the airbag's surface. Although the powder is not harmful, people with respiratory problems may experience some temporary discomfort. If this occurs, get out of the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.

U.S. Owners For additional information on how your airbags work, see the booklet titled SRS: What You Need to Know About Airbags that came with your owner's manual.

Canadian Owners For additional information on how your airbags work, ask your dealer for a copy of the booklet titled SRS: What You Need to Know About Airbags.

Driver and Passenger Safety

After inflating, the airbags immediately deflate, so they won't interfere with the driver's visibility, or the ability to steer or operate other controls.

The total time for inflation and deflation is approximately one-tenth of a second, so fast that most occupants are not aware that the airbags deployed until they see them lying in their laps.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your SRS

How the Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners Work

If your airbags inflate, the tensioners immediately tighten the front seat belts to help hold the occupants in place. The belts will remain tight until you unbuckle them in the normal way.

Your Honda has automatic seat belt tensioners for added protection during a moderate to severe frontal collision.

Driver and Passenger Safety

The purpose of the SRS light is to alert you to a

How the SRS Indicator Light Works S R S potential problem with your Supplemental Restraint System. This light will also alert you to a potential problem with your automatic seat belt tensioners.

When you turn the ignition ON (II), this indicator will light up briefly then go out. This tells you that the system is working properly.

However, if the light comes on at any other time, you should have the system checked by your dealer. For example:

If the SRS indicator light does not come on after you turn the ignition ON (II).

If the light stays on after the engine starts.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your SRS

If the light comes on or flashes on and off while you drive.

If you see any of these indications, your airbags and seat belt tensioners may not deploy when you need them. See your Honda dealer as soon as possible.

Ignoring the SRS indicator light can result in serious injury or death if the airbags do not inflate when needed.

Have your vehicle checked by a dealer as soon as possible if the SRS light alerts you to a potential problem.

SRS Service Your Supplemental Restraint System is virtually maintenance-free, and there are no parts you can safely service. However, you must have your vehicle serviced if:

Your airbags ever inflate. The airbags, seat belt tensioners, and control unit must be replaced. Do not try to remove or replace the airbags yourself. This must be done by a Honda dealer or a knowledgeable body shop.

The SRS indicator light alerts you to a problem. Take your vehicle to an authorized Honda dealer as soon as possible. If you ignore this indication, the airbags might not inflate when you need them (see page 50).

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your SRS

Additional Safety Precautions

Do not attempt to deactivate your airbags. Together, airbags and seat belts provide the best protection in a moderate to severe frontal collision.

Do not tamper with SRS components or wiring for any reason. Tampering could cause the airbags to deploy, possibly causing very serious injury.

See page 196 for further information and precautions relating to your SRS.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour vehicle's exhaust contains carbon monoxide gas. You should have no problem with carbon monoxide entering the vehicle in normal driving if you maintain your vehicle properly. Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks whenever:

The vehicle is raised for an oil change. You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust. The vehicle was in an accident that may have damaged the under- side.

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and even kill you.

Avoid any enclosed areas or activities that expose you to carbon monoxide.

High levels of carbon monoxide can collect rapidly in enclosed areas, such as a garage. Do not run the engine with the garage door closed. Even with the door open, run the engine only long enough to move the vehicle out of the garage.

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

With the tailgate open, air flow can pull exhaust gas into your vehicle's interior and create a hazardous condition. If you must drive with the tailgate open, open all the windows and set the heating and cooling system/climate control system as shown below.

If you must sit in your parked vehicle, even in an unconfined area, with the engine running, adjust the heating and cooling system/climate control system as follows:

1. Select the Fresh Air mode. 2. Select the 3. Turn the fan on high speed. 4. Set the temperature control to a

mode.

comfortable setting.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSafety Labels

These labels are in the locations shown. They warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury. Read these labels carefully.

If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer for a replacement.

