2006 Honda Ridgeline Owners Manual

1.

Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then shut it off.

2.

WASHER

DRAIN BOLT Open the hood, and remove the engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.

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Changing the Oil and Filter

OIL FILTER

3.

Remove the oil filter, and let the remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your dealer) is required.

Make sure the oil filter gasket is not stuck to the engine block. If it is, remove it before installing a new oil filter.

4.

Install a new oil filter according to the instructions that come with it.

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5.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten the drain bolt to: 29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)

9.

Turn off the engine and let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick. If necessary, add more oil.

6.

Refill the engine with the recom- mended oil.

Engine oil change capacity (including filter): 4.5 US qt (4.3 )

7.

Reinstall the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator should go out within 5
seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine, and check your work.

8.

Let the engine run for several minutes, then check the drain bolt and oil filter for leaks.

Improper disposal of engine oil can be harmf ul to the environment. If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed container, and take it to a recycling center. Do not discard it in a trash bin or dump it on the ground.

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Adding Engine Coolant

RESERVE TANK If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

Engine Coolant

If the reserve tank is completely empty, you should also check the coolant level in the radiator.

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

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

Always use Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.

If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement. Make sure it is a high-quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. Continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

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Engine Coolant, Windshield Washers

3.

The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low.

Pourthecoolantslowlyand carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

4.

Put the radiator cap back on, and tighten it fully.

5.

Pour coolant into the reserve tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back on the reserve tank.

Do not add any rust inhibitors or other additives to your vehicle’s cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine components.

Windshield Washers Check the fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal use.

The washer level indicator will come on when the level is low (see page 62

).

Fill the reservoir with a good-quality windshield washer fluid. This increases the cleaning capability and prevents freezing in cold weather.

When you refill the reservoir, clean the edges of the windshield wiper blades with windshield washer fluid on a clean cloth. This will help to condition them.

1.

Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.

When the radiator and engine are cool, relieve any pressure in the cooling system by turning the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pressing down.

2.

Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.

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Do not use engine antif reeze or a vinegar/water solution in the windshield washer reservoir. Antif reeze can damage your vehicle’s paint, while a vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield washer pump. Use only commercially-available windshield washer f luid.

Windshield Washers, Automatic Transmission Fluid

Automatic Transmission Fluid

DIPSTICK

DIPSTICK

Check the fluid level with the engine at normal operating temperature.

1.

Park the vehicle on level ground. Shut off the engine.

2.

Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission, and wipe it with a clean cloth.

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

3.

4.

Insert the dipstick all the way into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration.

Remove the dipstick, and check the fluid level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

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Automatic Transmissison Fluid, Rear Differential Fluid

5.

If the level is below the lower mark, remove the fill plug, and add fluid to bring it to the upper mark.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

Always use Honda ATF-Z1
(Automatic Transmission Fluid). If it’s not available, you may use a DEXRON III automatic transmission fluid as a temporary replacement. However, continued use can affect the shift quality. Have the transmission flushed and refilled with Honda ATF-Z1 as soon as it is convenient.

To thoroughly flush the transmission, the technician should drain and refill it with Honda ATF-Z1, then drive the vehicle for a short distance. Do this three times. Then drain and refill the transmission a final time.

6.

Insert the dipstick all the way back in the transmission.

The automatic transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid when this service is indicated by a maintenance message on the information display.

If you are not sure how to add fluid, contact your dealer.

Rear Differential Fluid The rear differential should be drained and refilled with new fluid when this service is indicated by a maintenance message on the information display. This service may be needed more often under certain driving conditions (see page 232

).

Always use Honda VTM-4
Differential Fluid, and have your dealer replace the rear differential fluid.

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Transfer Assembly Fluid The transfer assembly should be drained and refilled with new fluid when this service is indicated by a maintenance message on the information display.

Always use Hypoid gear oil GL4 or GL5 with a viscosity of SAE 90 or 80- 90W, and have your dealer replace the transfer assembly fluid.

Transfer Assembly Fluid, Brake Fluid

Brake Fluid Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir monthly. Replace the brake fluid according to the time recommendation in the maintenance minder schedule.

Always use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement.

Using any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your vehicle’s braking system and can cause extensive damage.

