1990 Honda Prelude Owners Manual

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too stiff, increasing the chance of damage from road hazards, and also causing uneven wear. TIRE LABEL CAUTION: Check tire pressure when the tires are cold, (After the car has been parked for more than 3 hours or driven less than 1 mile/1.6 km.) Tire pressure may increase as much as 41 kPa (6 psi) when the tire is hot, so NEVER ADJUST tire pressure when the tires are hot. Never inflate load range B tires to more than 220 kPa (32 psi) cold. Cars with luggage racks or cartop carriers DO NOT have greater load limits than those on the label, Snow Tires If you use snow tires, they should have the same toad capacity as the original equipment tires, and they must be installed in sets of four, or they may cause poor handling. Cars with snow tires should not be driven faster than 75 mph (120 km/h). (cont'd) Main MenutsTires (cont'd) Tire Chains When required, tire chains should be installed on the front wheels. If you are using metal type chains, make sure they are designated SAE Class " S ". You may also use plastic or cable type "chains". Use only the correct size chains recommended for your tire size and make sure they are installed following the chain manufacturer's instructions. Once tire chains are installed, drive at less than 19 mph (30km/h) on roads covered with snow or ice. To minimize tire and chain wear, avoid driving on cleared roads with chains installed. CAUTION: Improper installation or loose tire chains may damage your car's chassis and fenders. NOTE: Keep the manufacturer's installation instructions in your glove box for future reference. Tire Balancing Unbalanced tires may affect handling and tire wear. A tire should always be rebalanced after it has been dismounted from the wheel. Your original tires were properly balanced before the car left the factory, but may need rebalancing at some time during the life of the tire. Tire balancing for the COMPACT spare is not necessary. CAUTION: Use only genuine Honda aluminum wheel weights if your car is equipped with aluminum wheels. Non-genuine Honda wheel weights may corrode and damage the aluminum wheel. Tire Rotation Tires may wear unevenly when used for a long time at the same position on the car. To avoid this, rotate the tires every 7,500 miles (12,000 km). If abnormal or uneven wear develops between rotations, the cause should be found and corrected as soon as possible. The illustration shows how the tires can be rotated. The COMPACT spare tire must not be included in tire rotation. Main MenutsNOTE: Brake pads should be inspected for wear whenever the tires are rotated. Tire Traction Worn tires or slippery road surfaces can reduce driving, cornering and braking traction. To reduce the possibility of losing traction, slow down when the road gets slippery, replace tires when wear indicators are visible, and KEEP TIRES PROPERLY INFLATED. Tire Replacement The original tires on your car have tread wear indicators to indicate when they should be replaced. The indicators appear as bands about 12.7 mm (1/2 in) wide when the tire tread depth is less than 1.6 mm (1/16 in). When indicators appear across two or more grooves in a row, you should replace the tire. INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS TREAD WEAR INDICATORS Driving on worn-out or under-inflated tires is very hazardous, and will reduce braking effectiveness, steering accuracy and traction. When replacing tires, use only the recommended tire size. Wheel rim widths and offsets must be those recommended by American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Contact the Zone Office nearest you as shown on the inside of the back cover. Tires and wheels other than those recommended may be unsafe. Do not mix radial and bias ply tires on the same car. Main MenutsAir Conditioner Care Condenser and Radiator Check the engine radiator and the air conditioner condenser (in front of the radiator) for accumulated dirt, insects or leaves. Carefully brush or hose them off to assure maximum cooling performance. CAUTION: Radiator and condenser fins are very thin and easily damaged; do not bend them with the high water pressure or brush. Compressor Drive Belt Check the compressor bett tension monthly, during periods when you use the air conditioner a lot. If the engine has been running, some engine components may be hot enough to burn you. When pushed with 98 N (22 Ib) of force midway between the compressor drive pulley and the engine crankshaft pulley, the belt should deflect about: 1 0 - 12 mm (0.4—0.5 in) ADJUSTER CRANKSHAFT PULLEY COMPRESSOR DRIVE PULLEY Main MenutsSystem Maintenance Run your air conditioner at least once a week for about ten minutes, even during the off season, to lubricate the seals and the inside of the compressor and, to verify that the system is functional. If the air conditioner is not cooling properly, it may indicate an undercharged system. Have your dealer check the system for leaks, then evacuate and charge the system with refrigerant 12. Charging quantity: 850-950 g(30.1-33.6 oz) CAUTION: Prolonged use of an undercharged system may damage the compressor. Main MenutsAppearance Care Interior Trim Remove dust and loose dirt with a vacuum cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a clean, damp cloth or sponge. Stains can be removed with a commercially available vinyl cleaner. CAUTION: Do not use thinner, gasoline, kerosene, naphtha or other solvents on the interior. They are toxic, flammable and hazardous and could damage the material you're cleaning. Windows A 10 to 1 mix of water and white vinegar, or a commercially available glass cleaner may be used to clean windows and to remove the dust film sometimes caused by the ingredients used in interior vinyls and plastics. NOTE: Do not put this solution in the windshield washer reservoir, it will damage the windshield washer pump. the Be careful not to scratch or damage the defogger wires when cleaning the window horizontally along the wires, not up and down. Dry the windows with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. Keep all the windows clean for maximum visibility. the rear window; wipe inside of Exterior Care Waxing Wax the car when water will no longer "bead" on the paint. Always wash and dry the car before you wax it. Use a good quality liquid or paste wax, and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Wax all the metal trim to keep its luster. NOTE: Removing oil, tar, etc., with a spot remover will usually strip the wax from the surrounding finish. Be sure to re-wax these areas even if the rest of the car does not yet need waxing. Main MenutsWashing NOTE: Retract the headlights before washing the car. However, make sure the headlight lenses are cleaned periodically. Rinse all loose dirt off the car by spraying it with lukewarm or cold water. Do not use hot water. Wash using a soft bristle brush, sponge, or cloth with water containing a mild detergent, such as a liquid dishwashing detergent. Remove oil, tar, tree sap, etc., with tar remover or turpentine. Remove road salt, insects, etc., with mild detergent and lukewarm water. Any of these substances may damage the finish if left on painted surfaces. Rinse the car well. Promptly wipe with a chamois or soft towel to prevent water-spotting. Do not let water or soap air-dry on painted surfaces. During wiping, inspect the surface for stone chips and scratches; paint them with touch-up paint so they won't rust (touch-up paint is available through your Honda dealer). For further instructions on corrosion protection, refer to the Rust Prevention section on page 112. Aluminum Alloy Wheels (Si with 4 WS or ALB) CAUTION: Wash the wheels after driving on snowy or icy roads where salt has been applied. Avoid off-road driving. Brush, rocks, dirt and severe impact may damage the wheels. Install tire chains carefully. Improperly installed chains can cause damage to the wheels. Honda aluminum alloy wheels are treated with a protective finish. Wash them with a low-phosphate detergent and sponge. Do not use abrasive cleaners or stiff brushes. Always install aluminum wheels in sets of four. If mixed with other types, the car's handing may be affected. (cont'd) Main MenutsAppearance Care (cont'd) Rust Prevention Rusting is likely to occur in parts of the car where water is trapped or where there is continual dampness. Water will collect inside doors and body panels if drain holes become clogged. Water which seeps under or soaks floor mats will subject floor sections to prolonged wetness or dampness. Road dirt or sand, which collects and fills recesses on the underside of the car, retains moisture long after the rest of the car has dried. The removal of paint and undercoating by stones, gravel, and minor accidents immediately exposes metal to air and moisture. Rusting is increased by high humidity and by the presence of corrosive substances in the air or on the roads. Salt used for road de-icing will coat the bottom of the ear and hasten rusting. Localities with high humidity have greater potential for rust problems, especially where salt is also present on the road or in moist sea air. Industrial pollution will accelerate the deterioration