1997 Honda Prelude Owners Manual

the same fluid specified for the brake system.

Low fluid level can indicate a leak in the clutch system. Have this system inspected as soon as possible.

LOWER LEVEL Check the level when the engine is cold. Look at the side of the reservoir. The fluid should be between the UPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL. If it is below the LOWER LEVEL, add power steering fluid to the UPPER LEVEL.

Always use Genuine Honda Power Steering Fluid. If it is not available, you may use another power steering fluid as an emergency replacement. However, continued use can cause increased wear and poor steering in cold weather. Have the power steering system flushed and refilled with Honda PSF as soon as possible.

A low power steering fluid level can indicate a leak in the system. Check the fluid level frequently and have the system inspected as soon as possible.

NOTICE

Turning the steering wheel to full left or right lock and holding it there can damage the power steering pump.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAir Cleaner Element

The air cleaner element should be cleaned or replaced according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule.

Cleaning (Severe Conditions) Clean the air cleaner element by blowing compressed air through it in the opposite direction to normal air flow. If you do not have access to compressed air (such as a service station), ask your Honda dealer to do this service.

Follow the replacement procedure for removal and reinstallation.

Maintenance

Replacement

CLAMPS

AIR CLEANER ELEMENT

The air cleaner element is inside the air cleaner housing on the passenger's side of the engine compartment. To replace it:

2. Remove the old air cleaner

element. Clean the inside of the air cleaner housing with a damp rag.

1. Unsnap the four hold-down clamps

and remove the air cleaner housing cover.

3. Place the new air cleaner element

in the air cleaner housing.

4. Reinstall the air cleaner housing cover, snap the four hold-down clamps back into place.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe spark plugs in your car are a special platinum-tipped design for longer life. They only need to be replaced every 7 years or 105,000
miles (168,000 km), whichever comes first.

Replacement

NUTS

NUTS

Spark Plugs

SPARK PLUG CAP

1. Remove the four nuts, then remove the plug wire cover.

3. Remove the spark plug cap by

pulling it straight out.

2. Clean up any dirt and oil around

the spark plug caps.

4. Remove the spark plug with

a five-eighths inch (16 mm) spark plug socket.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpark Plugs

5. Put the new spark plug into the

socket; then screw it into the hole. Screw it in by hand so you do not crossthread it.

6. Torque the spark plug. (If you do not have a torque wrench, tighten the spark plug two-thirds of a turn after it contacts the cylinder head.) Tightening torque: 13 lbf.ft (1.8 kgf.m , 18 N.m)

Maintenance

NOTICE

Tighten the spark plugs carefully. A spark plug that is too loose can overheat and damage the engine. Overtightening can cause damage to the threads in the cylinder head.

7. Install the spark plug cap.

8. Repeat this procedure for the

other three spark plugs.

Reinstall the plug wire cover and tighten the four nuts.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpecifications:

NGK: DENSO:

Spark Plug Gap:

PZFR6F-11
PKJ20CR-L11

0.043 in

(1.1mm

Battery Check the condition of your car's battery monthly. You should check the color of the test indicator window, and for corrosion on the terminals.

Spark Plugs, Battery

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

Check the battery condition by looking at the test indicator window on the battery. The label on the battery explains the test indicator's colors.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf the terminals are severely cor- roded, clean them with baking soda and water. Then use a wrench to loosen and remove the cables from the terminals. Always disconnect the negative (—) cable first and recon- nect it last. Clean the battery termi- nals with a terminal cleaning tool or wire brush. Reconnect and tighten the cables, then coat the terminals with grease.

If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damage to the car's electri- cal system.

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled mechanic do the battery maintenance.

Battery

Check the battery terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To remove it, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent future corrosion.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf your car's battery is disconnected 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 (see page 95 ).

NOTICE

Charging the battery with the cables connected can seriously damage your car's electronic controls. Detach the battery cables before connecting the battery to a charger.

Battery

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWindshield Wipers

Check the condition of the wind- shield wiper blades at least every six months. Look for signs of cracking in the rubber, or areas that are getting hard. Replace the blades if you find these signs, or they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.

WIPER ARMS

LOCK TAB

To replace the blade:

1. Raise the wiper arm off the

windshield.

2. Disconnect the blade assembly

from the wiper arm by pushing in the lock tab. Hold it in while you push the blade assembly toward the base of the arm.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBLADE

BLADE

3. Remove the blade from its holder by grasping the tabbed end of the blade. Pull firmly until the tabs come out of the holder.

REINFORCEMENT

4. Examine the new wiper blades. If they have no plastic or metal rein- forcement along the back edge, remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade.

Windshield Wipers

5. Slide the new wiper blade into the

holder until the tabs lock.

6. Slide the wiper blade assembly

onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place.

7. Lower the wiper arm down against

the windshield.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAir Conditioning System

Your car's air conditioning is a sealed system. Any major maintenance, such as recharging, should be done by a qualified technician. You can do a couple of things to make sure the air conditioning works efficiently.

AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER

Periodically check the engine's radiator and air conditioning condenser for leaves, insects, and dirt stuck to the front surface. These block the air flow and reduce cooling efficiency. Use a light spray from a hose or a soft brush to remove them.

NOTICE

The condenser and radiator fins bend easily. Only use a low-pressure spray or soft-bristle brush to clean them.

Run the air conditioning at least once a week during the cold weather months. Run it for at least ten minutes while you are driving at a steady speed with the engine at normal operating temperature. This circulates the lubricating oil con- tained in the refrigerant.

If the air conditioning does not get as cold as before, have your dealer check the system. Recharge the system with Refrigerant HFC-134a (R-134a). (See Specifications on page 227.)

NOTICE

Whenever you have the air conditioning system serviced, make sure the service facility uses a refrigerant recycling system. This system captures the refrigerant for reuse. Releasing refrigerant into the atmosphere can damage the environment.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstDrive Belts

POWER STEERING BELT

The belts should have the following "play" or deflection. Alternator belt:

0.37— 0.49 in (9.5 — 12.5 mm)

Power steering belt:

0.53 — 0.65 in (13.5 — 16.5 mm)

If you see signs of wear or looseness, have your dealer adjust or replace the belts.

ALTERNATOR BELT Check the condition of the two drive belts. Examine the edges of each belt for cracks or fraying. Check the tension of each belt by pushing on it with your thumb midway between the pulleys.

Drive Belts, Timing Belt

Timing Belt The timing belt and balancer belt should normally be replaced at the intervals shown in the maintenance schedule.

Replace these belts at 60,000 miles (U.S.) or 100,000 km (Canada) if you regularly drive your car in one or more of these conditions:

In very high temperatures (over 110°F, 43°C). In very low temperatures (under — 20°F, — 29°C).

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTires

To safely operate your car, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated. The following pages give more detailed information on how and when to check air pressure, how to inspect your tires for damage and wear, and what to do when your tires need to be replaced.

Using tires that are excessively worn or improperly inflated can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner's manual regarding tire inflation and maintenance.

Maintenance

Inflation Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best combination of handling, tread life and riding comfort. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated. Overinflated tires can make your car ride more harshly, are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

We recommend that you visually check your tires every day. If you think a tire might be low, check it immediately with a tire gauge.

Check the pressure in the tires when they are cold. This means the car has been parked for at least three hours. If you have to drive the car before checking the tire pressure, the tires can still be considered "cold" if you drive less than 1 mile (1.6 km).

If you check the pressure when the tires are hot (the car has been driven several miles), you will see readings 4 to 6 psi (0.3 to 0.4 kgf/cm2,30 to 40
kPa) higher than the cold reading. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the specified cold pressure. The tire will be underinflated.

Use a gauge to measure the air pressure at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose one to two psi per month. Remember to check the spare tire at the same time you check all the other tires.

You should get your own tire pressure gauge and use it whenever you check your tire pressures. This will make it easier for you to tell if a pressure loss is due to a tire problem and not due to a variation between gauges.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstRecommended Tire Pressures for Normal Driving The following chart shows the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving conditions and speeds. Tire pressures for high speed driving are shown on page 229.

The compact spare tire pressure is: 60 psi (4.2 kgf/cm2,420 kPa)

These pressures are also given on the tire information label on the driver's doorjamb.

Tires

Tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured. However, because leakage is often very slow, you should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.

Inspection Every time you check inflation, you should also examine the tires for damage, foreign objects, and wear.

You should look for:

Bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if you find either of these conditions.

Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side of the tire. Replace the tire if you can see fabric or cord.

Excessive tread wear.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstNOTICE

Improper wheel weights can damage your car's aluminum wheels. Use only Genuine Honda wheel weights for balancing.

Tires

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

Your car's tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down to that point, you will see a 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide band running across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. A tire that is this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see the tread wear indicator in three or more places around the tire.

Maintenance

Maintenance In addition to proper inflation, correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer check the wheel alignment.

The tires were properly balanced by the factory. They may need to be rebalanced at some time before they are worn out. Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consis- tent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel for repair.

Make sure the installer balances the wheels when you have new tires installed. This increases riding comfort and tire life. Your car's original tires were dynamic or "spin" balanced at the factory. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTire Rotation

Front

Front

(For Non-directional Tires and Wheels)

(For Directional Tires and Wheels)

To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, you should have the tires rotated every 7,500 miles (12,000 km). Move the tires to the positions shown in the chart each time they are rotated.

When shopping for replacement tires, you may find that some tires are "directional." This means they are designed to rotate only in one direction. If you use directional tires, they should be rotated only front-to-back.

Replacing Tires and Wheels The tires that came with your car were selected to match the perform- ance capabilities of the car while providing the best combination of handling, ride comfort, and long life. You should replace them with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire's sidewall). Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your car can reduce its braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy.

