2012 Honda Pilot Owners Manual

the VSA system indicator blink.

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.

VSA OFF Indicator

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

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System Indicator

When VSA activates, you will see the VSA activation indicator blink. If this 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 main function of the

NOTE: VSA system is generally known as Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The system also includes a traction control function.

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.

OnTouringmodels You will also see a ‘‘CHECK VSA SYSTEM’’ message on the multi- information display if there is a problem with the VSA system.

CONTINUED

533

11/08/01 10:57:44 31SZA630_541

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA ), aka Electronic Stability Control (ESC), System

ExceptTouringmodels

If the low tire pressure indicator or TPMS indicator comes on, see page

523

VSA OFF Switch

OnTouringmodels

If the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator comes on, see page Or, if the multi-information display shows a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message with the indicator flashing, see page

525

94

In this case, you cannot turn off the VSA using the OFF switch again.

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

This switch is under the driver’s side vent. To turn the VSA system on and off, press and hold it until you hear a beep.

When VSA is off, the VSA OFF indicator comes on as a reminder. Press and hold the switch again. It turns the system back on.

534

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

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.

11/08/01 10:57:51 31SZA630_542

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA ), aka Electronic Stability Control (ESC), System

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

605

).

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.

Hill Start Assist Your vehicle is equipped with a hill start assist feature to help prevent the vehicle from rolling on inclines as you move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator.

This feature starts operating a few seconds after you are in any drive gear position (when faced uphill) or in reverse (when faced downhill). This feature requires that the vehicle has come to a complete stop before it can work.

Hill start assist may not hold a heavily loaded vehicle, such as when your vehicle is connected to a trailer, or prevent your vehicle from rolling downhill on a very steep or slippery slope.

535

11/08/01 10:58:01 31SZA630_543

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.

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

494

).

Load Limit

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.

Be sure to read the Driving Guidelines 552
surfaces.

if you plan to tow off paved

Off-Highway section on page

TotalTrailerWeight The maximum 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

540

).

536

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

11/08/01 10:58:13 31SZA630_544

TongueLoad The weight that the 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 for limits for your towing 540
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.

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

4WDmodels:

6,096 lbs (2,765 kg)

2WDmodels:

5,952 lbs (2,700 kg)

Towing a Trailer

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all accessories, all cargo, and the tongue load must not exceed:

4WDmodels:

2,921 lbs (1,325 kg)

on the front axle

3,362 lbs (1,525 kg) 3,251 lbs (1,475 kg)

on the rear axle

＊

＊

＊ ＊

1 : Except LX models 2 : LX models

2WDmodels:

2,921 lbs (1,325 kg)

on the front axle

3,196 lbs (1,450 kg)

on the rear axle

537

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.

540

to

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 next.

11/08/01 10:58:23 31SZA630_545

Towing a Trailer

Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle and trailer with the proper hitch is:

4WDmodels:

9,579 lbs (4,345 kg)

2WDmodels:

8,466 lbs (3,840 kg)

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

538

11/08/01 10:58:35 31SZA630_546

Towing a Trailer

ToEstimatetheTongueLoad 1.

Park the vehicle on level ground.

2.

Measure and record the distance 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.

2WDmodels

4WDmodels

If the

difference is:

Estimated

tongue load is:

If the

difference is:

Estimated

tongue load is:

5/8’’ 1 1/4’’ 1 3/4’’

150 lbs (68 kg) 250 lbs (114 kg) 350 lbs (159 kg)

5/8’’ 1 1/4’’ 1 3/4’’ 2 1/4’’

150 lbs (68 kg) 250 lbs (114 kg) 350 lbs (159 kg) 450 lbs (205 kg)

If the difference is more than 1 ¾ inch, you have too much load on the tongue. Redistribute the load or remove cargo as needed.

If the difference is more than 2 ¼ inch, you have too much load on the tongue. Redistribute the load or remove cargo as needed.

