2008 Honda Pilot Owners Manual

Shift Lock Release

To avoid transmission damage, come to a complete stop before shifting into Park. The shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch.

−

Press the brake

Reverse (R) pedal and pull the shift lever towards you to shift from Park to reverse. To shift from reverse to neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift.

−

Use neutral if you

Neutral (N) need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to the Park position if you need to leave your vehicle for any reason. Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from neutral to another gear.

−

Use this position for

Drive (D) your normal driving. The transmission automatically selects a suitable gear for the vehicle speed and acceleration. You may notice the transmission shifting up at higher speeds when the engine is cold. This helps the engine warm up faster.

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Automatic Transmission

−

This position is similar

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

−

Second (2) This position locks the transmission in second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop.

Use second gear:

For more power when climbing.

To increase engine braking when going down steep hills.

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

To help reduce wheel spin.

When driving downhill with a trailer.

−

This position locks the

First (1) transmission in first gear. By upshifting and downshifting through 1, 2, D , and D, you can operate the transmission much like a manual transmission without a clutch pedal.

Engine Speed Limiter If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer’s red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine’s computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the rpm below the red zone.

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Shift Lock Release Do this if pushing on the brake pedal and pulling the shift lever does not shift the transmission out of Park:

1.

Set the parking brake.

2.

Remove the key from the ignition switch.

3.

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

5.

6.

Automatic Transmission

Push down on the key while you pull the shift lever towards you, and move it out of Park to neutral.

Remove the key from the shift lock release slot, then install the cover. Press the brake pedal, and restart the engine.

If you need to use the shift lock release, it means your vehicle is developing a problem. Have the vehicle checked by your dealer.

4.

Insert the key in the shift lock release slot.

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VTM-4 System

The variable torque management 4WD (VTM-4) system automatically transfers varying amounts of engine torque to the rear wheels under lower traction conditions.

If more traction is needed when your vehicle is stuck, or is likely to become stuck, you can use the VTM-4 LOCK button to increase torque to the rear wheels.

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To Disengage the VTM-4 Lock, any of the following:

Press the VTM-4 LOCK button.

do

Move the shift lever to D or D .

Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position.

The VTM-4 Lock will temporarily disengage when the vehicle speed exceeds 18 mph (30 km/h). The indicator in the button will remain on.

Do not continuously spin the f ront tires of your vehicle. Continuously spinning the f ront tires can cause transmission or rear dif f erential damage.

To Engage the VTM-4 Lock 1.

The vehicle must be stopped with the engine running. Move the shift lever to first (1), second (2), or reverse (R) gear. Press the VTM-4 LOCK button. The indicator in the button comes on.

2.

3.

To get unstuck, apply light pressure to the accelerator pedal. Do not spin the front tires for more than a few seconds. Because of the amount of torque applied to the rear tires, they should not spin. This is normal. If you are not able to move the vehicle, stop and reverse direction.

Do not use the VTM-4 LOCK button on dry, paved roads. Driving on dry, paved roads with VTM-4 Lock ON may damage the rear dif f erential when making a turn. Strange noise and vibration can also result.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Your vehicle is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that turns on every time you start the engine and monitors the pressure in your tires while driving.

Each tire has its own pressure sensor (not including the spare tire). If the air pressure of a tire becomes significantly low, the sensor in that tire immediately sends a signal that causes the low tire pressure indicator and the appropriate tire on the tire pressure monitor to come on.

Low Tire Pressure Indicator

When the low tire pressure indicator is on, one or more of your tires is significantly underinflated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure as indicated on the vehicle’s tire information placard.

If you think you can safely drive a short distance to a service station, proceed slowly, and inflate the tire to the recommended pressure shown on the driver’s doorjamb.

If the tire is flat, or if the tire pressure is too low to continue driving, replace the tire with the compact spare tire (see page 272

).

If you cannot make the low tire pressure indicator go out after inflating the tires to the specified values, have your dealer check the system as soon as possible.

Driving on a significantly under- inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.

Because tire pressure varies by temperature and other conditions, the low tire pressure indicator may come on unexpectedly.

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211

2008 Pilot When you restart the vehicle with the compact spare tire, the TPMS indicator may also come on and stay on after driving several miles (kilometers).