Tires

Installing improper tires on your car can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this owner's manual.

It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that is not possible or necessary, then replace the two front tires or the two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire can seriously affect your car's handling.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTires

The ABS works by comparing the speed of the wheels. When replacing tires, use the same size originally supplied with the car. Tire size and construction can affect wheel speed and may cause the system to work in- consistently.

If you ever need to replace a wheel, make sure the wheel's specifications match those of the original wheel that came on your car. Replacement wheels are available at your Honda dealer.

Wheels and Tires Wheel:

16 x 6 1/2 JJ

Tire:

205/50R16 87V

See Tire Information on page 228 for additional information about tire and wheel size designations. See page 229 for information about DOT Tire Quality Grading.

Winter Driving Tires that are marked "M+S" or "All Season" on the sidewall have an all-weather tread design. They should be suitable for most winter driving conditions. Tires without these markings are designed for optimum traction in dry conditions. They may not provide adequate performance in winter driving. For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSnow Tires If you mount snow tires on your Honda, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as the original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels to balance your car's handling in all weather conditions. Keep in mind the traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may not be as high as your car's original equipment tires. You should drive cautiously even when the roads are clear. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommenda- tions.

Tire Chains Mount snow chains on your car when warranted by driving condi- tions or required by local laws. Make sure the chains are the correct size for your tires. Install them only on the front tires. If metal chains are used, they must be SAE class "S". Cable type traction devices can also be used.

When installing chains, follow the manufacturer's instructions and mount them as tightly as you can. Drive slowly with chains installed. If you hear the chains contacting the body or chassis, stop and tighten them. If they still make contact, slow down until it stops. Remove the chains as soon as you begin driving on cleared roads.

Tires

NOTICE

Chains of the wrong size or that are improperly installed can damage your car's brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if you hear the chains hitting any part of the car.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstLights

Check the operation of your car's exterior lights at least once a month. A burned out bulb can create an unsafe condition by reducing your car's visibility and the ability to signal your intentions to other drivers. Check the following:

Headlights (low and high beam) Parking lights Taillights Brake lights High-mount brake light Turn signals Back-up lights Hazard light function License plate light Side marker lights Daytime running lights (Canadian cars)

Maintenance

If you find any bulbs are burned out, replace them as soon as possible. Refer to the chart on page 227 to determine what type of replacement bulb is needed.

Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your car was new. You should check their aim if you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk or pull a trailer. Each headlight assembly has horizontal and vertical adjustment indicators. These are set to their "0" positions after the headlights are aimed at the factory.

To check these settings:

1. Make sure the fuel tank is full. Park the car on level ground.

2. The driver or someone who

weighs the same should be sitting in the driver's seat for all checks and adjustments. Load the trunk with the items you normally carry.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHORIZONTAL ANGLE GAUGE

VERTICAL ANGLE GAUGE

HORIZONTAL ADJUSTMENT

Lights

BUBBLE

5. Check the vertical angle gauge. The bubble should be centered underneath the longest scribe mark on the gauge.

6. If either indicator is not aligned

with its "0" mark as described, an adjustment can be made using a Phillips-head screwdriver to realign it with the "0" mark. Please refer to the illustrations.

If you usually pull a trailer, load it as you would normally and attach it to the car. Push down on the front and rear bumpers several times to make sure the car is sitting normally.

3. Open the hood.

4. Check the horizontal angle gauge. The line on the adjustment screw indicator should line up with the "0" mark on the gauge.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstNOTICE

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb Your car has two bulbs on each side, four in total. Make sure you are replacing the bulb that is burned out. Your car uses halogen headlight bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its plastic case and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

The headlight bulbs in your car are H1 headlight bulbs for longer life. We recommend the use of Genuine Honda parts for replacing a headlight bulb.

Lights

VERTICAL ADJUSTMENT

7. If you cannot get an indicator to

align, have your Honda dealer inspect the car for body damage or suspension problems.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of Contentsst1. Open the hood.

2. Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by squeezing the connector on both sides to unlock the tab. Pull the connector straight off.

BULB

HOLD- DOWN WIRE WEATHER SEAL CONNECTOR 3. Remove the rubber weather seal

by pulling on the tab.

4. Unclip the end of the hold-down wire from its slot. Pivot it out of the way and remove the bulb.

Lights

5. Insert the new bulb into the hole, making sure the tabs are in their slots. Pivot the hold-down wire back in place and clip the end into the slot.

6. Install the rubber seal over the back of the headlight assembly. Make sure it is right side up; it is marked "TOP".

7. Push the electrical connector onto

the tabs of the new bulb. Make sure it locks in place. Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstLights

Replacing a Parking Light Bulb 1. Open the hood. The front parking light is next to the headlight bulb.

If you need to change a bulb on the passenger's side, remove the radiator reserve tank by pulling it out of its holder.

3. Pull the bulb straight out of its

socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

4. Insert the socket back into the

headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

5. Turn on the parking lights to

make sure the new bulb works.