of paint finishes and promote rusting. Preventive Service Check all drain holes in doors and body panels for clogging and clear if necessary. When washing your car, also clean the underside of the car by using high pressure water; inside inside rear wheel housing, and front fender, above subframe, rear suspension, under rear bumper. After washing your car or after heavy rain, check for leaks. While checking for leaks, lift the floor mats in the passenger, cargo and spare tire areas, and check beneath them. Water can collect in these areas and remain unseen for prolonged periods. Dry any wet areas of your car's interior. Remove and dry wet floor mats. Have leaks repaired as soon as possible. Main MenutsBody Repair Replacement Body and Fender Parts If your vehicle incurs body damage and requires replacement parts, we encourage you to use only Genuine Honda sheet metal body and fender parts. Many insurance companies are specifying imitation sheet metal parts for collision repairs in an effort to reduce claim costs; however, if imitation parts are used the following conditions may apply: There is no assurance that imitation parts will equal the fit and finish of Genuine Honda sheet metal parts; and in our experience they often do not. There is no assurance that imitation parts will resist corrosion as well as Genuine Honda sheet metal parts. Imitation sheet metal parts are not covered by the Honda Limited Warranty. To ensure your continued satisfaction with your Honda vehicle in the event of an accident, contact your insurance adjuster and insist on Genuine Honda parts in the repair of your vehicle. Main MenutsSpare Tire COMPACT Spare Tire Your car is supplied with a COMPACT spare tire and wheel for temporary use only in the event of a flat tire. Use the COMPACT spare only when you have to, and only to go as far as the next garage or dealer to have the regular tire repaired and reinstalled. Because you will rarely use the COMPACT spare, be sure to regularly check its condition and air pressure (415 kPa, 60 psi), so it will be ready when you need it. This type of tire holds less air at higher pressure than a regular tire, so it will inflate (or deflate if there is a leak) more rapidly; check its pressure often and add air gradually if it needs any. The COMPACT spare tire has a different tire size, air pressure requirement, tread life and maximum speed rating than the four regular tires on your car. Disregarding these warnings may result in tire failure, loss of vehicle control and possible injury to vehicle occupants. Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any circumstances when using the COMPACT spare. Do not mount snow chains on the COMPACT spare. They will not fit properly and will damage the tire and possibly your car. If you must use the COMPACT spare when driving on roads covered with snow or ice, use it as one of the rear tires and mount chains only on the front two regular tires. Main MenutsThe COMPACT spare tire has a much shorter tread life than regular tires. Replace the tire as soon as tread wear indicators appear as solid bands across the tread. Replace with a tire of exactly the same size and construction. TREAD WEAR INDICATOR INDICATOR LOCATION MARK The COMPACT spare tire and wheel set was designed especially for your car; do not use it on any other vehicle; do not install any other tire on this wheel which is not identical to the original in size and construction, and do not use the COMPACT spare tire on any other wheel. Because the COMPACT spare is smaller in size and higher in air pressure than a regular tire, it will ride more harshly with less ground clearance and may have less traction on some road surfaces. Drive cautiously. Main MenutsChanging a Flat Tire Do not attempt to change a tire unless the car is on firm, level ground and well out of the flow of traffic. Park the car on a firm, level surface, apply the parking brake, turn on the hazard warning switch and put the transmission in gear (Park for automatic). 1. Remove the jack, lug wrench/jack handle and jack handle extension (in the tool bag) from the location shown. NOTE: To remove the jack, release its tension against the mount by turning the screw counterclockwise. 2. Remove the spare tire. 3. Place blocks in front and back of the wheel diagonally opposite the tire you are changing. COMPACT SPARE TOOL BAG JACK Main Menuts4. (2.0 Si,Si) Remove the center cap from the wheel cover by turning the lock to 90°. (Si with 4WS or ALB) Remove the center cap from the wheel by prying it out with a common flat screwdriver (not provided in the tool bag). (2.0 Si,Si) (Si with 4WS or ALB) CENTER CAP CENTER CAP FLAT SCREWDRIVER CAUTION: (On the Si model with 4WS or ALB) Hold the center cap with your hand then pry it off using a rag to protect the cap and the wheel. RAG 5. Use the lug wrench to loosen the wheel lug nuts counterclockwise one-half turn. Follow tire changing preparations and procedures carefully to reduce the possibility of injury. The jack is designed for changing tires only. STAND CLEAR, DO NOT get under the car and DO NOT run the engine when the car Is supported only by the jack. 6. Place the jack under the jack point nearest the wheel you are removing; align the jack head so the car frame will fit in the recess as you raise the jack. To reduce the possibility of injury, be sure to use the jack provided with the car and the correct jacking points; never use any other part of the car for jack support. (cont'd) Main MenutsChanging a Flat Tire (cont'd) 7. Set the jack handle extension in the connector on the end of the jack and install the lug wrench/jack handle. Turn the lug wrench/ jack handle clockwise until the tire is slightly off the ground. JACK HANDLE EXTENSION LUG WRENCH/JACK HANDLE WHEEL COVER NUT VALVE 8. Remove the lug nuts, wheel cover and wheel. (Wheel cover is not equipped with 4WS or ALB models) 9. Install the spare tire; and install the lug nuts hand tight. 10. Lower the car, remove the jack, then tighten the lug nuts securely in an " X" pattern as shown. 11. Tighten the lug nuts securely. The recommended torque is: 110 N.m(11 kg-m,80 Ib-ft) If a torque wrench was not used, ask an authorized Honda dealer to verify the torque as soon as possible. TIGHTENING TORQUE 110 N.m (11 kg-m, 80 Ib-ft) 12. Repair or replace the damaged tire as soon as you can, then reinstall it in its original position on the car, and put the spare back in the car. CAUTION: Always stow the jack, tools and tire securely to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles in an accident. NOTE: Secure the tire and the spacer as shown in the illustration. SPACER SPACER COMPACT SPARE DAMAGED TIRE Main MenutsJump Starting To start a car with a dead battery, use another battery of the same voltage, and the proper jumper cables. Procedures other than those below could cause injury or damage from battery acid spray, explosion or charging system overload. Never connect the jumper cable directly to the negative post of the "dead" battery. Never allow the two cars to touch each other. Never allow the jumper cable clamps to touch each other. Never lean over the battery when making connections. Never attempt to jump start a vehicle with a frozen battery. The battery could rupture and explode. If you suspect a frozen battery, remove the vent caps and check the fluid. If there seems to be no fluid, or if you see ice, do not attempt a jump start until the fluid thaws. CAUTION: If jumper cables are connected backwards, the car's main fuse may blow. 1.Turn off all lights, heater and other electrical loads, set parking brake, and shift transmission to Neutral or Park. 2. Use one cable to connect the positive terminal of the booster battery to the positive terminal of the "dead" battery. Do not attach cable here DEAD BATTERY Positive to positive BOOSTER BATTERY Negative to the engine, not to the battery (cont'd) Main MenutsJump Starting (cont'd) 3. Use the other cable to connect the negative terminal of the booster battery to the engine at the ground cable as shown. 