CONTINUED

539

11/08/01 10:58:46 31SZA630_547

Towing a Trailer

Total Trailer Weight and Tongue Load Limits:

Number of Occupants

＊

From 3 to 8

Number of Occupants

＊

Maximum Total Trailer Weight

Maximum Tongue Load

＊＊

2WD models

2,000 lbs (905 kg)

200 lbs (90 kg)

Towing is Not Recommended

2WD models with optional ATF Cooler installed

Maximum Total Trailer Weight

Maximum Tongue Load

＊＊

3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) 3,300 lbs (1,497 kg) 3,100 lbs (1,406 kg) 3,000 lbs (1,361 kg) 2,800 lbs (1,270 kg) 2,000 lbs (905 kg)

Towing is Not Recommended

350 lbs (159 kg) 300 lbs (136 kg) 230 lbs (104 kg) 200 lbs (90 kg) 150 lbs (68 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 (68
kg), and each has 15 lbs (7 kg) of cargo in the cargo area. Any additional weight, including cargo or accessories, reduces the maximum trailer weight and maximum tongue load. Never exceed the gross axle weight ratings (see page Recommended tongue load should be 5 10% of the total trailer weight for boat trailers, and 8 15% of the total trailer weight for all other − trailers.

537

−

).

＊

＊＊

540

11/08/01 10:58:54 31SZA630_548

Towing a Trailer

Number of Occupants

＊

Maximum Total Trailer Weight

4WD models

Maximum Tongue Load

＊＊

4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) 4,300 lbs (1,950 kg) 4,100 lbs (1,860 kg) 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg) 3,800 lbs (1,724 kg) 2,000 lbs (905 kg)

Towing is Not Recommended

450 lbs (204 kg) 400 lbs (181 kg) 330 lbs (150 kg) 270 lbs (122 kg) 190 lbs (86 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 (68
kg), and each has 15 lbs (7 kg) of cargo in the cargo area. Any additional weight, including cargo or accessories, reduces the maximum trailer weight and maximum tongue load. Never exceed the gross axle weight ratings (see page Recommended tongue load should be 5 10% of the total trailer weight for boat trailers, and 8 15% of the total trailer weight for all other − trailers.

537

−

).

541

11/08/01 10:59:03 31SZA630_549

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: 2,921 lbs (1,325 kg)

542

4.

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): 3,175 lbs (1,440 kg) Limit (2WD models): 3,031 lbs (1,375 kg)

2.

3.

Check the gross vehicle weight. Limit (4WD models): 6,096 lbs (2,765 kg) Limit (2WD models): 5,952 lbs (2,700 kg)

Check the rear gross axle weight. Limit (4WD models except LX): 3,362 lbs (1,525 kg) Limit (4WD LX models): 3,252 lbs (1,475 kg) Limit (2WD models): 3,196 lbs (1,450 kg)

11/08/01 10:59:13 31SZA630_550

Towing a Trailer

5.

Check the gross combined weight. Limit (4WD models): 9,579 lbs (4,345 kg) Limit (2WD models): 8,466 lbs (3,840 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.

7.

8.

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

540

Calculate the tongue load. Subtract the weight in step 6 from the weight in step 7. Limit: See page 540
Recommended: see page 536
Range: 5-10% for boat trailers 8-15% for other trailers

543

11/08/01 10:59:27 31SZA630_551

Towing a Trailer

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.

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.

AutomaticTransmissionFluid Cooler(2WDmodels) 2WD models are not equipped with a transmission fluid cooler, and have reduced towing capacities. See the Trailer Weight and Tongue Load Limits table on page maximum towing capacities. An optional automatic transmission fluid cooler kit is available if you plan to tow weight above the limits. Contact a dealer for additional information.

540

for

Your dealer offers trailer packages that include a ball mount, hitch plug, and hitch pin. A wiring harness kit is also available from your dealer.

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 maintained, and that it meets federal, state, province, territory, and local regulations.

