2000 Honda Prelude Owners Manual

dealer has inspected the problem. Avoid full-throttle acceleration and driving at high speed.

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

The Brake System indicator light comes on when you turn the ignition ON (II). If the parking brake is not set, it goes off after you start the engine. If the parking brake is set, it goes off when you fully release the parking brake with the engine running.

If it comes on at any other time, it indicates a problem with the car's brake system. In most cases, the problem is a low fluid level in the

brake fluid reservoir. Press lightly on the brake pedal to see if it feels normal. If it does, check the brake fluid level the next time you stop at a service station (see page 193 ). If the fluid level is low, take the car to your dealer and have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

However, if the brake pedal does not feel normal, you should take immediate action. Because of the brake system's dual-circuit design, a problem in one part of the system will still give you braking at two wheels. You will feel the brake pedal go down much farther before the car begins to slow down, and you will have to press harder on the pedal. The distance needed to stop will be much longer.

Slow down by shifting to a lower gear, and pull to the side of the road when it is safe. Because of the

Brake System Indicator

longer distance needed to stop, it is hazardous to drive the car. You should have it towed, and repaired as soon as possible. (See Emergency Towing on page 258.) If you must drive the car a short distance in this condition, drive slowly and cautiously.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstClosing the Moonroof

If the electric motor will not close the moonroof, do the following:

1. Check the fuse for the moonroof motor (see page 254). 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 sunroof wrench out of the

tool kit in the trunk.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

SOCKET

ROUND PLUG

4. Use a screwdriver or coin to remove the round plug in the center of the headliner.

5. Insert the moonroof wrench into the socket behind this plug. Turn the wrench until the moonroof is fully closed.

6. Remove the wrench. Replace the

round plug.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAll the electrical circuits in your car have fuses to protect them from a short circuit or overload. These fuses are located in two fuse boxes.

UNDER-HOOD

TAB

INTERIOR

Fuses

KNOB

The under-hood fuse box is located in the back of the engine compart- ment on the passenger's side. To open it, push the tab as shown.

The interior fuse box is underneath the dashboard on the driver's side. To open it, turn the knob as shown.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFuses

Checking and Replacing Fuses If something electrical in your car stops working, the first thing you should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on pages 256 and 257 , or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that component. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that a blown fuse is not the cause. Replace any blown fuses and check the component's operation.

1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Make sure the headlights and all other accessories are off.

2. Remove the cover from the fuse

box.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

FUSE

FUSE PULLER

BLOWN

3. Check each of the large fuses in

the under-hood fuse box by looking through the top at the wire inside. Removing these fuses requires a Phillips-head screw- driver.

4. Check the smaller fuses in the

under-hood fuse box and all the fuses in the interior fuse box by pulling out each fuse with the fuse puller provided in the interior fuse box.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBLOWN

5. Look for a burned wire inside the fuse. If it is burned, replace it with one of the spare fuses of the same rating or lower.

If you cannot drive the car without fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits. Make sure you can do without that circuit temporarily (such as the accessory power socket or radio).

If you replace the blown fuse with a spare fuse that has a lower rating, it might blow out again. This does not indicate anything wrong. Replace the fuse with one of the correct rating as soon as you can.

Fuses

NOTICE

Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chances of damaging the electrical system. If you do not have a replace- ment fuse with the proper rating for the circuit, install one with a lower rating.

6. If the replacement fuse of the

same rating blows in a short time, there is probably a serious electrical problem in your car. Leave the blown fuse in that circuit and have your car checked by a qualified mechanic.

If the radio fuse is removed, the audio system will disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio you will see in the frequency display. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code (see page 123).

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFuses

INTERIOR FUSE BOX

* 1 : On Type SH * 2 : On Canadian models

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstUNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX

Fuses

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstEmergency Towing

If your car needs to be towed, call a professional towing service or, if you belong to one, an organization that provides roadside assistance. Never tow your car behind another vehicle with just a rope or chain. It is very dangerous.

