2000 Honda Prelude Owners Manual

The front head restraints help protect you and your passenger from whiplash and other injuries. They are most effective when you adjust them so the back of the occupant's head rests against the center of the restraint. A taller person should adjust the restraint as high as possible.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSeat Heaters

Follow these precautions whenever you use the seat heaters:

Use the HI setting only to heat the seats quickly. Select the LO setting when the seats feel warm. The HI setting draws large amounts of current from the battery.

Do not use the seat heaters, even on the LO setting, if the engine is left idling for an extended period. They can weaken the battery, causing hard starting.

The HI or LO indicator lights and remains lit until you turn it off by pushing the opposite side of the switch lightly. The indicator will turn off.

In HI, the heater turns off when the seat gets warm, and turns back on after the seat's temperature drops. It continues to cycle as long as you leave it set on HI. The HI indicator remains lit as a reminder that you have the heater on.

In LO, the heater runs continuously. It does not cycle with temperature changes.

SEAT HEATER

On Canadian models Both front seats are equipped with seat heaters. The ignition switch must be ON (II) to use them. Push the front of the switch, HI, to rapidly heat up the seat. After the seat reaches a comfortable temperature, select LO by pushing the back of the switch. This will keep the seat warm.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFolding Rear Seat

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

MASTER KEY

RELEASE

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

Pull

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

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

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFolding Rear Seat, Power Windows

Make sure both rear shoulder belts are positioned in front of the rear seat-back whenever the seat-back is in its upright position.

Power Windows Your car's windows are electrically- powered. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) to raise or lower any window.

Make sure all items in the trunk, or items extending through the opening into the back seat, are secured. Loose items can fly forward and cause injury if you have to brake hard. See Carrying Cargo on page 135.

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

Never drive with the seat-back folded down and the trunk lid open. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 49.

DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH

MAIN SWITCH

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

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPower Windows

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

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

Instruments and Controls

The master control panel also con- tains these extra features:

AUTO — To open the driver's window fully, push the window switch firmly down and release it. The window automatically goes all the way down. To stop the window from going all the way down, pull back on the window switch briefly.

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

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

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

The power window system has a key- off delay function. The windows will still operate for up to ten minutes after you turn off the ignition. Opening either door cancels the delay function. You must turn the ignition ON (II) again before you can raise or lower the windows.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMoonroof

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

NOTICE

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

Closing the moonroof on someone's hands or fingers can cause serious injury.

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

Instruments and Controls

MOONROOF SWITCH

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

switch to

switch.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH

TAB

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

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

Instruments and Controls

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

3. Push the appropriate edge of the

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

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

2. Move the selector switch to L

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

4. When you finish, move the

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMirrors, Parking Brake

Parking Brake

NOTICE

HEATED MIRROR BUTTON

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

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

Available on all Canadian models The outside mirrors are heated to re- move fog and frost. With the ignition switch ON (II), turn on the heaters by pressing the button. The light in the button comes on as a reminder. Press the button again to turn the heaters off.

To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up fully. To release it, pull up slightly, push the button, and lower the lever. The parking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parking brake is fully released (see page 55).

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstYou can use the RESET button to quickly set the time to the nearest hour. If the displayed time is before the half hour, pressing RESET button sets the clock back to the previous hour. If the displayed time is after the half hour, pressing the RESET button sets the clock for- ward to the beginning of the next hour. For example:

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

Digital Clock

HOUR M IN RESET

To set the clock:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) to

display the time.

2. Swing down the front cover of the

wide button under the clock display. You will see HOUR, MIN, and RESET buttons.

3. Press and hold the HOUR button

until the hour advances to the desired hour.

4. Press and hold the MIN (minute) button until the numbers advance to the desired minutes.

The digital clock displays the time with the ignition switch ON (II).

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPARTITION

The front beverage holder is located on the center console. The partition in the beverage holder can be moved forward or backward. If you want to use the beverage holder, slide the partition forward until it clicks. To put small items in the beverage holder, slide the partition completely backward.

Beverage Holder

Be careful when you are using the beverage holder. A spilled liquid that is very hot can scald you or your passengers. Spilled liquids can also damage the upholstery, carpeting, and electrical components in the interior.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBeverage Holder, Console Compartment

Console Compartment

LEVER

LEVER

The rear seat also has a beverage holder in the armrest on the driver's side.

CONSOLE COMPART- MENT

To open the console compartment, pull up on the lower lever and lift the lid.

To close, lower the lid and push it down until it latches.

You can put small items in the tray located in the console compartment lid. To use the tray, pull up on the upper lever and lift up the armrest pad.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCoin Box

Accessory Power Socket

Coin Box, Accessory Power Socket

The coin box is located next to the beverage holder. Open the lid by lifting it up.