Hitch Read the trailer manufacturer’s instructions, and select the appropriate draw bar for the height of the trailer you will be towing.

544

TrailerBrakes Honda recommends that any trailer with a total trailer weight of 1,000 lbs (450 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 vehicle’s 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.

11/08/01 10:59:38 31SZA630_552

Use this illustration to identify each terminal in the trailer brake controller connector.

ELECTRIC BRAKE (BROWN/WHITE)

BRAKE (20 A) (PURPLE)

GROUND (BLACK)

STOP (SKY BLUE)

A factory installed, 4-pin gray connector is located under the instrument panel near the top of the parking brake pedal. This connector has all of the circuits required to install most electric trailer brake controllers. A jumper harness to adapt your electric trailer brake controller to the vehicle is included with the optional Genuine Honda trailer hitch kit. To obtain a trailer hitch kit, see your dealer.

Have a qualified mechanic install your trailer brake controller following the trailer brake controller manufacturer’s instructions. Failure to properly install the trailer brake controller may increase the distance it takes for you to stop your vehicle when towing a trailer.

Towing a Trailer

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 dealer or rental agency 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.

CONTINUED

545

11/08/01 10:59:49 31SZA630_553

Towing a Trailer

SpareTires When towing a trailer, we recommend that you carry a full-size spare wheel and tire for your vehicle and trailer. When replacing the compact spare with a full size spare, remove the plastic spacer (see page ). Store the plastic spacer and 604
compact spare together. Reinstall the spacer before once again stowing the compact spare.

for proper tire size,

605
for how to store a full size

See page page 619
wheel and tire, and page information on changing a flat tire.

613

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.

546

Trailer Lights

LEFT TURN SIGNAL AND BRAKE LIGHTS (RED)

TAILLIGHTS (GREEN)

B CHARGE

＋ (BLUE)

RIGHT TURN SIGNAL AND BRAKE LIGHTS (WHITE) ELECTRIC BRAKE (BROWN/WHITE) BACK-UP LIGHTS (YELLOW)

GROUND (BLACK) GROUND (BLACK)

Trailer lights and equipment must comply with federal, state, province/ territory, 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 an optional trailer lighting connector that mates with your vehicle. You can get this optional connector from your dealer.

Refer to the above illustration for wiring information.

11/08/01 11:00:00 31SZA630_554

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

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 with trailer type and brand, you should also have a qualified mechanic install a suitable connector between the vehicle and the trailer.

Towing a Trailer

Towing Equipment

7-PIN TRAILER CONNECTOR

KNOB

Remove the cover by turning the knobs about one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

TRAILER HITCH

Your vehicle has a class 3 trailer hitch as standard equipment.

The jumper harness and trailer brake fuse are stored in the glove box.

Also see page information.

544

for trailer-related

CONTINUED

547

11/08/01 11:00:10 31SZA630_555

Towing a Trailer

ConnectingtheTrailerConnectors OnTouringmodels

3.

Insert the connector securely into the socket.

TrailerConnectorSockets OnTouringmodels

SMALL LIGHT (GREEN)

LEFT TURN/ STOP (RED)

＋ CHARGE (BLUE)

RIGHT TURN/ STOP (WHITE)

GROUND (BLACK)

BACK LIGHT (YELLOW)

7-PIN TRAILER SOCKET

ELECTRIC BRAKE (BROWN/ WHITE)

Refer to the above illustrations for wiring information.

LID

SOCKET

RETAINING TAB

RETAINING TAB

Hook the retaining tab on the inner side of the lid against the retaining tab of the connector to prevent disconnection during operation.

7-PIN TRAILER CONNECTOR

7-PIN TRAILER CONNECTOR

The 7-pin trailer connector is needed for the trailer lights. To connect the connector:

1.

Make sure the connector and the socket are free of dirt, moisture, or other foreign material.

2.

Open the socket lid by pulling it up.