There are three popular methods of towing a vehicle:

Flat-bed Equipment — The operator loads your car on the back of a truck. This is the best way to transport your Honda.

Wheel-Lift Equipment — The tow truck uses two pivoting arms that go under the tires (front or rear) and lift them off the ground. The other two tires remain on the ground. This is an acceptable way to tow your Honda.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Sling-type Equipment — The tow truck uses metal cables with hooks on the ends. These hooks go around parts of the frame or suspension and the cables lift that end of the car off the ground. Your car's suspension and body can be seriously damaged. This method of towing is unacceptable.

If your Honda cannot be transported by flat-bed, it should be towed by wheel-lift equipment with the front wheels off the ground. If, due to damage, your car must be towed with the front wheels on the ground, do the following:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Release the parking brake. Shift the transmission to Neutral.

Automatic Transmission:

Release the parking brake. Start the engine. Shift to D4, then to N. Turn off the engine.

NOTICE

Improper towing preparation will damage the transmission. Follow the above procedure exactly If you cannot shift the transmission or start the engine (automatic transmission), your car must be transported with the front wheels off the ground.

With the front wheels on the ground, it is best to tow the car no farther than 50 miles (80 km), and keep the speed below 35 mph (55 km/h).

Main MenuTable of ContentsstNOTICE

Trying to lift or tow your car by the bumpers will cause serious damage. The bumpers are not designed to support the car's weight.

If you decide to tow your car with all four wheels on the ground, make sure you use a properly-designed and attached tow bar. Prepare the car for towing as described above, and leave the ignition switch in Accessory (I) so the steering wheel docs not lock. Make sure the radio and any items plugged into the accessory power socket are turned off so they do not run down the battery.

NOTICE

The steering system can he damaged if the steering wheel is locked. Leave the ignition switch in Accessory (I), and make sure the steering wheel turns freely before you begin towing.

Emergency Towing

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe diagrams in this section give you the dimensions and capacities of your Honda, and the locations of the identification numbers. The expla- nations of several electronic and mechanical systems on your Honda are for the more technically-oriented owner.

Technical Information

Identification Numbers................. 262
Specifications................................. 264
DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 266
Treadwear.................................. 266
Traction....................................... 266
Temperature.............................. 267

Oxygenated Fuels.......................... 268
Driving in Foreign Countries....... 269
Emissions Controls........................ 270
The Clean Air Act...................... 270
Crankcase Emissions Control

System..................................... 270

Evaporative Emissions Control

System.....................................270
Exhaust Emissions Controls.... 271
PGM-FI System..................... 271
Ignition Timing Control

System.................................271

Exhaust Gas Recirculation

(EGR) System.................... 271

Three Way Catalytic

Converter............................ 271
Replacement Parts..................... 271
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 272

Technical Information

Main MenustIdentification Numbers

Your car has several identifying numbers located in various places.

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the 17-digit number your Honda dealer uses to register your car for warranty purposes. It is also necessary for licensing and insuring your car. The easiest place to find the VIN is on a plate fastened to the top of the dashboard. You can see it by looking through the windshield on the driver's side. It is also on the Certification label attached to the driver's doorjamb, and is stamped on the engine compartment bulkhead. The VIN is also provided in bar code on the Certification label.

Technical Information

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

CERTIFICATION LABEL

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIdentification 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 ContentsstSpecifications

page 198 .

Technical Information

* 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the

engine. Reserve tank capacity: 0.16 US gal (0.6 l , 0.13 Imp gal)

* 2: Type SH *3 : Except Type SH *4 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSpecifications

page 256

page 257

* 1 : Except high-mount brake light installed in rear spoiler * 2 : Type SH

* 1 : Except Type SH * 2 : Type SH

* 1 : Except Type SH * 2 : Type SH

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between the tread shoulder and the maximum section width. For example:

Treadwear 200
Traction AA Temperature A

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.

Traction The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades 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 assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstDOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Cars)

Warning: 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.

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 ContentsstIf you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another service station or switch to another brand of gasoline.

Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel containing more than the percentages of oxygenates given above are not covered under warranty.