4.To remove the cables, reverse the above procedures exactly. DO NOT push or tow a car to start it. The forward surge when the engine starts could cause a collision. Also, under some conditions, the catalytic converter could be damaged. A car equipped with an automatic transmission cannot be started by pushing or towing. NOTE: After jump-starting the car, there is a possibility that the ALB warning light may come on due to insufficient battery voltage. After the battery is sufficiently recharged and the engine is turned off and restarted, the ALB warning light should indicate that the ALB system is OK, by coming on for a few seconds each time the engine is started. If the light remains on after recharging, have it checked by a Honda dealer. Main MenutsIf towing is necessary, contact a professional towing service. Your authorized Honda dealer can assist you with detailed towing instructions. Towing Never use tow chains or rope to tow a car; your ability to safety control the car may be adversely affected. We recommend the following: Flat Bed Equipment — Entire car is winched on a flat bed vehicle. This is the best way of transporting your Honda. Wheel Lift Type — Tow with the front wheels off the ground. If the car can only be towed with the front wheels on the ground: make sure the transmission is full of fluid (see page 86 — 87) and tow with the transmission in neutral (N) and the ignition key in the I position. CAUTION: To avoid serious damage on automatic transmission cars, first start the engine and shift to D, then to N and shut the engine off. If the engine does not run or the transmission cannot be shifted while the engine is running, the car must be transported on flat bed equipment. Check local regulations for towing. CAUTION: Do not exceed 35 mph (55 km/h) or tow for distances of more than 50 miles (80 km). If a Sling Type tow is used, the tow truck driver should position wood spacer blocks between your car's frame and the chains and lift straps to avoid damaging the bumper and the body. Do not use the bumpers to lift the car or to support the car's weight while towing. When towing a car with 4WS even with the front wheels off the ground, turn the wheels straight ahead and tie the steering wheel in place. Main MenustIf Your Car Gets Stuck If your car gets stuck in sand, mud, or snow, call a professional towing service for assistance in getting your car out, CAUTION: Do not rev up the engine and allow the wheels to spin freely at high speed. Severe transmission damage may result if the wheels are allowed to spin for more than a few seconds. DO NOT try to free a car with automatic transmission from snow etc. by rocking the car alternately between forward and reverse gears. Severe transmission damage may result from shifting into gear with the wheels moving. Main MenustHeadlight Motors Proceed as follows if either headlight motor fails to operate: 1. Lift the cover from remove the engine the hood and compartment fuse box. FUSE BOX RIGHT HEADLIGHT, MOTOR LEFT HEADLIGHT MOTOR RIGHT HEADLIGHT LEFT HEADLIGHT 2. Use the label on the fuse box cover to locate the fuse for the headlight motor that doesn't work. Remove the fuse with the fuse remover located in the fuse box under the dashboard. FUSE BOX COVER FUSE REMOVER Main MenustHeadlight Motors (cont'd) 3. If the fuse has blown, replacing it with a new fuse of the same amperage should allow the motor to work. However, if the fuse hasn't blown, or if a new fuse did not solve the problem, remove the fuse and operate the headlight motor manually. BLOWN FUSE CAUTION: Always remove the fuse before manually operating a headlight motor, otherwise the motor may suddenly activate. 4. Remove the cap from the top of the headlight motor, then turn the knob in the direction of the arrow (clockwise) until the headlight is as far up or down as it will go. CAP Turn knob in direction of arro NOTE: If foreign matter is the cause of the motor malfunction, it can usually be dislodged by turning the knob counterclockwise, 5. Replace the cap properly. 6. Reinstall the fuse and fuse box cover and have the headlight motor inspected at the earliest opportunity. Main MenustSpecifications * 1 Including the coolant in the reserve tank (0.75 l /0.79US qt/0.66 Imp qt) but excluding that remaining in the engine. * 2 Excluding the oil remaining in the engine,but including that remaining in the oil filter. (cont'd) Main MenutsSpecifications (cont'd) page 92 Main MenutsIdentification Numbers The Vehicle identification Number (V.I.N.) is stamped on a plate attached to the top left side of the dashboard. It also appears on the Certification label attached to the door jamb, as well as under the hood on the body, directly behind the air cleaner. NOTE: The V.I.N. is also provided in bar code on the Certification label. VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER CERTIFICATION LABEL VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER TRANSMISSION NUMBER ENGINE NUMBER The Engine Number is stamped on the right front side of the engine block. The Transmission Number appears on a label on the top edge of the transmission where it attaches to the engine. Main MenutsDOT Tire Quality Grades The tires on your car meet Federal Safety Requirements. AM tires are also "graded" according to Department of Transportation (DOT) standards for tread wear, traction and temperature. Three grades are shown on the tire sidewall TIRE WHEEL RIM Tread Wear The tread wear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one half (1-1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate. Traction The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are A, B, and C, and they represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance. The traction grades assigned are based on braking (straight ahead) traction tests and do not include cornering (turning) traction. Main MenutsTemperature The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law. The tire temperature grade is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure. Main MenutsEmission Controls Sources of Emissions The combustion process produces carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen and hydrocarbons. The evaporation of fuel in the fuel tank also produces hydrocarbons. Control of oxides of nitrogen and hydrocarbons is very important since, under certain conditions, when subjected to sunlight, they react to form photochemical smog. Carbon monoxide does not react to form smog, but it is toxic. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has developed a number of systems which are highly effective in reducing carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen and hydrocarbons. The Clean Air Act The Clean Air Act requires all vehicle manufacturers to explain in writing, the operation and maintenance of their emission control systems. Maintenance instructions are included on pages 76—81 ; the operation of each system is explained on the following. Replacement Parts The emission control systems on your new Honda were designed, built and certified regulations implementing the Clean Air Act. Honda recommends only the use of new, genuine Honda parts or their equivalent. The use of other replacement parts which are not of equivalent quality may impair the effectiveness of your car's emission control systems. to conform with the Federal Crankcase Emission Control System To prevent crankcase emissions, your car is equipped with a Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) System which routes blowby gases from the crankcase, through the PCV valve and intake manifold, into the combustion chamber. Main MenutsEvaporative Emission Control System The Evaporative Emission Control System is designed to prevent fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. (2.0 Si,Si) Fuel vapors from the fuel tank are directed into the charcoal canister where they are adsorbed and stored while the engine is stopped or idling. When the coolant temperature rises to a certain value, the vapors are drawn into the engine through the throttle body and the intake manifold during normal engine operation. (2.0 S) Fuel vapors from the fuel tank and carburetor are directed into the charcoal canister where they are adsorbed and stored while the engine is stopped. When the engine is running and engine coolant temperature is above the set temperature of the thermo sensor, the purge control diaphragm valve is open so that fuel vapors in the charcoal canister may be drawn into the engine through the carburetor and the intake manifold. Engine Exhaust Controls The engine exhaust emission control systems are designed to control combustion during idle, acceleration, cruise, and deceleration. These systems are entirely separate from the crankcase and evaporative emission control systems described previously. HONDA PGM-FI System (2.0 Si,Si) The PGM-FI system consists of three independent sub-systems; Air intake, Electronic Control and Fuel Control, thus allowing more accurate control of air/fuel ratios under all operating conditions. The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) detects the amount of air drawn into the cylinders and determines the amount of fuel to be injected to provide the optimum air/fuel ratio for all engine needs. (cont'd) Main MenutsEmission Controls (cont'd) Intake Air Temperature Control System (2.0 S) The air control valve mounted inside the air cleaner snorkel automatically opens and closes according to the intake air temperature. The carburetor then receives air of constant temperature which results in lower exhaust emissions. Carburetor Controls —Throttle controller — This system controls the throttle during gear shifting, reducing the amount of HC caused by unburned fuel mixture. (2.0 S) — Choke opener — When starting a cold engine, this device opens the choke slightly. This reduces the amount of HC and CO. — Altitude Compensation devices — The Air Jet Controller (AJC) has an atmospheric pressure sensing bellows. The AJC is designed to control the amount of additional air fed to the carburetor jets to maintain good driveability at any altitude. Ignition Timing Control System This system automatically controls the ignition timing to reduce the amount of HC and NOx. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) [Except California 2.0 S models] The EGR system is designed to control the formation of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) caused when fuel mixture burns at high temperature. It works by recirculating exhaust gas through the EGR valve and intake manifold into the combustion chambers where it reduces peak temperature by diluting the air/fuel mixture. Catalytic Converter The catalyst is used to convert hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) in the exhaust gas, to carbon dioxide (CO 2), dinitrogen (N 2) and water vapor. Main MenutsAir Supply System (2.0 S) A secondary air supply system helps improve emission performance by promoting more complete combustion during deceleration. Air injection with Feedback System This system maintains the proper air/fuel ratio for the most efficient use of the three way catalytic converter by controlling the amount of air the oxygen concentration in the exhaust manifold. in response injection (2.0 S) to Main MenutsCatalytic Converter A catalytic converter is installed in the exhaust system to help clean-up the exhaust gases that can cause air pollution. CATALYTIC CONVERTER To be effective, the converter must work at high temperature, so don't park your car over dry grass, leaves or anything else that could burn easily. To stay effective, the converter must not be contaminated by leaded gasoline; use only unleaded gas as explained on page 55. CAUTION: The converter can be overheated and damaged if it's fed too much unburned fuel mixture from the engine, so: — Don't push or tow the car to start it; if the battery is dead. jump start the car as shown on page 119. — Don't turn the key off while the engine is running above idle — Don't change the ignition timing, or remove any emission speed. control parts. — Use only the spark plugs specified in this manual. — Don't keep driving your car if it isn't running properly, or if its Check Engine warning light comes on; have It checked by your Honda dealer. Main MenutsWarranty Service Warranty The following warranties are provided with every new vehicle: 1. New Car Limited Warranty 2. Emission Control Systems Defects Warranty 3. Emissions Performance Warranty 4. Battery Limited Warranty 5. Rust Perforation Limited Warranty 6. Accessory Limited Warranty 7. Replacement Parts Limited Warranty 8. Replacement Muffler Lifetime Limited Warranty 9. Seat Belt Limited Warranty. All warranties pertaining to your car can be found in the warranty booklet provided with your new car except the required maintenance schedule which is contained here in the Owner's Manual. If you are unable to obtain warranty service or are dissatisfied with the warranty decision or service you received at an authorized Honda dealership, you should review that dealership's Service Manager. This will normally resolve your problem. If it does not resolve your problem you should appeal the decision with the owner of the dealership. Please bear in mind that your problem will likely be resolved at the dealership, using the dealer's facilities, equipment and personnel. So it is very important that your initial contact be with the dealer or his management. After following these steps, if you wish to have the matter reviewed by American Honda you should contact the Automobile Zone Office serving your area, as shown on the map on the inside of the back cover. When contacting American Honda, please provide the Automobile Zone Office with the following information: the matter with Vehicle Identification Number Servicing Dealer Name and Address Date of Purchase Mileage on your Car Your Name, Address, and Phone Number Nature of Problem Selling Dealer After a review of the facts, you will be advised of what can be done. Main MenutsService Manuals A Honda Service Manual is available for your car. It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but it is simple enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to understand. An Electrical Troubleshooting Manual is also available for your car. This manual complements the Service Manual by providing t r o u b l e s h o o t i ng in-depth information for each electrical circuit in your car. You can purchase these manuals through your Honda dealer's Parts Department. Main MenutsAir Conditioner Operation.....................................43 Service.......................................108 Air Filter ...........................................95 Air Pressure, Tires........................105 Aluminum Alloy Wheels...............111 Antifreeze ..................See "Radiator coolant" Anti Lock Brakes(ALB) ..................18 ALB Warning Light .....................24 ALB Fluid .....................................99 Anti-theft Steering Column Lock System.........................................58 Appearance Care .........................110 Ashtrays..........................................38 Audio System .................................47 Automatic Transmission Driving Technique ......................68 Fluid.............................................87 Operation....................................67 Shift Lever Position Indicator .................................21 Battery Charging System Warning Light.......................................23 Jump Starting ...........................119 Maintenance .............................100 Specification ........................... 126 Beeper System Fasten Seat Belt Beeper ............13 Key Reminder .............................58 Light Reminder Chime ................30 Belts,Seat...............See "Seat Belts" Brake Lamp Warning Light.............25 Brakes Brake Failure Warning Light .......................................23 Brake Fluid...................................99 Brake System Design .................98 Brake Wear .................................98 Brake Wear Indicators................98 Parking Brake ..............................39 Parking Brake Warning Light .......................................23 Index Break-in Period ..................................2 Bulb Replacement.............................103 Specification .............................126 Buzzer ............See "Beeper System" Capacities......................................125 Care and Cleaning.........................110 Catalytic Converter .....................134 Certification Label ........................127 Chains,Tires ................................. 106 Child Restraint System ..................14 Cigarette Lighter .............................38 Clock................................................37 COMPACT Spare Tire .................114 Coolant Temperature Gauge .........20 Cooling(with A/C) ...........................44 Cooling System ...............................88 Crankcase Emission Control System ..........................................130 Cruise Control Opeartion...................................35 Indicator .....................................22 Defogger.........................................28 Defroster .........................................45 Dimmer Switch, Headlights...........31 Doors Locks............................................3 Warning Light ............................25 Emergency Changing Flat Tire ...................116 Hazard Warning System ..........33 If the Retractable Headlights do not operate ...................123 If the Sunroof Won't Close .....................................54 If Your Car Gets Stuck ...........122 Jump Starting .........................119 Towing.....................................121 Warning and Indicator Lights....................................21 (cont'd) Main MenutsIndex (cont'd) Emission Controls.........................130 Engine Coolant.......................................88 Coolant Temperature Gauge....................................20 Identification Number .............127 Oil and Filter...............................83 Oil Pressure Warning Light .......................................22 Specification ...........................125 Exhaust Controls....................131 Engine Exhaust Gas Warning ....................................................64 Evaporative Emission Control System ....................................131 Exhaust Gas Recirculation...........132 Exterior Care.................................110 Filters Air...........................................94 Engine Oil ...................................84 Fuel.............................................96 Fluid .....................................See "Oil" Foreign Countries, Operation in ...............................56 Four Wheel Steering.......................59 Front Seat Adjustment..................................5 Fuel Filter Door and Cap...................56 Fuel Reserve Warning Light .......................................22 Gauge.........................................20 Gasohol......................................55 Gasoline ......................................55 Requirement..............................55 Filter...........................................96 Checking and Replacing .........101 Specification...........................126 Fuse Hazard Warning Indicator Light ...........................21 Hazard Warning System................33 Headlights Flasher.......................................31 Headlight Motor Switch ...........32 High Beam Indicator..................21 High Beam/Low Beam