1995 Honda Prelude Owners Manual

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The VIN is also provided in bar code on the Certification label. Technical Information VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER CERTIFICATION LABEL Main MenuTable of ContentsstIdentification Numbers MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER The Engine Number is stamped into the engine block. The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission. ENGINE NUMBER Technical Information Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpecifications page 157 * 1 : US: S, Canada: S * 2 : US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS * 3 : US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V Technical Information * 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine. Reserve tank capacity: 0.6 (0.16 US gal , 0.13 Imp gal) * 2 : US: S, Canada: S * 3 : US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS * 4 : US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V * 5 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine. Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpecifications page 208 page 209 * 1 : Except high-mount brake light installed in rear spoiler. * 2 : US: VTEC, Canada: SR 4WS, SR-V * 1 : S * 2 : Except S Technical Information Main MenuTable of ContentsstAnti-lock Brake System The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) is standard equipment on all models except the S model. The ABS works by measuring how fast the wheels are turning during braking and comparing their speed. If any wheel is rotating much slower than the others (on the verge of locking up and skidding), the system reduces hydraulic pressure to that wheel's brake caliper. When that wheel's speed matches the other wheels, the system applies normal hydraulic pressure. This can take place several times per second at each wheel. You feel the ABS working as rapid pulsations in the brake pedal. Technical Information Each wheel has a wheel speed sensor assembly. As the wheel rotates, the sensor sends electrical pulses to the ABS control unit. The pulse frequency varies with the wheel speed. The electrical output of the ABS control unit is connected to the modulator/solenoid unit. During braking, the ABS control unit monitors the pulse frequencies from the four wheels. When the control unit detects a wheel locking up, it energizes the appropriate solenoid in the modulator/solenoid unit. There are three solenoids: one for each front wheel, and one for the rear wheels. The energized solenoid reduces hydraulic pressure to one side of a modulator valve. This, in turn, reduces hydraulic pressure in the brake line going to the affected wheel. When that wheel speeds up because of the reduced braking effort, the control unit de-energizes the solenoid. This builds hydraulic pressure on the modulator valve. The pressure increases in the hydraulic line to the wheel. For the system to react quickly, the modulator/solenoid unit must have brake fluid under high pressure. This is supplied by an accumulator that is pressurized by an electric pump. A pressure-sensing switch on the accumulator controls this pump. The control unit also contains error detection circuitry. It monitors the operation of the wheel sensors, solenoids, pump, and electronics. If the control unit detects any faults, it shuts off power to the pump motor and solenoids. The light on the instrument panel comes on. The brakes then work like a conventional system without anti-lock capabilities. Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe SR 4WS model in Canada is equipped with an electronic Four Wheel Steering system. As inputs, the 4WS system uses a vehicle speed sensor and a sensor to measure how far the front wheels are turned. The electronic control unit for the 4WS system uses these inputs to determine which direction to steer the rear wheels, and at what angle. Depending on vehicle speed and the angle of the front wheels, the rear wheels will be "countersteered" (steered in the opposite direction of the front wheels) or "same-steered" (steered in the same direction as the front wheels). The 4WS electronic control unit drives an electric motor built into the rear steering box. Sensors for rear wheel angle and speed provide feedback. The electronic control unit uses this feedback to compare the actual rear wheel angle to the desired angle. When the driver turns the front wheels with the car traveling less than 18 mph (30 km/h), the rear wheels are countersteered. The angle of countersteer increases as the angle of the front wheels in- creases, to a maximum countersteer angle of six degrees. This improves response when parallel parking or making sharp turns. Above 18 mph (30 km/h), the rear wheels are same-steered as the driver begins to turn the steering wheel. The rear wheel angle for any given steering wheel angle is not fixed; it increases as vehicle speed Four Wheel Steering increases. This improves response in lane-changing maneuvers. As the driver continues to turn the steering wheel, the rear wheels are steered back to the straight-ahead position and then to countersteer mode. As with same steer, the angle of countersteer varies with vehicle speed; increasing and then decreasing as the speed rises. This gives improved handling in low, medium, and high speed curves. The 4WS system's electronic control unit monitors the sensors whenever the ignition is ON. If it detects a problem anywhere in the system, it lights the 4WS indicator on the instrument panel and turns the system off. With the system off, the rear wheels remain pointed straight ahead. Your car will then drive like a conventional car without 4WS. Technical Information Main MenuTable of ContentsstTire Speed Ratings The chart below shows many of the different speed ratings currently being used for passenger car tires. The speed rating symbol is part of the tire size designation on the sidewall of the tire. This symbol corresponds to that tire's designed maximum safe operating speed. Tire Information Tire Size Designation A tire's sidewall is marked with a tire size designation. You will need this information when selecting replacement tires for your car. The following explains what the letters and numbers in the tire size designation mean. (Example tire size designation) 185/70R14 87H 185 — Tire width in millimeters. 70 — Aspect ratio. The tire's section height as a percentage of its width. H — Speed Rating Symbol. See the speed rating chart in this section for additional information. Wheel Size Designation Wheels are also marked with important information that you need if you ever have to replace one. The following explains what the letters and numbers in the wheel size designation mean. (Example wheel size designation) 14 x 5-1/2 JJ 14 — Rim diameter in inches. R — Tire construction code (Radial). 5-1/2 — Rim width in inches. 14 — Rim diameter in inches. JJ — Rim contour designation. 87 — Load Index, a numerical code associated with the maximum load the tire can carry. Technical Information Main MenuTable of ContentsstTire Information Be sure to readjust the pressure for normal driving speeds. You should wait until the tires are cold before adjusting the tire pressure (see page 164). DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Cars) The tires on your car meet all U.S. Federal Safety Requirements. All tires are also graded for treadwear, traction, and temperature perform- ance according to Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. The following explains these gradings. Treadwear The treadwear grade is a compara- tive 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 condi- tions 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. Tire Pressure Adjustment For High Speed Driving Honda strongly recommends that you not drive faster than posted speed limits and conditions allow. If you decide it is safe to drive at high speeds, be sure to adjust the cold tire pressures as shown below. If you do not adjust the tire pressure, excessive heat can build up and cause sudden tire failure. (S) (Except S) CONTINUED Technical Information Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarning: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not over- loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla- tion, or excessive loading either separately or in combination, can cause heat