6. (Passenger's side)

Reinstall the radiator reserve tank.

2. Remove the socket from the

headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstReplacing a Front Side Marker Light Bulb

BULB

SOCKET

SCREW

1. Use a Philips-head screwdriver to

remove the side marker assembly's mounting screw.

2. Remove the side marker assembly

from the bumper.

FRONT SIDE MARKER ASSEMBLY 3. Remove the socket from the side

marker assembly by turning it one- quarter turn counterclockwise.

4. Pull the bulb straight out of its

socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

Lights

5. Insert the socket back into the side marker assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

6. Test the side marker to make sure

the new bulb is working.

7. Put the side marker assembly into the bumper. Make sure the tab on the side marker assembly fits into the bumper slot. Tighten the mounting screw.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstLights

Replacing a Front Turn Signal Light Bulb

TURN SIGNAL ASSEMBLY

BULB

5. Insert the socket back into the

turn signal assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

6. Test the lights to make sure the

new bulb is working.

7. Put the turn signal assembly into

the bumper. Make sure the tab on the turn signal assembly fits into the bumper slot. Tighten the mounting screw.

SCREW

SOCKET

1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen the turn signal assembly's mounting screw.

3. Remove the socket from the turn signal assembly by turning it one- quarter turn counterclockwise.

2. Remove the turn signal assembly

from the bumper.

4. Pull the bulb straight out of its

socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstReplacing Rear Bulbs

Lights

1. Open the trunk.

2. Undo the fastener on the side of

the trunk lining by pushing on the center of the fastener's head until it pops in. Pull the lining back.

3. Determine which of the five bulbs is burned out: stop/taillight, turn signal light, side marker light, back-up light, or taillight.

5. Pull the bulb straight out of its

socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

4. Remove the socket by turning it

one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstLights

6. Reinstall the socket into the light assembly by turning it clockwise until it locks.

7. Test the lights to make sure the

new bulb is working.

8. Reinstall the trunk lining.

9. Reset the fastener by pushing on the pointed end until it pops back almost flush with the fingers on the housing.

10. Put the fastener in the hole in the side of the trunk lining and push on the center until it locks (the center is flush with the head).

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstReplacing a High-mount Brake Light Bulb (Except Type SH model)

HiGH-MOUNT BRAKE LIGHT ASSEMBLY

1. Remove the high-mount brake

light assembly by pushing it slightly toward the rear windshield and sliding it out of the rear shelf.

2. Remove the socket from the light assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

3. Pull the bulb straight out of its

socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

Lights

4. Reinstall the socket. Turn it

clockwise until it locks.

5. Test the lights to make sure the

new bulb is working.

6. Reinstall the high-mount brake

light assembly on the rear shelf. Make sure the tabs on the high- mount brake light assembly fit into the slots.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstLights

Replacing a Rear License Bulb

4. Turn on the parking lights and

check that the new bulb is working.

5. Put the license light assembly in

place. Reinstall the two screws and tighten them securely.

1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to

remove the two screws holding the license plate light assembly to the bracket. Pull the assembly away from the bracket.

2. Remove the socket from the light assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

3. Pull the bulb straight out of its

socket. Push the new bulb in until it bottoms in the socket.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstReplacing Bulbs in the Interior Courtesy Lights The courtesy lights in the doors and roof come apart the same way. They do not all use the same bulb. The spotlight bulbs are in the ceiling light housing.

1. Remove the lens by carefully

prying on the edge of the lens with a fingernail file or a small flat-tip screwdriver. Do not pry on the edge of the housing around the lens.

Ceiling light:

pry on the front edge of the lens in the middle.

On Type SH

Door light:

pry on the top middle of the lens.

CEILING LIGHT

DOOR LIGHT

Lights

2. Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its metal tabs.

3. Push the new bulb into the metal tabs. Snap the lens back in place.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstLights

Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb

TRUNK LIGHT

1. Open the trunk. Pull down the

trunk light cover.

2. Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its metal tabs.

3. Push the new bulb into the metal

tabs.

4. Push the cover back in place.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf you need to park your car for an extended period (more than one month), there are several things you should do to prepare it for storage. Proper preparation helps prevent deterioration and makes it easier to get your car back on the road. If possible, store your car indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter (see page 148).

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

Clean the interior. Make sure the carpeting, floor mats, etc. are completely dry.

Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in Reverse (5- speed manual) or Park (automatic).

Storing Your Car

Block the rear wheels.

If the car is to be stored for a longer period, it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (if the car is being stored indoors).

Disconnect the battery.

Support the front wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield.

To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door and trunk seals. Also, apply a car body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and trunk seals.

Cover the car with a "breathable" car cover, one made from a porous material such as cotton. Nonporous materials, such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture, which can damage the paint.

If possible, run the engine for a while periodically (preferably once a month).