To remove the coin box for emptying, lift the coin box up by pushing up on the middle edge of the coin box on the console guide. Never use the coin box for smoking materials.

ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET

To use the accessory power socket, pull down the cover. The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).

This socket is intended to supply power for 12 volt DC accessories that are rated 120 watts or less (10
amps).

It will not power an automotive type cigarette lighter element.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAshtrays, Interior Lights

Ashtrays (Optional) A front ashtray, which is available as an option, can be used as a replacement for the coin box.

NOTICE

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

Ceiling Lights

DOOR ACTIVATED

OFF

ON

The ceiling light has a three-position switch. In the OFF position, the light does not come on. In the center position, the ceiling light comes on when you open either door. After both doors are closed tightly, the light dims slightly, then fades out in about 10 seconds. In the ON position, the ceiling light stays on continuously.

The ceiling light contains a main light as well as two spotlights.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCourtesy Lights

Turn on the spotlight by pushing the button next to each light. Push the button again to turn it off. You can use the spotlights at all times.

Your car has a courtesy light in the ignition switch. The ignition switch light comes on whenever you open either door. It remains on, then fades out in about 10 seconds after both doors are closed tightly.

The ignition switch light and ceiling light (with the switch in the center position) also comes on when you unlock the door with the key, the lock tab on the driver's door, or the

Interior Lights

master door lock switch. If you relock the driver's door or close the driver's door with the key in the ignition switch, the lights turns off immediately. Otherwise, the light remains on, then fades out in about 10 seconds.

If you keep the door open, the ceiling light (with the switch in the center position) will turn off after three minutes when the key is not in the ignition switch.

On Type SH Your car also has a courtesy light in each door. Each door light comes on when the door is opened, and goes out when the door is closed tightly.

Instruments and Controls

Main MenuTable of ContentsstComfort and Convenience Features

The heating and air conditioning systems in your Honda provide a comfortable driving environment in all weather conditions.

The standard audio system has many features. This section de- scribes those features and how to use them. (If you selected an optional audio system, refer to the operating instructions that came with it.)

Your Honda has an anti-theft audio system that requires a code number to enable it.

Heating and Cooling........................ 98
What Each Control Does............ 98
How to Use the System............. 100
To Turn Everything Off ........... 105
Audio System................................. 106
AM/FM/CD Audio System..... 106
Operating the Radio.................. 106
Adjusting the Sound.................. 109
Audio System Lighting............. 110
Radio Frequencies..................... 110
Radio Reception......................... 110
Operating the CD Player.......... 112
Operating the CD Changer...... 114
Protecting Compact Discs........ 116
CD Player Error Indications..... 117
CD Changer Error

Indications.............................. 118

Operating the Cassette

Player...................................... 119
Tape Search Functions............. 120
Caring for the Cassette

Player...................................... 122
Theft Protection ........................ 123

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenustHeating and Cooling

Proper use of the Heating and Cooling system can make the interior dry and comfortable, and keep the windows clear for best visibility.

What Each Control Does

Fan Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the fan's speed, which increases air flow.

Temperature Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the temperature of the air flow.

Air Conditioning (A/C) Button This button turns the air condi- tioning ON and OFF. The indicator in the button lights when the A/C is on.

Comfort and Convenience Features

MODE BUTTONS

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

Rear Window Defogger Button This button turns the rear window defogger on and off (see page 65).

Recirculation Button This button controls the source of the air going into the system. When the indicator in this button is lit, air from the car's interior is sent through the system again (Recircula- tion mode). When the indicator is off, air is brought in from outside the car (Fresh Air mode).

Main MenuTable of ContentsstMode Buttons Use the MODE buttons to select the vents the air flows from. Some air will flow from the dashboard corner vents in all modes.

Air flows from the center

and corner vents in the dashboard.

Air flow is divided between the vents in the dashboard and the floor vents.

Air flows from the floor

vents.

Air flow is divided between

the floor vents and the defroster vents at the base of the windshield.

Air flows from the defroster vents at the base of the windshield.

When you select automatically switches to Fresh Air mode and turns on the A/C.

, the system

Heating and Cooling

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

Vent Controls

CENTER VENT

SIDE VENT

Open

Close

You can adjust the direction of the air coming from the dashboard vents by moving the tab in the center of each vent up-and-down and side-to- side.

The vents in the corners of the dashboard can be opened and closed with the dials underneath them.

Comfort and Convenience Features

How to Use the System This section covers how to set up the system controls for ventilation, heating, cooling, dehumidifying, and defrosting.