build-up and possible tire failure. Tire Information 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. Warning: The traction grade as- signed to this tire is based on brak- ing (straight ahead) traction tests and does not include cornering (turning) traction. Temperature 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. Technical Information Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe burning of gasoline in your car's engine produces several byproducts. Some of these are carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline evaporating from the tank also produces hydrocarbons. Controlling the production of NOx, CO, and HC is important to the environment. Under certain conditions of sunlight and climate, NOx and HC react to form photochemical "smog." Carbon monoxide does not contribute to smog creation, but it is a poisonous gas. The Clean Air Act The United States Clean Air Act* sets standards for automobile emissions. It also requires that automobile manufacturers explain to owners how their emission controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emission controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page 132. * In Canada, Honda vehicles comply with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) for Emissions valid at the time they are manufactured. Emission Controls Crankcase Emission Control System Your car has a Positive Crankcase Ventilation System. This keeps gasses that build up in the engine's crankcase from going into the atmosphere. The Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve routes them from the crankcase back to the intake manifold. They are then drawn into the engine and burned. Evaporative Emission Control System As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, an evaporative emission control canister filled with charcoal adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this canister while the engine is off. After the engine is started and warmed up, the vapor is drawn into the engine and burned during driving. Technical Information Main MenuTable of ContentsstEmission Controls Exhaust Emission Controls The exhaust emission controls include four systems: PGM-FI, Ignition Timing Control, Exhaust Gas Recirculation and Three Way Catalytic Converter. These four systems work together to control the engine's combustion and minimize the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust emission control systems are separate from the crankcase and evaporative emission control systems. PGM-FI System The PGM-FI System uses sequential multiport fuel injection. It has three subsystems: Air Intake, Engine Control, and Fuel Control. The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses various sensors to determine how much air is going into the engine. It then controls how much fuel to inject under all operating conditions. Technical Information Ignition Tuning Control System This system constantly adjusts the ignition timing, reducing the amount of HC, CO and NOx produced. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system takes some of the exhaust gas and routes it back into the intake manifold. Adding exhaust gas to the air/fuel mixture reduces the amount of NOx produced when the fuel is burned. Three Way Catalytic Converter The three way catalytic converter is in the exhaust system. Through chemical reactions, it converts HC, CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaust to carbon dioxide (CO ), and water vapor. (N ), dinitrogen Replacement Parts The emission control systems are designed and certified to work to- gether in reducing emissions to levels that comply with the Clean Air Act. To make sure the emissions remain low, you should use only new genuine Honda replacement parts or their equivalent for repairs. Using lower quality parts may increase the emissions from your car. The emissions control systems are covered by warranties separate from the rest of your car. Read your warranty manual for more informa- tion. Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe three way catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts, promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gasses without affecting the metals. The catalytic converter is referred to as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Honda part or its equivalent. The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the chemical reactions to take place. It can set on fire any com- bustible materials that come near it. Park your car away from high grass, dry leaves, or other flammables. Three Way Catalytic Converter Keep the engine tuned-up. Have your car diagnosed and repaired if it is misfiring, back- firing, stalling, or otherwise not running properly. THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can impair your engine's per- formance. Follow these guidelines to protect your car's three way catalytic converter. Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter ineffective. Technical Information Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarranty and Customer Relations Warranty Coverages..................... 226 Customer Relations Information................................. 227 U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 228 Canada Zone Office Map.............. 229 Authorized Manuals...................... 231 Warranty and Customer Relations Main MenustWarranty Coverages U.S. Cars Your new Honda is covered by these warranties: Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat belt that fails to function properly is covered for the useful life of the car. New Car Limited Warranty — covers your new car, except for the battery, emissions control systems and accessories, against defects in materials and workmanship. Rust Perforation Limited Warranty — all exterior body panels are covered for rust-through from the inside for the specified time period with no mileage limit. Emissions Control Systems Defects Warranty and Emissions Performance Warranty — these two warranties cover your car's emissions control systems. Time, mileage, and coverage are condi- tional. Please read the warranty manual for exact information. Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty — this warranty gives up to 100% credit toward a replacement battery. Accessory Limited Warranty — Genuine Honda Accessories are covered under this warranty. Time and mileage limits depend on the type of accessory and other factors. Please read your warranty manual for details. Replacement Parts Limited Warranty — covers all Genuine Honda replacement parts against defects in materials and workman- ship. Replacement Battery Limited Warranty — provides prorated coverage for a replacement battery purchased from a Honda dealer. Replacement Muffler Lifetime Limited Warranty — provides coverage for as long as the pur- chaser of the muffler owns the car. Restrictions and exclusions apply to all these warranties. Please read the 1995 Honda Warranties booklet that came with your car for precise information on warranty coverages. Your Honda's original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty information is in a separate booklet. Canada Cars Please refer to the 1995 Warranty and Maintenance Guide that came with your car. Warranty and Customer Relations Main MenuTable of ContentsstCustomer Relations Information Honda dealership personnel are trained professionals. They should be able to answer all your questions. If you encounter a problem that your dealership does not solve to your satisfaction, please discuss it with the dealership's management. The Service Manager or General Manager can help. Almost all problems are solved in this way. If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership's management, contact your Honda Customer Relations Zone Office. Refer to the U.S. and Canadian Zone Office maps on the following pages. When you call or write, please give us this information: Vehicle Identification Number (see page 212) Name and address of the dealer who services your car Date of purchase Mileage on your car Your name, address, and tele- phone number A detailed description of the problem Name of the dealer who sold the car to you Warranty and Customer Relations Main MenuTable of ContentsstU.S. Zone Office Map 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 living, 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. Customer Relations Main