If you store your car for 12 months or longer, have your Honda dealer perform the inspections called for in the 24 months/30,000 miles (48,000
km) maintenance schedule (Normal Conditions) as soon as you take it out of storage (see page 140). The replacements called for in the maintenance schedule are not needed unless the car has actually reached that time or mileage.

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAppearance Care

Regular cleaning and polishing of your Honda helps to keep it "new" looking. This section gives you hints on how to clean your car and preserve its appearance: the paint, brightwork, wheels and interior. Also included are several things you can do to help prevent corrosion.

Exterior Care.................................. 192
Washing...................................... 192
Waxing........................................ 193
Aluminum Wheels..................... 193
Paint Touch-up........................... 193
Interior Care................................... 194
Carpeting.................................... 194
Fabric.......................................... 194
Vinyl........................................... 194
Seat Belts.................................... 195
Windows..................................... 195
Air Fresheners........................... 196
Corrosion Protection..................... 196
Body Repairs.................................. 197

Appearance Care

Main MenustExterior Care

Washing Frequent washing helps preserve your car's beauty. Dirt and grit can scratch the paint, while tree sap and bird droppings can permanently ruin the finish.

Wash your car in a shady area, not in direct sunlight. If the car is parked in the sun, move it into the shade and let the exterior cool down before you start.

Only use the solvents and cleaners recommended in this Owner's Manual.

NOTICE

Chemical solvents and strong cleaners can damage the paint, metal, and plastic on your car.

Appearance Care

When you have washed and rinsed the whole exterior, dry it with a chamois or soft towel. Letting it air-dry will cause dulling and water spots.

As you dry the car, inspect it for chips and scratches that could allow corrosion to start. Repair them with touch-up paint (see page 193).

Rinse the car thoroughly with cool water to remove loose dirt.

Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix in a mild detergent, such as dishwashing liquid or a product made especially for car washing.

Wash the car, using the water and detergent solution and a soft- bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth. Start at the top and work your way down. Rinse frequently.

Check the body for road tar, tree sap, etc. Remove these stains with tar remover or turpentine. Rinse it off immediately so it does not harm the finish. Remember to re- wax these areas, even if the rest of the car does not need waxing.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWaxing Always wash and dry the whole car before waxing it You should wax your car, including the metal trim, whenever water sits on the surface in large patches. It should form into beads or droplets after waxing.

You should use a quality liquid or paste wax. Apply it according to the instructions On the container. In general, there are two types of products:

Waxes — A wax coats the finish and protects it from damage by exposure to sunlight, air pollution, etc. You should use a wax on your Honda when it is new.

Polishes — Polishes and cleaner/ waxes can restore the shine to paint that has oxidized and lost some of its shine. They normally contain mild abrasives and solvents that remove the top layer of the finish. You

should use a polish on your Honda if the finish does not have its original shine after using a wax.

Cleaning tar, insects, etc. with removers also takes off the wax. Remember to re-wax those areas, even if the rest of the car does not need waxing.

Aluminum Wheels Clean your Honda's aluminum alloy wheels as you do the rest of the exterior. Wash them with the same solution, and rinse them thoroughly.

The wheels have a protective clear- coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing. Using harsh chemicals, including some commercial wheel cleaners, or stiff brushes can damage this clear-coat. Only use a mild detergent and soft brush or sponge to clean the wheels.

Exterior Care

Paint Touch-up Your dealer has touch-up paint to match your car's color. The color code is printed on a sticker on the driver's doorjamb. Take this code to your dealer so you are sure to get the correct color.

Inspect your car frequently for chips or scratches in the paint. Repair them right away to prevent corrosion of the metal underneath. Use the touch-up paint only on small chips and scratches. More extensive paint damage should be repaired by a professional.

Appearance Care

Main MenuTable of ContentsstInterior Care

Carpeting Vacuum the carpeting frequently to remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make the carpet wear out faster. Periodically shampoo the carpet to keep it looking new. Use one of the foam-type carpet cleaners on the market. Follow the instructions that come with the cleaner, applying it with a sponge or soft brush. Keep the carpeting as dry as possible by not adding water to the foam.

Fabric Vacuum dirt and dust out of the material frequently. For general cleaning, use a solution of mild soap and lukewarm water, letting it air dry. To clean off stubborn spots, use a commercially-available fabric cleaner. Test it on a hidden area of the fabric first, to make sure it does not bleach or stain the fabric. Follow the instructions that come with the cleaner.

Vinyl Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft cloth dampened in a solution of mild soap and water. Use the same solution with a soft-bristle brush on more difficult spots. You can also use commercially-available spray or foam-type vinyl cleaners.

Appearance Care

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSeat Belts

LOOP

Dirt build-up in the metal loops of the seat belt anchors can cause the belts to retract slowly. Wipe the insides of the loops with a clean cloth dampened in mild soap and warm water or isopropyl alcohol.

If your seat belts get dirty, you can use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean them. Do not use bleach, dye, or cleaning solvents. They can weaken the belt material. Let the belts air- dry before you use the car.