The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to generate hot and cold air. The heater uses engine coolant to warm the air. If the engine is cold, it will be several minutes before you feel warm air coming from the system. The air conditioning does not rely on engine temperature.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIt is best to leave the system in Fresh Air mode under almost all conditions. Keeping the system in Recirculation mode, particularly with the A/C off, can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to Recirculation mode when you are driving through smoky or dusty conditions, then switch back to Fresh Air mode when the condition clears.

The outside air intakes for the heating and cooling system are at the base of the windshield. Keep these clear of leaves and other debris.

Heating and Cooling

MODE BUTTONS

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

Ventilation The flow-through ventilation system draws in outside air, circulates it through the interior, then exhausts it through vents near the rear window.

1. Slide the temperature control lever

all the way to the left. Make sure the A/C is off.

2. Select 3. Set the fan to the desired speed.

and Fresh Air mode.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

To Cool with A/C 1. Turn on the A/C by pressing the

button. The light in the button should come on when a fan speed is selected.

2. Make sure the temperature

control lever is set to maximum cool.

3. Select 4. If the outside air is humid, select

Recirculation mode. If the outside air is dry, select Fresh Air mode. 5. Set the fan to the desired speed.

Comfort and Convenience Features

MODE BUTTONS

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf the interior is very warm from being parked in the sun, you can cool it down more rapidly by setting up the controls this way:

1. Start the engine. 2. Turn on the A/C by pressing the button. Make sure the tempera- ture control lever is all the way to the left.

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

and Fresh Air mode.

When the interior has cooled down to a more comfortable temperature, close the windows and set the controls as described for normal cooling.

Air conditioning places an extra load on the engine. Watch the engine coolant temperature gauge (see page 59 ) when driving in stop-and-go traffic or climbing a long, steep hill. If it moves near the red zone, turn off the A/C until the gauge reads normally.

To Heat To warm the interior:

1. Start the engine. 2. Select 3. Set the fan to the desired speed. 4. Adjust the warmth of the air with

and Fresh Air mode.

the temperature control lever.

Heating and Cooling

To Heat and Dehumidify with Air Conditioning Air conditioning, as it cools, removes moisture from the air. When used in combination with the heater, it makes the interior warm and dry.

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select 4. Adjust the temperature control

and Fresh Air mode.

lever so the mixture of heated and cooled air feels comfortable.

This setting is suitable for all driving conditions whenever the outside temperature is above 32°F (0°C).

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeating and Cooling

To Defog and Defrost To remove fog from the inside of the windows:

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Select

When you select system automatically switches to Fresh Air mode and turns on the A/C.

the

MODE BUTTONS

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

3. Adjust the temperature control

lever so the air flow from the defroster vents feels warm.

4. Turn on the rear window defogger

to help clear the rear window.

When you switch to another mode from Press the A/C button to turn if off.

the A/C stays on.

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

FAN CONTROL LEVER

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTo remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield and side windows after the car has been sitting out in cold weather:

1. Start the engine. 2. Select

When you select system automatically switches to Fresh Air mode and turns on the A/C.

the

3. Switch the fan and temperature

controls to maximum.

To rapidly remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield (on very cold days), first select the Recirculation mode. Once the windshield is clear, select the Fresh Air mode to avoid fogging the windows.

Heating and Cooling

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

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

These settings direct all the air flow to the defroster vents at the base of the windshield and the side window defroster vents. The air flow will get warmer and clear the windows faster as the engine warms up. You can close the side vents with the dial underneath each vent. This will send more warm air to the windshield defroster vents.

For safety, make sure you have a clear view through all the windows before driving away.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

AM/FM/CD Audio System Your Honda's audio system provides clear reception on both AM and FM bands, while the preset buttons allow you to easily select your favorite stations. The anti-theft feature will disable the system if it is disconnected from the vehicle's battery. To get the system working again, you must enter a code number (see page 123 ).

Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. Turn the system on by pushing the PWR/ VOL knob. Adjust the volume by turning the same knob. The band and frequency that the radio was last tuned to is displayed. To change bands, press the A M / FM button. On the FM band, ST will be displayed if the station is broadcast- ing in stereo. Stereo reproduction on AM is not available.

Comfort and Convenience Features

STEREO INDICATOR

PWR/VOL KNOB

TUNE BAR

AM/FM BUTTON

SEEK BAR

PRESET BUTTONS

SCAN BUTTON

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

TUNE — Use the TUNE bar to tune the radio to a desired frequency. Press the to a higher frequency, and the

side of the bar to tune

side to tune to a lower

frequency. The frequency numbers will start to change rapidly. Release the bar when the display reaches the desired frequency. To change the frequency in small increments, press and release the TUNE bar quickly.