Oxygenated Fuels

Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred to as oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standards, some areas of the United States and Canada use oxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions.

If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it is unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating requirement.

Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel's contents. Some states/provinces require this information to be posted on the pump.

Technical Information

The following are the U.S. EPA and Canadian CGSB approved percentages of oxygenates:

ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 10 percent ethanol by volume. Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name "Gasohol."

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

METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel that contains methanol. Methanol can corrode metal parts in the fuel system, and also damage plastic and rubber components. This damage would not be covered by your warranties.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf you are planning to take your Honda outside the U.S. or Canada, contact the tourist bureaus in the areas you will be traveling in to find out about the availability of unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating.

If unleaded gasoline is not available, be aware that using leaded gasoline in your Honda will affect perfor- mance and fuel mileage, and damage its emissions controls. It will no longer comply with U.S. and Canadian emissions regulations, and will be illegal to operate in North America. To bring your car back into compliance will require the replace- ment of several components, such as the oxygen sensors and the three way catalytic converter. These re- placements are not covered under warranty.

Driving in Foreign Countries

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentsstEmissions Controls

The 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.

Technical Information

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 emissions controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emissions controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page 172.

* In Canada, Honda vehicles comply with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) for Emissions valid at the time they are manufactured.

Crankcase Emissions 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 Emissions Control System As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, an evaporative emissions 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.

Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery The Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR) system captures the fuel vapors during refueling. The vapors are adsorbed in a canister filled with activated carbon. While driving, the fuel vapors are drawn into the engine and burned off.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstExhaust Emissions Controls The exhaust emissions 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 emissions control systems are separate from the crankcase and evaporative emissions 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.

Ignition Timing 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 (CO2), dinitrogen (N2), and water vapor.

Emissions Controls

Replacement Parts The emissions 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.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of Contentsst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

The 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.

Technical Information

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.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarranty and Customer Relations

Customer Relations

Information................................. 274
U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 275
Canada Zone Office Map.............. 276
Warranty Coverages..................... 277
Reporting Safety Defects

(U.S. Vehicles)........................... 278
Authorized Manuals...................... 279

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenustCustomer 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 262) 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 ContentsstU.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

Irving, Texas 75063
(972) 929-5481

Central Zone 101 South Stanfield Road

Troy, Ohio 45373
(937) 332-6250

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

Northeastern Zone P.O. Box 337

Aurora, Colorado 80012
(303) 696-3935

Eastgate Industrial Park 115 Gaither Drive Moorestown, New Jersey 08057
(609) 235-5533
Includes: NYC Metro area and Fairfield County, CT area

Puerto Rico and U.S. V.I. Bella International

P.O. Box 190816
San Juan, PR 00919-0816
(787) 250-4318

Warranty and Customer Relations

The addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannot reach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the current information.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCanada Zone Office Map

CUSTOMER RELATIONS RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTELE

Honda Canada Inc. 715 Milner Avenue Toronto, ON M1B 2K8

Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9

Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909
Toronto (416) 287-4776

Warranty and Customer Relations

Honda Canada Inc. National Office

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWarranty Coverages

U.S. Owners Your new Honda is covered by these warranties:

New Car Limited Warranty — covers your new vehicle, except for the battery, emissions control systems and accessories, against defects in materials and workmanship.

Emissions Control Systems Defects Warranty and Emissions Performance Warranty — these two warranties cover your vehicle's emis- sions control systems. Time, mileage, and coverage are conditional. Please read the warranty manual for exact information.

Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty — this warranty gives up to 100 percent credit toward a replacement battery.

Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat belt that fails to function properly is covered for the useful life of the vehicle.

Replacement Battery Limited Warranty — provides prorated coverage for a replacement battery purchased from a Honda dealer.

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.

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 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 2000 Honda Warranty Information booklet that came with your car for precise information on warranty coverages. Your Honda's original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty infor- mation is in a separate booklet.

Canadian Owners Please refer to the 2000 Warranty Manual that came with your car.

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstReporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

If NHTSA receives similar com- plaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

Warranty and Customer Relations

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPurchasing 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 their 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.