Switch...................................31 If the Retractable Headlights do not operate ...................123 Reminder Chime .......................30 Retractable Headlight Motor Warning Light .......................25 Switch.......................................30 Headlight High Beam Indicator Light ...........................................21 Head Restraints.................................8 Heating.............................................45 High Beam Switch .......................................31 Indicator Light ...........................21 Hood Latch.....................................39 Identification Numbers.................127 Ignition Keys.............................................3 Switch........................................58 Indicator Lights ...............................20 Inflation Pressures, Tire..............105 Instrument Panel....................19 Instrument Panel Brightness Control.......................................33 Interior light .....................................33 Interior Trim Care .........................110 Jack .............................................116 Jump Starting ...............................119 Gasoline............................See"Fuel" Gas Station Information ...........................................back cover Gauges............................................20 Glove Box ........................................39 Main MenutsKeys Door Locks ..................................3 Glove box ..................................39 Trunk Lid Lock ............................4 Ignition ........................................58 Key Reminder Beeper...............58 Keys.............................................3 Lap/Shoulder Belts ................................See "Seat Belts" Light Bulb Replacement...................103 Fuse Replacement ..................101 Light Reminder Chime ..............30 Operation.................................30 Warning and Indicator Light ......................................................21 Locks Fuel Filler Door ..........................56 Doors..........................................3 Glove Box ..................................39 Trunk Lid......................................4 Anti-theft Steering Column Lock.......................................58 Lumbar Support,Driver's .................7 Maintenace Schedule and Records......................................76 Manual Transmission Maximum Allowable Speeds ....................................................66 Oil........................................86 Recommended Shift Speeds ....................................................66 Shifting.....................................65 Meters Gauges.......See "Gauges" Mirrors Power Mirrors ...........................29 Rear View Mirrors ....................29 Numbers, Identification................ 127 Octane Rating, Gasoline .......................................... See "Fuel" Odometer ........................................20 Oil Engine Oil ...................................83 Fluid Locations ..........................82 Transmission Oil/Fluid ..............86 Oil Pressure Warning Light.......22 Power Steering Fluid ................97 Operation In Foreign Countries ..........................................................56 Panel Brightness Control ...............33 Parking Brake.................................39 Power Mirrors .......................................29 Steering .....................................97 Windows................................40 PGM-FI System............................131 Pressures, Tire Inflation...............105 Preventive Service.......................112 Radiator Coolant .............................88 Radio ................................................47 Rear View Mirrors ..........................29 Rear Window Defogger ..................28 Reminder Lights ..........................See "Warning lights" (cont'd) Main MenutsIndex (cont'd) Replacement Air Filter .....................................94 Bulbs........................................ 103 Engine Oil ...................................84 Fuel Filter ...................................96 Fuses .......................................101 Oil Filter ......................................84 Radiator Coolant .......................90 Spark Plugs...............................92 Tires.........................................107 Wiper Blades .............................93 Retractable Headlights If the Retractable Headlights do not operate ...................123 Rust Prevention.........................111 Safety Items ...................................63 Seat Belt Reminder Light and Beeper ..................................... .21 Seat Belts Anchor Points ...........................16 Buckling the Front Seat Belts .............................10 Buckling the Rear Seat Belts............................12 Child Restraint......................14 Cleaning .....................................17 Warning Light and Warning Beeper ...................13 Inspection ..................................17 Lap/Shoulder Belts ...................10 Pregnant Women ......................16 Reminder Light ..........................20 Replacement .............................17 Seats Driver's Lumbar Support ...........7 Driver's Side Support..............7 Front Seat ....................................5 Head Restraints ...........................8 Shift Lever Position Indicator........20 Shifting Automatic..................................67 5-Speed......................................65 Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire................116 COMPACT Spare Tire ...........114 Specifications .........................125 Spark Plugs...................................92 Specifications...............................125 Speedometer ..................................20 Starting the Engine .........................61 Steering Anti-theft Column Lock ...........58 Four Wheel Steering............59 Power Steering .........................97 Tilt Steering ........................26 Stereo Sound System Operation...................................47 Stuck Car ..............................122 Sunroof If the Sunroof Won't Close .....................................54 Maintenance...........................54 Operation ........................53 Sunshade.......................................53 Tachometer.............................20 Temperature Gauge, Coolant ....................................................20 Thermostat...................................90 Tilt Steering.....................................26 Tire Air Pressure ............................105 Balancing ................................106 Chains...................................106 Changing a Flat Tire................118 COMPACT Spare .................114 DOT Tire Quality Grades........128 Inflation Pressures ..................105 Requirement ..................................128 Rotation ...................................106 Snow Tires ........................ 105 Spare Tire................................114 Specification ........................ 126 To Get In/Out of Rear Seat..............6 Tools ..............................................116 Towing...........................................121 Towing a Trailer ..............................71 Transmission Identification Number............127 Oil/Fluid......................................86 Shifting the Automatic.............67 Shifting the Manual...................65 Capacity ...................................125 Main MenutsTread Wear................................... 128 Trip Meter........................................20 Trunk.................................................4 Trunk Access From Rear Seat ................................9 Trunk Lid......................................4 Trunk Light ................................34 Trunk-Open Indicator Light .......................25 Turn Signals.....................................30 Vehicle Identification Number ....................................................127 Ventilation .......................................41 Warning Lights ................................21 Warranty Service .........................135 Washer Reservoir Capacity ...................27 Windshield Washer ...................27 Washing.........................................110 Waxing ..........................................111 Wheels...........................................111 Windows Appearance Care....................110 Power Windows .......................40 Windshield Defogger .......................28 Windshield Washer.........................27 Windshield Wipers ..........................27 Wiper Blades ...................................94 Wipers Windshield Wipers ....................27 Main MenutsZone Office Locations Western Zone P.O. Box 2260 700 Van Ness Avenue Torrance, California 90509-2260 (310)781-4565 Northwestern Zone P.O. Box 20186 12439 N.E. Airport Way Portland, Oregon 97230 (503) 256-0943 (also includes Alaska and Hawaii) South Central Zone 4529 Royal Lane Irving, Texas 75063 (972)929-5481 Central Zone 101 South Stanfield Road Troy, Ohio 45373 (937) 332-6250 Northeastern Zone P.O. Box 337 Eastgate Industrial Park 115 Gaither Drive Moorestown, New Jersey 08057 (609) 235-5533 Includes: NYC Metro area and Fairfield County, CT area Mid-Atlantic Zone 902 Wind River Ln., Suite 200 Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878 (301)990-2020 Southeastern Zone 1500 Morrison Parkway Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 (770) 442-2045 North Central Zone 601 Campus Drive, Suite A-9 Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004 (847) 870-5600 New England Zone 555 Old County Road Windsor Locks, Connecticut 06096 (860)623-3310 See Zone 5 for: NYC Metro area and Fairfield County, CT area West Central Zone 1600 South Abilene Street, Suite D Aurora, Colorado 80012 (303) 696-3935 Puerto Rico and U.S. V.I. Bella International P.O. Box 190816 San Juan, PR 00919-0816 (787)250-4318 The above addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannot reach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the current information. Main MenutsGas Station Information Gasoline: Gas Tank-Capacity: Tire Pressure (measured cold): Si (with 4WS) Compact Spare Tire Other Tire Information: Hood Release: Engine Oil: UNLEADED only Pump octane of 86 or higher. 