SEEK — The SEEK function searches the band for a station with a strong signal. To activate it, press the SEEK bar on either the or

side, then release it.

Depending on which side you press, the system scans upward or down- ward from the current frequency. It stops when it finds a station with a

Audio System

strong signal.

To store a frequency:

SCAN — The SCAN function samples all the stations with strong signals on the selected band. To activate it, press the SCAN button, then release it. When the system is in the SCAN mode, SCAN shows in the display. The system will scan up the band for a station with a strong signal. When it finds one, it will stop and play that station for approximately five seconds. If you do nothing, the system will then scan for the next strong station and play that for five seconds. When it plays a station that you want to continue listening to, press the SCAN button again.

Preset — You can store the frequencies of your favorite radio stations in the six preset buttons. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two frequencies on the FM band.

1. Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store two frequencies with each Preset button.

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function

to tune the radio to a desired station.

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

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total

of six stations on AM and twelve on FM.

Once a station's frequency is stored, simply press and release the proper preset button to tune to it. The preset frequencies will be lost if your car's battery goes dead, is disconnected, or the radio fuse is removed.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

AUTO SELECT — If you are traveling far from home and can no longer receive the stations you preset, you can use the Auto Select feature to find stations in the local area.

To activate Auto Select, press the A. SEL button. A. SEL will flash in the display, and the system will go into scan mode for several seconds. It automatically scans both bands, looking for stations with strong signals; It stores the frequencies of six AM stations and twelve FM stations in the preset buttons. You can then use the preset buttons to select those stations.

If you are in a remote area, Auto Select may not find six strong AM stations or twelve strong FM stations. If this happens, you will see a "0" displayed when you press any preset button that does not have a station stored.

Comfort and Convenience Features

AUTO SELECT INDICATOR

TUNE BAR

SEEK BAR

If you do not like the stations Auto Select has stored, you can store other frequencies in the preset buttons. Use the TUNE, SEEK, or SCAN function to find the desired frequencies, then store them in the selected preset buttons as described previously.

SCAN BUTTON A. SEL BUTTON

Auto Select does not erase the frequencies that you preset pre- viously. When you return home, turn off Auto Select by pressing the A. SEL button. The preset buttons will then select the frequencies you originally set.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdjusting the Sound Balance/Fader These two controls adjust the strength of the sound coming from each speaker. The Balance control adjusts the side- to-side strength, while the Fader control adjusts the front-to-back strength.

To adjust the fader, push on the BASS/FADER control knob to get it to pop out. Pull it out slightly farther, and adjust the front-to-back sound to your liking. Push the knob back in when you are done so you cannot change the setting by accidentally bumping it.

To adjust the balance, push on the TREBLE/BALANCE control knob to get it to pop out. Pull it out slightly farther, and adjust the side-to-side sound to your liking. Push the knob back in when you are done so you cannot change the setting by accidentally bumping it.

Audio System

BASS/FADER CONTROL

TREBLE/BALANCE CONTROL

Treble/Bass — Use these controls to adjust the tone to your liking.

To adjust the Treble level, push on the TREBLE/BALANCE control knob to get it to pop out. Without pulling it out farther, turn the knob to adjust the treble level. Push the knob back in when you are done so you cannot change the setting by accidentally bumping it.

To adjust the Bass level, push on the BASS/FADER control knob to get it to pop out. Without pulling it out farther, turn the knob to adjust the bass level. Push the knob back in when you are done so you cannot change the setting by accidentally bumping it.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

Audio System Lighting You can use the instrument panel brightness control dial to adjust the il- lumination of the audio system (see page 63). The audio system illuminates when the parking lights are on, even if the radio is turned off.

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

Radio Frequencies Your Honda's radio can receive the complete AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequen- cies:

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

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

Radio Reception How well your Honda's radio receives stations is dependent on many factors, such as the distance from the station's transmitter, nearby large objects, and atmos- pheric conditions.

A radio station's signal gets weaker as you get farther away from its transmitter. If you are listening to an AM station, you will notice the sound volume becoming weaker, and the station drifting in and out. If you are listening to an FM station, you will see the stereo indicator flickering off and on as the signal weakens. Eventually, the stereo indicator will

Comfort and Convenience Features

go off and the sound will fade completely as you get out of range of the station's signal.

Driving very near the transmitter of a station that is broadcasting on a frequency close to the frequency of the station you are listening to can also affect your radio's reception. You may temporarily hear both stations, or hear only the station you are close to.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

As required by the FCC: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Radio signals, especially on the FM band, are deflected by large objects such as buildings and hills. Your radio then receives both the direct signal from the station's transmitter, and the deflected signal. This causes the sound to distort or flutter. This is a main cause of poor radio reception in city driving.

