2005 Honda Odyssey Owners Manual

Checking Loads The best way to confirm that vehicle and trailer weights are within limits is to have them checked at a public scale.

Using a suitable scale or a special tongue load gauge, check the tongue load the first time you set up a towing combination (a fully-loaded vehicle and trailer), then recheck the tongue load whenever the conditions change.

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Towing Equipment and Accessories Towing generally requires a variety of supplemental equipment, depending on the size of your trailer, how much load you are towing, and where you tow. To ensure the best quality, we recommend that you purchase Honda equipment whenever possible.

Discuss your needs with your trailer sales or rental agency, and follow the guidelines in this section. Also make sure that all equipment is properly installed and meets federal, state, province, and local regulations.

Hitches Any hitch used on your vehicle must be properly bolted to the underbody, using the six threaded holes provided. A hitch and the required fluid coolers designed especially for your Odyssey can be obtained from your Honda dealer.

WeightDistributingHitch If the total trailer weight is more than 1,850 lbs (840 kg), you must also use a weight distributing hitch. This device transfers weight from the vehicle’s rear wheels to the front wheels, and to the trailer’s wheels. Carefully follow the hitch maker’s instructions for proper installation and adjustment.

SafetyChains Always use safety chains when you tow a trailer. Make sure the chains are secured to the trailer and hitch, and that they cross under the tongue and can catch the trailer if it becomes unhitched. Leave enough slack to allow the trailer to turn corners easily, but do not let the chains drag on the ground.

Information Provided by:SwayControl If the total trailer weight exceeds 2,000 lbs (900 kg), you should install a sway control device to minimize swaying that can occur in crosswinds and in normal and emergency driving maneuvers. Your trailer maker can tell you what kind of sway control you need and how to install it.

TransmissionFluidCoolerand PowerSteeringFluidCooler To help prevent overheating, a transmission fluid cooler and a power steering fluid cooler are required for trailer towing. These coolers are available only from your Honda dealer.

TrailerBrakes Honda recommends that any trailer having a total weight of 1,000 lbs (450 kg) or more be equipped with its own electric or surge-type brakes.

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

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

Towing a Trailer

TrailerLights Trailer lights and equipment must comply with federal, state, province, and local regulations. Check the requirements for the areas where you plan to tow, and use only equipment designed for your vehicle.

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Information Provided by:Towing a Trailer

GROUND

LEFT TURN SIGNAL

SMALL LIGHTS

RIGHT TURN SIGNAL

＋

B HAZARD

＋

B HAC

SMALL LIGHTS

Your vehicle has a trailer lighting connector behind the right side panel in the cargo area. Refer to the drawing above for the purpose of each pin.

To use the trailer lighting connector, you will need a wiring harness and converter. This comes with the Honda hitch (see page ), or it may be obtained separately from your dealer.

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310

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

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

SpareTires When towing a trailer, we recommend that you carry a full-size spare wheel and tire for your vehicle and trailer. If you use the compact spare tire that came with your vehicle, it could adversely affect vehicle handling. See page 349
for how to proper tire size, page store a full size wheel and tire, and

364

for

360

page changing a flat tire.

for information on

Remember to unhitch the trailer before changing a flat. Ask your trailer sales or rental agency where and how to store the trailer’s spare tire.

U.S.Touringmodel Because of the Michelin PAX system, you must not change a flat tire by yourself, or use a compact spare tire on your vehicle.

AdditionalTowingEquipment Many states and provinces require special outside mirrors when towing a trailer. Even if they don’t, you should install special mirrors if you cannot clearly see behind you, or if the trailer creates a blind spot. Ask your trailer sales or rental agency if any other items are recommended or required for your towing situation.

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

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

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

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

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

All weights and loads are within limits.

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

Towing a Trailer

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

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

TowingSpeedsandGears Drive slower than normal in all driving situations, and obey posted speed limits for vehicles with trailers. Use the D position when towing a trailer on level roads. Do not exceed 55 mph (88 km/h). At higher speeds, the trailer may sway or affect vehicle handling.

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Information Provided by:Towing a Trailer

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

DrivingonHills When climbing hills, closely watch your temperature gauge. If it nears the red mark, turn the air conditioning off, reduce speed and, if necessary, pull to the side of the road to let the engine cool.