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

placard and this owner’s manual (see page

295

).

Tire Pressure Monitor

The appropriate tire indicator and low tire pressure indicator comes on if a tire becomes significantly Low Tire underinflated. See Pressure Indicator on page

211

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Indicator This indicator comes on and stays on if there is a problem with the tire pressure monitoring system.

If this happens, the system will shut off and no longer monitor tire pressures. Have the system checked by your dealer as soon as possible.

For example, if you check and fill your tires in a warm area, then drive in extremely cold weather, the tire pressure will be lower than measured and could be underinflated and cause the low tire pressure indicator to come on. Or, if you check and adjust your tire pressure in cooler conditions, and drive into extremely hot conditions, the tire may become overinflated. However, the low tire pressure indicator will not come on if the tires are overinflated.

Refer to page guidelines.

263

for tire inflation

Although your tire pressure is monitored, you must manually check the tire pressures monthly.

Each tire, including the spare, should be checked monthly when cold and set to the recommended inflation pressure as specified in the vehicle

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Changing a Tire with TPMS If you have a flat tire, the low tire pressure and tire monitor indicators will come on. Replace the indicated flat tire with the compact spare tire (see page

272

).

Each wheel is equipped with a tire pressure sensor mounted inside the tire behind the valve stem. You must use TPMS specific wheels. It is recommended that you always have your tires serviced by your dealer or a qualified technician.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

After the flat tire is replaced with the spare tire, the low tire pressure indicator stays on while driving. After several miles (kilometers) driving, the TPMS indicator comes on and the low tire pressure indicator goes off. This is normal; the system cannot monitor the spare tire pressure. Manually check the spare tire pressure to be sure it is correct.

The low tire pressure indicator or the TPMS indicator will go off, after several miles (kilometers) driving, when the spare tire is replaced with the specified regular tire equipped with the tire pressure monitor sensor.

Never use a puncture-repairing agent in a flat tire. If used, you will have to replace the tire pressure sensor. Have the flat tire repaired by your dealer as soon as possible.

AsrequiredbytheFCC: ThisdevicecomplieswithPart15ofthe FCCrules.Operationissubjecttothe followingtwoconditions:(1)Thisdevice maynotcauseharmfulinterference,and (2)thisdevicemustacceptany interferencereceived,including interferencethatmaycauseundesired operation.

Changesormodificationsnotexpressly approvedbythepartyresponsiblefor compliancecouldvoidtheuser’s authoritytooperatetheequipment.

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

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Parking

Always use the parking brake when you park your vehicle. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly, or your vehicle may roll if it is parked on an incline.

Set the parking brake before you put the transmission in Park. This keeps the vehicle from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission.

214

If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb.

If the vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb.

Make sure the parking brake is fully released before driving away. Driving with the parking brake partially set can overheat or damage the rear brakes.

Parking Tips

Make sure the moonroof (if equipped) and the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

Place any packages, valuables, etc. in the cargo area or take them with you.

Lock the doors and the tailgate.

Onvehicleswithsecuritysystem Check the indicator on the driver’s door to verify that the security system is set.

Never park over dry leaves, tall grass, or other flammable materials. The hot three way catalytic converter could cause these materials to catch on fire.

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Your vehicle is equipped with disc brakes at all four wheels. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps you retain steering control when braking very hard.

Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by taking your foot off the accelerator and downshifting to a lower gear.

Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, builds up heat, and reduces their effectiveness and reduces brake pad life. In addition, fuel economy can be reduced. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you.

Check the brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them gently and frequently until they do. Be extra cautious in your driving.

Braking System

Braking System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels.

Brake Pad Wear Indicators All four brakes have audible brake wear indicators.

If the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive, metallic screeching sound when you apply the brake pedal. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will screech all the time. It is normal for the brakes to occasionally squeal or squeak when you apply them.

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Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

The anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps prevent the wheels from locking up, and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly, much faster than a person can do it.

The electronic brake distribution (EBD) system, which is part of the ABS, also balances the front-to-rear braking distribution according to vehicle loading.

Youshouldneverpumpthebrakepedal. Let the ABS work for you by always keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal. This is sometimes referred to as ‘‘stomp and steer.’’