61S3003

61S3003EL

61S3030

31S30630

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAuthorized 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 vehicle.

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 ContentsstSeat Belt Maintenance................ 44
Seat Belt System Components... 42

Additional Information About

Your SRS...................................45
Additional Safety Precautions.... 48
How the SRS Indicator Light

Works........................................ 47
How Your Airbags Work............ 45
SRS Components......................... 45
Additives, Engine Oil..................... 182
Adjustments

Headlights.................................. 213
Head Restraints........................... 82
Mirrors.......................................... 88
Seats.............................................. 80
Steering Wheel............................ 66
Airbag (SRS).................................... 45
Air Cleaner Element...................... 195
Air Conditioning............................... 98
Maintenance............................... 202
Usage............................................. 98
Air Conditioning Filter.................. 203
Air Outlets (Vents)........................ 100
Air Pressure, Tires........................ 205
High Speed Driving................... 206
Normal Driving.......................... 206

Index

Alcohol in Gasoline........................ 268
Antifreeze....................................... 185
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Indicator Light.................... 56, 156
Operation.................................... 154

Anti-theft Steering Column

Lock............................................... 73
Appearance Care........................... 227
Ashtrays (Optional)......................... 94
Audio System................................. 106
Automatic Speed Control................ 67
Automatic Transmission............... 144
Capacity, Fluid........................... 264
Checking Fluid Level................ 191
Sequential SportShift Mode..... 147
Shifting........................................ 145
Shift Lever Position Indicator.. 144
Shift Lever Positions................. 145
Shift Lock Release..................... 151

CONTINUED

Accessories and Modifications.... 133
Accessories................................. 133
Additional Safety Precautions.. 134
Modifications............................. 134

ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

Position)........................................ 73
Accessory Power Socket................ 93
Active Torque Transfer System

(ATTS)

Indicator............................... 56, 157
Operation.................................... 157

Adding

Automatic Transmission

Fluid........................................ 191
Brake Fluid................................. 193
Clutch Fluid................................ 194
Engine Coolant........................... 185
Engine Oil................................... 181
Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 192
Power Steering Fluid................. 194
Windshield Washer Fluid......... 190

Additional Information About

Your Seat Belts........................ 42
Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 42

Main MenustIndex

Battery

Charging System

Indicator............................ 55, 249
Jump Starting............................. 244
Maintenance............................... 198
Specifications............................. 265
Before Driving............................... 125
Belts, Seat........................................... 8
Beverage Holder.............................. 91
Body Repair.................................... 233
Brakes

Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 154
Break-in, New Linings .............. 126
Fluid............................................ 193
Light, Burned-out....................... 219
Parking..........................................89
System Indicator.......................... 55
Wear Indicators......................... 153

Brakes, ABS

Operation.................................... 154
System Indicator.................. 56, 156
Braking System.............................. 153
Break-in, New Car......................... 126
Brightness Control, Instruments... 63

Brights, Headlights......................... 62
Bulb Replacement

Back-up Lights........................... 219
Brake Lights............................... 219
Ceiling Lights............................. 223
Courtesy Lights......................... 223
Front Parking Lights................. 216
Front Side Marker Lights......... 217
Headlights.................................. 214
High-mount Brake Light.......... 221
License Plate Light.................... 222
Rear Side Marker Lights.......... 219
Specifications............................. 265
Trunk Light................................ 224
Turn Signal Lights..................... 218
Bulbs, Halogen............................... 214

Cables, Jump Starting With.......... 244
Capacities Chart............................. 264
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 49
Cargo, Loading............................... 135
Cassette Player

Care............................................. 122
Operation.................................... 119

CAUTION, Explanation of ............... ii CD Changer.................................... 114
CD Player........................................ 112
Certification Label......................... 262
Chains............................................. 210
Change Oil

How to......................................... 183
When to....................................... 172
Changing a Flat Tire..................... 237
Changing Engine Coolant............. 187
Charging System Indicator .... 55, 249
Checking