MAX

MIN

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If the level is at or below the MIN mark, your brake system needs attention. Have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

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Power Steering Fluid, Timing Belt

Power Steering Fluid

COVER

UPPER LEVEL

LOWER LEVEL Remove the cover, then check the level on the side of the reservoir when the engine is cold. The fluid should be between the UPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL. If not, add power steering fluid to the UPPER LEVEL mark, and put the cover back in place.

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Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.

Always use Honda Power Steering Fluid. You may use another power steering fluid as an emergency replacement, but have the power steering system flushed and refilled with Honda PSF as soon as possible.

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

Turning the steering wheel to f ull lef t or right lock and holding it there can damage the power steering pump.

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

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

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

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Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items on the pickup bed or pull a trailer, readjustment may be required. Adjustments should be done by your dealer or other qualified mechanic.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb Your vehicle has halogen headlight bulbs. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its base, and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

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

Lights

CONNECTOR

HOLD-DOWN WIRE

BULB

WEATHER SEAL Remove the electrical connector 1. from the bulb by pulling the connector straight back.

2.

Remove the rubber weather seal by pulling on the tab.

3.

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

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Lights

4.

5.

6.

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

Install the rubber weather seal over the back of the headlight assembly. Make sure it is right side up.

Push the electrical connector onto the new bulb. Make sure it is connected securely. Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

Replacing a Front Turn Signal/ Hazard/Parking Light Bulb

1.

To change the passenger’s side bulb, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left, and turn off the engine. To change the driver’s side bulb, turn the steering wheel to the right.

HOLDING CLIPS

2.

Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to remove the two holding clips from the inner fender, and pull the inner fender cover back.

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3.

4.

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

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

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Replacing Rear Bulbs

5.

Insert the socket back into the headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

6.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

7.

Put the inner fender cover in place. Install and lock each holding clip by pushing on the center.

Lights

1.

Drop open the tailgate.

2.

3.

Remove the two bolts, and remove the rear light assembly from the rear pillar.

Determine which of the three bulbs is burned out: brake/ taillight, turn signal/hazard light, or back-up light.

4.

Remove the socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

5.

Remove the burned-out bulb by pulling it straight out of the socket.

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Lights

6.

Install the new bulb into the socket.

Replacing a High-mount Brake Light Bulb

7.

Push the socket into the light assembly, and turn it clockwise until it locks.

8.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

9.

Install the rear light assembly in the rear pillar. Tighten the two bolts. securely.

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LENS SEGMENT

1.

Place a cloth on the edge of the lens segment. Remove each lens segment by carefully prying on its edge with a small flat-tipped screwdriver.

4.

Remove the three mounting screws from the light assembly.

5.

Remove the lens from the light assembly.

2.

Remove the screw under each lens.

6.

3.

Pull the high-mount brake light assembly out of the vehicle.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

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Lights

Replacing a Rear License Plate Bulb

7.

Put the lens back on the light assembly, and tighten the mounting bolts securely.

8.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

9.

Put the light assembly back into the vehicle. Install the screws and tighten them securely. Reinstall the lens segments.

1.

Remove the license plate light assembly by pulling it towards you, and then pulling the front edge upward.

2.

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

3.

4.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

Push the socket into the light assembly, and turn it clockwise until it locks.

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Lights

5.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

6.

Reinstall the light assembly in the bumper.

Replacing a Bed Light Bulb

1.

Remove the mounting screw from the bed light assembly.

2.

Pull out the light assembly.

3.

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

4.

5.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

Push the socket into the light assembly, and turn it clockwise until it locks.

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6.

Reinstall the light assembly.

Cleaning the Seat Belts

7.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

8.

Reinstall the mounting screw, and tighten it securely.

LOOP

Lights, Cleaning the Seat Belts

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

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

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Floor Mats, Dust and Pollen Filter

Floor Mats

If you use non-Honda floor mats, make sure they fit properly and that they can be used with the floor mat anchors. Do not put additional floor mats on top of the anchored mats.

The floor mats that came with your vehicle hook over the floor mat anchors. This keeps them from sliding forward and possibly interfering with vehicle operation.

If you remove a floor mat, make sure to re-anchor it when you put it back in your vehicle.

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Dust and Pollen Filter This filter removes the dust and pollen that is brought in from the outside through the heating and cooling system/climate control system.

Have your dealer replace this filter every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) under normal conditions. It should be replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) if you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air, or if the air flow from the heating and cooling system/climate control system becomes less than usual.

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Check the condition of the wiper blades at least every 6 months. Replace them if you find signs of cracking in the rubber, and areas that are getting hard, or if they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.