Interior Care

Windows Clean the windows, inside and out, with a commercially-available glass cleaner. You can also use a mixture of one part white vinegar to ten parts water. This will remove the haze that builds up on the inside of the windows. Use a soft cloth or paper towels to clean all glass and clear plastic surfaces.

NOTICE

The rear window defogger and antenna wires are bonded to the inside of the glass. Wiping vigorously up-and- down can dislodge and break these wires. When cleaning the rear window, use gentle pressure and wipe side-to- side.

Appearance Care

Main MenuTable of ContentsstInterior Care, Corrosion Protection

Air Fresheners If you want to use an air freshener/ deodorizer in the interior of your car, it is best to use a solid type. Some liquid air fresheners contain chemi- cals that may cause parts of the interior trim and fabric to crack or discolor.

If you use a liquid air freshener, make sure you fasten it securely so it does not spill as you drive.

Corrosion Protection Two factors normally contribute to causing corrosion in your car:

Inspect and clean out the drain holes in the bottom of the doors and body.

1. Moisture trapped in body cavities. Dirt and road salt that collects in hollows on the underside of the car stays damp, promoting corrosion in that area.

2. Removal of paint and protective

coatings from the exterior and underside of the car.

Many corrosion-preventive measures are built into your Honda. You can help keep your car from corroding by performing some simple periodic maintenance:

Repair chips and scratches in the paint as soon as you discover them.

Check the floor coverings for dampness. Carpeting and floor mats may remain damp for a long time, especially in winter. This dampness can eventually cause the floor panels to corrode.

Use a high-pressure spray to clean the underside of your car. This is especially important in areas that use road salt in winter. It is also a good idea in humid climates and areas subject to salt air. Be careful of the ABS wheel sensors and wiring at each wheel.

Have the corrosion-preventive coatings on the underside of your car inspected and repaired periodically.

Appearance Care

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBody repairs can affect your car's resistance to corrosion. If your car needs repairs after a collision, pay close attention to the parts used in the repair and the quality of the work.

Make sure the repair facility uses Genuine Honda replacement body parts. Some companies make sheet metal pieces that seem to duplicate the original Honda body parts, but are actually inferior in fit, finish, and corrosion resistance. Once installed, they do not give the same high- quality appearance.

When reporting your collision to the insurance company, tell them you want Genuine Honda parts used in the repair. Although most insurers recognize the quality of original parts, some may try to specify that the repairs be done with other available parts. You should investi- gate this before any repairs are begun.

Take your car to your authorized Honda dealer for inspection after the repairs are completed. He can make sure that quality materials were used, and that corrosion-preventive coatings were applied to all repaired and replaced parts.

Body Repairs

Appearance Care

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTaking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more- common problems that motorists experience with their cars. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your car towed.

Compact Spare Tire....................... 200
Changing a Flat Tire..................... 201
If Your Engine Won't Start........... 206

Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly............................. 207

The Starter Operates

Normally................................. 208
Jump Starting................................. 208
If Your Engine Overheats............. 210
Low Oil Pressure Indicator.......... 212
Charging System Indicator........... 213
Malfunction Indicator Lamp........ 214
Closing the Moonroof................... 215
Fuses............................................... 216
Checking and Replacing........... 217
Towing............................................ 221

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenustCompact Spare Tire

Your car has a compact spare tire that takes up less space. Use this spare tire as a temporary replace- ment only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced and put back on your car as soon as you can.

Check the inflation pressure of the compact spare tire every time you check the other tires. It should be inflated to: 60 psi (4.2 kgf/cm2, 420 kPa )

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Follow these precautions whenever you are using the compact spare tire:

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any circumstances.

This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road sur- faces than the regular tire. Use greater caution while driving on this tire.

Do not mount snow chains on the compact spare.

The wheel of the compact spare tire is designed especially to fit your car. Do not use your spare tire on another car unless it is the same make and model.

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

The compact spare tire has a shorter tread life than a regular tire. Replace it when you can see the tread wear indicator bars. The replacement should be the same size and design tire, mounted on the same wheel. The compact spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the compact wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder of a busy road is dangerous. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area to stop that is far away from the traffic lanes.

The car can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the car when it is supported only by the jack.

Changing a Flat Tire

JACK

TRUNK FLOOR

3. Open the trunk. Raise the trunk

floor by lifting up on the back edge.

4. Take the tool kit out of the trunk.

5. Unscrew the wing bolt and take

the spare tire out of its well.

TOOL KIT

SPARE TIRE

1. Park the car on firm, level ground

away from traffic. Turn on the hazard warning lights and turn the ignition to LOCK (0).

2. Put the transmission in Park

(automatic) or Reverse (manual). Set the parking brake. Have all of the passengers get out of the car while you change the tire.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChanging a Flat Tire

JACK

HANDLE

COVER 6. The jack is behind a cover in the left fender. Remove the cover by turning the handle clockwise, then pulling on the cover.