HOOD

DASHBOARD U.S. models only

RADIATOR CAP

Driver and Passenger Safety

SUN VISOR U.S. models

Canadian models

Main MenuTable of ContentsstInstruments and Controls

This section gives information about the controls and displays that contribute to the daily operation of your Honda. All the essential controls are within easy reach.

Control Locations............................ 56
Indicator Lights................................ 57
Gauges.............................................. 62
Controls Near the Steering

Wheel........................................ 65
Headlights.................................... 66
Automatic Lighting Off

Feature...................................... 67
Daytime Running Lights............. 67
Instrument Panel Brightness..... 67
Turn Signals................................. 68

Windshield Wipers...................... 68
Windshield Washers................... 70
Rear Window Wiper and

Washer...................................... 70
Hazard Warning........................ 70
Rear Window Defogger.............. 71
Steering Wheel Adjustment....... 72
Steering Wheel Controls................ 73
Cruise Control.............................. 73
Remote Audio Controls .............. 76
Keys and Locks................................ 76
Keys............................................... 76
Immobilizer System..................... 77
Ignition Switch............................. 78
Power Door Locks....................... 79
Remote Transmitter.................... 81
Childproof Door Locks............... 85
Tailgate......................................... 85
Glove Box..................................... 87
Manual Sliding Doors...................... 88
Power Sliding Doors........................ 89
HomeLink Universal

Transmitter.................................. 95
Seats.................................................. 99
Passenger Seating....................... 99
Seat Adjustments....................... 100

Driver's Seat Power

Adjustments........................... 102
Armrests..................................... 103
Head Restraints......................... 104
Third Seat Access...................... 105
Moving the Second Row

Bucket Seat............................ 106

Removing the Bucket Seats

in the Second Row................. 108
Folding the Third Seat.............. 109
Power Windows............................. 112
Mirrors............................................ 115
Parking Brake................................ 116
Digital Clock................................... 117
Center Table................................... 117
Beverage Holder............................ 118
Sunglasses Holder......................... 120
Sun Visor......................................... 121
Vanity Mirror................................. 121
Rear Compartment........................ 122
Center Pocket................................ 122
Coin Holder.................................... 122
Storage Box.................................... 123
Coat Hook....................................... 123
Accessory Power Sockets............. 124
Interior Lights................................ 125

Instruments and Controls

Main MenustControl Locations

POWER SLIDING DOOR SWITCHES (P. 90)

MIRROR CONTROLS (P. 115)

DIGITAL CLOCK (P. 117)

HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS (P. 130) CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM (P. 138)

DOOR LOCK SWITCHES (P. 79)

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P. 113)

REAR A/C UNIT CONTROL (P. 152)

AUDIO SYSTEM (P. 155, 167)

FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE (P. 189)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P. 190)

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe instrument panel has many indicators to give you important information about your vehicle.

Seat Belt Reminder Light

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). It is a reminder to you and your passengers to protect yourselves by fastening the seat belts. A beeper also sounds if you have not fastened your seat belt.

If you do not fasten your seat belt, the beeper will stop after a few seconds but the light stays on until you do. Both the light and the beeper stay off if you fasten your seat belt before turning on the ignition.

Indicator Lights

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT

SYSTEM INDICATOR

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*

POWER SLIDING DOOR INDICATOR

IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM INDICATOR TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM INDICATOR

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

LOW FUEL INDICATOR

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

DOOR AND BRAKE LAMP MONITOR

* The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian models are noted in the text.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSupplemental Restraint System Indicator

S R S This indicator lights when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, it indicates a problem in the supplemental restraint system. For complete information, see page 50.

Indicator Lights

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

See page 309.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

The engine can be severely damaged if this light flashes or stays on when the engine is running. For complete information, see page 307.

Charging System Indicator

If this light comes on when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged. For complete information, see page 308.

Instruments and Controls

Canada

U.S. BRAKE

Parking Brake and Brake System Indicator This light has two functions:

1. It comes on when you turn the

ignition switch ON (II) as a reminder to check the parking brake. If the parking brake is not set, it goes off after the engine starts. If the parking brake is set, it goes off when you release the parking brake with the engine running. Driving with the parking brake applied can damage the brakes and tires.