If the automatic transmission shifts frequently while going up a hill, shift to D .

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

When driving down hills, reduce your speed, and shift down to 2nd gear. Do not ‘‘ride’’ the brakes, and remember, it will take longer to slow down and stop when towing a trailer.

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

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

of the steering

bottom

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

Information Provided by:Maintenance

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

This section also includes instructions on how to read the maintenance messages in the odometer/trip meter display or multi-Information display, a maintenance record, and instructions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself.

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

401

. 314
Maintenance Safety . 315
Maintenance Minder . 325
Maintenance Record . 327
Fluid Locations . 328
Adding Engine Oil . 329
Changing the Oil and Filter . 331
Engine Coolant Windshield Washers . 333
Automatic Transmission Fluid . 334
. 335
Brake Fluid Power Steering Fluid . 336
. 336
Timing Belt . 337
Lights . 343
Cleaning the Seat Belts . 343
Floor Mats Wiper Blades . 344
. 346
Tires . 352
Checking the Battery Vehicle Storage . 353

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

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Information Provided by:Maintenance Safety

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Potential Vehicle Hazards

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

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

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

Do

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

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

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

Information Provided by:Your vehicle displays engine oil life and maintenance service items in the odometer/trip meter display on the LX and EX models, or in the multi- information display on the Touring model, to show you when you should have your dealer perform engine oil replacement and indicated maintenance service.

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

Maintenance Minder

Engine Oil Life Indicator OnLXandEXmodels

MAINTENANCE MINDER INDICATOR

To see the current engine oil life, turn the ignition switch to ON (II), and push and release the SELECT/ RESET knob on the instrument panel 3 times.

ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR

MAINTENANCE ITEM CODE

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

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Information Provided by:Maintenance Minder

You can change the display to the odometer, the trip meter, or the outside temperature by pushing the SELECT/RESET knob on the instrument panel.

When the remaining engine oil life is less than 5 percent, you will see a ‘‘CHANGE OIL’’ message in the odometer/trip meter display, along with the same maintenance item code(s), every time you turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

When the remaining engine oil life is 0 percent, you will see the above display. In this display, the remaining oil life indicator will be blinking. This display comes on and stays on every time you turn the ignition switch to ON (II). When you see this message, have the indicated maintenance performed by your dealer as soon as possible.

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Information Provided by:Maintenance Minder

OnTouringmodel

MASTER WARNING INDICATOR

To see the current engine oil life, turn the ignition switch to ON (II), then push and release the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel three times.

If you still do not perform the indicated maintenance, you will see a negative mileage, for example ‘‘ 543,’’ blinking in the display. This − negative mileage means that you should have performed the indicated maintenance 543 miles ago. Immediately have the indicated maintenance done by your dealer.

When the remaining engine oil life is 15 percent or less, the display shows a ‘‘SERVICE DUE SOON’’ message along with the maintenance item code(s) for other scheduled maintenance items needing service.

When you turn the ignition switch to ON (II), the master warning indicator will also come on.

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Information Provided by:These messages will come on every time you turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

Immediately have the service performed, and make sure to reset the display as described on page

320

You can change the display to the odometer, the trip meter, or the outside temperature by pushing the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel.

Maintenance Minder

When the remaining engine oil life is less than 5 percent, you will see the above display. The display then changes to ‘‘SERVICE DUE NOW.’’ Have the indicated maintenance done as soon as possible.

When the remaining engine oil life is less than 0 percent and you have not done the required maintenance, you will see the above display for several seconds. In this display, ‘‘0’’ will be blinking.

The display then changes to ‘‘SERVICE PAST DUE.’’

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Information Provided by:Maintenance Minder

Maintenance Main Items and Sub Items

LX and EX models

Touring model

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM

If you still do not get the indicated maintenance done, you will see a negative mileage, for example ‘‘ 15’’ − blinking. This negative mileage display means you should have done the indicated maintenance 15 miles ago. Immediately have the indicated maintenance done by your dealer.

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEM

All the maintenance items displayed in the odometer/trip meter or the multi-information display are in code.

For an explanation of the maintenance codes, see page

324

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEMS

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEMS

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Information Provided by:Maintenance Minder

Resetting the Engine Oil Life Indicator OnLXandEXmodels Your dealer will reset the display after completing the required maintenance service. You will see ‘‘OIL LIFE 100%’’ on the odometer/ trip meter display the next time you turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

If maintenance service is done by someone other than your dealer, reset the maintenance minder as follows:

1.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

2.