Automatic Transmission

Fluid........................................ 191
Battery Condition...................... 198
Brake Fluid................................. 193
Clutch Fluid................................ 194
Drive Belts.................................. 204
Engine Coolant........................... 131
Engine Oil................................... 130
Fuses...........................................254
Manual Transmission Fluid ..... 192
Power Steering Fluid................. 194
Checklist, Before Driving............. 140
Child Safety...................................... 21
Cleaner, Air.................................... 195

Main MenustCleaning

Aluminum Wheels..................... 229
Carpeting.................................... 230
Exterior....................................... 228
Fabric.......................................... 230
Interior........................................ 230
Seat Belts.................................... 231
Vinyl............................................ 230
Windows..................................... 231
Clock, Setting the ............................ 90
Clutch Fluid.................................... 194
Coin Box........................................... 93
CO in the Exhaust......................... 270
Cold Weather, Starting in............. 141
Compact Spare............................... 236
Consumer Information*................ 274
Controls, Instruments and.............. 51
Coolant

Adding......................................... 185
Checking.....................................131
Proper Solution.......................... 185
Replacing.................................... 187
Temperature Gauge.................... 59
Corrosion Protection..................... 232
Courtesy Lights............................... 95

Crankcase Emission Control

System.........................................270
Cruise Control Operation............... 67
Customer Relations Office........... 274

DANGER, Explanation of................. ii Dashboard........................................ 52
Daytime Running Lights................. 62
Dead Battery, What to Do............ 244
Defects, Reporting Safety............. 278
Defog and Defrost......................... 104
Defogger, Rear Window................. 65
DEXRON® III Automatic

Transmission Fluid.................... 191
Dimensions..................................... 264
Dimming the Headlights................ 62
Dipstick

Automatic Transmission........... 191
Engine Oil...................................130
Directional Signals........................... 63
Disabled, Towing Your Car If...... 258
Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 153
Disposal of Used Oil...................... 184

Index

Doors

Locking and Unlocking............... 74
Power Door Locks....................... 74
DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 266
Downshifting, 5-speed Manual

Transmission.............................. 142
Drive Belts...................................... 204
Driving............................................ 139
Economy..................................... 132
In Bad Weather.......................... 158
In Foreign Countries................. 269

Economy, Fuel............................... 132
Emergencies on the Road............. 235
Batteiy, Jump Starting.............. 244
Brake System Indicator............ 251
Changing a Flat Tire................. 237
Charging System Indicator ...... 249
Checking the Fuses................... 254
Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 248
Malfunction Indicator Lamp .... 250
Manually Closing Moonroof .... 252
Overheated Engine................... 246

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Emergency Brake............................ 89
Emergency Flashers....................... 65
Emergency Towing....................... 258
Emission Controls......................... 270
Engine

Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 59
Malfunction Indicator

Lamp................................. 55, 250
Oil Pressure Indicator......... 55, 248
Oil, What Kind to Use............... 181
Overheating................................ 246
Specifications............................. 264
Ethanol in Gasoline ....................... 268
Evaporative Emission Controls.... 270
Exhaust Fumes................................ 49
Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat

Belts by......................................... 19
Exterior. Cleaning the................... 228

Fabric, Cleaning............................. 230
Fan, Interior...................................... 98
Features, Comfort and

Convenience................................. 97
Filling the Fuel Tank..................... 127

Filters

Air................................................ 195
Oil................................................ 183
First Gear, Shifting........................ 150
5-speed Manual Transmission

Checking Fluid Level................ 192
Shifting the................................. 142
Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 65
Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 237
Fluids

Automatic Transmission........... 191
Brake........................................... 193
Clutch.......................................... 194
Manual Transmission............... 192
Power Steering........................... 194
Windshield Washer................... 190

FM Stereo Radio

Reception.................................... 110
Folding Rear Seat............................ 84
Foreign Countries, Driving in...... 269
Four-way Flashers........................... 65
Front End, Towing by

Emergency Wrecker................. 258
Fuel.................................................. 126
Fill Door and Cap....................... 127
Gauge............................................ 59