MenuTable of ContentsstCanada Zone Office Map Western Zone Honda Canada Inc. 13240 Worster Court Richmond, B.C. V6V 2B8 (604) 278-7121 Central Zone Honda Canada Inc. 126 Milner Avenue Scarborough, Ontario MIS 3R2 (416) 299-3400 Quebec Zone Honda Canada Inc. 1750 rue Eiffel Boucherville, Quebec J4B 7W1 (514) 655-6161 Atlantic Zone Honda Canada Inc. 800 Windmill Road Dartmouth, N.S. B3B 1L1 (902) 468-4416 Customer Relations Main MenuTable of ContentsstPurchasing Factory Authorized Manuals (U.S. only) The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be obtained from Helm Incorporated, either by filling out the attached form or, for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone number on the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below, contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit, Michigan 48207 or call 1-800-782-4356. Authorized Manuals Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners should contact thier authorized Honda dealer. By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can pay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to Helm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form. 61SS003 61SS003EL 61SS030 31SS0630 Main MenuTable of ContentsstAuthorized Manuals Service Manual: This manual covers maintenance and recommended procedures for repair to engine and chassis components. It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simple enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under- stand. Electrical Troubleshooting Manual: This manual complements the Service Manual by providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit in your car. Body Repair Manual: This manual describes the procedures involved in the replacement of damaged body parts. These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14 days of delivery On returns a restocking fee may be applied against the original order. P. O. BOX 07280 DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207 1-800-782-4356 Main MenuTable of ContentsstAirbag (SRS)...................................... 9 Air Cleaner..................................... 154 Air Conditioning............................... 74 Maintenance............................... 162 Usage............................................. 72 Air Outlets (Vents).......................... 72 Air Pressure, Tires........................ 164 Alcohol and Drugs........................... 24 Alcohol in Gasoline.......................... 98 Antenna, Cleaning......................... 178 Antifreeze....................................... 140 Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Description................................. 216 Indicator Light..................... 34, 119 Operation.................................... 118 Anti-theft Steering Column Lock............................................... 50 Appearance Care........................... 181 Ashtray.............................................. 66 Audio System................................... 79 Automatic Speed Control................ 46 Automatic Transmission............... 113 Capacity, Fluid........................... 215 Checking Fluid Level................ 149 Shifting........................................ 113 Shift Lever Positions................. 113 Index Shift Lock Release..................... 116 Battery Charging System Light............... 33 Jump Starting............................. 197 Maintenance............................... 157 Specifications............................. 215 Before Driving................................. 97 Belts, Seat........................................... 5 Body Repair.................................... 187 Brakes Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 118 Break-in, New Linings................. 98 Fluid............................................ 151 Light, Burned-out...................... 174 Parking.......................................... 63 System Indicator.......................... 33 Wear Indicators......................... 117 Brakes, ABS Description................................. 216 Operation.................................... 118 System Indicator.................. 34, 119 CONTINUED Accessories Installation.................................. 105 ACCESSORY (Ignition Key Position)........................................ 50 Adding Automatic Transmission Fluid........................................ 149 Brake Fluid................................. 151 Clutch Fluid................................ 153 Engine Coolant........................... 144 Engine Oil................................... 138 Manual Transmission Fluid..... 150 Power Steering Fluid................. 153 Windshield Washer Fluid......... 148 Additional Safety Information........ 16 Door Locks................................... 16 Driving with Pets......................... 17 Seat-back Position........................ 16 Storing Cargo Safely................... 17 Additives, Engine Oil..................... 140 Adjustments Mirrors.......................................... 61 Seats.............................................. 53 Steering Wheel............................ 45 Main MenustIndex Braking System.............................. 117 Break-in, New Car........................... 98 Brightness Control, Instruments.................................. 43 Brights, Headlights......................... 42 Bulb Replacement Back-up Lights........................... 174 Brake Lights............................... 174 Front Parking Lights................. 170 Front Side Marker Lights......... 171 Headlights.................................. 169 High-mount Brake Light.......... 173 License Plate Lights.................. 176 Rear Side Marker Lights.......... 175 Specifications............................. 215 Turn Signal Lights..................... 172 Bulbs, Halogen............................... 169 Cables, Jump Starting With.......... 198 Capacities Chart............................. 214 Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 25 Cargo, Loading............................... 106 Cassette Player Care............................................... 94 Operation...................................... 87 CAUTION, Explanation of............... ii Certification Label......................... 212 Chains............................................. 168 Change Oil How to......................................... 141 When to....................................... 132 Changing a Flat Tire..................... 191 Changing Engine Coolant............. 146 Charging System Indicator.... 33, 202 Check Engine Light................ 34, 203 Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid........................................ 149 Battery Condition...................... 157 Brake Fluid................................. 151 Clutch Fluid................................ 153 Drive Belts.................................. 163 Engine Coolant........................... 144 Engine Oil................................... 138 Fuses........................................... 205 Manual Transmission Fluid..... 150 Power Steering Fluid................. 153 Checklist, Before Driving............. 108 Child Safety...................................... 18 Cigarette Lighter............................. 65 Cleaner, Air.................................... 154 Cleaning Aluminum Wheels..................... 183 Antenna....................................... 182 Carpeting.................................... 185 Exterior....................................... 182 Fabric.......................................... 185 Interior........................................ 185 Leather........................................ 185 Seat Belts.................................... 185 Vinyl............................................ 185 Washing...................................... 182 Waxing........................................ 183 Windows..................................... 186 CLEAN Light................................... 94 Clock, Setting the............................ 64 Clutch Fluid.................................... 153 CO in the Exhaust......................... 221 Cold Weather, Starting in............. 110 Compact Spare............................... 190 Consumer Information.................. 227 Controls, Instruments and.............. 29 Coolant Adding......................................... 