Press the SELECT/RESET knob until the engine oil life indicator is displayed.

320

3.

Press the SELECT/RESET knob for about 10 seconds. The engine oil life and the maintenance item code(s) will blink.

4.

Press the SELECT/RESET knob for more than 5 seconds. The maintenance items code(s) will disappear, and the engine oil life will reset to ‘‘100.’’

Information Provided by:Maintenance Minder

OnTouringmodel 1.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

2.

Press the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel until the engine oil life is displayed.

3.

4.

Press the SEL/RESET knob in the instrument panel for about 10
seconds. The display will change to the ‘‘CUSTOM SETUP’’ mode.

Press the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel. The maintenance item code(s) will disappear, and the engine oil life will reset to ‘‘100.’’

5.

If you want to cancel resetting, press the INFO button on the steering wheel. The display changes as shown. Press the SEL/ RESET button. This cancels the resetting procedure, and the screen returns to the normal display mode.

321

Information Provided by:Maintenance Minder

6.

When you select ‘‘RESET’’ and press the SEL/RESET button, the multi-information display resets as shown above.

322

Important Maintenance Precautions If you have the required service done but do not reset the display, or reset the display without doing the service, the system will not show the proper maintenance intervals. This can lead to serious mechanical problems because you will no longer have an accurate record of when maintenance is needed.

Your authorized Honda dealer knows your vehicle best and can provide competent, efficient service.

However, service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in this type of automotive service. Make sure to have the service facility or person reset the display as previously described. Keep all receipts as proof of completion, and have the person who does the work fill out the maintenance record. Check your warranty booklet for more information.

We recommend the use of Honda parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done. These are manufactured to the same high- quality standards as the original components, so you can be confident of their performance and durability.

Information Provided by:U.S. Vehicles: Maintenance, replacement, or repair of emissions control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA standards.

＃

According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with will not void your emissions warranties. However, all maintenance services should be performed in accordance with the intervals indicated by the odometer/ trip meter display or the multi- information display.

Owner’s Maintenance Checks You should check the following items at the specified intervals. If you are unsure of how to perform any check, turn to the appropriate page listed.

Engine oil level time you fill the fuel tank. See page

Check every

281

−

Engine coolant level radiator reserve tank every time you fill the fuel tank. See page

Check the

−

282

Automatic transmission Check the fluid level monthly. See page 334

−

Brakes monthly. See page

−

Check the fluid level

335

−

Tires Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign objects. See page 347

Maintenance Minder

−

Check the operation of

Lights the headlights, parking lights, taillights, high-mount brake light, and license plate lights monthly. See page

337

323

Information Provided by:i

Maintenance Minder

Symbol

Maintenance Main Items

Replace engine oil ＊ Replace engine oil and oil filter Rotate tires Inspect front and rear brakes Check parking brake adjustment Inspect these items:

Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and boots Suspension components Driveshaft boots Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system ＃ Fuel lines and connections ＃

＊

1 :

If the message ‘‘SERVICE DUE NOW’’ does not appear more than 12 months after the display is reset, change the engine oil every year.

See information on maintenance and emissions warranty in the first column on page

323

Independent of the maintenance messages in the multi-information display, replace the brake fluid every 3 years. Inspect idle speed every 160,000 miles (256,000 km). Adjust the valves during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 if they are noisy.

＃

NOTE:

324

Symbol

Maintenance Sub Items

Rotate tires Replace air cleaner element

If you drive in dusty conditions, replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).

Replace dust and pollen filter

If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air from industry and from diesel-powered vehicles, replace every 15,000
miles (24,000 km).

Inspect drive belt Replace transmission fluid

Driving in mountainous areas at very low vehicle speeds or trailer towing results in higher transmission temperatures. This requires transmission fluid changes more frequently than recommended by the Maintenance Minder. If you regulary drive your vehicle under these conditions, have the transmission fluid changed every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Replace spark plugs Replace timing belt and inspect water pump

If you drive regularly in very high temperatures (over 110°F, 43°C), or in very low temperatures (under-20°F, 29°C), replace every 60,000 mile (U.S.)/100,000 km (Canada)

＃

Inspect valve clearance Replace engine coolant

Information Provided by:You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here. When maintenance is performed, record the mileage, circle the coded item(s) completed, and write in any other non-coded items (such as brake fluid replacement) below the codes. Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.