60 l (15.9 US gal, 13.2 Imp gal) Front/ Rear 195 kPa (28 psi) 180 kPa (26 psi) 195 kPa (28 psi) 195 kPa (28 psi) 415 kPa (60 psi) Label on driver's door edge. Pull handle under left side of dash. An "Energy Conserving II" SG grade oil is recommended. See page 83 for viscosity recommendations. Capacity (including filter): 3.8 l ( 4.0 US qt, 3.3 Imp qt) Manual Transmission Oil: Recommended type—SAE 10W—30 or 10W—40 weight, grade SE or SF. Capacity (including differential): 2.1 l (2.2 US qt, 1.8 Imp qt) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Use DEXRON® II type Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). Unscrew dipstick in right end of transmission, wipe off, reinsert, remove and read fluid level-do not screw-in to check fluid level. Capacity (Including differential): 2.8 l (3.0 US qt, 2.5 Imp qt) Power Steering Fluid: Use only Honda power steering fluid: do not use ATF or any other brand of power steering fluid because it will damage the system. AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC. 1919 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, California 90501 1990 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. — All Rights Reserved 31SF1621 00X31-SF1-6211 CRESTEC5009806 L PRINTED IN U.S.A. Main Menuts1990 Prelude Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com. Contents Owner's Identification Form Features & Safety ................................................................................................................................ 2 What you should know before driving your car. Starting & Driving............................................................................................................................. 55 What gas to use, how to change gears, etc. Maintenance ....................................................................................................................................... 76 The Required Maintenance Schedule and some items you can service. Emergency Service ........................................................................................................................ Changing a flat, jump starting, towing. Specifications ................................................................................................................................. 125 Dimensions, weights and capacities. Consumer Information .................................................................................................................. 127 Reporting Safety Detects, warranty service, vehicle identification numbers, etc. Index ................................................................................................................................................ 137 Gas Station Information 116 Introduction This manual contains operation and maintenance of your car. important information about the safe We urge you to read it carefully, become familiar with the controls it describes, and follow its recommendations, to help make your driving trouble-free and enjoyable. Statements or labels on the product preceded by the following words are of special significance: indicates severe personal injury or death will result if instructions are not followed. indicates a strong possibility of severe personal injury or death if instructions are not followed. means hazards or unsafe practices which could cause minor personal injury or product or property damage. NOTE: gives helpful information. Break-in Period During the first 600 miles (1,000 km) of driving, avoid full throttle starts and cruising for extended periods at a constant speed. NOTE: This break-in procedure also applies to exchanged or overhauled engines. During and after the break-in period, drive the car at moderate speeds until the engine is fully warmed up. During the first 200 miles (300 km), try to avoid severe braking. Brake misuse during this period will reduce future braking efficiency. Remember, your Honda Automobile Dealer knows your car best, and should be consulted for service assistance and advice. Main MenutsKeys and Locks VALET KEY MASTER KEY Keys Your car is supplied with a master key that fits the ignition and all locks, and a valet key that fits the ignition and doors but not the trunk, rear seat trunk access or glove box. The valet key is provided for times when you must leave the key with a parking attendant or repair person, but still want to keep valuables safely locked-up. Write down the numbers stamped on both keys and keep the information in your wallet or purse in case you ever need to have duplicates made. Both the master and valet keys are double-edged, so you can insert them in the locks with either side up. Door Locks You can lock the doors by pushing the tabs forward. The doors must be unlocked before you can open them. The passenger door can be locked when open, and will stay locked when you close it; the driver's door cannot be locked when open unless you hold the door handle open. Both doors can be locked and unlocked from the outside with the key. Unlock Lock (cont'd) Main MenutsKeys and Locks (cont'd) Power Door Locks (Si with 4WS) Both doors can be locked or unlocked simultaneously from the inside using the master door lock switch. In addition, the passenger door will lock automatically when the lock tab on the driver's door is pushed forward or the driver's door is locked with the key. MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH Lock Unlock Unlock Trunk Lid The trunk lid can be opened by pulling up the lever at the outside of the driver's seat. To open the trunk lid from outside, put the master key in the lock and turn clockwise. The trunk lid opener lever is lockable with the master key. MASTER KEY Pull up Lock OPEN TRUNK LID OPENER LEVER MASTER KEY Keep the trunk lid closed while driving, to keep poisonous carbon monoxide exhaust fumes out of the interior; prolonged exposure can cause unconsciousness that may lead to death. Weight limits shown on the label on the edge of the driver's door must be observed. The total weight of passengers and cargo must not exceed the total weight limit on the label. Main MenutsSeats Front Seat Adjust the seat position by pulling up on the adjustment lever under the front edge of the seat cushion, and sliding the seat to the desired position. Then release the lever and make sure the seat is locked in position by moving it back and forth. ADJUSTMENT LEVER RELEASE LEVER The angle of the seat-back can be changed by pulling up on the lever at the outside edge of the seat and leaning forward or back. Release the lever and let the seat lock into place when it reaches the desired angle. Seat belts are most effective when the driver and passenger are sitting up straight and well back in each seat. Minor Adjustment of Driver's Seat-back Angle (Si) For minor adjustment of the driver's seat-back angle, move the lever at the lower left side of the seat-back forward or backward. LEVER Do not adjust the driver's seat while the car is moving; the seat could move suddenly, causing loss of vehicle control. To reduce the risk of sliding under the seat belts in a collision, the seat-backs should be reclined no more than is necessary for comfort. (cont'd) Main MenutsSeats (cont'd) To Get In/Out of Rear Seat For easier access to or from the rear seat, pull up the angle adjustment lever on each front seat or the lever on the inside edge of the passenger seat-back to swing the seat-back forward. Pull up Seat-back Angle Memory (Si) The driver's seat is equipped with a "memory" button to allow the seat-back its previously set angle. Push the "memory" button before pulling the angle adjust- ment lever up for rear seat access. to return to MEMORY BUTTON Store any luggage or cargo in the trunk. If you are carrying more items than will fit in the trunk, use the floor space between the front and rear seats. Do not store any items on the shelf behind the rear seat; they may become dangerous projectiles in a collision. Weight limits shown on the label on the edge of the driver's door must be observed. The total weight of passengers and cargo must not exceed