144 Checking..................................... 144 Proper Solution.......................... 144 Main MenustIndex Temperature Gauge.................... 40 Corrosion Protection..................... 186 Crankcase Emission Control System......................................... 221 Cruise Control Operation............... 46 Customer Relations Office........... 227 DANGER, Explanation of................. ii Dashboard........................................ 30 Daytime Running Lights................. 42 Dead Battery, What to Do............ 197 Defects, Reporting Safety............... 26 Defogger, Rear Window................. 58 Defrosting the Windows................. 78 DEXRON® II Automatic Transmission Fluid.................... 150 Dimensions..................................... 214 Dimming the Headlights................ 42 Dipstick Automatic Transmission........... 149 Engine Oil................................... 138 Directional Signals........................... 43 Disabled, Towing Your Car If...... 210 Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 117 Disposal of Used Oil...................... 143 Doors Locking and Unlocking............... 51 Power Door Locks....................... 51 DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 219 Downshifting, 5-speed Manual Transmission.............................. 111 Drive Belts...................................... 163 Driving............................................ 107 Economy..................................... 104 In Bad Weather.......................... 120 In Foreign Countries................... 99 Economy, Fuel............................... 104 Emergencies on the Road............. 189 Battery, Jump Starting.............. 197 Changing a Flat Tire................. 191 Charging System Indicator...... 202 Check Engine Light.................. 203 Checking the Fuses................... 206 Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 201 Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 203 Manually Closing Sunroof........ 204 Overheated Engine................... 199 Emergency Brake............................ 63 Emergency Flashers....................... 58 Emission Controls......................... 221 Engine Belts............................................. 163 Check Light.......................... 34, 203 Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 40 Malfunction Indicator Lamp................................. 34, 203 Oil Pressure Indicator......... 33, 201 Oil, What Kind to Use............... 139 Overheating................................ 199 Specifications............................. 214 Ethanol in Gasoline ......................... 99 Evaporative Emission Controls.... 221 Exhaust Fumes................................ 25 Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat Belts by........................................... 8 Exterior, Cleaning the................... 182 Fabric, Cleaning............................. 185 Fan, Interior...................................... 74 CONTINUED Main MenustIndex Fan, Radiator.................................... 27 Features, Comfort and Convenience................................. 71 Filling the Fuel Tank..................... 100 Filters Fuel.............................................. 155 Oil................................................ 141 First Gear, Shifting........................ 111 5-speed Manual Transmission, Checking Fluid Level................ 150 Shifting the................................. 111 Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 58 Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 191 Fluids Automatic Transmission........... 149 Brake........................................... 151 Clutch.......................................... 153 Manual Transmission............... 150 Power Steering........................... 153 Windshield Washer................... 148 FM Stereo Radio Reception...................................... 81 Folding Rear Seat............................ 57 Foreign Countries, Driving in........ 99 Four-way Flashers........................... 58 Four Wheel Steering (4WS) Description................................. 217 Indicator Light............................. 35 Operation.................................... 119 Front End, Towing by Emergency Wrecker................. 210 Fuel.................................................... 98 Fill Door and Cap....................... 100 Filter............................................ 155 Gauge............................................ 38 Octane Requirement................... 98 Oxygenated.................................. 98 Tank, Filling the......................... 100 Fuses, Checking the...................... 205 Gas Mileage, Improving................ 104 Gasohol............................................. 98 Gasoline............................................ 98 Filter............................................ 155 Gauge............................................ 40 Octane Requirement................... 98 Tank, Filling the......................... 100 Gas Station Procedures................. 100 Gauges Engine Coolant Temperature .... 40 Fuel................................................ 40 Gearshift Lever Positions Automatic Transmission........... 113 5-speed Manual Transmission.................... 111 Glass Cleaning............................... 186 Glove Box......................................... 64 Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 169 Hazard Warning Flashers............... 58 Headlights Daytime Running Lights............. 42 High Beam Indicator................... 36 High Beams, Turning on............ 42 Low Beams, Turning on............. 42 Reminder Chime.......................... 42 Replacing Halogen Bulbs......... 169 Turning on.................................... 42 Heating and Cooling........................ 72 High Altitude, Starting at.............. 110 High-Low Beam Switch.................. 42 Hood, Opening the........................ 101 Main MenustHorn................................................... 49 Hot Coolant, Warning about........ 144 Hydraulic Clutch............................ 153 Hydroplaning.................................. 121 Identification Number, Vehicle........................................ 212 If Your Car Has to be Towed....... 210 Ignition Keys............................................... 49 Switch............................................ 50 Timing Control System............. 222 Indicator Lights, Instrument Panel.............................................. 31 Infant Restraint................................ 19 Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 164 Inside Mirror.................................... 61 Inspection, Tire.............................. 165 Instrument Panel............................. 30 Instrument Panel Brightness......... 43 Interior Cleaning............................ 185 Interior Lights.................................. 68 Introduction......................................... i Index Jacking up the Car......................... 193 Jack, Tire........................................ 191 Jump Starting................................. 197 Keys................................................... 49 Fuel Fill Door............................. 100 Glove Box..................................... 64 Power Door.................................. 51 Trunk............................................ 52 Low Coolant Level......................... 144 Lower Gear, Downshifting to a.... 111 Low Oil Pressure Indicator.... 33, 201 Lubricant Specifications Chart.... 214 Luggage.......................................... 106 Label, Certification........................ 212 Lane Change, Signaling.................. 43 Lap/Shoulder Belts........................... 6 Leaking of Exhaust into Car.......... 25 Lighter, Cigarette............................ 65 Lights Bulb Replacement..................... 169 Indicator........................................ 31 Parking.......................................... 42 Turn Signal................................... 43 Loading Cargo................................ 106 LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 50 Locks Anti-theft Steering Column........ 50 Maintenance................................... 127 Periodic Items............................ 136 Record................................. 134 - 135 Schedule.............................. 