Mileage

Maintenance Performed

Signature

Date

Mileage

Maintenance Performed

Signature

Date

Maintenance Record

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

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Information Provided by:Maintenance Record

Mileage

Maintenance Performed

Signature

Date

Mileage

Maintenance Performed

Signature

Date

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

326

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

mi km

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

A B 1

Information Provided by:ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop)

POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap)

WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

RADIATOR CAP

ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

Fluid Locations

BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop)

327

Information Provided by:Adding Engine Oil

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

Unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on top of the valve cover. Pour in the oil slowly and carefully so you do not spill. Clean up any spills immediately. Spilled oil could damage components in the engine compartment.

Install the engine oil fill cap, and tighten it securely. Wait a few minutes, and recheck the oil level. Do not fill above the upper mark; you could damage the engine.

328

Recommended Engine Oil Oil is a major contributor to your engine’s performance and longevity. Always use a premium-grade 5W-20
detergent oil displaying the API Certification Seal. This seal indicates the oil is energy conserving, and that it meets the American Petroleum Institute’s latest requirements.

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

Honda Motor Oil is the preferred 5W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. It is highly recommended that you use Honda Motor Oil in your vehicle for optimum engine protection. Make sure the API Certification Seal says ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’

The oil viscosity or weight is provided on the container’s label. 5W-20 oil is formulated for year- round protection of your vehicle to improve cold weather starting and fuel economy.

Ambient Temperature

Information Provided by:Adding Engine Oil, Changing the Oil and Filter

Synthetic Oil You may use a synthetic motor oil if it meets the same requirements given for a conventional motor oil: it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight. You must follow the oil and filter change intervals shown on the odometer/ trip meter display or on the multi- information display.

Engine Oil Additives Your vehicle’s engine does not require any oil additives. Additives may adversely affect engine or transmission performance and durability.

Changing the Oil and Filter Always change the oil and filter according to the maintenance messages shown on the odometer/ trip meter display or on the multi- information display. The oil and filter collect contaminants that can dam- age your engine if they are not removed regularly.

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.

WASHER

DRAIN BOLT Open the hood, and remove the engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.

329

Information Provided by: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.

Changing the Oil and Filter

OIL FILTER

3.

Remove the oil filter, and let the remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your dealer) is required.

4.

Install a new oil filter according to the instructions that come with it.

5.

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)

330

6.

Refill the engine with the recommended oil.

Engine oil change capacity (including filter): 4.5 US qt (4.3 )

7.

8.

9.

Replace 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.

Let the engine run for several minutes, then check the drain bolt and oil filter for leaks.

Turn off the engine and let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick. If necessary, add more oil.

Information Provided by: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.

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.

Always use Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent 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.

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331

Information Provided by:4.

Put the radiator cap back on, and tighten it fully.

5.

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.

Engine Coolant

1.

RADIATOR CAP When the radiator and engine are cool, relieve any pressure in the cooling system by turning the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pressing down.

2.

Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.

RESERVE TANK

3.

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. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

332

Information Provided by:Check the fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal use. This reservoir supplies the windshield and rear window washers.

Check the fluid level by removing the cap and looking at the level gauge attached to the cap.

OnCanadianmodels: level indicator comes on when the level is low (see page

The low washer

69

).

You will see a OntheTouringmodel: ‘‘WASHER FLUID LOW’’ message on the multi-information display when the level is low.

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.

333

Information Provided by:Automatic Transmission Fluid

Check the fluid level with the engine at normal operating temperature.

1.

Park the vehicle on level ground. Shut off the engine.

DIPSTICK

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

3.

Insert the dipstick, all the way into the transmission as shown.

4.

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

DIPSTICK

2.

Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission, and wipe it with a clean cloth.

334

5.

If the level is below the lower mark, remove the fill plug, and add fluid to bring it to the upper mark.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

Always use Honda ATF-Z1
(Automatic Transmission Fluid). If it’s not available, you may use a DEXRON III automatic transmission fluid as a temporary replacement. However, continued use can affect the shift quality. Have the transmission flushed and refilled with Honda ATF-Z1 as soon as it is convenient.

