1992 Honda Prelude Owners Manual

Si 4WS models in the U. S., and the SR and SR 4WS models in Canada has additional features. They are: lumbar support adjust- ment, fine adjustment of seat-back angle, and seat-back angle memory.

Vary the lumbar support by moving the lever on the right side of the seat-back.

Adjust the seat-back angle to the desired position with the adjust- ment lever on the outside of the seat bottom. Then use the fine adjustment lever at the base of the seat-back to change the angle a small amount to suit your prefer- ence. Move the lever forward and backward.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSeat Adjustments, Seat Heaters

Seat-back Angle Memory

Seat Heaters

INDICATORS

Do not use the seat heaters when the engine is off or when idling for a long period of time. They can drain the battery, making your car hard to start.

Available only on SR 4WS model in Canada Both front seats are equipped with seat heaters. The ignition must be ON (II) to use them. Push the heater switch to turn the power on or off. The pilot lamp lights and remains on while the heaters are on.

After you have adjusted the seat- back angle, press the MEMORY button. This retains the setting so the seat-back will return to that position after you tilt it forward for rear seat access. If you do not press the MEMORY button, the seat- back will return to about the midpoint of its adjustment range. You will then have to readjust the angle to your preference.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMASTER KEY

RELEASE LOOP

The back of the right rear seat folds down, giving you direct access to the trunk. The seat-back can be released from inside the car or inside the trunk.

To fold down the seat-back from inside the car, insert the master key in the lock on the rear shelf. Turn the key clockwise and pull down the top of the seat-back.

To release the seat-back from inside the trunk, pull the release loop under the rear shelf.

To lock the seat-back upright, push if firmly against the rear shelf. Make sure it is latched in place by pulling on the top of the seat.

Folding Rear Seat

Make sure all items in the trunk, or items extending through the opening into the back seat, are tied down. Loose items can fly forward and cause injury if you have to brake hard. See Loading Cargo on page 106.

Never drive with the seat-back folded down and the trunk lid open. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 25.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHazard Warning, Rear Window Defogger

Hazard Warning

Rear Window Defogger

Make sure the rear window is clear and you have good visibility before starting to drive.

The defogger wires on the inside of the rear window can be acciden- tally damaged. When cleaning the glass, always wipe side to side.

Push the red button on the center console to turn on the hazard warn- ing lights (four-way flashers). This causes all four outside turn signals and both indicators in the instru- ment panel to flash. Use the hazard warning lights if you need to park in a dangerous area near heavy traffic, or if your car is disabled.

The rear window defogger will clear fog, frost, and thin ice from the window. Push the defogger button to turn it on and off. The light in the button lights to show the defogger is on. If you do not turn it off, the defogger will shut itself off after about 25 minutes. It also shuts off when you turn off the ignition. You have to turn it on again when you restart the car.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour car's windows are electri- cally-powered. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) to raise or lower any window.

Each door has a switch that controls its window. To open the window, push the switch down and hold it. Release the switch when you want the window to stop. Close the window by pushing the switch up and holding it.

Power Windows

The master control panel also con- tains these extra features: AUTO — To open the driver's window fully, push the window switch firmly down and release it. The window automatically goes all the way down. To stop the window from going all the way down, push the window switch up briefly.

To open the driver's window only partially, push the window switch down lightly and hold it. The window will stop as soon as you release the switch.

The AUTO function only works to lower the driver's window. To raise the window, you must push the window switch up and hold it until the window reaches the desired position.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

MAIN SWITCH

DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH

The driver's door has a master power window control panel. To open the passenger's window, push down on the switch and hold it down until the window reaches the desired position. To close the window, push up on the window switch. Release the switch when the window gets to the position you want.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPower Windows, Sunroof

The MAIN switch controls power to the passenger's window. With this switch off, the passenger's window cannot be raised or lower- ed. The MAIN switch does not affect the driver's window. Keep the MAIN switch off when you have children in the car so they do not injure themselves by operating the windows unintentionally.

Sunroof

The power window system has a key-off delay function. The win- dows will still operate for up to ten minutes after you turn off the igni- tion. Opening either front door can- cels the delay function. You must turn the ignition on again before you can raise or lower the windows.

Closing a power window on a child's hands or fingers can cause serious injury.

Make sure your children are away from the windows before closing them.

Instruments and Controls

Use the switch on the dashboard to open and close the sunroof. The ignition must be must be ON (II). Push and hold the open the sunroof. Release the switch when the sunroof reaches the desired position. To close the sunroof, press and hold the

switch to

switch.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe sunroof has a key-off delay. You can still open and close the sunroof for up to ten minutes after you turn off the ignition. The key- off delay cancels as soon as you open either front door. You must then turn the ignition ON (II) for the sunroof to operate.

Closing the sunroof on some- one's hands or fingers can cause serious injury.

Make sure passengers are clear of the sunroof before closing it.

NOTICE

If you try to open the sunroof in below-freezing temperatures, or when it is covered with snow or ice, you can damage the sunroof panel or motor.

Sunroof, Mirrors

Mirrors

TAB

Keep the inside and outside mirrors clean and adjusted for best visibili- ty. Be sure to adjust the mirrors before you start driving.