Octane Requirement................. 126
Oxygenated................................ 268
Reserve Indicator......................... 57
Tank, Filling the......................... 127
Fuses, Checking the...................... 254

Gas Mileage. Improving................ 132
Gasohol........................................... 268
Gasoline.......................................... 126
Fuel Reserve Indicator................ 57
Gauge............................................ 59
Octane Requirement................. 126
Tank, Filling the......................... 127
Gas Station Procedures................. 127
Gauges

Engine Coolant Temperature .... 59
Fuel................................................ 59

Gearshift Lever Positions

Automatic Transmission........... 144
5-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 142
Glass Cleaning............................... 231
Glove Box......................................... 79

Main MenustHalogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 214
Hazard Warning Flashers............... 65
Headlights

Aiming......................................... 213
Daytime Running Lights............. 62
High Beam Indicator................... 62
High Beams, Turning on............ 62
Low Beams, Turning on............. 62
Reminder Chime.......................... 62
Replacing Halogen Bulbs......... 214
Turning on.................................... 62
Head Restraints............................... 82
Heating and Cooling........................ 98
High Altitude, Stalling at.............. 141
High-Low Beam Switch .................. 62
High-mount Brake Light............... 221
Hood Latch..................................... 196
Hood, Opening the........................ 128
Horn................................................... 61
Hot Coolant, Warning About........ 185
Hydraulic Clutch............................ 194
Hydroplaning.................................. 159

Identification Number, Vehicle.... 262
If Your Car Has to be Towed....... 258
Ignition

Keys............................................... 70
Switch............................................ 72
Timing Control System............. 271
Immobilizer System......................... 71
Indicator Lights. Instrument

Panel.............................................. 53
Infant Restraint................................ 29
Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 205
High Speed Driving................... 266
Normal Driving.......................... 206
Inside Mirror.................................... 88
Inspection, Tire.............................. 206
Instrument Panel............................. 52
Instrument Panel Brightness......... 63
Interior Cleaning............................ 230
Interior Lights.................................. 94
Introduction......................................... i

Index

Jack, Tire........................................ 238
Jump Starting................................. 244

Keys................................................... 70

Label, Certification........................ 262
Lane Change, Signaling.................. 63
Lap/Shoulder Belts......................... 42
Leaking of Exhaust into Car.......... 49
Learning Key.................................... 71
Lights

Bulb Replacement..................... 214
Indicator........................................ 53
Parking.......................................... 62
Turn Signal................................... 63
Loading Cargo................................ 135
LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 73

Jacking up the Car......................... 239

CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Locks

Anti-theft Steering Column........ 73
Fuel Fill Door............................. 127
Glove Box..................................... 79
Power Door.................................. 74
Trunk............................................ 78
Low Coolant Level......................... 131
Lower Gear, Downshifting to a.... 142
Low Fuel Indicator .......................... 57
Low Oil Pressure Indicator.... 55, 248
Lubricant Specifications

Chart........................................... 264
Luggage.......................................... 135

Meters, Gauges................................ 58
Methanol in Gasoline.................... 268
Mirrors, Adjusting........................... 88
Moonroof.......................................... 87
Closing Manually....................... 252
Operation...................................... 87

Selecting Proper Viscosity

Chart....................................... 182
ON (Ignition Key Position) ............ 73
Opening the Hood ......................... 128
Opening the Trunk.......................... 78
Operation in Foreign Countries... 269
Outside Mirrors............................... 88
Overheating, Engine..................... 246

Neutral Gear Position.................... 147
New Vehicle Break-in ................... 126
Normal Shift Speeds...................... 143
NOTICE, Explanation of.................... i Numbers, Identification................ 262

Panel Brightness Control............... 63
Park Gear Position......................... 146
Parking............................................ 152
Parking Brake.................................. 89
Parking Lights.................................. 62
Parking Over Things that Burn... 272
PGM-FI System.............................. 271
Polishing and Waxing................... 229
Power

Door Locks................................... 74
Mirrors.......................................... 88
Steering....................................... 194
Windows....................................... 85
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts.......... 19