130 - 133 Manual Transmission.................... 111 Manual Transmission Fluid......... 150 Maximum Shift Speeds......... 112, 115 Meters, Gauges................................ 38 Methanol in Gasoline...................... 98 Mirrors, Adjusting........................... 61 CONTINUED Main MenustIndex Neutral Gear Position.................... 114 New Vehicle Break-in ..................... 98 Normal Shift Speeds...................... 111 NOTICE, Explanation of................... ii Numbers, Identification................ 212 Occupant Protection System............ 4 Octane Requirement, Gasoline...... 98 Odometer.......................................... 38 Odometer, Trip................................ 38 Oil Change, How to......................... 141 Change, When to....................... 132 Checking Engine....................... 138 Pressure Indicator....................... 33 Selecting Proper Viscosity Chart....................................... 140 ON (Ignition Key Position)............ 50 Opening the Hood......................... 101 Opening the Trunk.......................... 52 Operation in Foreign Countries..... 99 Outside Mirrors............................... 62 Overheating, Engine..................... 199 Panel Brightness Control............... 43 Park Gear Position......................... 114 Parking Brake.................................. 63 Parking Lights.................................. 42 Parking Over Things that Burn... 223 PGM-FI System.............................. 222 Polishing and Waxing................... 183 Power Door Locks................................... 51 Mirrors.......................................... 62 Steering....................................... 153 Windows....................................... 59 Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts............ 8 Proper Seat Belt Usage..................... 6 Radiator Overheating.................... 199 Radio/Cassette Sound System....... 79 Rear End Towing........................... 210 Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 174 Rear Seat, Folding........................... 57 Rear View Mirror............................. 61 Rear Window Defogger.................. 58 Reclining the Seat Backs................ 54 Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 111 Reminder Lights.............................. 31 Replacement Information Air Cleaner................................. 154 Coolant........................................ 146 Engine Oil and Filter................. 141 Fuel Filter................................... 155 Fuses........................................... 205 Light Bulbs................................. 169 Schedule..................................... 130 Spark Plugs................................. 155 Tires............................................ 166 Wiper Blades.............................. 160 Replacing Seat Belts After a Crash............................................... 8 Reserve Tank, Coolant.................. 144 Restraint, Child................................ 18 Reverse Gear Position................... 114 Rotation, Tire................................. 166 Safety Belts......................................... 5 Main MenustSafety Defects, Reporting............... 26 Safety Labels, Location of.............. 27 Safety Messages................................ ii Seat Belts............................................ 5 Advice for Pregnant Women........ 8 Child Seat Anchor Plate.............. 23 Cleaning...................................... 185 Frayed or Torn............................... 8 Maintenance................................... 8 Reminder Light and Beeper....... 33 Replacement................................... 8 System Components...................... 6 Tether Attachment Points.......... 22 Use During Pregnancy.................. 8 Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7 Seats, Adjusting the......................... 53 Serial Number................................ 212 Service Intervals............................ 132 Service Manual.............................. 231 Service Station Procedures.......... 100 Setting the Clock............................. 64 Shifting The Automatic Transmission.......................... 113 The 5-speed Manual Transmission.......................... 111 Shift Lever Position Indicator............................... 37, 113 Side Marker Lights, Bulb Replacement in.......................... 171 Signaling Turns................................ 43 Snow Tires...................................... 168 Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 182 Sound System................................... 79 Spare Tire Inflating....................................... 190 Specifications............................. 215 Spark Plugs, Replacing................. 155 Specifications Charts..................... 214 Speed Control................................... 46 Speedometer.................................... 38 SRS Indicator.............................. 14, 34 START (Ignition Key Position)..... 50 Starting the Engine........................ 109 In Cold Weather at High Altitude................................... 110 With a Dead Battery................. 197 Steam Coming from Engine......... 199 Steering Wheel Adjustment................................... 45 Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 50 Stereo Sound System...................... 79 Index Storing Your Car............................ 179 Sunroof.............................................. 60 Closing Manually....................... 204 Operation...................................... 60 Supplemental Restraint System Service Precautions..................... 15 Servicing....................................... 14 SRS Indicator.......................... 14, 34 System Components...................... 9 Tachometer...................................... 38 Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 174 Taking Care of the Unexpected................................ 189 Tape Player....................................... 87 Technical Descriptions Anti-lock Brake System............ 216 Emission Control Systems........ 221 Four Wheel Steering................. 217 Three Way Catalytic Converter................................ 223 Tire Information........................ 218 CONTINUED Main MenustIndex Temperature Gauge........................ 40 Tether Attachment Points.............. 22 Time, Setting the............................. 64 Tire Chains..................................... 168 Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 191 Tires................................................ 163 Air Pressure............................... 164 Checking Wear.......................... 165 Compact Spare........................... 190 DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 219 Inflation....................................... 164 Inspection................................... 165 Replacing.................................... 166 Rotating....................................... 166 Snow............................................ 168 Specifications............................. 215 Tools, Tire Changing.................... 191 Torn Seat Belts.................................. 8 Towing A Trailer...................................... 122 Emergency Wrecker................. 210 Transmission Checking Fluid Level, Automatic............................... 149 Checking Fluid Level, Manual.................................... 150 Fluid Selection............................ 150 Identification Number............... 212 Shifting the Automatic.............. 113 Shifting the Manual................... 111 Treadwear...................................... 219 Trip Meter........................................ 39 Trunk................................................. 52 Opening the.................................. 52 Open Monitor Light.................... 36 Turn Signals..................................... 43 Underside, Cleaning...................... 187 Unexpected, Taking Care of the........................................... 189 Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 219 Unleaded Gasoline........................... 98 Upholstery Cleaning...................... 185 Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 143 Vanity Mirror................................... 