2008 Honda Odyssey Owners Manual

authoritytooperatetheequipment.

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

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Towing a Trailer

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

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

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

396

Load Limits

The

for the driving limits for your

Total Trailer Weight: maximum allowable weight of the trailer and everything in or on it depends on several factors. See page 397
towing situation. Towing a load that is too heavy can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling and performance. It can also damage the engine and drivetrain.

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

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Maximum Total Trailer Weight

Number of Occupants

＊

Equipped with transmission cooler and power steering fluid cooler ＊

＊

＊

3,500 lbs (1,580 kg) 3,350 lbs (1,520 kg) 3,200 lbs (1,450 kg) 3,050 lbs (1,380 kg) 2,900 lbs (1,310 kg) 2,750 lbs (1,250 kg)

2,600 lbs (1,180 kg) 1,550 lbs (700 kg)

＊

＊

650 lbs (290 kg)

＊ ＊ ＊ ＊

1: 2: 3: 4:

399

Including driver. Based on 150 lbs (70 kg) per occupant. See page U.S. LX and Canadian DX models EX, EX-L, Touring and Canadian LX models

for information about fluid coolers.

To achieve a proper tongue load, start by loading 60% of the load toward the front of the trailer and 40% toward the rear, then re-adjust the load as needed.

Towing a Trailer

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all cargo, and the tongue load is 6,019 lbs (2,730 kg).

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all cargo, and the tongue load must not exceed 2,910 lbs (1,320 kg) on the front axle, and 3,197 lbs (1,450 kg) on the rear axle.

Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle and trailer is 8,410 lbs (3,815 kg).

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Towing a Trailer

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

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

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

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.

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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.

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.

Towing a Trailer

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.

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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.

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.

Towing a Trailer

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

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

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

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 447
for how to proper tire size, page 463
store a full size wheel and tire, and page changing a flat tire.

for information on

458

for

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.

Ifequipped Because of the Michelin PAX system, you must not change a flat tire, or use a compact spare tire on your vehicle.

Towing a Trailer

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

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

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

360

).

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Towing a Trailer

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

The vehicle has been properly serviced, and the suspension, 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.

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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.

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

You may want to fill the fuel tank with premium fuel. Premium fuel provides improved performance.

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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Towing a Trailer, Towing Your Vehicle

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 second 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 the trailer to sway. When being passed by a large vehicle, keep a constant speed, and steer straight ahead. Do not try to make quick steering or braking corrections.

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.

Towing Your Vehicle Your vehicle is not designed to be towed behind a motor home. If your vehicle needs to be towed in an emergency, see page

480

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Maintenance

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

This section also includes instructions on how to read the maintenance minder messages on the information display or multi- information display (depending on models), 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.

505

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

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

. 406
. 407
. 417
. 418

Filter

. 420
. 422
Engine Coolant Windshield Washers . 424
Automatic Transmission Fluid . 425
. 427
Brake Fluid Power Steering Fluid . 428
. 428
Timing Belt . 429
Lights . 436
Cleaning the Seat Belts . 436
Floor Mats Dust and Pollen Filter . 436
. 437
Wiper Blades . 442
Wheels . 442
Tires Checking the Battery . 450
. 451
Vehicle Storage

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

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Maintenance Safety

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do

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

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

Potential Vehicle Hazards

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

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

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

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Your vehicle displays engine oil life and maintenance service items on the information display (LX, EX, EX-L and Canadian DX models), or on the multi-information display (Touring models), 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.

Engine Oil Life Indicator OnLX,EX,EX-LandCanadianDX models

MAINTENANCE MINDER INDICATOR

To see the current engine oil life, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and push and release the select/reset knob on the instrument panel repeatedly, until the engine oil life is displayed.

Maintenance Minder

ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR

MAINTENANCE ITEM CODE

If the oil life is 15 percent or less, you will see the oil life indicator for every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. This indicator stays on until you cancel it by pressing the select/reset knob. 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.

CONTINUED

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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 on the information display, along with the same maintenance item code(s), every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

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 the ON (II) position. When you see this message, have the indicated maintenance performed by your dealer as soon as possible.

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Maintenance Minder

OnTouringmodels

SYSTEM MESSAGE INDICATOR

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

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 the ON (II) position, the system message indicator will also come on.

CONTINUED

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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.’’

410

These messages will come on every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

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

413

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.

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Maintenance Minder

Maintenance Main Items and Sub Items

Except Touring models

Touring models

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 on the information display or the multi-information display are in code.

For an explanation of the maintenance codes, see page

416

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEMS

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEMS

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Maintenance Minder

Resetting the Engine Oil Life Indicator OnLX,EX,EX-LandCanadianDX models Your dealer will reset the display after completing the required maintenance service. You will see ‘‘OIL LIFE 100 %’’ on the information display the next time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

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

1.

Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

2.

Press the select/reset knob until the engine oil life indicator is displayed.

412

3.

Press the select/reset knob for about 10 seconds. The engine oil life indicator 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 indicator will reset to ‘‘100.’’

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OnTouringmodels 1.

Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

2.

Press the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel until you see the engine oil life display.

Maintenance Minder

3.

4.

Press the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel 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.

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Maintenance Minder

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 your Honda Service History or Canadian Maintenance Log. 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.

6.

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

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Maintenance Minder

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

363

−

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

Check the

−

364

Automatic transmission Check the fluid level monthly. See page 425

−

Brakes monthly. See page

−

Check the fluid level

427

−

Tires Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign objects. See page 442

−

Check the operation of

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

429

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Maintenance Minder

Symbol

Symbol

Maintenance Main Items

Replace engine oil ＊ Replace engine oil and oil filter ＊ 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 on page

415

Independent of the maintenance messages in the 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 only if they are noisy.

＃

NOTE:

416

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 Replace spark plugs Replace timing belt and inspect water pump

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

−

Inspect valve clearance Replace engine coolant

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Fluid Locations

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop)

POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap)

WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

RADIATOR CAP

ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

BRAKE FLUID (Black cap)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop)

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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.

418

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

Recommended Engine Oil

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

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.

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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.’’

Ambient Temperature

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.

Adding Engine Oil

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.

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Changing the Engine Oil and Filter

DRAIN BOLT

OIL FILTER

1.

2.

WASHER

Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then shut it off.

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.

3.

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

Make sure the oil filter gasket is not stuck to the engine block. If it is, remove it before installing a new oil 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 technician.

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Changing the Engine Oil and Filter

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)

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.

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.

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Engine Coolant

Adding Engine Coolant

MAX

RESERVE TANK

MIN

If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

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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 Long-life Anti- freeze/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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RADIATOR CAP

FILLER NECK

1.

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.

Fill up to here 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.

Engine Coolant

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.

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Windshield Washers

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.

LEVEL GAUGE

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

The low washer

74

).

OnCanadianTouringmodel: You will also see a ‘‘WASHER FLUID LOW’’ message on the multi- ). information display (see page

89

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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 the blade edges.

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.

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

1.

Park the vehicle on level ground. Start the engine, let it run until the radiator fan comes on, then shut off the engine. For accurate results, wait about 60 seconds (but no longer than 90 seconds) before doing step 2.

DIPSTICK

2.

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

Automatic Transmission Fluid

HOT MARK

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

3.

4.

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

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

CONTINUED

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Automatic Transmission Fluid

5.

If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the dipstick tube to bring it to the level between the upper and lower marks on the dipstick.

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

Always use Honda ATF-Z1
(automatic transmission fluid).

Use only Honda Genuine ATF-Z1
(Automatic Transmission Fluid). Do not mix with other transmission f luids. Using transmission f luid other than Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 may cause deterioration in transmission operation and durability, and could result in damage to the transmission. Damage resulting f rom the use of transmission f luid other than Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 is not covered by the Honda new vehicle warranty.

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6.

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

Make sure the rubber cap on the dipstick fits in the dipstick guide and that you push the dipstick in all the way.

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid when this service is indicated on a maintenance message on the information display or on the multi-information display (depending on models).

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

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Check the brake fluid level in the reservoirs monthly.

Replace the brake fluid every 3 years, independent of mileage.

Always use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement.

Using any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible.

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

Brake Fluid

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.

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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.

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

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.

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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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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 technician.

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.

Passenger’s side

Lights

POWER STEERING FLUID RESERVOIR

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.

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.

CONTINUED

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Lights

Driver’s side

BULB

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.

CONNECTOR

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.

BULB

SOCKET

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.

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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.

BULB

SOCKET

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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Lights

Replacing a Fog Light Bulb Touringmodelsonly

SCREW

1.

Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screw.

2.

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

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5.

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, then tighten the screw.

Halogen bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.

TAB

BULB

CONNECTOR

3.

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

4.

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

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Replacing Rear Bulbs (in Rear Pillar)

COVER

BULBS

BOLTS

1.

Open the tailgate.

2.

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.

SOCKETS

3.

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

4.

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

5.

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

Lights

6.

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

7.

8.

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

6.

Reinstall the socket into the light assembly by turning it clockwise until it locks.

7.

Reinstall the light assembly cover.

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Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs (in Tailgate)

BULBS

SOCKETS

3.

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

4.

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

COVER

1.

Open the tailgate. Place a cloth on the edge of the light assembly cover. Remove the cover by carefully prying in the notch on its middle edge with a flat-tip screwdriver.

2.

Determine which of the two bulbs is burned out: taillight or back-up light.

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