You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and you may hear some noise. This is normal: it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before the ABS activates. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

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ABS Indicator

If this indicator comes on, the anti- lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system, but without anti-lock. You should have your dealer inspect your vehicle as soon as possible.

If the ABS indicator and the brake system indicator come on together, and the parking brake is fully released, the EBD system may also be shut down.

284

. If the brakes feel normal,

Test your brakes as instructed on page drive slowly and have your vehicle repaired by your dealer as soon as possible. Avoid sudden hard braking which could cause the rear wheels to lock up and possibly lead to a loss of control.

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Important Safety Reminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the vehicle. control during braking.

It only helps with steering

A vehicle with ABS may require a longer distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, than a vehicle without anti- lock.

ABS will not prevent a skid that results from changing direction abruptly, such as trying to take a corner too fast or making a sudden lane change. Always drive at a safe speed for the road and weather conditions.

ABS cannot prevent a loss of stability. Always steer moderately when you are braking hard. Severe or sharp steering wheel movement can still cause your vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road.

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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

VSA Activation Indicator

When VSA activates, you will see the VSA activation indicator blink. There may also be some noise from the VSA hydraulic system.

VSA System Indicator

If the VSA system indicator comes on while driving, pull to the side of the road when it is safe, and turn off the engine. Reset the system by restarting the engine. If the VSA system indicator stays on or comes back on while driving, have the VSA system inspected by your dealer.

The vehicle stability assist (VSA) system helps to stabilize the vehicle during cornering if the vehicle turns more or less than desired. It also assists you in maintaining traction while accelerating on loose or slippery road surfaces. It does this by regulating the engine’s output, and by selectively applying the brakes.

When VSA activates, you may notice that the engine does not respond to the accelerator in the same way it does at other times.

The VSA system cannot enhance the vehicle’s driving stability in all situations and does not control your vehicle’s entire braking system. It is still your responsibility to drive and corner at reasonable speeds and to leave a sufficient margin of safety.

218

If the indicator does not come on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position, there may be a problem with the VSA system. Have your dealer inspect your vehicle as soon as possible (see page

64

).

Without VSA, your vehicle will have normal braking and cornering ability, but it will not have VSA traction and stability enhancement.

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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

VSA Off Switch In certain unusual conditions when your vehicle gets stuck in shallow mud or fresh snow, it may be easier to free it with the VSA temporarily switched off. When the VSA system is off, the traction control system is also off. You should only attempt to free your vehicle with the VSA off if you are not able to free it when the VSA is on.

Immediately after freeing your vehicle, be sure to switch the VSA on again. We do not recommend driving your vehicle with the VSA and traction control systems switched off.

VSA and Tire Sizes Driving with varying tire or wheel sizes may cause the VSA to malfunction. When replacing tires, make sure they are of the same size and type as your original tires (see page

264

).

This switch is under the left vent. Press it to turn the vehicle stability assist system on and off.

When VSA is off, the VSA activation indicator comes on as a reminder.

VSA is turned on every time you start the engine, even if you turned it off the last time you drove the vehicle.

If you install winter tires, make sure they are the same size as those that were originally supplied with your vehicle. Exercise the same caution during winter driving as you would if your vehicle was not equipped with VSA.

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Towing a Trailer

Your vehicle has been designed to tow a trailer, as well as carrying passengers and their cargo. To safely tow a trailer, you should carefully observe the load limits (see page ), use the proper equipment, and follow the guidelines in this section.

199

Load Limits

Be sure to read the Driving Guidelines 230
surfaces.

if you plan to tow off paved

Off-Highway section on page

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.

220

The maximum

TotalTrailerWeight: allowable weight of the trailer and everything in or on it depends on the number of occupants in your vehicle and the type of trailer being towed (see page

223

).

Towing a trailer that is too heavy can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling and performance. It can also damage the engine and drivetrain.