The inside mirror has day and night positions. The night position reduces glare from headlights behind you. Flip the tab on the bottom edge of the mirror to select the day or night position.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH

Adjust the outside mirrors with the adjustment switch on the driver's door:

3. Push the appropriate edge of the

adjustment switch to move the mirror right or left, up or down.

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

2. Move the selector switch to L

(driver's side ) or R (passenger's side).

4. When you finish, move the

selector switch to the center (off) position. This turns off the adjustment switch so you can't move a mirror out of position by accidentally bumping it.

The outside mirror on the passen- ger's side has curved glass. Objects look farther away than they are. Use this mirror to get a "wide view". Don't use it to judge the dis- tance of things behind you.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMirrors, Parking Brake

Parking Brake

NOTICE

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

Driving the car with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles.

Available on all Canadian models The outside mirrors are heated to remove fog and frost. Press the mirror defroster button to turn on the heaters. The light in the button comes on as a reminder. Press the button again to turn the heaters off.

To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up fully. To release it, pull up slightly, push the button, and lower the lever. The parking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parking brake is fully released (see page 33). If you try to drive the car without releasing the parking brake, the ABS cannot work properly.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAn open glove box can cause serious injury to your passen- ger in a crash, even if the pas- senger is wearing the seat belt.

Always keep the glove box closed while driving.

Glove Box

KNOB

GLOVE BOX

Open the glove box by turning the knob clockwise. To close, push the lid up and turn the knob counter- clockwise to lock.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe digital clock displays the time with the ignition switch ON (II).

KNOB

To set the clock:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II)

to display the time.

2. To set the hour, turn the knob

toward H (counterclockwise) and hold it until the hour advances to the desired time.

Digital Clock

3. To set the minutes, turn the

knob toward M (clockwise) and hold it until the numbers advance to the desired time.

You can use the same knob to quickly set the time to the nearest hour. If the displayed time is before the half hour, pressing the knob sets the clock back to the previous hour. If the displayed time is after the half hour, pressing the knob sets the clock forward to the beginning of the next hour.

For example:

1:06 would RESET backward to 1:00. 1:52 would RESET forward to 2:00.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCenter Console Compartment, Vanity Mirror

Center Console Compartment

Vanity Mirror

LEVER

MASTER KEY

Use the master key to lock the console compartment. Turn the key clockwise to lock, and counter- clockwise to unlock.

To use the vanity mirror, pull down either sunvisor and swing down the cover.

CENTER CONSOLE COMPARTMENT

To open the console compartment, pull up on the lever on the left front corner of the lid. To close, lower the lid and push it down until it latches.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCigarette Lighter

Ashtray

NOTICE

Cigarette Lighter, Ashtray

Use the ashtray only for cigarettes, cigars and other smoking materials. To prevent a possible fire and damage to your car, don't put paper or other things that can burn in the ashtrays.

ASHTRAY

Open the front ashtray by swinging the lid down. To remove it for emptying, open the lid then pull the ashtray straight outward.

CIGARETTE LIGHTER

The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for the cigarette lighter to work. To heat up the lighter, push it in. It will pop out when it is ready for use. Do not hold the lighter in while it is heating up, you could cause it to overheat.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstInterior Lights

Ceiling Light

DOOR ACTIVATED

Ignition Switch Light

The ceiling light has a three- position switch. In the OFF (far left) position, the light does not come on. In the center position, the interior light comes on when you open either front door. In the ON (far right) position, the interior light stays on continuously.

Available on Si and Si 4WS models in the U.S., and on SR and SR 4WS models in Canada This ligh t comes on whenever you open the driver's door.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstComfort and Convenience Features

The heating and air conditioning* system in your car provides a com- fortable driving environment in all weather conditions.

The audio sound system is very versatile. To get the most from this system, take the time to learn what the controls do. Some models have an anti-theft system that requires a code number to enable it.

* Air conditioner is optional on S model.

Heating and Cooling...................... 68
What Each Control Does .......... 70
How to Use the System............. 71

Controlling Air Flow

Direction.............................. 71
Ventilation............................... 71
To Cool..................................... 72
To Dehumidify and Defog

with A/C...............................73
To Heat.................................... 74
To Defrost............................... 74
To Turn Everything off ....... 74
Audio System (S)............................ 75
Adjusting the Sound.................. 76
Operating the Radio.................. 77
Presetting.................................... 79
Radio Frequencies..................... 80
Operating the Cassette

Player........................................ 81
Cassette Search Functions ...... 82

Audio System (Si, SR)................... 84
Adjusting the Sound.................. 85
Operating the Radio.................. 86
Presetting.................................... 88
Radio Frequencies..................... 90
Operating the Cassette Player. 91
Cassette Search Functions....... 92
Caring for the Cassettes Player .. 94
Theft Protection............................. 95

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenustHeating and Cooling

This system has full heating, ventilation, and air conditioning* capabilities. You can adjust the system controls to mix these in various combinations to create the desired environment. The air flows into the interior at three possible levels, which you can select.

(S model only) A Genuine Honda air conditioning system is available from your dealer. It meets Honda's high quality standards and is designed to fit your car. If you purchased your car without air conditioning, it can be installed at any time. Please contact your dealer for more information.

* Air conditioner is optional on S model.