Radio reception can be affected by atmospheric conditions such as thunderstorms, high humidity, and even sunspots. You may be able to receive a distant radio station one day and not receive it the next day because of a change in conditions.

Electrical interference from passing vehicles and stationary sources can cause temporary reception problems.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

Operating the CD Player You operate the CD player with the same controls used for the radio.

With the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II), insert the disc into the CD slot. Push the disc in halfway, the drive will pull it in the rest of the way and begin to play. The number of the track that is playing is shown in the display.

You can also play 3-inch (8-cm) discs without using an adapter ring. Play only standard round discs. Odd- shaped CDs may jam in drive or cause other problems.

When the system reaches the end of the disc, it will return to the begin- ning and play that disc again. You can switch to the radio while a CD is playing by pressing the A M/ FM button. Press the CD button to return to playing the CD. The CD will begin playing where it left off.

Comfort and Convenience Features

CD SLOT

AM/FM BUTTON

TUNE BAR

EJECT BUTTON

SEEK/SKIP BAR

CD BUTTON

RPT BUTTON

A. SEL/RDM BUTTON

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf you turn the system off while a CD is playing, either with the PWR/VOL knob or by turning off the ignition, the disc will stay in the drive. When you turn the system back on, the CD will begin playing where it left off.

Press the eject button to remove the disc from the drive.

If you eject the disc, but do not remove it from the slot, the system will automatically reload the disc after 15 seconds and put the CD player in pause mode. To begin playing the disc, press the CD button.

You can use the TUNE and SEEK/ SKIP bars while a disc is playing to select passages and change tracks.

To move rapidly within a track, press and hold the TUNE bar. Press the

side to move forward. You will

see CUE in the display. Press the side to move backward. You

will see REW displayed. Release the bar when the system reaches the point you want.

side of

Each time you press the the SEEK/SKIP bar, the system skips forward to the beginning of the next track. Press the side to skip backward to the beginning of the current track. Press it again to skip to the beginning of the previous track.

REPEAT — To activate the Repeat feature, press and release the RPT button. You will see RPT in the display. The system continuously

Audio System

replays the current track. Press the RPT button again to turn it off.

RANDOM PLAY — This feature, when activated, plays the tracks on the CD in random order, rather than in the order they are recorded on the. CD. To activate Random Play, press and release the A. SEL/RDM button. You will see RDM in the display. The system will then select and play tracks randomly. This continues until you deactivate Random Play by pressing A. SEL/RDM again.

If the system is in Repeat mode, you must turn it off by pressing the RPT button before selecting Random Play.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

Operating the CD Changer (Optional) A Compact Disc changer is available for your car. It holds up to six discs, providing several hours of continuous entertainment. You operate this CD changer with the same controls used for the in-dash CD player.

Load the desired CDs in the magazine and load the magazine in the changer according to the instructions that came with the unit. Play only standard round discs. Odd- shaped CDs may jam in the drive or cause other problems.

Comfort and Convenience Features

AM/FM BUTTON

TUNE BAR

EJECT BUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

RPTBUTTON

SEEK/SKIP BAR

A. SEL/RDM BUTTON

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTo select the CD changer, press the CD button. The disc and track numbers will be displayed.

To select a different disc, press the appropriate preset button (1 — 6). If you select an empty slot in the magazine, the changer will, after finding that slot empty, try to load the CD in the next slot. This continues until it finds a CD to load and play.

If you load a CD in the in-dash player while the changer is playing a CD, the system will stop the changer and begin playing the in-dash CD. To select the changer again, press the CD button. Play will begin where it left off. Use the CD button to switch between the player and the changer.

If you eject the in-dash CD while it is playing, the system will automatically switch to the CD changer and begin play where it left off. If there are no CDs in the changer, the display will flash. You will have to select another mode (AM or FM) with the button.

When you switch back to CD mode, the system selects the same unit (in- dash or changer) that was playing when you switched out of CD mode.

To use the SKIP, REPEAT, and RANDOM functions, refer to the in- dash player operating instructions.

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

Protecting Compact Discs

Handle a CD by its edges; never touch either surface. Contamination from fingerprints, liquids, felt-tip pens, and labels can cause the CD to not play properly, or possibly jam in the drive.

When a CD is not being played, store it in its case to protect it from dust and other contamination. To prevent warpage, keep CDs out of direct sunlight and extreme heat.

To clean a disc, use a clean soft cloth. Wipe across the disc from the center to the outside edge.