the total weight limit on the label. Main Menuts(Si) Driver's Lumbar Support The tower back support can be adjusted by moving the lever on the inner side of the seat-back to give more or less support. Driver's Side Supports (Si) Seat-back side support can be adjusted wider or narrower by turning the knob on the inner side of the seat-back. Do not try to adjust lumbar or side supports while driving. Make the adjustment while sitting in your normal driving position before driving away. (cont'd) Main MenutsSeats (cont'd) Head Restraints The head restraints are designed to help reduce injuries due to whiplash. They are located at the top of each front seat-back and have several height positions. They can be adjusted by pulling up to the recommended position. To lower them, slide the button next to the restraint's height bar, while pushing the restraint down. Adjust so the top of the restraint is approximately level with the tops of your ears. That relative position may reduce injury due to whiplash in an accident. If a head restraint must be removed (for cleaning, fabric repair, etc.) pull the restraint up to its highest position, then slide the button while pulling the restraint out. To reinstall, reverse the above procedure. Slide Head Restraint Angle (Si) The angle of the head restraint can be adjusted by pulling it forward or pushing it back. Do not drive the car with head restraints removed. Do not try to adjust head restraints while driving. Main MenutsTrunk Access from Rear Seat The rear seat-back can be opened by turning the lock on the rear shelf with the master key and pulling down with the strap at the top of the seat-back. This allows passenger access to the trunk and makes it possible to carry long objects inside the car. The rear seat-back can also be released from inside the trunk by pulling the release. When closing the rear seat trunk access, push the seat-back firmly into place, then pull on the strap to make sure it is secure. Passengers or pets must not sit on the folded portion of the rear seat. Make sure any luggage or cargo within the trunk, or extending through the rear seat trunk access is secured. Make sure the seat-back latches engage securely when the seat-back is returned to its normal position. RELEASE MASTER KEY STRAP Main MenutsSeat Belts Your Honda is provided with seat belts to minimize the chance of injury to yourself and your passengers in a sudden stop or accident. For precautions on using seat belts for children, babies and pregnant women, see pages 14 through 16. Seat belts are most effective when the driver and passengers are sitting up straight and well back in the seat. In the event of a collision, occupants not wearing seat belts could be seriously or fatally injured. Make sure you and all your passengers ALWAYS put on the seat belts before driving away. CAUTION: Be careful the seat belts are not damaged by catching or entangling in the door or seat mechanism. Wearing the Front Seat Belts The automatic ("passive") lap/shoulder belt system with emergency locking retractors are designed to lock only during a sudden stop or impact. Otherwise, they allow you some freedom of movement in the seat. NOTE: The motion-sensing lock mechanisms for the front belts are located in the doors, therefore, if you open the door too quickly, the belt may lock and the door cannot be opened further. If this happens, close the door and open it again more slowly. 1. Enter the car and close the door completely. If the door is not closed completely, the belt will not function properly, the warning light on the instrument panel will come on and the beeper will sound when the ignition switch is in the ON position. See page 13 Never drive the car with the doors ajar. The doors must be closed completely for the front seat belts to function properly. 2. Move the seat a comfortable distance from the steering wheel, sit as straight up as possible and well back in the seat. 3. Position the belt across your lap, not your abdomen, as low on your hips as possible. Be sure the belt is not twisted. Main MenutsToo high Keep below hip bone Avoid placing the lap belt across your abdomen. In the event of a collision, the pressure of the belt on the abdomen may increase the extent of injury. Do not wear the shoulder portion of the belt under your arm or out of position. Such use could increase the chance and amount of injury in an accident. Never use one belt for more than one person, child or adult. Comfort clips sold on the open market are not recommended since they could impair the function and safety of the belts. Emergency Belt Release The front belts should remain permanently latched. However, an emergency release button is provided as shown. EMERGENCY RELEASE BUTTON TONGUE PLATE BUCKLE (cont'd) Main MenutsSeat Belts (cont'd) Buckling the Rear Lap/Shoulder Belts The rear seat belts are one-piece combination lap/shoulder belts with emergency locking retractors designed to lock only during a sudden stop or impact. Otherwise, they allow you some freedom of movement in the seat. NOTE: The emergency locking system of the rear seat belts will also be activated if you pull the belt too fast. If this happens, release the belt slightly then pull it out more slowly. 1 .Take hold of the tongue plate and pull the belt across your lap. Be sure the belt is not twisted or caught on anything. Pull the belt across your tap Take up slack Too high TONGUE PLATE Keep below hip bone 2. Push the tongue plate into the buckle until it clicks locked. Position the belt across your lap, not your abdomen, as low on your hips as possible. Avoid placing the lap belt across your abdomen. In the event of a collision, the pressure of the belt on the abdomen may increase the extent of Injury. 3. To release the seat beft, push the "PRESS" button in the buckle; the belt should retract automatically when released. If the belt does not fully retract, pull it out and check for kinks or twists. Make sure both rear shoulder belts are positioned in front of the rear seat-back whenever the seat-back is in its upright position. Main MenutsDo not wear the shoulder portion of the belt under your arm or out of position. Such use could increase the chance and amount of injury in an accident. Never use one belt for more than one person, child or adult. Comfort clips sold on the open market are not recommended since they could impair the function and safety of the belts. Front Seat Belt Warning Light and Warning Beeper There are four warning lights in the car. Two of them are in the instrument panel and the other two lights are in the ceiling behind the rearview mirror. Each warning light will go on for about two seconds, when the ignition switch is turned on. PASSENGER'S BELT UNLATCHED DRIVER'S BELT UNLATCHED WARNING LIGHT EITHER DOOR OPEN DRIVER'S BELT UNLATCHED WARNING LIGHT Warning Light indicators Either Door Open — The warning light will come on if either door is open. The beeper will sound for approximately six seconds while the light is ON. Confirm which door is open and close the door completely. If either door is opened while the car is being driven, the beeper and all four warning lights will come on. Stop the car immediately and close whichever door is open. The warning light should go off. (cont'd) Main MenutsSeat Belts (cont'd) Driver's Belt Unlatched — The warning lights will come on if the driver's seat belt is not latched. The beeper will sound for approximately six seconds while the light is ON, Relatch the belt; the light should go off. Front Passenger's Belt Unlatched — The warning light will come on if the passenger's belt is not securely latched, the beeper will sound for approximately six seconds. Relatch the belt; the light should go off. If the lights and beeper do not function at all or if they come on even with the belts latched and doors fully closed, it indicates a malfunction in the seat belt system. In the event of a collision, severe personal injury could result. The system should be checked immediately by an authorized Honda dealer. Child Restraint Children riding in the car should be restrained to minimize the risk of injury in an accident, sudden stop or sudden maneuver. According to accident statistics provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seat Larger children should use one of the seat belts provided. For smaller children, we strongly recommend the use of a commercially available child restraint system that meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) because it offers the most protection against injury. All states now have laws which require that small children must be seated in a child passenger seat restraint system. Check local laws. Before buying a particular child restraint system, make sure it fits your car seat and seat belts, and fits your child. Follow all the instructions that come with the system. Main MenutsChildren should never ride unrestrained in an automobile. Never use an infant carrier or child safety seat that "hooks" over a seat-back; it may not provide adequate security in an accident. Never allow a child to be held in a person's arms while they are in the moving vehicle. Holding a child in a moving vehicle does not provide the child with any means