CENTER VENT

CORNER VENT

The direction of airflow from the vents in the center of the dash- board and the corner vents in each door is adjustable. Move the tab in the center of each vent up-and- down and side-to-side.

The center, corner and side defroster vents can be opened and closed with the dials next to them.

The heating and cooling system draws air through the exterior vents at the bottom of the wind- shield. Keep these vents clear of leaves and other debris.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSIDE DEFROSTER VENT

Heating and Cooling

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

What Each Control Does

Fan Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the fan speed, which increases air flow. Temperature Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the temperature of air flowing through the system. Mode Buttons These buttons control the direction of air flow. The indicator light shows which button is controlling air flow. Air Conditioner (A/C) Switch This switch turns the air condi- tioner ON and OFF. The indicator in the switch lights when the A/C is ON.

MODE BUTTONS

REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER BUTTON

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

AIR CONDITIONER ON/OFF SWITCH

Recirculation Button This button controls the source of air going into the system. When the indicator in this button is lit, the system is recirculating the interior air (the Recirculation mode). When the indicator is off, fresh air is brought in from outside the car (the Fresh Air mode). Push the

button to change between recircu- lated and fresh air. Rear Window Defroster Button This button turns the rear window defroster on and off (see page 56).

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

Ventilation Your car has a flow-through ventilation system. Air enters the car through vents in front of the windshield. It circulates through the interior then exits through vents near the rear window. This system provides fresh air even when the car is standing still. To bring in outside air, select the Fresh Air mode. Set the fan at a comfortable speed.

How to Use the System This section covers the best way to use the system for ventilation, cooling, dehumidifying, defrosting and heating. In most cases, the mode and air source selections are only recommendations. You may prefer different settings.

Use the Recirculation mode to heat or cool the interior more quickly, or to keep out smoke and dust. Leaving the system in recirculation mode with the A/C off can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to the Fresh Air mode as soon as the interior reaches a comfortable temperature or the outside smoky, dusty condition clears.

The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioner to pro- vide hot and cold air. The heater uses engine coolant to warm the air. If the engine is cold, it will be sever- al minutes before you feel warm air circulating.

The air conditioner does not de- pend on engine temperature. It can produce cold air almost immedi- ately. Controlling Air Flow direction Air flows into the interior at three levels: Toward the floor through the dash vents toward the windshield and side windows You select the air flow level or combination of levels with the five mode buttons.

and

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

To Cool To operate the air conditioner, press the air conditioning button. Set the fan to the desired speed. You can also use the mode button to direct air out of the dash and heater vents.

To cool the interior down rapidly after the car has been sitting in the sun:

1. Start the engine. 2. Turn on the A/C by pressing the

button.

3. Set the fan to maximum speed. 4. Open the windows partially.

Select the Recirculation mode and

When the interior reaches a com- fortable temperature, close the windows and set the system for cooling as described above.

MODE BUTTONS

AIR CONDITIONER BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

The air conditioner places an extra load on the engine. Watch the coolant temperature gauge (see page 38 ) when using the A/C in heavy traffic or driving up long hills. If the temperature indication climbs near the H, turn off the air conditioner until the gauge reads normally.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

MODE BUTTONS

AIR CONDITIONER BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

To Dehumidify and Defog with A/C An air conditioner removes mois- ture from the air as it operates. You can use it to defog the win- dows quickly in cool or damp wea- ther. Used in combination with the heater, it also makes the interior warm and dry. This setting is best for all driving conditions whenever the outside temperature is above 32°F (0°C).

1. Set the fan to a medium speed. 2. Turn on the air conditioner. 3. Select any desired mode button;

is usually best.

4. Adjust the temperature control lever so the mixture of heated and cooled air is at a comfortable temperature.

You can defog the side windows more quickly by shutting the corner vents and opening the side defroster vents.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

To Heat To warm the interior, press

and select the Fresh Air mode. Set the fan to the desired speed. Adjust the warmth of the air with the temperature control lever.

To warm the interior rapidly after the car has been sitting out in cold weather.

1. Start the engine. 2. Select the Recirculation mode

and

3. Slide the temperature control

lever to maximum heat.

4. Leave the fan OFF for the first

few minutes. When the tempera- ture gauge rises above the bot- tom white mark, set the fan to medium speed.

5. When the interior warms up, switch to fresh air mode and adjust the temperature control lever to a comfortable setting.

To Turn Everything Off To shut off the system temporarily, slide the fan speed and temperature control levers all the way to the left.

You should only shut the system completely off for the first few minutes of driving in cold weather, until the engine coolant warms up enough to operate the heater. Keep the fan on at all other times so stale air does not build up in the interior.

To Defrost To remove frost or ice from the windshield and side windows after the car has been sitting out in cold weather.

1. Start the engine. 2. Select the Recirculation mode

and

3. Open the side defroster vents. 4. Set the fan and temperature

controls to maximum.

These settings direct all the air flow to the defroster vents at the base of the windshield and the side window defroster vents. The air flow will get warmer and clear the windows faster as the engine warms up. You can close the corner vents with the dial beside each vent. That will send more warm air to the side defroster vents. For safety, make sure you have a clear view through all the windows before driving away.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio System The audio system described here is standard equipment on the S model.

Your Honda audio system is easy to use, and will give clear AM/FM reception. The preset buttons allow you to select six stations on each band.