Information Provided by:Automatic Transmission Fluid, Brake Fluid

To thoroughly flush the transmission, the technician should drain and refill it with Honda ATF-Z1, then drive the vehicle for a short distance. Do this three times. Then drain and refill the transmission a final time.

Brake Fluid Check the brake fluid level in the reservoirs monthly. Replace the brake fluid according to the time recommendations in the maintenance minder schedule.

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.

6.

Insert the dipstick all the way back into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration.

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid when this service is indicated on a maintenance message on the odometer/trip meter display or on the multi-information display.

If you are not sure how to add fluid, contact your dealer.

MIN

MAX

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.

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.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your vehicle’s braking system and can cause extensive damage.

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Information Provided by:Power Steering Fluid, Timing Belt

Always use Honda Power Steering Fluid. You may use another power steering fluid as an emergency replacement, but have the power steering system flushed and refilled with Honda PSF as soon as possible.

A low power steering fluid level can indicate a leak in the system. Check the fluid level frequently, and have the system inspected as soon as possible.

Turning the steering wheel to f ull lef t or right lock and holding it there can damage the power steering pump.

Power Steering Fluid

UPPER LEVEL

LOWER LEVEL

Check the level on the side of the reservoir when the engine is cold. The fluid should be between the UPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL. If not, add power steering fluid to the UPPER LEVEL mark.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

336

Timing Belt The timing belt should be replaced at the intervals shown in the maintenance minder schedule.

Replace the belt at 60,000 miles (100,000 km) if you regularly drive your vehicle in one or more of these conditions:

In very high temperatures (over 110°F, 43°C). In very low temperatures (under 29°C).

20°F,

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Information Provided by:Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the cargo area or pull a trailer, readjustment may be required. Adjustments should be done by your dealer or other qualified mechanic.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb Your vehicle has halogen headlight bulbs, two on each side. 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.

Lights

The high beam headlight bulb and the low beam headlight bulb are replaced the same way.

1.

Open the hood. To change the high beam headlight bulb on the passenger’s side, remove the power steering fluid reservoir from its holder by pulling it straight up.

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Information Provided by:Lights

TAB

5.

Push the electrical connector back onto the bulb. Make sure it is on all the way.

Replacing a Front Turn Signal Bulb

6.

Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

7.

If you replaced the high beam headlight bulb on the passenger’s side, reinstall the power steering fluid reservoir.

2.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector down.

3.

Remove the bulb by turning it one- quarter turn counterclockwise.

4.

Insert the new bulb into the hole, and turn it one-quarter turn clock- wise to lock it in place.

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1.

2.

Open the hood. Remove the socket from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Pull the burned out bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

Information Provided by:3.

Insert the socket back into the headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

4.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

Replacing a Front Parking/Side Marker Bulb

Lights

3.

Insert the socket back into the headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

4.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

1.

Open the hood. Remove the socket from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

2.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

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Insert the new bulb into the assembly and turn it one-quarter turn clockwise to lock it in place.

6.

Push the electrical connector onto the new bulb.

7.

Turn on the fog lights to test the new bulb.

8.

Reinstall the fog light assembly into the bumper. Tighten the mounting bolt.

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Replacing a Front Fog Light Bulb Touringmodelonly

1.

2.

Use a wrench to remove the mounting bolt from the underbody through the hole in the splash shield.

3.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector down.

Remove the fog light assembly from the bumper by pulling its inner edge first, then the whole assembly out of the bumper.

4.

Remove the bulb from the fog light assembly by turning it one- quarter turn counterclockwise.

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Information Provided by:Replacing a Rear Turn Signal or Brake Light Bulb

1.

Remove the two bolt covers on the rear pillar by prying on the bottom edge with a flat-tip screwdriver. Remove the bolts with a Phillips- head screwdriver, and remove the light assembly from the rear pillar.

2.

Determine which of the two bulbs is burned out: turn signal or brake/taillight.

3.

Remove the socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

4.

Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

5.

Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

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6.

7.

Put the socket back into the light assembly, and turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

Install the rear light assembly in the rear pillar. Tighten the two bolts. Snap the bolt covers into position.

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Replacing a Taillight or Back-up Light Bulb

5.

Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

6.