The weight that the TongueLoad: tongue of a fully loaded trailer puts on the hitch should be 5 to 10
percent of the total trailer weight for boat trailers, and 8 to 15 percent of total trailer weight for all other trailers. (See page your towing situation). 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.

for limits for

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Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all accessories, all cargo, and the tongue load is:

4WDmodels:

5,950 lbs (2,700 kg)

2WDmodels:

5,840 lbs (2,650 kg)

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle axles is:

4WDmodels:

2,865 lbs (1,300 kg)

on the front axle

3,155 lbs (1,430 kg)

on the rear axle

2WDmodels:

2,865 lbs (1,300 kg)

on the front axle

3,085 lbs (1,400 kg)

on the rear axle

Towing a Trailer

Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle and trailer is 9,700 lbs (4,400 kg) with the proper hitch and fluid coolers (see page 225

).

The GCWR must be reduced 2
percent for every 1,000 feet (305
meters) of elevation.

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ToEstimatetheTongueLoad 1.

Park the vehicle on level ground.

2.

Measure from the ground to the bottom of the trailer hitch.

3.

Connect the fully loaded trailer to the hitch.

4.

5.

Measure again from the ground to the same spot on the bottom of the hitch.

Subtract the second measurement from the first measurement, then refer to the following table.

If the

difference is:

Estimated

tongue load is:

1 ½’’ 2 ¼’’ 3’’ 3 ¾’’

150 lbs (68 kg) 250 lbs (114 kg) 350 lbs (160 kg) 450 lbs (205 kg)

If the difference is more than 3 ¾ inch, you have too much load on the tongue. Redistribute the load or remove cargo as needed.

Towing a Trailer

Estimating 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. To help ensure a safe drive to a scale, or if you cannot get to a public scale, we recommend that you estimate your total trailer weight and tongue load as described.

ToEstimatetheTotalTrailerWeight Add the weight of your trailer (as quoted by the manufacturer) with everything in or on the trailer. Then check the tables on page make sure you do not exceed the limit for your conditions.

223

to

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Towing a Trailer

Total Trailer Weight and Tongue Load Limits:

Number of Occupants

BOAT TRAILERS

Equipped with transmission cooler and power steering fluid cooler.

Maximum Total Trailer Weight

Maximum Tongue Load

4,500 lbs (2,045 kg) 4,500 lbs (2,045 kg) 4,500 lbs (2,045 kg) 4,300 lbs (1,945 kg) 4,100 lbs (1,855 kg) 2,000 lbs (905 kg)

Towing is Not Recommended

450 lbs (205 kg) 450 lbs (205 kg) 450 lbs (205 kg) 350 lbs (160 kg) 220 lbs (100 kg) 100 lbs (45 kg)

Number of Occupants

OTHER TYPES OF TRAILERS

Equipped with transmission cooler and power steering fluid cooler.

Maximum Total Trailer Weight

Maximum Tongue Load

3,500 lbs (1,590 kg) 3,500 lbs (1,590 kg) 3,300 lbs (1,490 kg) 3,100 lbs (1,400 kg) 2,700 lbs (1,220 kg) 1,200 lbs (540 kg)

Towing is Not Recommended

450 lbs (205 kg) 450 lbs (205 kg) 450 lbs (205 kg) 350 lbs (160 kg) 220 lbs (100 kg) 100 lbs (45 kg)

The corresponding weight limits assume occupants fill seats from the front of the vehicle to the back, each occupant weighs 150 lbs (70 kg) and each has 15 lbs (7 kg) of luggage in the cargo area.

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Towing a Trailer

Checking Loads To accurately check your loads at the public scale, the vehicle and trailer should be fully loaded, and all occupants should stay in the vehicle while the attendant watches the scale.

1.

Check the front gross axle weight. Limit: 2,865 lbs (1,300 kg)

224

2.

3.

4.

Check the gross vehicle weight. Limit (4WD models): 5,950 lbs (2,700 kg) Limit (2WD models): 5,840 lbs (2,650 kg) Check the rear gross axle weight. Limit (4WD models): 3,155 lbs (1,430 kg) Limit (2WD models): 3,085 lbs (1,400 kg) If you cannot weigh the rear axle directly, you can calculate the rear gross axle weight by subtracting the weight in step 1 from the weight in step 2. Limit (4WD models): 3,086 lbs (1,400 kg) Limit (2WD models): 2,976 lbs (1,350 kg)

5.