of protection during an accident, even if the person holding the child is wearing a seat belt. Installation of Child Seat All child restraint systems are designed to be secured by lap belts or the lap belt portion of a lap-shoulder belt. Children could be endangered in a crash, if their child restraints are not properly secured. Follow the child seat manufacturer's instructions when installing the seat. Your Honda automobile is equipped with attachment points specifically for a rear seat mounted child restraint system which uses a top tether. The tether attachment points are located on the rear tray, just behind the rear seat-back. TETHER ATTACHMENT POINTS The automatic lap/shoulder restraint system at the front passenger seat cannot be used to secure a child restraint system. Instead, an optional lap belt must be installed specifically for securing a child restraint system. Two anchor points have been provided behind the front passenger seat for installation. The optional lap belt is available from your Honda dealer. (cont'd) Main MenutsSeat Belts (cont'd) To Install A Child Seat 1. Remove the anchor point plugs with a coin or a screw- driver and install the optional lap belt with the fasteners that came with the belt. 2. Once the optional lap belt is installed, follow the instructions the child that came with restraint system for proper attachment. PLUGS ANCHOR POINT ANCHOR POINT Do not use the automatic lap/shoulder belt to secure the child seat. It will not give enough protection to the child seat and the child on It. The optional lap belt is for a child seat only. Do not use it for any other purpose. When the child restraint system is not in use, remove it from the car or secure it with the seat belt to keep it from becoming a projectile in the event of an accident. NOTE: See your Honda dealer for installation of the optional lap belt or the child restraint system. When not in use, make sure the optional lap belt does not get caught in the passenger's door or seat mechanism. Pregnant Women A pregnant woman should use either the front or rear lap/ shoulder belt to help lessen the chance of injury and/or the amount of injury in an accident. It is desirable that a pregnant woman ask her doctor at each medical check-up if she can drive, and also ask about the most appropriate way of wearing the lap/shoulder belt. Main MenutsInspection All parts of the seat belts, including the belt fabric, should be regularly inspected for fraying, loosening, wear and other damage. Keep the belts in good condition at all times to reduce the chance of being injured in an accident, and to minimize any injuries that do occur. Make sure the buckles, retractors, tongue plates, guides and anchors all work properly. Don't let anything get inside the buckle or the retractor; it could cause latch or retractor failure. The components of the front automatic lap/shoulder belts are contained in the doors. If the doors are damaged in an accident, have function. The automatic lap/shoulder belts may not function properly if the door is not completely repaired. the restraint system's the dealer check Cleaning The belts should be always kept clean and dry; wet or damp belts can cause rewinding problems. The front seat belts are coated for resistance to water and stains. To clean the belts, pull them all the way out of their retractors and use warm water; then let them air- dry fully extended, in the shade, with the car windows open. Do not scrub or use detergents to clean the seat belts. Never bleach, dye or clean the belts with chemical solvents; it will weaken the fabric. Do not remove the seat belts from the car to wash them. Replacement Replace the seat belt if: 1. The belting is cut, punctured, burned, etc. 2. The buckle or retractor does not work properly. 3. It was being worn at the time of a collision (also cheek for deformation damage at all seat belt anchor points). 4. Its condition is questionable. Main MenutsAnti Lock Brake (Si with ALB) ALB (Anti Lock Brakes) help to maintain the road holding and tractability of your car during severe braking, and under slippery road conditions. The ALB system prevents the wheels from locking (thus reducing the chance of skidding) to ensure controllable deceleration. When sudden braking might otherwise lock one or more wheels, the ALB system temporarily reduces the braking pressure to the wheel or wheels about to lock to ensure continued braking efficiency. When the ALB is regulating the braking pressure, the brake pedal pulsates slightly to make the driver aware that the system is compensating for critical braking conditions. The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road condition, and to remind you to take extra care. Don't mix different diameter tires; it will confuse the ALB computer which monitors the road speed of each wheel. For example, if one or more tires are larger than the others, the computer will think they are rolling more slowly (as if they are about to lock up) and reduce brake pressure to those wheels. On loose or uneven surfaces (gravel, ruts etc.) where all four wheels loss traction intermittently, the ALB system may require a longer stopping distance than an equivalent car with a conventional braking system. The ALB system cannot make up for extreme road conditions or driver misjudgement, It is still the driver's responsibility to drive at a suitable speed and provide a margin of safety for the road, weather and traffic conditions at hand. CAUTION: Be careful not to damage the wiring or the speed sensors at the back of each wheel when removing mud or snow from the wheel housings. NOTE: You may hear a sound like a small motor running, coming from the engine while driving or after the ALB is applied. This indicates the ALB pump is in service and the system is working properly. Main MenutsInstrument Panel TURN SIGNAL/ LIGHT SWITCH/ DIMMER SWITCH SUNROOF SWITCH HEADLIGHT MOTOR SWITCH PANEL BRIGHTNESS CONTROL KNOB HAZARD WARNING LIGHT SWITCH FOG LAMP SWITCH CRUISE CONTROL MASTER SWITCH DIGITAL CLOCK REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER SWITCH CENTER VENTS FUSE BOX COIN BOX CIGARETTE LIGHTER HEATING/ COOLING CONTROL PANEL HORN BUTTON WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER SWITCH LEVER IGNITION SWITCH TACHOMETER FUEL GAUGE SPEEDOMETER SHIFT LEVER POSITION INDICATOR (AUTOMATIC) ODOMETER TRIP METER SAFETY INDICATOR LIGHT TRIP METER RESET BUTTON COOLANT TEMPERATURE GAUGE Main MenutsGauges Speedometer The speed is indicated in miles per hour (outside scale) and kilometers per hour (inside). Odometer The numbers on the odometer indicate miles. The odometer registers total distance traveled, and serves as your guide for determining when periodic maintenance is due. Federal law makes it illegal to alter the odometer of any motor vehicle with the intent to change the number of miles indicated. Trip Meter The numbers on the trip meter indicate miles. The trip meter can be returned to zero by pushing in the reset button. Use it for checking fuel consumption or distance traveled per trip. Tachometer The tachometer indicates engine speed in revolutions per minute. The beginning of the RED ZONE indicates the maximum allowable engine R.P.M. Do not run the engine with the tachometer indicator needle in the RED ZONE. Fuel Gauge FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 60 l (15.9 US gal, 13.2 Imp gal) As a convenience, the gauge continues to show the same fuel level as when the ignition was last on. After refueling, the gauge will slowly change to the new fuel level when the ignition is switched on. When the needle first indicates E (empty), you have a usable reserve left in the tank of about: 4 l (1.1 US gal, 0,9 Imp gal) Coolant Temperature Gauge CAUTION: The needle should stay within the white range. If the needle reaches the red line at " H" (Hot), pull safely off the road, stop the engine and check the coolant level in the reserve tank on the passenger side of the radiator under the hood. Do not remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. The coolant is under pressure and may blow out and scald you. Main MenutsWarning and Indicator Lights Shift Lever Position indicator (Automatic Transmission only) gauges shows which gear you have selected. indicator between the fuel and coolant temperature lighted NOTE: The S3 indicator light in the instrument panel also serves a second function, if the light flashes while driving (in any gear range) it indicates a possible malfunction in the transmission; avoid rapid acceleration and have the transmission checked by an authorized Honda dealer as soon as possible. Turn Signal/Hazard Warning Indicator Lights When the turn signal lever is pushed for left or right turns, the appropriate green indicator arrow on the instrument panel will blink along with the signal. Turning on the hazard warning switch will make all turn signals and both arrows blink (see page 33). Headlight High Beam indicator Light This blue indicator light will go on whenever the high beams are switched on (see page 31). Seat Belt Warning Light The seat belt warning light comes on for a couple of seconds each

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1990 Honda Prelude Owners Manual