To replace a wiper blade:

1.

To raise the wiper arm, turn the ignition switch to ON (II) and activate the wipers (see page When the wipers are in the upright position, turn the ignition switch off to stop the wipers in that position.

72

).

Wiper Blades

WIPER ARMS

2.

Raise the wiper arm off the windshield.

Do not open the hood when the wiper arms are raised, or you will damage the hood and the wiper arms.

3.

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

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Wiper Blades

BLADE

BLADE

6.

Slide the new wiper blade into the holder until the tabs lock.

7.

Slide the wiper blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place.

8.

Lower the wiper arm against the window.

9.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), and turn the wiper switch off to return the wiper arms to the parked position.

4.

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

REINFORCEMENT

5.

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

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To safely operate your vehicle, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated.

The following pages give more detailed information on how to take care of your tires and what to do when they need to be replaced.

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

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

Inflation Guidelines Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best combination of handling, tread life, and riding comfort.

Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

Overinflated tires can make your vehicleridemoreharshly,are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

Thetirepressuremonitoringsystem (TPMS) warns you when a tire pressure is low. See page more information.

199

for

Tires

Use a gauge to measure the air pressure in each tire at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose 1 to 2 psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month. Remember to check the sparetireatthesametime.

Check the air pressures when the tires are cold. This means the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours, or driven less than 1
mile (1.6 km). Add or release air, if needed, to match the recommended cold tire pressures on page

256

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

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Tires

If you check air pressures when the tires are hot [driven for several miles (kilometers)], you will see readings 4
to6psi(30to40kPa,0.3to0.4
kgf/cm ) higher than the cold readings.Thisisnormal.Donotlet air out to match the recommended cold air pressure. The tire will be underinflated.

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

While tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured, you should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.

Never use a puncture-repairing agent in a flat tire. If used, you will have to replace the tire pressure sensor. Have the flat tire repaired by your dealer as soon as possible.

Recommended Tire Pressures The following chart shows the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal and high-speed driving conditions.

Tire Size

P245/65R17 105S

Compact Spare

T165/90R17 105M

Cold Tire Pressure Front/Rear: 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm ) 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

For convenience, the recommended tire sizes and cold tire pressures are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

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

Youshouldlookfor:

Bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if youfindeitheroftheseconditions.

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

Excessive tread wear.

For additional information about your tires, see page

296

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INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

Your tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down, you will see a band 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire.

A tire this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see three or more tread wear indicators.

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

Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This increases riding comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

Forvehiclesequippedwithaluminum wheels:

Improper wheel weights can damage your vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Use only Honda wheel weights f or balancing.

Tires

Tire Rotation

Front

Front

(For Non-directional Tires and Wheels)

(For Directional Tires and Wheels)

To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, rotate the tires every 7,500 miles (12,000
km). Move the tires to the positions shown in the chart each time they are rotated. If you purchase directional tires, rotate only front-to- back.

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Tires

Replacing Tires and Wheels Replace your tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall).

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

Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the ABS and vehicle stability assist system (VSA) to work inconsistently.

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

If you ever replace a wheel, make sure that the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheels.

Also be sure you use only TPMS specific wheels. If you do not, the tire pressure monitoring system will not work on that tire.

Replacement wheels are available at your dealer.

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

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

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＋

294

17 x 7 1/2 J

P245/65R17 105S

for information about

for tire size and labeling

Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheels: Tires: See page DOT Tire Quality Grading, and page 296
information. Winter Driving Tires marked ‘‘M S’’ or ‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- weather tread design suitable for most winter driving conditions. For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions. Snow Tires If you mount snow tires on your vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads maybelowerthanyouroriginaltires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.

Tire Chains Mount tire chains on your tires when required by driving conditions or local laws. Install them only on the front tires. Do not use chains on the rear tires. Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, we strongly recommend using this Quality Chain Corp. tire chain: Premium Cobra Cable Chain #1046P with accessory adjusters* This tire chain is available at many auto supply stores. To find a local store that carries the chain, call Quality Chain Corp at 1-800-843-8824. To order the tire chain online, go to www.chainquest.com , and enter your vehicle information. When you install the chains, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and mount them as tightly as you can. Drive slowly with the chains installed. *Rubber chain adjusters, or tensioners, must be used to prevent the chains from contacting the body or the chassis.