Check the gross combined weight. Limit: 9,700 lbs (4,400 kg) Remember, maximum gross combined weight should be decreased 2 % for every 1,000 feet (305 meters) of elevation.

6.

Check the weight of the hitched trailer. Write this number down.

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7.

8.

Check the weight of the unhitched trailer. Limit: See page

223

Calculate the tongue load. Subtract the weight in step 6 from the weight in step 7. 223
Limit: See page 220
Recommended: see page Range: 5-10% for boat trailers 8-15% for other trailers

Towing Equipment and Accessories Towing generally requires a variety of supplemental equipment. To ensure the best quality, we recommend that you purchase Honda equipment whenever possible.

Your dealer offers a trailer package that includes a hitch, a ball mount, a wiring harness, a heavy-duty transmission fluid cooler, and a heavy-duty power steering fluid cooler.

Discuss any additional needs with your trailer sales or rental agency, and make sure all equipment is properly installed, maintained, and also meets state, federal, province, and local regulations.

Towing a Trailer

Hitch We strongly recommend that you have your dealer install a Honda hitch. Using non-Honda equipment may result in serious damage to your vehicle.

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

WeightDistributingHitch A weight distributing hitch is not recommended for use with your vehicle, as an improperly adjusted weight distributing hitch may reduce handling, stability, and braking performance.

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Towing a Trailer

TrailerBrakes Honda requires that any trailer with a total trailer weight of 1,000 lbs (455
kg) or more has its own brakes.

There are two common types of trailer brakes: surge and electric. Surge brakes are common for boat trailers, since the brakes will get wet.

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.

226

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.

SwayControl This device is recommended if your trailer tends to sway. Your trailer maker can tell you what kind of sway control you need and how to install it.

TrailerMirrors Many states and provinces require special exterior 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.

SpareTires When towing a trailer, we recommend that you carry a full-size spare wheel and tire for your vehicle for proper and trailer. See page tire size, page for how to store a full size wheel and tire, and page 273
flat tire.

for information on changing a

276

267

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.

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GROUND (BLACK)

LEFT TURN SIGNAL (GREEN/WHITE)

BATTERY POWER (YELLOW)

BRAKE LIGHT (WHITE/BLACK)

TAILLIGHT (RED/BLACK)

RIGHT TURN SIGNAL (GREEN/YELLOW) Trailer lights and equipment must comply with federal, state, province, and local regulations. Check trailer light requirements for the areas where you plan to tow, and use only equipment designed for your vehicle. Your vehicle is equipped with a connector to install a trailer lighting connector that mates with your vehicle. Refer to the above illustration for wiring information.

To get to your vehicle’s trailer lighting connector, open the tailgate, remove the cargo cover, then remove the rear panel trim. The connector is on the left side.

We recommend that you have your dealer install a Honda wiring harness and converter. This harness has been designed for your vehicle.

Since lighting and wiring vary with trailer type and brand, you should also have a qualified mechanic 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.

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 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.

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

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Towing a Trailer

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

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.

Towing performance can be affected by high altitude, high temperature, or when climbing steep grades. Therefore, premium fuel (premium unleaded gasoline with pump octane number of 91 or higher) is recommended when towing more than 3,500 lbs (1,590
kg).

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.

228

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

188

).

TowingSpeedsandGears Drive slower than normal in all driving situations, and obey posted speed limits for vehicles with trailers. When towing a fixed-sided trailer (e.g., camper), do not exceed 55 mph (88 km/h). At higher speeds, the trailer may sway or affect vehicle handling.

To prevent the transmission from shifting frequently, drive in the D position.

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 (Hot) 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 .

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Towing a Trailer

When driving down hills, reduce your speed and shift down to D . Do Remember, it not ‘‘ride’’ the brakes. takes longer to slow down and stop when towing a trailer.

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.

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.

RetrievingaBoat If the vehicle’s tires slip when retrieving a boat from the water, shift to first gear, and turn on VTM-4
lock (see page VTM-4 lock as soon as the boat is out of the water to prevent damage to the VTM-4 system.

). Disengage

210

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

285

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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

Improperly operating this vehicle on or off-pavement can cause an accident or rollover in which you and your passengers could be seriously injured or killed.