Maintenance................................... 167
Owner Maintenance Checks.... 179
Record.................................. 177-178
Required Indicator....................... 60
Schedule.............................. 170-176
Malfunction Indicator Lamp .. 55, 250
Manual Transmission.................... 142
Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 192
Maximum Allowable

Speeds................................. 143, 150

Octane Requirement, Gasoline.... 126
Odometer.......................................... 58
Odometer, Trip................................ 58
Oil

Change, How to ......................... 183
Change, When to....................... 172
Checking Engine....................... 130
Pressure Indicator............... 55, 248

Main MenustProtecting Adults............................. 12
Additional Safety Precautions.... 19
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 19
Protecting Children......................... 21
Protecting Infants........................ 29
Protecting Larger Children........ 37
Protecting Small Children.......... 33
Using Child Seats with

Tethers...................................... 40

Radiator Overheating.................... 246
Radio/CD Sound System.............. 106
Rear End Towing........................... 258
Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 219
Rear Seat Access ............................. 81
Rear Seat, Folding........................... 84
Rear View Mirror............................. 88
Rear Window Defogger.................. 65
Reclining the Seat Backs................ 80
Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 143
Reminder Lights.............................. 53
Remote Transmitter........................ 75
Replacement Information

Air Cleaner Element.................. 195

Coolant........................................ 187
Engine Oil and Filter................. 183
Fuses...........................................254
Light Bulbs................................. 214
Schedule..................................... 170
Spark Plugs................................. 196
Timing Belt................................. 204
Tires............................................ 208
Wiper Blades.............................. 200

Replacing Seat Belts After a

Crash.............................................44
Reserve Tank, Engine Coolant.... 131
Restraint, Child................................ 21
Reverse Gear Position................... 146
Rotation, Tire................................. 208

Safety Belts......................................... 8
Safety Features.................................. 7
Airbags............................................ 9
Door Locks................................... 11
Head Restraints........................... 10
Seat Belts........................................ 8
Seats & Seat-Backs...................... 10
Safety Labels, Location of.............. 50

Index

Safety Messages................................ ii Seat Belt, Additional Information.. 42
Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 42
Seat Belt Maintenance................ 44
Seat Belt System Components... 42
Seat Belts............................................8
Cleaning...................................... 231
Maintenance................................. 44
Reminder Light and Beeper....... 54
System Components.................... 42
Tether Attachment Points.......... 40
Use During Pregnancy................ 19
Seat Heaters..................................... 83
Seats, Adjusting the......................... 80
Sequential SportShift Mode ......... 147
Serial Number................................ 262
Service Intervals............................ 172
Service Manual* ............................ 279
Service Station Procedures .......... 127
Setting the Clock............................. 90
Shifting

The Automatic Transmission .. 144
The 5-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 142
Shift Lever Position Indicator...... 144
CONTINUED

Main MenustIndex

Shift Lock Release......................... 151
Side Marker Lights, Bulb

Replacement in.......................... 217
Signaling Turns................................ 63
Snow Tires...................................... 210
Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 228
Sound System................................. 106
Spare Tire

Inflating....................................... 236
Specifications............................. 265
Spark Plugs, Replacing................. 196
Specifications Charts ........... 264, 265
Speed Control................................... 67
Speedometer.................................... 58
SRS, Additional Information........... 45
Additional Safety Precautions.... 48
How the SRS Indicator Light

Works........................................ 47
HowYour Airbags Work............ 45
SRS Components......................... 45
SRS Service................................... 47
SRS Indicator.............................. 47, 55
START (Ignition Key Position)..... 73
Starting the Engine........................ 141

In Cold Weather at High

Altitude................................... 141

With a Dead Battery................. 244
Steam Coming from Engine......... 246
Steering Wheel

Adjustment................................... 66
Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 73
Stereo Sound System.................... 106
Storing Your Car............................ 225
Supplemental Restraint System..... 45
Servicing....................................... 47
SRS Indicator......................... 47, 55
Synthetic Oil................................... 182