Tires

Using the wrong chains, or not properly installing chains, can damage the brake lines and cause a crash in which you can be seriously injured or killed. Follow all instructions in this owner's manual regarding the selection and use of tire chains.

If you ever hear the chains con- tacting the body or chassis, stop and investigate. If the chains have loosened, retighten them. Make sure they do not contact the brake lines or suspension. Remove the chains as soon as you begin driving on cleared roads.

Traction devices that are the wrong size or improperly installed can damage your vehicle’s brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if they are hitting any part of the vehicle.

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Checking the Battery

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

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

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

If additional battery maintenance is needed, see your dealer or a qualified technician.

Battery posts,

WARNING: terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling.

If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damaging your vehicle’s electrical system. Always disconnect the negative ( − reconnect it last.

) cable first, and

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

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

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

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Checking the Battery

If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. The next timeyouturnontheradioyouwill see ‘‘CODE’’ in the frequency display. Use the preset bars to enter the code (see page

160

).

Onvehicleswithnavigationsystem The navigation system will also disable itself. The next time you turn on the ignition switch, the system will require you to enter a PIN before it can be used. Refer to the navigation system manual.

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Vehicle Storage

If you need to park your vehicle for an extended period (more than 1
month), there are several things you should do to prepare it for storage. Proper preparation helps prevent deterioration and makes it easier to get your vehicle back on the road. If possible, store your vehicle indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Block the rear wheels.

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

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

Change the engine oil and filter.

Disconnect the battery.

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

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

Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in Park.

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

To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door, In-Bed Trunk TM lid, and tailgate seals. Also, apply a vehicle body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door, In-Bed Trunk lid and tailgate seals.

262

Cover the vehicle with a ‘‘breathable’’ cover, one made from a porous material such as cotton. Non-porous materials, such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture, which can damage the paint.

If possible, periodically run the engine until it reaches full operating temperature (the cooling fans cycle on and off twice). Preferably, do this once a month.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

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

...................... .................... ............. ................................ .............. ......... .......... ....... ............... .............................................. .............................. ......................

. 264
Compact Spare Tire . 265
Changing a Flat Tire . 273
If the Engine Won’t Start . 274
Jump Starting . 276
If the Engine Overheats . 278
Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 278
Charging System Indicator . 279
Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 280
Brake System Indicator . 281
Fuses . 284
Fuse Locations Emergency Towing . 286
If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck........... 287

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Compact Spare Tire

Usethecompactsparetireasa temporaryreplacementonly.Get yourregulartirerepairedorreplaced, andputitbackonyourvehicl soonasyoucan.

eas

Checktheinfl ationp ressureofthe compactsparetireeverytimeyou checktheothertires.I inflatedto: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

tshouldbe

Followtheseprecautions:

Neverexceed50mph(80km/h).

Thistiregivesaharsherrideand lesstractiononsomeroadsur- faces.Usegreatercautionwhile driving.

264

Donotmountsnowch ainsona compacts pare.

Donotuseyourcompactspare tireonanothe rvehicleunlessitis thesamemakeandmodel.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

Drivingwiththecompactspare tiremayactivatetheTPMS(see page monitor compact spare tire pressure.

). The TPMS does not

200

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

Replacethetirewhenyoucansee thetreadwearindica torbars.The replacementshouldbethesamesize anddesigntire,mountedonthe samewheel.Thesparetireisnot designedtobemountedonaregular wheel,andthesparewheelisnot designedformountingaregularti

re.

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Changing a Flat Tire

If you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area to stop that is far away from the traffic lanes.

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

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

If you tow a trailer frequently, we recommend that you use a regular tire as a spare. You can store the regular size spare tire on the tire tray, but store the tool kit at the side of the In-Bed Trunk (see page ), and secure it.

271

TOOL BOX

SPARE TIRE

1.

Park the vehicle on firm, level, and non-slippery ground. Put the transmission in Park. Apply the parking brake. If you are towing a trailer, unhitch it.

2.

Turn on the hazard warning lights, and turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Have all passengers get out of the vehicle while you change the tire.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

WING BOLT

TIRE TRAY HOLDING BOLTS

TIRE TRAY

3.

Open the In-Bed Trunk.

4.

Remove the two tire tray holding bolts.

5.

Pull out the tire tray with the handle, and hook the rear of the tire tray to the guides on the back edge of the In-Bed Trunk.

If you are using a cargo net or a cargo cover in the In-Bed Trunk, remove it before pulling out the tire tray.