Follow all instructions and guidelines in this owner’s manual. Keep your speed low, and don’t drive faster than conditions permit.

General Information Your vehicle has been designed primarily for use on pavement. But its higher ground clearance allows you to occasionally travel on unpaved roads, such as campgrounds, picnic sites, and similar locations. It is not designed for trail-blazing, mountain climbing, or other challenging off- road activities.

If you decide to drive on unpaved roads, you will find that it requires somewhat different driving skills. Your vehicle will also handle somewhat differently than it does on pavement. Be sure to pay extra attention to the precautions and tips in this section, and get acquainted with your vehicle before leaving the pavement.

230

Important Safety Precautions To avoid loss of control or rollover, be sure to follow all precautions and recommendations.

Be sure to store cargo properly, and do not exceed your vehicle cargo load limits (see pages 199

and

220

).

Be aware that a heavy load can reduce ground clearance and your ability to clear obstacles.

Whenever you drive, make sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts.

Keep your speed low, and never go faster than the conditions allow.

It’s up to you to continually assess the situation and drive within the limits.

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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

Accelerating and Braking For better traction on all surfaces, accelerate slowly and gradually build up speed. If you try to start too fast on wet soil, mud, snow, or ice, you might not have enough traction to get underway, and you may dig yourself a hole. Starting with the shift lever in second (2) gear will help you have a smoother start on snow or ice.

Keep in mind that you will usually need more time and distance to brake to a stop on unpaved surfaces. Avoid hard braking. Do not ‘‘pump’’ the brakes; let the anti-lock braking system pump them for you.

Check Out Your Vehicle Before you leave the pavement, be sure to do all scheduled maintenance and service, and inspect your vehicle for any problems. Pay special attention to the condition of the tires, and check the tire pressures.

After you return to the pavement, carefully inspect your vehicle to make sure there is no damage that could make driving it unsafe. Recheck the condition of the tires and the tire pressures.

Remember The route presents limits (too steep or bumpy roads). You have limits (driving skill and comfort). And your vehicle has limits (traction, stability, and power).

Driving off-highway can be hazardous if you fail to recognize limits and take the proper precautions.

Avoiding Obstacles Debris in the road can damage your suspension or other components. Because your vehicle has a high center of gravity, driving over a large obstacle, or allowing a wheel to drop into a deep hole can cause your vehicle to tip or roll over.

Driving on Slopes If you can’t clearly see all conditions or obstacles on a slope, walk the slope before you drive on it. If you have any doubt whether or not you can safely drive on the slope, don’t do it. Find another route.

If you are driving up a hill and find that you cannot continue, turnaround over. Slowly back down the hill, following the same route you took up the hill.

. Your vehicle could roll

donottryto

231

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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

If you decide it is safe to drive through water, choose a suitable speed and engage the VTM-4 Lock. Proceed without shifting or changing speeds, and do not stop the vehicle or shut off the engine.

After driving through water, test your brakes. If they got wet, gently ‘‘pump’’ them while driving slowly until they operate normally.

If the water is deeper than the wheel hubs, some additional service may be required. This service is not covered by your warranties.

Crossing a Stream Before driving through water, stop, get out if necessary, and make sure that:

The water is not deep enough to cover your wheel hubs, axles, or exhaust pipe. You could stall and not be able to restart your engine. The water can also damage important vehicle components.

The banks are sloped so you can drive out.

The water is not flowing too fast. Deep rushing water can sweep you downstream. Even very shallow rushing water can wash the ground from under your tires and cause you to lose traction and possibly roll over.

The banks and surface under the water provide good traction. The water may hide hazards such as rocks, holes, or mud.

232

210

). Carefully try to

If You Get Stuck If you get stuck, engage the VTM-4
Lock (see page go in the direction (forward or reverse) that you think will get you unstuck. Do not spin the tires at high speeds. It will not help you get out and may cause damage to the transmission or VTM-4 system.

If you are still unable to free yourself, your vehicle is equipped with front and rear tow hooks designed for this purpose.

Use a nylon strap to attach your vehicle to the recovery vehicle, and carefully take out the slack in the strap. Once the strap is tight, the recovery vehicle should apply force. Remember that the recovery vehicle needs good traction to avoid becoming stuck, too.