2. If it remains lit after you release

the parking brake while the engine is running, or comes on while driving, it can indicate a problem in the brake system. For complete information, see page 310 .

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCanada

U.S. A B S Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Indicator This light normally comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II), and when the ignition switch is turned to START (III). If this light comes on at any other time, there is a problem in the ABS. If this happens, take the vehicle to your dealer to have it checked. With the light on, your vehicle still has normal braking ability but no anti-lock. For complete information, see page 211.

Indicator Lights

T C S

Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator

On EX model This indicator has three functions: 1. It comes on as a reminder that you

have turned off the Traction Control System.

2. It flashes when the TCS is

regulating wheelspin.

Immobilizer System Indicator

This indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). It will then go off if you have inserted a properly-coded ignition key. If it is not a properly- coded key, the indicator will blink and the engine will not start (see page 77 ).

3. If it comes on and stays on when

the Traction Control System is on, it indicates that there is a problem in the TCS.

This indicator also blinks several times when you turn the ignition switch from ON (II) to ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0).

This light also comes on when you turn the ignition ON (II) and goes off after the engine starts. See page 213 for more information on the TCS.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIndicator Lights

Power Sliding Door Indicator

SLIDING DOOR EX model only This indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, there is a problem in the power sliding door system. With this light on, move the main switch on the dashboard to the OFF position, and have the system checked by your Honda dealer as soon as possible. You can still open or close each sliding door manually. For more information on the power sliding doors, see page 90.

Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Indicators

The left or right turn signal light blinks when you signal a lane change or turn. If the light does not blink or blinks rapidly, it usually means one of the turn signal bulbs is burned out (see page 273). Replace the bulb as soon as possible, since other drivers cannot see that you are signalling.

When you turn on the Hazard Warning switch, both turn signal lights blink. All turn signals on the outside of the vehicle should flash.

Instruments and Controls

Door and Brake Lamp Monitor

BRAKE LAMP

The appropriate light comes on in this display if the tailgate or any door is not closed tightly. If a brake light does not work, the BRAKE LAMP indicator comes on when you push the brake pedal with the ignition switch ON (II).

A burned out brake light is a hazard when drivers behind you cannot tell you are braking. Have your brake lights repaired right away. All the lights in the monitor display come on when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). The lights go off after the engine starts and the tailgate and all doors are closed tightly.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIndicator Lights

High Beam Indicator

Washer Level Indicator

Canadian models only This light comes on when the washer fluid level is low. Add washer fluid when you see this light come on (see page 248).

This light comes on with the high beam headlights. See page 66 for information on the headlight controls.

On Canadian models, this indicator comes on with reduced brightness when the Daytime Running Lights (DRL) are on (see page 67).

Low Fuel Indicator

This light comes on as a reminder that you must refuel soon.

"Daytime Running Lights" Indicator

D R L Canadian models only This indicator lights when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II) with the headlight switch off and the parking brake set. It should go off if you turn on the headlights or release the parking brake. If it comes on at any other time, it means there is a problem with the DRL. There may also be a problem with the high beam headlights.

Cruise Control Indicator

CRUISE CONTROL This lights when you set the cruise control. See page 73 for information on operating the cruise control.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstGauges

TACHOMETER

SPEEDOMETER

FUEL GAUGE

TEMPERATURE GAUGE

Odometer The odometer shows the total dis- tance your vehicle has been driven. It measures miles in U.S. models and kilometers in Canadian models. It is illegal under U.S. federal law and Canadian provincial regulations to disconnect, reset, or alter the odometer with the intent to change the number of miles or kilometers indicated.

TRIP METER SELECT/RESET BUTTON

Tachometer The tachometer shows the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm). To protect the engine from damage, never drive with the tachometer needle in the red zone.