A new CD may be rough on the inner and outer edges. The small plastic pieces causing this roughness can flake off and fall on the re- cording surface of the disc, causing skipping or other problems. Remove these pieces by rubbing the inner and outer edges with the side of a pencil or pen.

Never try to insert foreign objects in the CD player or the magazine.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCD Player Error Indications If you see an error indication in the display while operating the CD player, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error indication, take the car to your Honda dealer.

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

CD Changer Error Indications If you see an error indication in the display while operating the CD changer, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error indication, take the car to your Honda dealer.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstOperating the Cassette Player (Optional) The cassette system features Dolby B* noise reduction, automatic sensing of chromium-dioxide (CrO2) tape, and autoreverse for continuous play.

Make sure the tape opening on the cassette is facing to the right, then insert the cassette most of the way into the slot. The system will pull it in the rest of the way, and begin to play.

* Dolby noise reduction manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpo- ration. "DOLBY" and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories

Licensing Corporation.

Audio System

CD BUTTON

TUNE BAR SEEK/SKIP BAR

PWR/VOL KNOB

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

AM/FM BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

NR BUTTON

PROG BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf you turn the system off while a tape is playing, either with the PWR/ VOL knob or by turning off the ignition, the cassette will remain in the drive. When you turn the system back on, the cassette player will be in pause mode. To begin playing, press the PLAY button.

To switch to the radio or CD player while a tape is playing, press the AM/FM, or CD button. To change back to the cassette player, push the CD button.

Tape Search Functions With a cassette playing, you can use the FF, REW, SKIP, or REPEAT function to find a desired program.

side of the

FF/REW — Fast Forward and Rewind move the tape rapidly. Press and release the TUNE bar to fast forward the tape, or the side to rewind. You will see FF or REW flashing in the display. To stop fast forward or rewind, press either side of the TUNE bar or the PLAY button. If the system reaches the end of the tape while in fast forward or rewind, it automatically stops that function, reverses direction, and begins to play.

Audio System

The tape direction indicator will light to show you which side of the cassette is playing. The indicates the side you inserted facing upward is now playing. If you want to play the other side, press the PROG button.

Dolby B noise reduction turns on when you insert a cassette. If the tape was not recorded with Dolby B noise reduction, turn it off by pressing the NR button.

Dolby remains off until you turn it on by pressing the button again.

When the system reaches the end of the tape, it will automatically reverse direction and play the other side. If you want to remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT button on the cassette player.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSKIP — The skip function allows you to find the beginning of a song or passage. To activate SKIP, press the SEEK/SKIP bar. Press the

side to advance to the

beginning of the next song or passage, or the side to return to the beginning of the current song or passage. FF or REW will flash in the display as the tape moves. When the system reaches the beginning of the next song or passage (FF), or the beginning of the current one (REW), it goes back to PLAY mode.

Audio System

The SKIP and REPEAT functions use silent periods on the tape to find the end of a song or passage. These features may not work to your satisfaction if there is almost no gap between selections, a high noise level between selections, or a silent period in the middle of selection.

REPEAT — The Repeat function continuously replays the current song or passage. Press the REPEAT button to activate it; you will see RPT displayed as a reminder. When the system reaches the end of the song or passage currently playing, it will automatically go into rewind. When it senses the beginning of the same song or passage, the system returns to PLAY mode. It will continue to repeat this same program until you deactivate REPEAT by pressing the button again.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAudio System

Caring for the Cassette Player The cassette player picks up dirt and oxides from the tape. This contami- nation builds up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the player after every 30 hours of use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit available.

Look at the cassette before you insert it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning a hub with a pencil or your finger. If the label is peeling off, remove it from the cassette or it could cause the cassette to jam in the player. Never try to insert a warped or damaged cassette in the player.

If you see the error indication

on the display, press the EJECT button and remove the cassette from the unit. Make sure the tape is not damaged. If the cassette will not eject or the error indication stays on after the cassette ejects, take the car to your Honda dealer.

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

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

When they are not in use, store cassettes in their cases to protect them from dust and moisture. Never place cassettes where they will be exposed to direct sunlight, high heat, or high humidity. If a cassette is exposed to extreme heat or cold, let it reach a moderate temperature before inserting it in the player.

Never try to insert foreign objects into the cassette player.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTheft Protection Your car's audio system will disable itself if it is disconnected from electrical power for any reason. To make it work again, the user must enter a specific five-digit code in the Preset buttons. Because there are hundreds of number combinations possible from five digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible.

You should have received a card that lists your audio system's code number and serial number. It is best to store this card in a safe place at home. In addition, you should write the audio system's serial number in this Owner's Manual. If you should happen to lose the card, you must obtain the code number from your Honda dealer. To do this, you will need the system's serial number.