TOOL BOX

STRAP

6.

Unfasten the strap to remove the tool box, and unscrew the wing bolt.

7.

Take out the compact spare tire.

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Changing a Flat Tire

JACKING POINT

DIAL

8.

Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turn with the wheel nut wrench.

9.

Place the jack under the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change.

10.

Turn the dial at the bottom of the jack clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

CONNECTOR BUTTON

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

DIAL

HOOK

EXTENSION

STAY

CONNECTOR BUTTON

11.

Attach the stay to the extension, then attach the wheel nut wrench to the end of the extension.

12.

Insert the hook at the end of the stay into the opening on the dial at the bottom of the jack.

Make sure the stay, the extension, and the wheel nut wrench are securely attached.

13.

Turn the jack dial (wheel nut wrench) clockwise as shown to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground.

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WHEEL CAP

14.

RT/LX model is shown. Remove the wheel nuts and the wheel cap (on RT and Canadian LX models) then remove the flat tire. Handle the wheel nuts carefully; they may be hot from driving. Place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface facing up.

OnRTandCanadianLXmodels The wheel cap cannot be removed without first removing the wheel nuts.

BRAKE HUB

15.

Before mounting the spare tire, wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with a clean cloth. Wipe the hub carefully; it may be hot from driving.

Changing a Flat Tire

16.

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

17.

Lower the vehicle to the ground, and remove the jack.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

WING BOLT

23.

Release the tire tray and slide it back in place.

24.

Tighten the tire tray holding bolts securely.

SPACER CONE

For normal tire

For spare tire

20.

Place the flat tire face up on the tire tray.

21.

Remove the spacer cone from the wing bolt, turn it over, and put it back on the bolt.

22.

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

18.

Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 94 lbf·ft (127 N·m , 13 kgf·m)

19.

RTS,RTL,andCanadianEXLmodels Remove the center cap from the flat tire.

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Changing a Flat Tire

TOOL BOX

25.

Store the jack and the tools in the tool box.

26.

When storing the flat tire, place the tool box at the right side of the In-Bed Trunk as shown.

Loose items can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash and could seriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack, and tools securely before driving.

27.

Store the wheel cap or center cap in the In-Bed Trunk. Make sure it does not get scratched or damaged.

28.

Refer to TPMS

Changing a Tire with (see page

200

).

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Changing a Flat Tire

Securing a Spare Tire on the Pickup Bed

Ifyouremovethesparetirefromthe pickup bed, reinstall the clip back into its hole.

SPACER CONE

WING BOLT

3.

Placethesparetireonthepickup bed as shown.

4.

Place the spacer cone in the wheel hub,andsecurethesparetireto the pickup bed with the wing bolt.

5.

Store or secure the tool box.

As a temporary mounting location, you can secure a spare tire on the pickup bed, if needed.

1.

Remove the clip by pushing the center of its top.

2.

Remove the spare tire from the tire tray (see page

266

).

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If the Engine Won’t Start

Diagnosing why the engine won’t start falls into two areas, depending on what you hear when you turn the key to START (III):

Check the transmission interlock. The transmission must be in Park or neutral or the starter will not operate.

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

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

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

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Turn on the headlights, and check their brightness. If the headlights areverydimordonotcomeonat all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting

on page

274

Turn the ignition switch to START (III). If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses. If thefusesareOK,thereis probably something wrong with the electrical circuit for the ignition switch or starter motor. You will need a qualified technician to determine the Emergency Towing problem (see ). on page 286

If the headlights dim noticeably or go out when you try to start the engine, either the battery is dis- charged or the connections are corroded. Check the condition of the battery and terminal connec- tions (see page then try jump starting the vehicle from a booster battery (see page 274

). You can

260

).

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

Are you using a properly coded key? An improperly coded key will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the instrument panel to blink rapidly (see page ).

78

CONTINUED

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If the Engine Won’t Start, Jump Starting

Jump Starting Although this seems like a simple procedure, you should take several precautions.

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

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

You cannot start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it.

To jump start your vehicle:

1.

Open the hood, and check the physical condition of the battery. In very cold weather, check the condition of the electrolyte. If it seems slushy or frozen, do not try jump starting until it thaws.

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

2.

Turn off all electrical accessories: heater, A/C, climate control, audio system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in Park, and set the parking brake.

Are you using the proper starting Starting the procedure? Refer to Engine 192

on page