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR

TRIP METER ODOMETER

Speedometer U.S. Models This shows your speed in miles per hour (mph). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in kilometers per hour (km/h).

Canadian Models This shows your speed in kilometers per hour (km/h). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in miles per hour (mph).

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstGauges

Trip Meter This meter shows the number of miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada) driven since you last reset it.

There are two trip meters: Trip A and Trip B. Switch between these displays by pressing the Select/ Reset button repeatedly. Each trip meter works independently, so you can keep track of two different distances.

To reset a trip meter, display it and then press and hold the Select/Reset button until the number resets to "0.0".

Temperature Gauge This shows the temperature of the engine's coolant. During normal operation, the pointer should rise from the bottom white mark to about the middle of the gauge. In severe driving conditions, such as very hot weather or a long period of uphill driving, the pointer may rise to near the upper white mark. If it reaches the red (Hot) mark, pull safely to the side of the road. Turn to page 305 for instructions and precautions on checking the engine's cooling system.

Fuel Gauge This shows how much fuel you have. It is most accurate when the vehicle is on level ground. It may show slightly more or less than the actual amount when you are driving on curvy or hilly roads.

The needle returns to the bottom after you turn off the ignition. The gauge shows the fuel level reading immediately after you turn the ignition switch back ON (II).

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstGauges

Maintenance Required Indicator

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR

SELECT/RESET BUTTON

This indicator reminds you that it is time to take your vehicle in for sched- uled maintenance. Refer to the Maintenance Schedules for Normal and Severe Driving Conditions on pages 230 — 234.

Between 6,000 miles (9,600 km) and 7,500 miles (12,000 km) this indicator will light for two seconds when you first turn the ignition switch ON (II), and then flash for ten seconds.

For the first 6,000 miles (9,600 km) after the Maintenance Required Indicator is reset, it will come on for two seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II).

If you exceed 7,500 miles (12,000
km) without having the scheduled maintenance performed, this indicator will remain on as a constant reminder.

Instruments and Controls

Your dealer will reset this indicator after completing the scheduled maintenance. If this maintenance is done by someone other than your Honda dealer, reset the indicator as follows.

1. Turn off the engine.

2. Press and hold the select/reset button in the instrument panel, then turn the ignition switch ON (II).

3. Hold the button for about ten sec-

onds, until the indicator resets.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe two levers on the steering column contain controls for driving features you use most often. The left lever controls the turn signals, headlights, and high beams. The right lever controls the windshield washers and wipers.

The switches for the hazard warning lights and rear window defogger are located to the right of the steering column.

The controls under the left air vent are for the TCS, the cruise control, the power sliding doors and the power mirrors.

The tilt adjustment lever on the underside of the steering column allows you to tilt the steering wheel.

* To use the horn, press the pad

around the " H" logo.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

POWER SLIDING DOOR

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS

SHIFT LEVER

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS

CRUISE CONTROL

TILT ADJUSTMENT

MIRROR CONTROL

HEADLIGHTS/ TURN SIGNALS

HORN*

LIGHT CONTROL SWITCH

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

Headlights

If you leave the lights on with the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0), you will hear a reminder chime when you open the driver's door.

To flash the high beams, pull the turn signal lever back lightly, then release it. The high beams will come on and go off.

The high beams will stay on for as long as you hold the lever back, no matter what position the headlight switch is in.

position turns

The rotating switch on the left lever controls the lights. Turning this switch to the on the parking lights, taillights, instrument panel lights, side-marker lights, and rear license plate lights. Turning the switch to the position turns on the headlights.

Instruments and Controls

To change between low beams and high beams, pull the turn signal lever until you hear a click, then let go. The blue high beam indicator will light (see page 61).

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAutomatic Lighting Off Feature On EX model The Automatic Lighting Off feature turns off the headlights, parking lights, taillights, side marker lights, license plate lights and instrument panel lights within 15 seconds of removing the key from the ignition switch and closing the driver's door.