Tachometer...................................... 58
Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 219
Taking Care of the

Unexpected................................ 235
Tape Player..................................... 119
Technical Descriptions

Emission Control Systems........ 270
Three Way Catalytic

Converter................................ 272
Temperature Gauge........................ 59
Tether Attachment Points.............. 40
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 272

Time, Setting the............................. 90
Timing Belt..................................... 204
Tire Chains..................................... 210
Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 237
Tires................................................ 205
Air Pressure............................... 205
Checking Wear.......................... 206
Compact Spare........................... 236
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 266
Inflation....................................... 205
Inspection................................... 206
Maintenance............................... 207
Replacing.................................... 208
Rotating....................................... 208
Snow............................................ 210
Specifications............................. 265
Tire Chains................................. 210
Winter Driving........................... 209
Tools,Tire Changing.................... 237
Towing

ATrailer...................................... 160
Emergency................................. 258

Main MenustTransmission

Checking Fluid Level,

Automatic............................... 191

Checking Fluid Level,

Manual.................................... 192
Fluid Selection............................ 191
Identification Number............... 262
Shifting the Automatic.............. 144
Shifting the Manual................... 142
Treadwear...................................... 266
Trip Meter........................................ 58
Trunk................................................. 78
Opening the.................................. 78
Open Monitor Light.................... 57
Turn Signals..................................... 63

Underside, Cleaning...................... 232
Unexpected, Taking Care

of the........................................... 235
Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 266
Unleaded Gasoline......................... 126
Upholstery Cleaning...................... 230
Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 184

Vehicle Capacity Load .................. 136
Vehicle Dimensions....................... 264
Vehicle Identification Number..... 262
Vehicle Storage.............................. 225
Ventilation...................................... 100
VTN.................................................. 262
Vinyl Cleaning................................ 230
Viscosity, Oil................................... 182

Warning Beepers

Headlights on............................... 62
Key in Ignition.............................. 73
Seat Belts........................................ 8
WARNING, Explanation of.............. ii Warning Labels, Location of.......... 50
Warranty Coverages*................... 277
Washer, Windshield

Checking the Fluid Level......... 190
Operation...................................... 65
Washing.......................................... 228
Waxing and Polishing................... 229

Index

Wheels

Adjusting the Steering................ 66
Alignment and Balance............. 207
Compact Spare........................... 236
Wrench....................................... 238

Windows

Cleaning...................................... 231
Operating the Power................... 85
Rear, Defogger............................ 65

Windshield

Cleaning........................................ 64
Defroster................................... 104

Wipers, Windshield

Changing Blades........................ 200
Operation...................................... 64
Worn Tires..................................... 206
Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 258

* U.S. and Canada only

Main MenustService Information Summary

Gasoline: Premium unleaded gasoline, pump octane number of 91 or higher.

Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 US gal (60 l ,13.2 Imp gal)

Recommended Engine Oil: API Service SJ "Energy Conserving" oil, SAE 5W-30
viscosity (see page 181).

Oil change capacity (including filter):

5.1 US qt(4.8 l , 4.2 Imp qt)

Automatic Transmission Fluid: Honda Premium Formula Automatic Transmission Fluid preferred, or a DEXRON® III ATF as a temporary replacement (see page 191).

5-speed Manual Transmission Fluid: Honda Manual Transmission Fluid preferred, or an API service SG, SH or SJ, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 motor oil as a temporary replacement (see page 192).

Tire Pressure (measured cold): Front/Rear:

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Spare Tire Pressure: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm2)

Capacity (including differential): Type SH

2.2 US qt (2.1 l ,1.8 Imp qt)

Except Type SH

2.0 US qt (1.9 l ,1.7 Imp qt)

Power Steering Fluid: Genuine Honda Power Steering Fluid preferred, or another brand of power steering fluid as a temporary replacement. Do not use ATF (see page 194).

Brake Fluid: Genuine Honda DOTS Brake Fluid preferred, or a DOT 3 or DOT 4
brake fluid as a temporary replacement (see page 193).

Main Menust