The cassette system uses Dolby B* noise reduction to give excellent sound reproduction. The system also senses when a metal (CrO2) tape is being played and adjusts accordingly.

The cassette player features auto- reverse for continuous play.

Audio System (S)

CASSETTE SLOT

TUNE BAR

ON/VOL KNOB

PRESET BUTTONS

AM/FM BUTTON

SEEK/SKIP SWITCH

* Dolby noise reduction manufac- tured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpora- tion. "Dolby" and the symbol are trademarks of Dolby Labora- tories Licensing Corporation.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System (S)

Adjusting the sound Use the Balance and Fader controls to adjust the sound "direction". The Balance control moves it left- to-right. The Fader control moves it front-to-back.

To use either control, push on the knob to get it to pop out. Adjust the front-to-back sound to your liking with the outside ring.

Adjust side-to-side sound balance with the knob. Push the knob back in when you are done.

FADER CONTROL

BALANCE CONTROL

BASS CONTROL

TREBLE CONTROL

The illumination for the radio con- trols comes on with the instrument panel lights, even if the radio is off. You can use the Balance control to turn off the radio panel illumina- tion even with the radio on. Push the control knob so it pops out, then pull it out slightly further. Check this control if the control panel lights do not come on with the in- strument panel lights.

Use the Bass and Treble controls to adjust the tone quality to your liking. Push on the knob to get the controls to pop out. Adjust the bass level with the outer ring and the treble level with the knob. When finished, push the knobs back in so there is less chance of accidentally changing your settings.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstOperating the Radio The ignition switch must be in AC- CESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. Turn the system on by turning the ON/VOL knob clockwise. The radio comes on and displays the frequency of the station it was last tuned to.

The antenna extends automatically. The system turns off and the anten- na retracts when you turn the igni- tion switch to LOCK (0).

Adjust the volume by turning the ON/VOL knob.

Audio System (S)

STEREO INDICATOR

ON/VOL KNOB

AM/FM BUTTON

Select the band you want to listen to by pressing the AM/FM button. You will see the selected band and the frequency in the display.

ST will be displayed next to the fre- quency if the station is broadcast- ing in FM stereo. The AM stereo feature is not available.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System (S)

You can use any of three methods to find radio stations on the selected band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset buttons.

TUNE BAR

Use the TUNE bar to change the frequency in small increments. Push the right side to tune to a higher frequency, and the left side

to tune to a lower frequency.

Press and release to change the frequency to the next number.

Press the TUNE bar and hold it to go to a frequency that is far away. The frequency display will begin to count rapidly. It will stop counting when you release the bar.

SEEK SWITCH

do not want to listen to that station, push SEEK again.

The SEEK function searches the band for stations with a strong sig- nal. Depending on which way you push the SEEK switch, the system searches up or down from the current frequency. Push the switch, then release it. The system searches until it finds a station with a strong signal, then stops. If you

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPresetting The preset buttons allow you to store radio frequencies for later selection. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and one on the FM band. To store a frequency:

1. Select the desired band, AM or

FM.

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK func-

tion to tune the radio to a desired station.

3. Pick the Preset button you want for that station. Press the button and hold it until you hear a beep.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a

total of six stations each on AM and FM.

Audio System (S)

TUNE BAR

PRESET BUTTONS

SEEK SWITCH

Once that station's frequency is stored, simply press and release the proper preset button to tune to it. If you want to change any preset button's selection, store another fre- quency as described. The frequen- cies you preset will be lost if your car's battery goes dead or is discon- nected.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System (S)

Radio Frequencies Your Honda's radio can tune in all frequencies in both the AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequen- cies:

AM band: 530 kilohertz to 1,710 kilohertz FM band: 87.7 megahertz to 107.9
megahertz

Radio stations on the AM band are assigned frequencies at least 10
kilohertz apart (530,540,550). Those on the FM band are assigned frequencies at least 0.2 megahertz apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3).

Stations must use these exact frequencies. It is fairly common for stations to round-off the frequency in their advertising, so your radio will show a frequency of 100.9 even though the announcer may call the station "FM101."

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstOperating the Cassette Player Turn the system ON. Insert the cassette into the slot with the tape opening to the right. Push the cassette in most of the way. The drive will pull it in the rest of the way and begin to play.

or will light to show you

The which side of the cassette is playing. The indicates the side you inserted facing upward is now playing. To play the other side of the tape, press the PROG button.

The system also has an Auto- reverse feature. It will automati- cally reverse direction when it reaches the end of the cassette.

If the cassette is a metal tape (chromium-dioxide or CrO2), you will see "METAL" displayed . The system automatically adjusts for the special frequency character- istics of metal tape.

Audio System (S)

CASSETTE SLOT

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

METAL INDICATOR

ON/VOL KNOB

PROG BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

EJECT BUTTON

If the tape was recorded with Dolby " B" noise reduction, turn it on by pressing the button.

To remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT button. The system automatically ejects the cassette whenever you turn off the system or the ignition switch.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System (S)

Cassette Search Functions Once a cassette is playing, you can use the REW, FF, SKIP or REPEAT function to look for desired songs or passages.