If your car's battery is disconnected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. If this happens, you will see display the next time you turn on the system. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code. If it is entered correctly, the radio will start playing.

in the frequency

If you make a mistake entering the code, do not start over or try to correct your mistake. Complete the five-digit sequence, then enter the correct code. You have ten tries to enter the correct code. If you are unsuccessful in ten attempts, you must then leave the system on for one hour before trying again.

Audio System

You will have to store your favorite stations in the Preset buttons after the system begins working. Your original settings were lost when power was disconnected.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBefore you begin driving your Honda, you should know what gasoline to use, and how to check the levels of important fluids. You also need to know how to properly store luggage or packages. The information in this section will help you. If you plan to add any accessories to your car, please read the information in this section first.

Before Driving

Break-in Period.............................. 126
Gasoline.......................................... 126
Service Station Procedures .......... 127
Filling the Fuel Tank................. 127
Opening the Hood..................... 128
Oil Check................................ 130
Engine Coolant Check.......... 131
Fuel Economy................................ 132
Vehicle Condition...................... 132
Driving Habits............................ 132
Accessories and Modifications.... 133
Accessories................................. 133
Modifications............................. 134
Additional Safety Precaution.... 134
Carrying Cargo.............................. 135
Load Limit.................................. 136
Carrying Items in the Passenger

Compartment......................... 136

Carrying Cargo in the Trunk or

on a Roof Rack....................... 137

Before Driving

Main MenustBreak-in Period, Gasoline

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

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

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

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

Gasoline Your Honda is designed to operate on premium unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 91 or higher.

If you are unable to find premium unleaded gasoline, you may substi- tute an unleaded regular gasoline. The engine will compensate for the lower octane, but you may notice a slight decrease in power as a result.

We recommend gasolines containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits.

Using gasoline containing lead will damage your car's emissions

In Canada, some gasolines contain an octane-enhancing additive called MMT. If you use such gasolines, your emission control system performance may deteriorate and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp on your instrument panel may turn on. If this happens, contact your authorized Honda dealer for service.

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstGasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away Handle fuel only outdoors. Wipe up spills immediately.

FUEL FILL CAP

Filling the Fuel Tank

Pull

1. Because the fuel fill cap is on the driver's side of the car, park with that side closest to the service station pumps.

2. Open the fuel fill door by pulling

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

Service Station Procedures

3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.

You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. Place the cap in the holder on the fuel fill door.

4. Stop filling the tank after the fuel

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

Your car has an on-board refueling vapor recovery system to help keep fuel vapors from going into the atmosphere. If the fuel pump keeps clicking off even though the tank is not full, there may be a problem with this system. Consult your dealer.

CONTINUED

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstService Station Procedures

5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on, tighten it until it clicks several times. If you do not properly tighten the cap, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp may come on (see page 250).

6. Push the fuel fill door closed until

it latches.

Opening the Hood

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

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

LATCH

2. Standing in front of the car, put

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

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstService Station Procedures

After closing the hood, make sure it is securely latched.

SUPPORT ROD

If you can open the hood without lifting the hood latch handle, or the hood latch handle moves stiffly or does not spring back as before, the mechanism should be cleaned and lubricated (see page 196).

CLIP

3. Pull the support rod out of its clip and insert the end into the hole on the left side of the hood.

To close the hood, lift it up slightly to remove the support rod from the hole. Put the support rod back into its holding clip. Lower the hood to about a foot (30 cm) above the fender, then let it drop.

CONTINUED

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstService Station Procedures

Oil Check

DIPSTICK

Check the engine oil level every time you fill the car with fuel. Wait a few minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

1. Remove the dipstick (orange

handle).

Before Driving

2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean

cloth or paper towel.

3. Insert it all the way back in its tube.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstEngine Coolant Check

Service Station Procedures

Refer to Owner Maintenance Checks on page 179 for information on checking other items in your Honda.

MAX

MIN

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

4. Remove the dipstick again and

check the level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

If it is near or below the lower mark, see Adding Oil on page 181.

RESERVE TANK

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see Adding Engine Coolant on page 185 for information on adding the proper coolant.

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstDriving Habits You can improve fuel economy by driving moderately. Rapid acceler- ation, abrupt cornering, and hard braking use more fuel.

Always drive in the highest gear that allows the engine to run and acceler- ate smoothly.

Depending on traffic conditions, try to maintain a constant speed. Every time you slow down and speed up, your car uses extra fuel. Use the cruise control, when appropriate, to increase fuel economy.

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

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

Fuel Economy

The condition of your car and your driving habits are the two most important things that affect the fuel mileage you get.