65 Vehicle Capacity Load.................. 106 Vehicle Dimensions....................... 214 Vehicle Identification Number..... 212 Vehicle Storage.............................. 179 Ventilation......................................... 75 VIN.................................................. 212 Vinyl Cleaning................................ 185 Viscosity, Oil................................... 140 Warning Beepers Key in Ignition.............................. 50 Seat Belts...................................... 33 WARNING, Explanation of.............. ii Warning Labels, Location of.......... 27 Warranty Coverages..................... 226 Washer, Windshield Checking the Fluid Level......... 148 Operation...................................... 44 Washing.......................................... 182 Waxing and Polishing................... 183 Wheels Adjusting the Steering................ 45 Alignment and Balance............. 166 Compact Spare........................... 190 Wrench....................................... 192 Main MenustIndex Windows Cleaning...................................... 186 Operating the Power................... 59 Rear, Defogger............................ 58 Windshield Cleaning........................................ 44 Defroster...................................... 78 Wipers, Windshield Changing Blades........................ 160 Operation...................................... 44 Worn Tires..................................... 165 Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 210 Main MenustGas Station Information Gasoline: (S) (Except S) UNLEADED gasoline Pump octane of 86 or higher Premium UNLEADED Pump octane of 91 or higher Fuel Tank Capacity. 60 l (15.9 US gal, 13.2 Imp gal) 5-speed Manual Transmission Oil: SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity API SF or SG grade recom- mended Capacity: 1.9 l (2.0 US qt,1.7 Imp qt) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Honda Premium Formula Auto- matic Transmission Fluid or an equivalent DEXRON® II type Auto- matic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Capacity: 2.4 l (2.5 US qt,2.1 Imp qt) Recommended Engine Oil: (Except US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) API SG or SH grade "Energy Conserving II" oil SAE 5W-30 viscosity (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) API SG or SH grade "Energy Conserving II" oil SAE 10W-30 viscosity Engine Oil Capacity: including filter (US: S, Canada: S) 3.8 l (4.0 USqt,3.3 Imp qt) (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) 4.3 l (4.5 USqt,3.8 Imp qt) (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) 4.8 l (5.1 US qt,4.2 Imp qt) without filter (US: S, Canada: S) 3.5 l (3.7 US qt,3.1 Imp qt) (US: Si, Canada: SR, SR 4WS) 4.0 l (4.2 US qt,3.5 Imp qt) (US: VTEC, Canada: SR-V) 4.5 (4.8 US qt,4.0 Imp qt) Tire Pressure (measured cold): (S) 205 kPa (2.1 kg/cm2, 30 psi) (Except S) 220 kPa (2.2 kg/cm2, 32 psi) Spare Tire Pressure: 415 kPa (4.15 kg/cm2, 60 psi) Tire Size (Front and Rear): (S) 185/70R1487H (Except S) 205/55R15 87V Spare Tire: (S) T115/70D14 (Except S) T135/80D15 Other Tire Information: See label on the driver's door- jamb. Main Menust1995 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 Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i A Few Words About Safety.................................................................................................................ii Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................3 Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls.................................................................................................................29 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features ................................................................................................71 How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving....................................................................................................................................97 What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving ..............................................................................................................................................107 The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................127 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care..............................................................................................................................181 Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected......................................................................................................189 This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information.....................................................................................................................211 ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................225 A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................231 How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...................................................................................................................................................... I Gas Station Information A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump. Introduction Congratulations ! Your selection of a 1995 Honda Prelude was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure. To enhance the enjoyment of your new car, take time to study this manual. In it, you will learn about your car's many conveniences and useful features. Following the service interval and maintenance recommendations will help keep your driving trouble-free while preserving your investment. Keep this owner's manual in your car so you can refer to it at any time. Please make sure the manual stays with the car if you sell it. The next owner will find it just as helpful. Several warranties protect your Honda. We suggest you read the warranty booklets carefully to fully understand the coverages and the responsibilities of ownership. When your car needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's service staff is specially-trained in the service and maintenance of the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns. Main MenustSafety Messages Your safety and the safety of others is very important. We have provided many important safety messages in this manual and on the vehicle. Please read these messages carefully. You will also see another important symbol: A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol one of three words, DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION. These mean: and NOTICE Your Honda or other property can be damaged if you don't follow instruc- tions. You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions. The purpose of these messages is to help prevent damage to your car, other property, or the environment. You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions. You CAN be HURT if you don't follow instructions. Each safety message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen and what you can do to avoid or reduce injury. Main MenustDriver and Passenger Safety This section gives you important information about occupant protec- tion. It shows how to use seat belts properly. It explains the Supple- mental Restraint System. And it gives useful information about how to protect an infants or a child in your car. Your Occupant Protection System.. 4 The Seat Belt System and How It Works...................... 5 Why Wear Seat Belts.................... 5 Important Safety Reminders........ 5 Seat Belt System Components..... 6 Lap/Shoulder Belt......................... 6 Wearing Seat Belts Properly........ 6 Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt...... 7 Advice for Pregnant Women........ 8 Seat Belt Maintenance.................. 8 Supplemental Restraint System....... 9 What Happens In a Crash........... 10 Important Facts About Airbags...................................... 11 How the Driver's Airbag Works........................................ 12 How the Passenger's Airbag Works........................................ 13 How the SRS Indicator Light Works........................................ 14 System Service............................. 14 System Service Precautions....... 15 Additional Safety Information........ 16 Seat-back Position........................ 