548

11/08/01 11:00:25 31SZA630_556

TrailerJumperHarness OnTouringmodels

GROUND (BLACK)

ELECTRIC BRAKE (BROWN/WHITE)

BRAKE LIGHTS (SKY BLUE)

BRAKE (20A) (BLUE)

The trailer jumper harness is used to install the controller for the electric trailer brakes. For more information, see

TrailerBrakes

on page

544

TrailerBrakeFuse Insert the trailer brake fuse into the secondary under-hood fuse box (see page

634

).

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 and the cooling system 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 on and in the trailer are properly secured and cannot shift while you drive.

Towing a Trailer

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

Your vehicle tires and spare are in good condition and properly inflated.

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).

The trailer tires and spare are in good condition and inflated as recommended by the trailer maker.

549

11/08/01 11:00:35 31SZA630_557

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 in this section.

550

TowingSpeedsandGears Drive slower than normal in all driving situations, and obey posted speed limits for vehicles with trailers. Use D position when towing a trailer on level roads. D is the proper shift lever position to use when towing a trailer in hilly terrain. (See ‘‘ Driving ’’ on the next page for onHills additional gear information.)

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.

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.

11/08/01 11:00:49 31SZA630_558

Towing a Trailer

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

520

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

636

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 .

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 D . Do Remember, it not ‘‘ride’’ the brakes. takes 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 of the steering wheel, then turn the wheel to the left to get the trailer to move to the left. Turn the wheel to the right to move the trailer to the right.

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.

551

11/08/01 11:01:01 31SZA630_559

Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

Improperly operating this vehicle on or off-pavement can cause a crash 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.

552

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 cargo load limits (see page

and

507

536

).

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.

11/08/01 11:01:15 31SZA630_560

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 D position 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

553

11/08/01 11:01:27 31SZA630_561

Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

554

520

). 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.

11/08/01 11:01:37 31SZA630_562

Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

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.

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.

555

11/08/01 11:01:39 31SZA630_563

556

11/08/01 11:01:45 31SZA630_564

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 the model), 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.

661

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.

Maintenance

TM

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

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

. 558
. 559
. 574
. 575
. 576

Filter

. 577
. 579
Engine Coolant Windshield Washers . 581
Automatic Transmission Fluid . 582
Brake Fluid . 584
. 585
Power Steering Fluid . 585
Timing Belt . 586
Lights . 593
Dust and Pollen Filter Cleaning the Seat Belts . 593
. 594
Floor Mats . 595
Wiper Blades . 599
Tires Checking the Battery . 607
. 608
Vehicle Storage Interior Care . 609

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

557

11/08/01 11:01:58 31SZA630_565

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.

558

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

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.

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.

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

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.

11/08/01 11:02:09 31SZA630_566

Your vehicle displays engine oil life and maintenance service items on the information display or multi- information display (depending on the model) to show you when you should have your dealer perform engine oil replacement and indicated maintenance services.

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

TM

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

Calculated Engine

Displayed

Engine Oil Life Display ExceptTouringmodels

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%

ENGINE OIL LIFE DISPLAY U.S. model is shown.

SELECT/ RESET KNOB

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

81

).

CONTINUED

559

11/08/01 11:02:18 31SZA630_567

Maintenance Minder

TM

MAINTENANCE MINDER INDICATOR

MAINTENANCE ITEM CODE(S)

‘‘SERVICE’’ MESSAGE

U.S. model is shown.

U.S. model is shown.

U.S. model is shown.

ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR

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 near the ‘‘OIL LIFE’’ message.

560

11/08/01 11:02:31 31SZA630_568

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

562

).

Maintenance Minder

TM

NEGATIVE DISTANCE TRAVELED

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.

U.S. model is shown.

U.S. model is shown.

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

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

Negative distance traveled means your vehicle has passed the maintenance required point.

Immediately have the indicated maintenance done by your dealer.

CONTINUED

561

11/08/01 11:02:44 31SZA630_569

Maintenance Minder

TM

To change the information display from the engine oil life display to the odometer or the trip meter, press and release the select/reset knob.