Press the REW button to rewind the cassette. Press the FF button to fast forward. The cassette stops playing and the light in the button flashes. To stop rewind or fast forward, press the PLAY button. If the system reaches the end of the cassette while in fast forward or rewind, it automatically stops that function, reverses direction, and begins to play.

PLAY BUTTON

REW BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

FF BUTTON

SKIP SWITCH

Press the REPEAT button to replay the current passage. The light in the button illuminates as a reminder. When the system reaches the end of the song or passage that is being played, it automatically goes into rewind. When it senses the beginning of that passage, it goes back to play.

The system will continue repeating this passage until you turn off REPEAT by pressing the button again.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe SKIP function lets you SKIP over a song or other passage. Push the switch down to skip backward and up to skip forward. When the system senses a silent period on the tape, it goes back to PLAY.

The REPEAT and SKIP functions use silent periods on the tape to find the end of a selection. These features may not work satisfacto- rily on tapes that have almost no gap between songs, a high noise level between songs, or silent peri- ods in the middle of songs.

Audio System (S)

REPEAT BUTTON

SKIP SWITCH

Caring For Cassettes Damaged cassettes can jam inside the drive or cause other problems. See page 94 for information on cassette care and protection.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System (Si, SR)

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio System The audio system described here is standard equipment on the Si and Si 4WS models in the U. S., and the SR and SR 4WS models in Canada.

Your Honda audio system is easy to use, and will give clear AM/FM reception. The preset buttons allow you to select six stations on AM and twelve stations on FM.

The cassette system uses Dolby B* noise reduction to give excellent sound reproduction. The system also senses when a metal (CrO2) tape is being played and adjusts accordingly.

The Anti-theft feature disables the system if it disconnected from the car's battery. To get the system working again, you must enter a code number.

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

CASSETTE SLOT

TUNE/SEEK FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

* Dolby noise reduction manufac- tured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpora- tion. "Dolby" and the symbol are trademarks of Dolby Labora- tories Licensing Corporation.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdjusting the sound Use the Balance and Fader controls to adjust the sound "direction". The Balance control moves it left- to-right. The Fader control moves it front-to-back.

To use either control, push on the knob to get it to pop out. Adjust the front-to-back sound to your liking with the outside ring.

Adjust side-to-side sound balance with the knob. Push the knob back in when you are done.

Audio System (Si, SR)

FADER CONTROL

BALANCE CONTROL

BASS CONTROL

TREBLE CONTROL

The illumination for the radio con- trols comes on with the instrument panel lights, even if the radio is off. You can use the Balance control to turn off the radio panel illumina- tion even with the radio on. Push the control knob so it pops out, then pull it out slightly further. Check this control if the control panel lights do not come on with the in- strument panel lights.

Use the Bass and Treble controls to adjust the tone quality to your liking. Push on the knob to get the controls to pop out. Adjust the bass level with the outer ring and the treble level with the knob. When finished, push the knobs back in so there is less chance of accidentally changing your settings.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System (Si, SR)

Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in AC- CESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. Turn the system on by turning the ON/OFF/VOL knob clockwise. The radio comes on and displays the frequency of the station it was last tuned to.

The antenna extends automatically. The system turns off and the anten- na retracts when you turn the igni- tion switch to LOCK (0).

Adjust the volume by turning the ON/OFF/VOL knob.

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

STEREO INDICATOR

AM/FM BUTTON

Select the band you want to listen to by pressing the AM or FM1/FM2
button. You will see the selected band and the frequency in the display.

ST will be displayed next to the fre- quency if the station is broadcast- ing in FM stereo. The AM stereo feature is not available.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstYou can use any of three methods to find radio stations on the selected band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset buttons.

The TUNE function lets you find a desired frequency. Push the TUNE /SEEK switch up to change to a higher frequency, and down to change to a lower frequency.

To change the frequency up or down a single increment, push and release the TUNE/SEEK switch.

Audio System (Si, SR)

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

PRESET BUTTONS

signal, then stops. If you do not want to listen to that station, push TUNE/SEEK again.

The SEEK function searches the band for stations with a strong sig- nal. Depending on which way you push the TUNE/SEEK switch, the system searches up or down from the current frequency. Push the switch until you hear a beep, then release it. The system searches until it finds a station with a strong

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System (Si, SR)

Presetting The preset buttons allow you to store radio frequencies for later selection. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two on the FM band by pushing FM1 and FM2. To store a frequency:

1. Select the desired band, AM or

FM. FM1 and FM2 lets you store two frequencies with each Preset button.

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK func-

tion to tune the radio to a desired station.

3. Pick the Preset button you want for that station. Press the button and hold it until you hear a beep.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total of six stations on AM and twelve on FM.

TUNE/SEEK SWITCH

AM/FM BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

Once that station's frequency is stored, simply press and release the proper preset button to tune to it. If you want to change any preset button's selection, store another fre- quency as described. The frequen- cies you preset will be lost if your car's battery goes dead or is discon- nected.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe AUTO SELECT function allows you to find stations easily when you are in an unfamiliar area. Press the AUTO SELECT button. The system automatically scans both bands to find six strong stations on AM and twelve on FM, and stores their frequencies in the Preset buttons. You can then use the Preset buttons in the normal manner to select those stations. "AUTO SELECT" stays displayed next to the frequency as a reminder.