This feature activates if you leave the headlight switch in the

or

position, remove the key, open,

then close the driver's door. If you remove the key from the ignition switch with the headlight switch on, but do not open the door and get out, the lights will turn off after 10 minutes.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

The lights will turn on again when you unlock or open the driver's door. If you unlock the door, but do not open it within 15 seconds, the lights will go off. With the driver's door open, you will hear a lights-on reminder chime.

Daytime Running Lights (Canadian Models) With the headlight switch off, the high beam headlights come on with reduced brightness when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II) and release the parking brake. They remain on until you turn the ignition off, even if you set the parking brake.

The headlights revert to normal operation when you turn them on with the switch.

Instrument Panel Brightness

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS CONTROL KNOB

The knob on the instrument panel controls the brightness of the instru- ment panel lights. Turn the knob to adjust the brightness.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

Turn Signals

To signal a lane change, push lightly on the turn signal lever in the proper direction and hold it. The lever will return to the center position as soon as you release it.

Windshield Wipers

TURN SIGNAL LEVER

Signal a turn or lane change with this lever. Push down on the lever to signal a left turn, and up to signal a right turn. If you push it up or down all the way, the turn signal continues to blink even when you release the lever. It shuts off automatically as you complete the turn.

Instruments and Controls

The right lever controls the wind- shield wipers and washers. The rotary switch at the end of the lever has three positions: INT: intermittent

: low speed : high speed

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

If you turn the INT TIME ring to the shortest delay, the wipers will change from intermittent to low speed operation when vehicle speed exceeds 12 mph (20 km/h).

In intermittent, the wipers operate every few seconds. You can vary how often the wipers sweep the windshield by turning the INT TIME ring next to the rotary switch. The sweep interval will change slightly with speed; getting shorter as you drive faster. In low speed and high speed, the wipers run continuously.

To operate the wipers in mist mode, push the control lever down. The wipers run at high speed until you release the lever. This gives you a quick way to clear the windshield.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstControls Near the Steering Wheel

Windshield Washers

Rear Window Wiper and Washer

Hazard Warning

To clean the windshield, pull back on the wiper control lever. The washers spray until you release the lever. The wipers run at low speed while you're pulling the lever, then complete one more sweep of the windshield after you release it.

The rear window wiper switch is located next to the windshield wiper switch.

To activate the rear windshield wiper, turn the switch "ON". If you wish to use the wiper and washer, turn and hold the switch one position up from "ON".

Push the button to the left of the clock to turn on the hazard warning lights (four-way flashers). This causes all four outside turn signals and both indicators in the instrument panel to flash. Use the hazard warning lights if you need to park in a dangerous area near heavy traffic, or if your vehicle is disabled.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstRear Window Defogger

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

EX model

LX model

The rear window defogger will clear fog, frost, and thin ice from the window. Push the defogger button to turn it on and off. The light above the button lights to show the defogger is on. If you do not turn it off, the defogger will shut itself off after about 15 minutes. It also shuts off when you turn off the ignition. You have to turn it on again when you restart the vehicle.

Make sure the rear window is clear and you have good visibility before starting to drive.

The defogger wires on the inside of the rear window can be accidentally damaged. When cleaning the glass, always wipe side to side.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of Contentsst3. Push the lever up to lock the

steering wheel in that position.

4. Make sure you have securely

locked the steering wheel in place by trying to move it up and down.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Steering Wheel Adjustment See page 19 for important safety information about how to properly position the steering wheel.

Make any steering wheel adjustment before you start driving.

Adjusting the steering wheel position while driving may cause you to lose control of the vehicle and be seriously injured in a crash.

To adjust the steering wheel upward or downward:

Adjust the steering wheel only when the vehicle is stopped.

1. Push the lever under the steering

column all the way down.

2. Move the steering wheel to the

desired position, making sure the wheel points toward your chest, not toward your face. Make sure you can see the instrument panel gauges and the indicator lights.

Instruments and Controls