When the engine oil life is 0 percent or negative distance traveled, 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 as follows.

Maintenance Main Items and Sub Items ExceptTouringmodels

MAINTENANCE SUB ITEM(S)

MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM U.S. model is shown.

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

573

Resetting the Engine Oil Life Display ExceptTouringmodels 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.

562

11/08/01 11:02:53 31SZA630_570

U.S. model is shown.

U.S. model is shown.

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

TM

OnTouringmodels

SEL/RESET BUTTON

ENGINE OIL LIFE DISPLAY U.S. model is shown.

INFO ( BUTTON

▲ ▼

To see the current engine oil life, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and push and release the INFO ( / ) button on the steering wheel repeatedly, until the engine oil life is displayed (see page 86

▲ ▼

).

CONTINUED

563

11/08/01 11:03:00 31SZA630_571

Maintenance Minder

TM

MAINTENANCE ITEM CODE(S)

SYSTEM MESSAGE INDICATOR

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.

The system message indicator on the instrument panel will also come on, and a beeper will sound.

U.S. model is shown.

▲ ▼

To cancel the system message, press and release the INFO ( / ) button on the steering wheel. At this time, the system message indicator will also be turned off. Then the display will change to the engine oil life display. You will see the maintenance item code(s) along with the engine oil life on the multi- information display.

564

11/08/01 11:03:07 31SZA630_572

You will also see the system message every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position until you have the indicated maintenance performed by your dealer.

Maintenance Minder

TM

The system message indicator on the instrument panel will also come on, and a beeper will sound.

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

569

).

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.

CONTINUED

565

11/08/01 11:03:13 31SZA630_573

Maintenance Minder

TM

You will also see the system message every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position until you have the indicated maintenance performed by your dealer.

U.S. model is shown.

▲ ▼

To cancel the system message, press and release the INFO ( / ) button on the steering wheel. At this time, the system message indicator will also be turned off. Then the display will change to the engine oil life display. You will see a ‘‘SERVICE’’ message and along with the maintenance item code(s) on the multi-information display.

566

U.S. model is shown.

If the indicated maintenance service is not done and the engine oil life reaches 0 percent, you will see a ‘‘SERVICE PAST DUE’’ message along with the maintenance item code(s) on the multi-information display.

11/08/01 11:03:21 31SZA630_574

The system message indicator on the instrument panel will also come on, and a beeper will sound.

When you see this message, have the indicated maintenance done by your dealer immediately.

Maintenance Minder

TM

The system message will appear again by pressing the INFO ( / ) ▲ ▼ button after canceling it.

You will also see the system message every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position until you have the indicated maintenance performed by your dealer.

CONTINUED

567

U.S. model is shown.

▲ ▼

To cancel the system message, press and release the INFO ( / ) button on the steering wheel. At this time, the system message indicator will be turned off. Then the display not will change to the engine oil life display. You will see the engine oil life blinking and a ‘‘SERVICE’’ message along with the maintenance item code(s) on the multi- information display.

11/08/01 11:03:32 31SZA630_575

Maintenance Minder

TM

The system message will appear again by pressing the INFO ( / ) ▲ ▼ button after canceling it.

You will also see the system message every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position until you have the indicated maintenance performed by your dealer.

Negative distance traveled means your vehicle has passed the maintenance required point.

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

569

U.S.

U.S.

Canada

Canada

If the indicated required service is not done and the remaining engine oil life becomes 0%, the multi- information display will show a ‘‘SERVICE PAST DUE’’ message, the total distance traveled after the remaining oil life became 0%, and the maintenance item code(s).

▲ ▼

To cancel the system message, press and release the INFO ( / ) button on the steering wheel. At this time, the system message indicator will be turned off. Then the display not will change to the engine oil life display. You will see the negative distance traveled blinking and a ‘‘SERVICE’’ message along with the maintenance item code(s) on the multi-information display.

568