If you are in a remote area, AUTO SELECT may not find enough stations to fill all the available presets. If this is the case, you will see a "0" displayed when you press any Preset button that does not have a station stored.

Audio System (Si, SR)

AUTO SELECT LIGHT

AUTO SELECT BUTTON

AUTO SELECT does not erase the stations you have manually preset. Turn off AUTO SELECT when you return to your normal recep- tion area by pressing the button again. The light goes out and the Preset buttons can then select the stations you originally set.

You cannot manually store radio station frequencies in the Preset buttons when AUTO SELECT is ON. If you do not like the stations found by AUTO SELECT, you can still use the TUNE or SEEK function to find other stations.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System (Si, SR)

Radio Frequencies Your Honda's radio can tune in all frequencies in both the AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequen- cies:

AM band: 530 kilohertz to 1,710 kilohertz FM band: 87.7 megahertz to 107.9
megahertz

Radio stations on the AM band are assigned frequencies at least 10
kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550). Those on the FM band are assigned frequencies at least 0.2 megahertz apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3).

Stations must use these exact frequencies. It is fairly common for stations to round-off the frequency in their advertising, so your radio will show a frequency of 100.9 even though the announcer may call the station "FM101."

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstOperating the Cassette Player Turn the system ON. Insert the cassette into the slot with the tape opening to the right. Push the cassette in most of the way. The drive will pull it in the rest of the way and begin to play.

or will light to show you

The which side of the cassette is playing. indicates the side you The inserted facing upward is now playing. To play the other side of the tape, press the PROG/PLAY button.

The system also has an Auto- reverse feature. It will automati- cally reverse direction when it reaches the end of the cassette.

Audio System (Si, SR)

ON/OFF/VOL KNOB

CASSETTE SLOT

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

METAL INDICATOR

EJECT BUTTON

PROG/PLAY BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

If the cassette is a metal tape (chromium-dioxide or CrO2), you will see "MTL" displayed. The system automatically adjusts for the special frequency character- istics of metal tape.

Dolby noise reduction turns on when you insert a cassette. If the

tape was not recorded with Dolby " B" noise reduction, turn it off by pressing the button.

To remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT button. The system automatically ejects the cassette whenever you turn off the system or the ignition switch.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System (Si, SR)

Cassette Search Functions Once a cassette is playing, you can use the FF, REW, TMS, or REPEAT function to look for desired songs or passages.

To rewind the tape, push the FF/ REW/TMS button down then release it. You will see REW in the display. To fast forward the tape, push the button up then release it. You will see FF displayed. To stop rewind or fast forward, press the PROG/PLAY button. If the system reaches the end of the cassette while in fast forward or rewind, it automatically stops that function, reverses direction, and begins to play.

FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

PROG/PLAY BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

Press the REPEAT button to replay the current passage. The light in the button illuminates as a reminder. When the system reaches the end of the song or passage that is being played, it automatically goes into rewind. When it senses the beginning of that passage, it goes back to play.

The system will continue repeating this passage until you turn off REPEAT by pressing the button again.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe TMS function lets you skip to the beginning of a song or other passage. The tape skips forward or backward, depending on which direction you push the FF/REW/ TMS switch.

Activate TMS by pushing the FF/ REW/TMS button and holding it until you hear a beep. If you push the button down, you will see REW blinking in the display as the tape rewinds. If you push the button up, you will see FF blinking in the display as the tape fast forwards. When the system senses a silent period on the tape, it goes back to PLAY mode.

Audio System (Si, SR)

FF/REW/TMS SWITCH

REPEAT BUTTON

The REPEAT and TMS functions use silent periods on the tape to find the end of a selection. These features may not work satisfacto- rily on tapes that have almost no gap between songs, a high noise level between songs, or silent peri- ods in the middle of songs.

Caring For Cassettes Damaged cassettes can jam inside the drive or cause other problems. See page 94 for information on cassette care and protection.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCaring for the Cassette Player

S model

Si and SR models

CLEAN LIGHT

The cassette drive picks up dirt and oxides whenever you play a tape. This builds up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the cassette drive after every 30
hours of use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit available for this purpose.

To remind you, a small red light labelled CLEAN comes on every 30
hours of tape use. If you are already regularly cleaning the tape drive at least every 30 hours, simply push the CLEAN light for five seconds to turn it off.

If you do not clean the cassette drive regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the deposits with a normal cleaning kit.

The cassette player automatically ejects cassettes that do not play normally. If it ejects a cassette before it begins to play, it is probably defective and should not be inserted again. You may have a cassette suddenly stop playing, reverse directions once or twice and then eject. This is normally an indication the tape is wound unevenly. It should play normally after being manually rewound.

Use 100-minute or shorter cas- settes. Cassettes longer than 100
minutes use thinner tape that may break or jam the drive.

Look at a cassette before you insert it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning one of the hubs with a pencil or your finger.

If the label is peeling off, do not put it in the player. It may cause the cassette to jam in the drive mecha- nism when you try to eject it.

Do not leave cassettes sitting where they are exposed to high heat or humidity, such as on top of the dashboard or in the player. If a cassette is exposed to extreme heat or cold, let it reach a moderate temperature before putting it in the player.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTheft Protection

If your car's battery is discon- nected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio you will see "Code" in the frequency display. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code. If entered correctly, the radio will start to play.