Vehicle Condition Always maintain your car according to the maintenance schedule. This will keep it in top operating condition.

An important part of that mainte- nance is the Owner Maintenance Checks (see page 179). For example, an underinflated tire causes more "rolling resistance," which uses fuel. It also wears out faster, so check the tire pressure at least monthly.

In winter, the build-up of snow on your car's underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAccessories and Modifications

Modifying your car, or installing some non-Honda accessories, can make your car unsafe. Before you make any modifications or add any accessories, be sure to read the following information.

Accessories Your dealer has Genuine Honda accessories that allow you to personalize your car. These accessories have been designed and approved for your car, and are covered by warranty.

Non-Honda accessories are usually designed for universal applications. Although aftermarket accessories may fit on your car, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your car's handling and stability. (See "Modifications" on the page 134 for additional information.)

Improper accessories or modifications can affect your car's handling, stability and performance, and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner's manual regarding accessories and modifications.

When properly installed, cellular phones, alarms, two-way radios, and low-powered audio systems should not interfere with your car's computer-controlled systems, such as the SRS and anti-lock brake system.

However, if electronic accessories are improperly installed, or exceed your car's electrical system capacity, they can interfere with the operation

of your car, or even cause the airbags to deploy.

Before installing any accessory:

Make sure the accessory does not obscure any lights, or interfere with proper car operation or performance.

Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits (see page 256).

Have the installer contact your Honda dealer for assistance before installing any electronic accessory.

If possible, have your dealer inspect the final installation.

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAccessories and Modifications

Modifications Do not remove any original equipment or modify your car in any way that would alter its design or operation. This could make your car unsafe and illegal to drive.

In addition, any modifications that decrease ground clearance increase the chance of undercarriage parts striking a curb, speed bump, or other raised object, which could cause your airbags to deploy.

For example, do not make any modifications that would change the ride height of your car, or install wheels and tires with a different overall diameter.

Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of your Supplemental Restraint System. Modifications could make the system ineffective.

Additional Safety Precaution Do not attach or place objects on the airbag covers. Any object attached to or placed on the covers marked "SRS AIRBAG," in the center of the steering wheel and on top of the dashboard, could interfere with the proper operation of the airbags. Or, if the airbags inflate, the objects could be propelled inside the car and hurt someone.

Such modifications can adversely affect handling, and interfere with the operation of the car's anti-lock brakes and other systems.

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCONSOLE COMPARTMENT

FRONT DOOR POCKET

TRUNK

SEAT-BACK POCKET

GLOVE BOX

Carrying Cargo

Your car has several convenient storage areas so you can stow cargo safely.

The glove box, and the pockets in the front doors and seat-back, are designed for small, lightweight items. The trunk is intended for larger, heavier items. In addition, the back seat can be folded down to allow you to carry more cargo or longer items.

However, carrying too much cargo, or improperly storing it, can affect your car's handling, stability and operation and make it unsafe. Before carrying any type of cargo, be sure to read the following pages.

Before Driving

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCarrying Cargo

Load Limit The maximum load for your car is 700 lbs (325 kg).

This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, accessories, and the tongue weight if you are towing a trailer.

To figure out how much cargo you can carry:

Add up the weight of all occupants.

If you are towing a trailer, add the tongue weight to the number above.

Subtract the total from 700 Ib (325
kg).

The final number is the total weight of cargo you can carry.

Before Driving

Overloading or improper loading can affect handling and stability and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and other loading guidelines in this manual.

Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment

Store or secure all items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash.

Do not put any items on top of the rear shelf. They can block your view and be thrown around the car during a crash.

Be sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll under the seats and interfere with the driver's ability to operate the pedals, or with the proper operation of the seats.

Keep the glove box closed while driving. If the lid is open, a passenger could injure their knees during a crash or sudden stop.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstCarrying Cargo

If you can carry any items on a roof rack, be sure the total weight of the rack and the items does not exceed the maximum allowable weight. Please contact your Honda dealer for further information.

Carrying Cargo in the Trunk or on a Roof Rack

Distribute cargo evenly on the floor of the trunk, placing the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible.

If you fold down the back seat, tie down items that could be thrown about the car during a crash or sudden stop.

If you carry large items that prevent you from closing the trunk lid, exhaust gas can enter the passenger area. To avoid the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning, follow the instructions on page 49.

Before Driving

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

Driving

Preparing to Drive......................... 140
Starting the Engine........................ 141

Starting in Cold Weather

at High Altitude..................... 141
5-speed Manual Transmission..... 142
Recommended Shift Points...... 143
Engine Speed Limiter ............... 143
Automatic Transmission............... 144
Shift Lever Position Indicator.. 144