16 Door Locks................................... 16 Storing Cargo Safely................... 17 Driving with Pets......................... 17 Child Safety...................................... 18 Where Should Children Sit?....... 18 Important Safety Reminders...... 19 General Guidelines for Restraining Children Under 18 kg (40 Ibs)............... 19 Restraining an Infant Who Weighs Less Than 9 kg (20 Ibs).......... 19 Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs)..... 20 Restraining a Child Who Weighs Over 18 kg (40 Ibs).................. 21 Using a Seat Belt Locking Clip............................. 21 Using Child Restraints with Tethers............................. 22 Storing a Child Seat..................... 23 Alcohol and Drugs........................... 24 Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 25 Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Cars).................................... 26 Safety Labels.................................... 27 Driver and Passenger Safety Main MenustYour Occupant Protection System Your Honda is equipped with seat belts and other features that work together to protect you and your passengers during a crash. Seat belts are the most important part of your occupant protection system. When worn properly, seat belts can reduce the chance of serious injury or death in a crash. For added protection during a severe frontal collision, your Prelude has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with a driver's airbag and a front passenger's airbag. Two indicator lights are also part of your safety system. One reminds you to make sure you and your passen- gers wear seat belts. The other alerts you to a possible problem with your supplemental restraint system (see page 14). The seats, head restraints, and door locks also play a role in occupant safety. For example, reclining the seat-back can decrease the effec- tiveness of your seat belt. Head restraints can help protect your neck and head, especially during rear-end impacts. Door locks help keep your doors from being accidentally opened during a crash. Driver and Passenger Safety To get the maximum protection from your occupant protection system, check the following before you drive away: Everyone in the car is wearing a seat belt properly (see page 6). Infants and small children are properly secured in child safety seats (see page 18). Both doors are closed and locked (see page 16). Seat-backs are upright (see page 16). There are no loose items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash or sudden stop (see page 17). By following these guidelines, you can reduce injuries to yourself and your passengers in many crash situations. Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in severe crashes. Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Seat Belt System and How It Works Why Wear Seat Belts Wearing seat belts, and wearing them properly, is fundamental to your safety and the safety of your passengers. During a crash or emergency stop, seat belts can help keep you from being thrown against the inside of the car, against other occupants, or out of the car. Of course, seat belts cannot com- pletely protect you in every crash. But, in most cases, seat belts reduce your chance of serious injury. They can even save your life. That is why many states and all Canadian pro- vinces require you to wear seat belts. Not wearing a seat belt increases the chance of being killed or seriously hurt in a crash. Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly. Important Safety Reminders Seat belts are designed for adults and larger children. All infants and small children must be properly restrained in child safety seats (see page 18). A pregnant woman needs to wear a seat belt to protect herself and her unborn child (see page 8). Two people should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash. Do not place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. This could increase the chance of serious injuries in a crash. Do not put shoulder belt pads or other accessories on seat belts. They can reduce the effectiveness of the belts and increase the chance of injury. Driver and Passenger Safety Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Seat Belt System and How It Works Seat Belt System Components Your Honda has lap/shoulder seat belts in all four seating positions. Your seat belt system also includes a light on the instrument panel to remind you to fasten your seat belt, and to make sure your passengers fasten theirs. This light comes on when you turn on the ignition if you have not fastened your seat belt. A beeper also sounds for several seconds (see page 33). The following pages cover more about the seat belt components and how they work. Driver and Passenger Safety Lap/Shoulder Belt SHOULDER PORTION UPPER SEAT BELT ANCHOR LATCH PLATE Wearing Seat Belts Properly You can increase the effectiveness of your seat belts if you take a little time to read the following pages and make sure you know how to wear seat belts properly. Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash. Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly. BUCKLE LAP PORTION This style of seat belt has a single belt that goes over your shoulder, across your chest, and across your hips. Each lap/shoulder belt has an emergency locking retractor. In normal driving, the retractor lets you move freely in your seat while it keeps some tension on the belt. During a collision or sudden stop, the retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body. Main MenuTable of ContentsstWearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt The Seat Belt System and How It Works Before putting on the seat belt, move the driver's seat as far back as is practical while still allowing you to maintain full control of the vehicle. Make sure the seat-back is upright (see page 54). The front seat passenger should move the seat as far back as possible. 1. Pull the latch plate across your body and insert it into the buckle. Tug on the belt to make sure the latch is securely locked. 2. Check that the belt is not twisted. 3. Position the lap portion of the belt as low as possible across your hips, not across your stomach. This lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash. 4. Pull up on the shoulder part of the belt to remove any slack. Make sure the belt goes over your collarbone and across your chest. CONTINUED Driver and Passenger Safety Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Seat Belt System and How It Works Advice for Pregnant Women To unlatch the seat belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle. Guide the belt across your body to the door pillar. If the belt doesn't retract easily, pull it out and check for twists or kinks. Driver and Passenger Safety Protecting the mother is the best way to protect her unborn child. Therefore, a pregnant woman should wear a properly-positioned seat belt whenever she drives or rides in a car. When using the seat belt, remember to keep the lap portion as low as possible (see page 7). Each time you have a check-up, ask your doctor if it's okay for you to drive and how you should position a lap/shoulder seat belt. Seat Belt Maintenance For safety, you should check the condition of your seat belts regularly. Pull out each belt fully and look for frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check that the latches work smoothly and the lap/shoulder belts retract easily. Any belt not in good condition or not working properly should be replaced. If a seat belt is worn during a crash, have your dealer replace the belt and inspect the anchors for damage. For information on how to clean your seat belts, see page 185. Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour car is equipped with a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) to help protect the head and chest of the driver and front seat passenger during a severe frontal collision. This system does not replace your seat belts. It supplements, or adds to, the protection offered by seat belts and other occupant protection features. Not wearing a seat belt increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even if you have an airbag. Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly. Supplemental Restraint System INDICATOR PASSENGER'S AIRBAG DRIVER'S CONTROL UNIT/SENSORS AIRBAG The main components in your SRS are: One airbag in the steering wheel for the driver and another in the dashboard for the passenger. Sensors that can detect a severe frontal collision. CONTINUED Driver and Passenger Safety Main MenuTable of ContentsstAfter the crash, you may see what looks like smoke. This is actually powder from the airbag's surface. People with respiratory problems may experience some temporary discomfort from the chemicals used by the airbag's activators. Supplemental Restraint System A sophisticated electronic system that continually monitors the control unit (including the sensors), airbag activators, and all related wiring when the ignition is ON (II). What Happens In a Crash If you ever have a severe frontal collision, the sensors will detect rapid deceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate the airbags. An indicator light on the instrument panel to alert you to a possible problem with the system. Emergency backup power in case your car's electrical system is disconnected in a crash. During a crash, your seat belts will help to restrain your lower body and torso. The airbags will provide a cushion to absorb crash energy and help keep the head and chest of the driver and front passenger from striking the interior of the car. After inflating, the airbags will immediately deflate. The entire process, from detection to deflation, takes a fraction of a second. This process occurs so quickly that you may not hear the loud noise created by the airbag inflators, or realize what has happened. Driver and Passenger Safety Main MenuTable of ContentsstFrontal collision range Important Facts About Airbags Airbags inflate only when needed; in a severe frontal collision. A severe collision would be similar to a crash into a parked car at 25 mph (40 km/h). Airbags will not inflate in a moderate frontal collision, or during a rear impact, side impact, or rollover — even if the impact is severe. Supplemental Restraint System Just from viewing the vehicle damage after a crash, it is very difficult to accurately determine if the airbags should or should not have inflated. In some cases where the airbag did not inflate, extensive visible damage indicated that the car absorbed much of the crash energy, and the airbags were not needed. In other cases, a severe jolt, such as an impact to the undercarriage, may not cause extensive body damage but cause the airbags to inflate. Airbags inflate and deflate only once. They cannot protect you during any additional impacts that can occur during a crash sequence. Injuries, including fatal injuries, can occur in a severe collision, even if seat belts are worn properly and the airbags inflate. No safety system can provide complete protection in a severe crash. Driver and Passenger Safety Main MenuTable of ContentsstSupplemental Restraint System How the Driver's Airbag Works To do its job, the airbag inflates with considerable force. So, while it can reduce serious injuries and even save your life, the airbag might cause some facial abrasions or other injuries. To reduce the possibility of injury, you should always sit back as far from the steering wheel as is practical while still maintaining full vehicle control. If you ever have a severe frontal collision, your airbag will instantly inflate to help protect your head and chest. Driver and Passenger Safety After the bag completely inflates, it immediately starts deflating so it won't interfere with your visibility, ability to steer, or ability to operate other controls. The total time for inflation and deflation takes a fraction of a second. You may not even be aware that the airbag has been fully inflated. Main MenuTable of ContentsstSupplemental Restraint System How the Passenger's Airbag Works The driver's airbag is stored in the center of the steering wheel. For your safety, do not attach any items to the steering wheel. They could interfere with the proper operation of the airbag. Or, if the airbag inflates, they could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone. If you ever have a severe frontal collision, the passenger's airbag will inflate at the same time as the driver's airbag. This airbag is quite large and inflates with considerable force. It can seriously hurt a front seat passenger who is not in the proper position and wearing the seat belt properly. Front seat passengers should move the seat as far back as practical and sit well back in the seat. We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger's seat. If the airbag inflates, it can hit the infant seat with great force. The infant seat can be dislodged or struck with enough force to cause very serious injury to the infant. If a toddler seat is used in the front passenger's seat, the vehicle seat should be moved as far back as possible. If the passenger's bag inflates, it could seriously hurt a toddler who is not in the proper position or properly restrained. CONTINUED Driver and Passenger Safety Main MenuTable of ContentsstSupplemental Restraint System The passenger's airbag is stored near the top of the dashboard, under a lid marked SRS. Do not place any objects on top of this lid. If the airbag inflates, those objects can be propelled inside the car and possibly hurt someone. How the SRS Indicator Light Works S R S The purpose of the SRS light on your instrument panel is to alert you of a potential problem with your supple- mental restraint system. System Service Your supplemental restraint system is virtually maintenance-free. There are no parts you can safely service. You must have the system serviced by an authorized Honda dealer: Have the system checked if: The light does not come on when you turn the ignition ON (II). The light stays on after the engine starts. The light comes on or flashes while you are driving. If your airbags ever inflate, the airbags and control unit must be replaced. Do not try to remove or discard the airbags by yourself. This must be done by a Honda dealer. If the SRS indicator light alerts you of a problem. Have the supplemental restraint system checked as soon as possible. Otherwise, your airbags might not inflate when you need them. When the car is ten years old. Have the dealer inspect the system. The production date is on the driver's doorjamb for your convenience. Driver and Passenger Safety Main MenuTable of ContentsstSupplemental Restraint System Scrapping an entire car that has uninflated airbags can be dangerous. Get assistance from a Honda dealer if your car must be scrapped. If you sell your car, please be sure to tell the new owner that the car has a supplemental restraint system. Alert them to the information and precau- tions in this part of the owner's manual. System Service Precautions Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of the supplemental restraint system. Modifications could make the system ineffective. Do not tamper with the system's components or wiring. This could cause the airbags to inflate inadver- tently, possibly injuring someone very seriously. Tell anyone who works on your car that you have a supplemental restraint system. Failure to follow the procedures and precautions in the official Honda service manual could result in personal injury or damage to the system. Driver and Passenger Safety Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Safety Information The seat belts and airbags are obvi- ously important parts of your occu- pant protection system. In addition, you should know that sitting upright, locking the doors, and stowing things properly can also increase your safety and possibly even save your life. Seat-back Position The seat-backs should be in an upright position for you and your passengers to get the most protec- tion from the seat belts. If you recline a seat-back, you reduce the protective capability of your seat belt. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk that you will slide under the belt in a severe crash and be very seriously injured. For information on how to adjust the seat-back, see page 54. Door Locks It is not safe to leave your car doors unlocked. A passenger, especially a child, could open a door and acci- dentally fall out. Also, there is a greater chance of being thrown out of the car during a crash when the doors are not locked. Driver and Passenger Safety Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Safety Information

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1995 Honda Prelude Owners Manual