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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

You should never use a jack to try to get unstuck. Your vehicle could easily slip off the jack and hurt you or someone else.

Towing a Trailer Off-Road You may be able to safely tow a lightweight trailer (such as a motorcycle or small tent trailer) off- road if you follow these guidelines.

Do not exceed 1,000 lbs (450 kg) or a tongue weight of 100 lbs (45
kg).

Stay on smooth, level dirt roads, and avoid driving in hilly terrain.

Allow extra room for starting, stopping, and turning.

Slow down if you encounter bumps or other obstacles.

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234

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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 messages in the information display, 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.

311

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

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

. 236
. 237
. 244
. 245

Filter

. 246
. 248
Engine Coolant Windshield Washers . 249
Automatic Transmission Fluid . 250
. 251
Differential Oil Transfer Assembly Fluid . 251
. 252
Timing Belt . 252
Brake Fluid . 253
Power Steering Fluid . 254
Lights Floor Mats . 260
. 260
Cleaning Seat Belts . 261
Wiper Blades . 263
Wheels Tires . 263
. 269
Checking the Battery Vehicle Storage . 270

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

235

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Maintenance Safety

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

236

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 down 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.

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Your vehicle displays engine oil life and maintenance service items on the information display 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 Display

ENGINE OIL LIFE DISPLAY

SELECT/RESET KNOB

The remaining engine oil life is displayed on the information display according to this table:

Calculated Engine

Displayed

To see the current engine oil life, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and push and release the select/reset knob repeatedly until the engine oil life display appears (see page

70

).

Oil Life (%) 100 % 91 % 90 % 81 % 80 % 71 % 70 % 61 % 60 % 51 % 50 % 41 % 40 % 31 % 30 % 21 % 20 % 16 % 15 % 11 % 10 % 6 % 5 % 1 %

− − − − − − − − − − − − 0 %

Engine Oil Life (%)

100 % 90 % 80 % 70 % 60 % 50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 15 % 10 % 5 % 0 %

CONTINUED

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Maintenance Minder

MAINTENANCE MINDER INDICATOR

MAINTENANCE ITEM CODE(S)

ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR

‘‘SERVICE’’ MESSAGE

The 15 and 10 percent oil life indicators remind you that your vehicle will soon be due for scheduled maintenance.

When the remaining engine oil life is 5 to 1 percent, you will see a ‘‘SERVICE’’ message along with the same maintenance item code(s), every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

If the remaining engine oil life is 15
to 6 percent, you will see the engine oil life indicator every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. 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.

238

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Maintenance Minder

The maintenance item code or codes indicate the main and sub items required at the time of the oil change (see page

240

).

You can switch the information display from the engine oil life display to the odometer or the trip meter. Press and release the select/ reset knob on the instrument panel.

When the engine oil life is 15 to 1
percent, the maintenance minder indicator ( ) comes on every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, then it goes out if you switch the information display.

When you see this message, have the indicated maintenance performed by your dealer as soon as possible.

When the remaining engine oil life is 0 percent, the engine oil life indicator will blink. The display comes on every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. The maintenance minder indicator on in the instrument panel. When you see this message, immediately have the indicated maintenance done by your dealer.

) also comes on and remains

NEGATIVE MILEAGE

If you do not perform the indicated maintenance, negative mileage is displayed and begins to blink after the vehicle has been driven 10 miles (10 km) or more.

Negative mileage means your vehicle has passed the maintenance required point.

Immediately have the indicated maintenance done by your dealer.

239

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Maintenance Minder

You can change the information display from the engine oil life display to the odometer, the trip meter, or the outside temperature (if equipped) every time you press and release the select/reset knob.

When the engine oil life is 0 percent or negative mileage, the maintenance minder indicator ) remains on even if you change the information display.

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

240

Maintenance Main Items and Sub Items

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEM

All maintenance items displayed on the information display are in code. For an explanation of these maintenance codes, see page

243

Resetting the Engine Oil Life Display 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 repeatedly until the engine oil life is displayed.

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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 another 5 seconds. The maintenance item code(s) will disappear, and the engine oil life will reset to ‘‘100.’’

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.

CONTINUED

241

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Maintenance Minder

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.