7. Turn the jack's end bracket

counterclockwise to loosen it, then remove the jack.

WHEEL WRENCH

8. Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2

turn with the wheel wrench.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChanging a Flat Tire

JACKING POINT

WHEEL WRENCH

EXTENSION

9. Locate the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. It is pointed to by mark molded into the underside of the body. Place the jack under the jacking point. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.

10.Use the extension and wheel

wrench as shown to raise the car until the flat tire is off the ground.

11.Remove the wheel nuts and flat

tire. Temporarily place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface of the wheel facing up. You could scratch the wheel if you put it face down.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChanging a Flat Tire

BRAKE HUB 12.Before mounting the spare tire, wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with a clean cloth.

13.Put on the spare tire. Put the

wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten them fully.

14.Lower the car to the ground and

remove the jack.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChanging a Flat Tire

WING BOLT

SPACER CONE

15.Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 80 lbf.ft (11 kgf.m ,108 N .m)

CENTER CAP

16.Remove the center cap before storing the flat tire in the trunk well.

17.Place the flat tire face down in the

spare tire well.

18.Remove the spacer cone from the

wing bolt, turn it over, and put it back on the bolt.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChanging a Flat Tire, If Your Engine Won't Start

19.Secure the flat tire by screwing the wing bolt back into its hole.

20.Store the jack in its holder. Turn

the jack's end bracket to lock it in place. Replace the cover. Store the tool kit.

21.Store the center cap in the trunk.

Make sure it does not get scratch- ed or damaged.

22.Lower the trunk floor, then close

the trunk lid.

Loose items can fly around the interior in a crash and could seriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack and tools securely before driving.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

If Your Engine Won't Start Diagnosing why your engine won't start falls into two areas, depending on what you hear when you turn the key to START (III):

You hear nothing, or almost nothing. The engine's starter motor does not operate at all, or operates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motor operating normally, or the starter motor sounds like it is spinning faster than normal, but the engine does not start up and run.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstNothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly When you turn the ignition switch to START (III), you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound or series of clicks, or nothing at all. Check these things:

Your vehicle has the Immobilizer System. You should use a properly-coded master or valet key to start the engine (see page 47). A key that is not properly coded will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the dash panel to blink rapidly.

Check the transmission interlock. If you have a manual transmission, the clutch pedal must be pushed all the way to the floor or the starter will not operate. With an automatic transmission, it must be in Park or Neutral.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Turn on the headlights and check their brightness. If the headlights are very dim or don't light at all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting on page 208.

Turn the ignition switch to START (III). If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses. If the fuses are OK, there is proba- bly something wrong with the electrical circuit for the ignition switch or starter motor. You will need a qualified technician to determine the problem. (See Towing on page 221.)

If Your Engine Won't Start

If the headlights dim noticeably or go out when you try to start the engine, either the battery is dis- charged or the connections are corroded. Check the condition of the battery and terminal connec- tions (see page 163). You can then try jump starting the car from a booster battery (see page 208).

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf Your Engine Won't Start, Jump Starting

The Starter Operates Normally In this case, the starter motor's speed sounds normal, or even faster than normal, when you turn the Ignition switch to START (III), but the engine does not run.

Are you using the proper starting procedure? Refer to Starting the Engine on page 109.

Do you have fuel? Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) for a minute and watch the fuel gauge. The low fuel level warning light may not be working, so you were not reminded to fill the tank.

There may be an electrical problem, such as no power to the fuel pump. Check all the fuses (see page 216).

If you find nothing wrong, you will need a qualified technician to find the problem. See Towing on page 221.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Jump Starting If your car's battery has run down, you may be able to start the engine by using a booster battery. Although this seems like a simple procedure, you should take several precautions.

A battery can explode if you do not follow the correct procedure, seriously injuring anyone nearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away from the battery.

You cannot start a Honda with an automatic transmission by pushing or pulling it.

To jump start your car, follow these directions closely:

1. Open the hood and check the

physical condition of the battery (see page 163). In very cold weather, check the condition of the electrolyte. If it seems slushy or like ice, do not try jump starting until it thaws.

NOTICE

If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can freeze. Attempting to jump start with a frozen battery can cause it to rupture.

2. Turn off all the electrical acces-

sories: heater, A/C, stereo system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in Neutral or Park and set the parking brake.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstJump Starting

3. Connect one jumper cable to the

positive ( +) terminal on the booster battery. Connect the other end to the positive ( +) terminal on your Honda's battery.

4. Connect the second jumper cable to the negative (—) terminal on the booster battery. Connect the other end to the grounding strap as shown. Do not connect this jumper cable to any other part of the engine.

5. If the booster battery is in another car, have an assistant start that car and run it at a fast idle.

BOOSTER BATTERY

6. Start your car. If the starter motor

still operates slowly, check the jumper cable connections to make sure they have good metal-to- metal contact.