You will then have to store your favorite stations in the Preset buttons. Your original settings were lost when power was discon- nected.

Theft Protection is standard on the Si and Si 4WS models in the U. S., and the SR and SR 4WS models in Canada.

Your audio system is protected by a code number. The system immedi- ately disables itself whenever the radio/player unit is disconnected from the battery. To make it work again, you must enter a five-digit code with the station Preset buttons.

Your dealer should have given you two copies of your audio system's code number with your car. Keep one of these copies at home, and the other in your wallet or a con- cealed place in the car.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBefore Driving

Before you begin driving your Honda, you should know what gaso- line to use, and that your car is full of oil and other important fluids. You also need to know how to pro- perly stow luggage or packages. This section will help you. If you plan to add any accessories to your car, please read the information in this section first.

Break-in Period .............................. 98
Gasoline........................................... 98
Oxygenated Fuels...................... 98
Driving in Foreign Countries... 99
Service Station Procedures........ 100
Filling the Gas Tank ............... 100
Opening the Hood.................... 101
Fuel Economy.............................. 104
Vehicle Condition..................... 104
Driving Habits.......................... 104
Accessories................................... 105
Loading Cargo.............................. 106

Before Driving

Main MenustBreak-in Period, Gasoline

Break-in Period Help assure your car's future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you drive during the first 1,000 km (600
miles). During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

If you need to add oil, use the engine oil recommended in this owner's manual.

Avoid hard braking. New brakes need to be broken-in by moderate use for the first 300 km (200
miles).

You should follow these same re- commendations with an overhauled or exchanged engine, or when the brakes are relined.

Before Driving

Gasoline Your Honda is designed to operate most effectively on unleaded gasoline. Using gasoline containing lead will damage your car's emission controls. This contributes to air pollution and can void certain parts of your warranty. (S model) Use an unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 86 or higher. Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause a persistent, heavy metallic rapping noise that can lead to engine damage.

(All other models) Use a premium unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 91
or higher. If you are unable to find premium unleaded, you may substitute an unleaded regular gasoline. The engine will compensate for the lower octane, but you may notice a slight decrease in power as a result. Oxygenated Fuels Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an ether compound to increase the gasoline's octane. These gasolines are collectively referred to as oxygenated fuels. Some areas of the United States and Canada use oxygenated fuels to help meet clean air standards.

If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it meets the minimum octane rating requirement as recom- mended.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) — Gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol by volume may cause starting and/or performance problems. Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name "Gasohol."

METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) — Gasoline containing methanol must contain cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline contain- ing more than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or performance problems and may damage metal, rubber and plastic parts of your fuel system.

MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) — You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.

Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel's contents. Some states and provinces require this information to be posted on the pump. If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, switch to a conventional unleaded gasoline. Fuel system damage or perform- ance problems resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel are not the responsibility of Honda and are not covered under warranty.

NOTICE

Oxygenated fuels can damage paint and plastic. Be careful not to spill fuel when filling your fuel tank. Damage caused by spilled fuel is not covered under warranty.

Gasoline

Driving in Foreign Countries Using any type of leaded gasoline in your Honda will affect perform- ance and damage its emission con- trols. Unleaded gasoline may not be available in other countries. If you are planning to take your car out- side the U.S. or Canada, write to Honda at the address shown for information about any modifica- tions your car may need. Be sure to include the year and model of your car.

U.S. Owners: American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Consumer Affairs 1919 Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90501-2746

Canadian Owners: Honda Canada Inc. 715 Milner Ave. Scarborough, Ontario M1B 2K8

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstService Station Procedures

Filling the Gas Tank

Pull

Handling gasoline improperly can cause it to ignite or ex- plode, causing you to be seri- ously or fatally injured.

Always put out cigarettes and other smoking materials, and keep all sparks and open flames away when you are around gasoline.

1. The fuel filler is on the driver's

side of the car. Park with that side closest to the service station pumps.

2. Open the fuel filler door by

pulling on the handle to the left of the driver's seat.

Before Driving

GAS CAP

3. Remove the gas cap slowly. You

may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. Place the gas cap on the inside of the door as shown.

4. Stop filling the tank after the gas

pump automatically clicks off. Do not try to "top off" the tank, leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes.

5. Screw the gas cap back on,

tighten it until it clicks.

6. Push the fuel filler door until it

latches.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstOpening the Hood

Service Station Procedures

LATCH

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle, located under the left lower corner of the dash- board. The hood will pop up slightly.

2. Standing in front of the car, put

your fingers under the front edge of the hood to the right of center. Slide your hand to the left until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle to the left until it releases the hood. Lift the hood.

CLIP

SUPPORT ROD

3. Pull the support rod out of its clip

and insert the end into the hole on the left side of the hood.

To close the hood, lift it up slightly to remove the support rod from the hole. Put the support rod back into its holding clip. Lower the hood to about a foot above the fender, then let it drop.

CONTINUED

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstService Station Procedures

Oil Check

2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean

cloth or paper towel.

3. Insert it all the way back in its

tube.

DIPSTICK

Check the engine oil level every time you fill the car with gas. Wait at least two minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

1. Remove the dipstick (orange

handle).

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCoolant Check

Service Station Procedures

Refer to Periodic Checks on page 133 for information on check- ing other items in your Honda.