7. Once your car is running, discon- nect the negative cable from your car, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your car, then the booster battery.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf Your Engine Overheats

The pointer of your car's tempera- ture gauge should stay in the mid- range under most conditions. It may go higher if you are driving up a long steep hill on a very hot day. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason.

NOTICE

Driving with the temperature gauge pointer at the red mark can cause serious damage to your engine.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Your car can overheat for several reasons, such as lack of coolant or a mechanical problem. The only indication may be the temperature gauge climbing to or above the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the hood. In either case, you should take immediate action.

Steam and spray from an overheated engine can seriously scald you.

2. If you see steam and/or spray

coming from under the hood, turn off the engine.

3. If you do not see steam or spray,

leave the engine running and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading (climbing a long, steep hill on a hot day with the A/C running, for example), the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the tempera- ture gauge comes down to the mid- point then continue driving.

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

4. If the temperature gauge stays at the red mark, turn off the engine.

1. Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in Neutral or Park and set the parking brake. Turn off the heating and cooling system and all other accessories. Turn on the hazard warning indicators.

5. Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood.

Main MenuTable of Contentsst6. Look for any obvious coolant leaks,

such as a split radiator hose. Everything is still extremely hot, so use caution. If you find a leak, it must be repaired before you continue driving (see Towing on page 221).

7. If you don't find an obvious leak,

check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank (see page 103). If the level is below the MIN mark, add coolant to halfway between the MIN and MAX marks.

8. If there was no coolant in the

reserve tank, you may also have to add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the pointer reaches the middle of the tempera- ture gauge, or lower, before check- ing the radiator.

Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.

9. Using gloves or a large heavy

cloth, turn the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pushing down, to the first stop. This releases any remaining pressure in the cooling system. After the pressure releases, push down on the cap and turn it until it comes off.

If Your Engine Overheats

10.Start the engine and set the temperature control lever to maximum. Add coolant to the radiator up to the base of the filler neck. If you do not have the proper coolant mixture available, you can add plain water. Remember to have the cooling system drained and refilled with the proper mixture as soon as you can.

11.Put the radiator cap back on

tightly. Run the engine and watch the temperature gauge. If it goes back to the red mark, the engine needs repair. (See Towing on page 221.)

12.If the temperature stays normal,

check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. If it has gone down, add coolant to the MAX mark. Put the cap back on tightly.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of Contentsst4. Start the engine and watch the oil

pressure indicator. If the light does not go out within ten seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving. (See Towing on page 221.)

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

This indicator should light when the ignition is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. It should never come on when the engine is running. If it starts flashing, it indicates that the oil pressure dropped very low for a moment, then recovered. If the indicator stays on with the engine running, it shows that the engine has lost oil pressure and serious engine damage is possible. In either case, you should take immediate action.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

NOTICE

Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical damage almost immediately. Turn off the engine as soon as you can safely get the car stopped.

1. Safely pull off the road and shut

off the engine. Turn on the hazard warning indicators.

2. Let the car sit for a minute. Open the hood and check the oil level (see page 102). Although oil level and oil pressure are not directly connected, an engine that is very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.

3. If necessary, add oil to bring the level back to the full mark on the dipstick (see page 146).

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCharging System Indicator

By eliminating as much of the electrical load as possible, you can drive several miles before the battery is too discharged to keep the engine running. Drive to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.

Immediately turn off all electrical accessories: radio, heater, A/C, rear defogger, cruise control, etc. Try not to use other electrically-operated controls such as the power windows. Keep the engine running and take extra care not to stall it. Starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly.

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

This indicator should come on when the ignition is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. If it comes on brightly when the engine is running, it indicates that the charging system has stopped charging the battery.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstNOTICE

If you keep driving with the malfunc- tion indicator lamp on, you can damage your car's emission controls and engine. Those repairs may not be covered by your car's warranties.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

This indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, it indicates one of the engine's emissions control systems may have a problem. Even though you may feel no difference in your car's performance, it can reduce your fuel economy and cause your car to put out excessive emissions. Continued operation may cause serious damage.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

If you have recently refueled your vehicle, the cause of this indicator coming on could be a loose or missing fuel fill cap. Check the cap and tighten it until it clicks. Replace the fuel fill cap if it is missing. Tightening the cap will not make the indicator turn off immediately; it takes three driving trips.

If the indicator remains on past three driving trips, or the fuel cap was not loose or missing, have the vehicle checked by the dealer as soon as possible. Drive moderately until the dealer has inspected the problem. Avoid full-throttle acceleration and driving at high speed.

You should also have the dealer inspect your vehicle if this indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may turn off as you continue driving.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf the electric motor will not close the moonroof, do the following:

1. Check the fuse for the moonroof motor (see page 217). If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same or lower rating.

2. Try closing the moonroof. If the

new fuse blows immediately or the moonroof motor still does not operate, you can close the moonroof manually.

3. Get the tool out of the tool kit in

the trunk.