MAX MIN

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

RESERVE TANK

4. Remove it again and check the level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

If it is near or below the lower mark, see page 135 for information on the proper oil and how to add it.

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see Adding Coolant on page 139 for information on adding the proper coolant.

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe air conditioner puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Turn off the A/C to cut down on air conditioner use. Use the flow-through ventilation when the outside air temperature is moderate.

Fuel Economy

The condition of your car and your driving habits are the two most important things that affect the fuel mileage you get. Vehicle Condition Always maintain your car accord- ing to the maintenance schedule. This will keep it in top operating condition.

An important part of that mainte- nance is the Periodic Checks (see page 133). For example an underinflated tire causes more "rolling resistance," which uses fuel. It also wears out faster, so check the tire pressure at least monthly. In winter, the build-up of snow on your car's underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

Before Driving

Driving Habits You can improve fuel economy by driving moderately. Rapid acceler- ation, abrupt cornering, and hard braking use more fuel. Always drive in the highest gear that al- lows the engine to run and acceler- ate smoothly. Depending on traffic conditions, try to maintain a con- stant speed. Every time you slow down and speed up, your car uses extra fuel. Use the cruise control, when appropriate, to increase fuel economy.

A cold engine uses more fuel than a warm engine. It is not necessary to "warm-up" a cold engine by letting it idle for a long time. You can drive away in about a minute, no matter how cold it is outside. The engine will warm up faster, and you get better fuel economy. To cut down on the number of "cold starts," try to combine several short trips into one.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour Honda dealer has many acces- sories available to personalize your car. Some of these are audio sys- tems, alloy wheels, air conditioning, and color-coordinated carpet floor mats. All Genuine Honda Acces- sories have been approved by our engineers for installation and use on your car, and are covered by warranty. For a complete guide to the Genuine Honda Accessories available, see your dealer for a 1992
Accessories brochure.

Some non-Honda accessories you can buy in the "aftermarket" are designed for universal applications. Although they may fit your Honda, they may not be within factory specifications. For example, after- market wheels may not meet Honda's specifications for width and offset. They could cause sus- pension problems which would not be covered by your warranty. Im- properly-designed accessories can adversely affect your car's han- dling and stability.

Your car has several computer- controlled systems, including the SRS system, the engine's fuel injection, and the Anti-lock brake system. Strong electronic inter- ference can affect their operation.

Accessories

Electronic communications equip- ment, such as cellular telephones and two-way radios are regulated by the FCC and should not inter- fere with your car's systems. Improper installation, or using electrical equipment not intended for mobile use may interfere with your car's operation. If you want to install a cellular telephone, other mobile communications equipment or even add-on stereo amplifiers, please discuss it first with your Honda dealer.

In many cases, improper instal- lation is the real cause of problems with aftermarket accessories. Have these accessories installed by quali- fied technicians who are familiar with your Honda. If possible, have your Honda dealer inspect the final installation.

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstLoading Cargo

The maximum load you can carry in your Honda is 325 kg (700 Ibs). It includes the total weight of all passengers and their belongings, any accessories, and the tongue weight of a trailer. This 325 kg (700
Ibs) figure is shown as the Vehicle Capacity Weight on the tire infor- mation label attached to the driver's door jamb.

Before Driving

To figure out how much cargo you can carry:

Figure the total "occupant weight" you will be transporting. To do this, multiply the number of people (driver and all passen- gers) by 70 kg (150 Ibs). Subtract this number from the Vehicle Capacity Weight (325 kg/ 700 Ibs). If you are towing a trailer, subtract the tongue weight. See Towing a Trailer on page 121.

This final number is the total weight of cargo you can load in or on the car. With four occupants (driver and three passengers), the maximum recommended weight for cargo is 45 kg (100 Ibs).

Where you store this cargo, and how well you secure it, are just as important as how much it weighs. Make sure you load cargo so it will not shift while driving. Items stored in the trunk should be placed as far forward as possible. You could store additional items on the floor behind the front seats. Make sure they cannot roll under the front seat and interfere with the pedals.

If you must carry large objects that prevent you from closing the trunk lid, be aware that exhaust gas can enter the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 25 .

Never place items on the shelf behind the back seat. Those items can fly forward and injure you or your passengers if you brake hard or are involved in a collision.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThis section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the 5-speed and automatic transmis- sions. It also includes important information on your car's braking system and facts you need if you are planning to tow a trailer.

Driving

Preparing to Drive ....................... 108
Starting the Engine...................... 109
5-speed Transmission............. 109
Automatic Transmission........ 109
Starting in Cold Weather

at High Altitude.................... 110
5-speed Manual Transmission... 111
Recommended Shift Points.... 111
Maximum Speeds..................... 112
Automatic Transmission............ 112
Shift Lever Positions............... 112
Maximum Speeds..................... 115
Shift Lock Release................... 115
The Braking System.................... 116
Brake Wear Indicators............ 116
Brake System Design.............. 116
Anti-lock Brakes...................... 117
Four Wheel Steering.................... 118
Driving in Bad Weather.............. 119
Towing a Trailer .......................... 121

Driving

Main MenustPreparing to Drive

You should do the following checks and adjustments every day before you drive your car.

1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice.

2. Check that the hood and trunk

are fully closed.