2008 Honda Ridgeline Owners Manual

complete the following steps.

5.

Press and hold the HomeLink button again for 3 to 4 seconds. This should turn off the training indicator on the garage door opener unit. (Some systems may require you to press the button up to three times.)

6.

Press the HomeLink button again for about 1 second. It should operate the garage door.

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HomeLink Universal Transceiver

If a standard transmitter was programmed, the indicator will stay on for about 25 seconds.

2.

Once the HomeLink indicator begins to flash slowly, continue to hold the HomeLink button, and follow steps 3 thru 6 under ‘‘Training HomeLink’’ (see page 175

).

Customer Assistance If you have problems with training the HomeLink Universal Transceiver, or would like information on home products that can be operated by HomeLink, call (800) 355-3515. On the Internet, go to www.homelink.com.

HomeLink is a registered trademark of Johnson Controls, Inc.

AsrequiredbytheFCC: ThisdevicecomplieswithPart15ofthe FCCrules.Operationissubjecttothe followingtwoconditions:(1)Thisdevice maynotcauseharmfulinterference,and (2)thisdevicemustacceptany interferencereceived,including interferencethatmaycauseundesired operation.

Changesormodificationsnotexpressly approvedbythepartyresponsiblefor compliancecouldvoidtheuser’s authoritytooperatetheequipment.

ThisdevicecomplieswithIndustry CanadaStandardRSS-210. Operationissubjecttothefollowingtwo conditions:(1)thisdevicemaynotcause interference,and(2)thisdevicemust acceptanyinterferencethatmaycause undesiredoperationofthedevice.

Erasing Codes To erase the codes stored in all three buttons, press and hold the two outside buttons until the red indicator begins to flash, then release the buttons.

You should erase all three codes before selling the vehicle.

Retraining a Button If you want to retrain a programmed button for a new device, you do not have to erase all button memory. You can replace the existing memory code using this procedure:

1.

Press and hold the HomeLink button to be trained until the HomeLink indicator begins to flash slowly.

If a rolling code transmitter was previously programmed, the indicator will flash rapidly for 2
seconds, and then stay on for about 23 seconds.

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Before Driving

Before you begin driving your vehicle, 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 vehicle, please read the information in this section first.

Break-in Period Fuel Recommendation Service Station Procedures

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

Refueling Opening and Closing the

. 180
. 180
. 181
. 181

Hood

Oil Check Engine Coolant Check

. 183
. 184
. 184
Fuel Economy . 185
Accessories and Modifications . 188
Carrying Cargo . 190

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

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Break-in Period, Fuel Recommendation

Break-in Period Help assure your vehicle’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 for the first 200 miles (300 km).

Do not change the oil until the scheduled maintenance time.

Do not tow a trailer.

You should also follow these recommendations with an overhauled or exchanged engine, or when the brakes are replaced.

Fuel Recommendation Your vehicle is designed to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 87 or higher. Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause a persistent, heavy metallic rapping noise that can lead to engine damage.

We recommended using a quality gasoline containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits.

In addition, in order to maintain good performance, fuel economy, and emissions control, we strongly recommend, in areas where it is available, the use of gasoline that does NOT contain manganese-based fuel additives such as MMT.

Use of gasoline with these additives may adversely affect performance, and cause the malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel to come on. If this happens, contact

180

your authorized dealer for service.

Some gasoline today is blended with oxygenates such as ethanol or MTBE. Your vehicle is designed to operate on oxygenated gasoline containing up to 10 % ethanol by volume and up to 15 % MTBE by volume. Do not use gasoline containing methanol.

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

Premium fuel is recommended when towing in certain conditions (see page

229

).

For further important fuel-related information, please refer to your Quick Start Guide

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Refueling

Pull

1.

Park with the driver’s side closest to the service station pump.

2.

Open the fuel fill door by pulling on the handle to the left of the driver’s seat.

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.

ATTACHMENT

TETHER FUEL FILL CAP

Service Station Procedures

3.

Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. The fuel fill cap is attached to the fuel filler with a tether. Insert the attachment on the fuel fill cap into the slit 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.

Ifthefuelnozzlekeepsclickingoff even though the tank is not full, there may be a problem with your vehicle’s fuel vapor recovery system. The system helps keep fuel vapor from going into the atmosphere. Try filling at another pump. If this does not fix the problem, consult your dealer.

CONTINUED

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Service Station Procedures

5.

Screw the fuel fill cap back on until it clicks at least once. If you do not properly tighten the cap, the malfunction indicator lamp may come on (see page will also see a ‘‘TIGHTEN FUEL CAP’’ message on the information display.

). You

291

6.

Push the fuel fill door closed until it latches.

182

Do not fill a portable fuel container in the pickup bed.

Static electricity can ignite gas vapors and you can be burned.

FillingaPortableFuelContainer Whenever filling a fuel container, use an approved fuel container, and place it on the ground. Do not fill the fuel container in the vehicle, including the pickup bed and the In-Bed Trunk. Make sure to put the fuel pump nozzle in the fuel filler of the container securely and to handle it properly.

Gasoline or fuel vapors are extremely flammable and explosive. Improperly handling fuel can cause an explosion in which you can be seriously injured.

Before placing the fuel container in the vehicle, wipe up any spill completely.

Your vehicle has a warning label for filling a portable fuel container on the left rear side of the pickup bed.

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Opening and Closing the Hood

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

LATCH

1.

Park the vehicle, and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle under the lower left corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.

2.

Put your fingers under the front edge of the hood. The hood latch handle is above the ‘‘H’’ logo. Pull this handle until it releases the hood, then lift the hood.

If the hood latch handle moves stiffly, or you can open the hood without lifting the handle, the mechanism should be cleaned and lubricated.

Service Station Procedures

SUPPORT ROD

3.

Pull the support rod out of its clip, and insert the end into either of the designated holes pointed to by an arrow.

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. Make sure it is securely latched.

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Service Station Procedures

Oil Check

DIPSTICK

Engine Coolant Check

RESERVE TANK

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

MAX

MIN

Wait a few minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

1.

Remove the dipstick (orange loop).

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, 248
see

Adding Engine Oil

on page

2.

Wipe off the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel.

3.

Insert the dipstick all the way back into its hole.

184

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If Adding it is below the MIN line, see Engine Coolant 251
for information on adding the proper coolant.

on page

Owner’s Maintenance on page

Refer to Checks for information about checking other items on your vehicle.

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Actual Mileage and EPA Fuel Economy Estimates Comparison. Fuel economy is not a fixed number. It varies based on driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle condition. Therefore, it is not possible for one set of estimates to predict fuel economy precisely for all drivers in all environments.

The EPA fuel economy estimates shown in the example to the right are a useful tool for comparison when buying a vehicle. EPA estimates include:

−

Represents urban

City MPG driving in a vehicle in light traffic. A range of miles per gallon achieved is also provided.

−

Represents a

Highway MPG mixture of rural and interstate driving, in a warmed-up vehicle, typical of longer trips in free-flowing traffic. A range of miles per gallon

Fuel Economy

City MPG

Highway MPG

Combined Fuel Economy

Estimated Annual Fuel Cost

(Sample U.S. EPA label shown)

achieved is also provided.

−

Combined Fuel Economy Represents a combination of city and highway driving. The scale represents the range of combined fuel economy for other vehicles in the class.

Estimated Annual Fuel Cost − Provides an estimated annual fuel cost, based on 15,000 miles (20,000
km) per year multiplied by the cost per gallon (based on EPA fuel cost data) divided by the combined fuel economy.

For more information on fuel economy ratings and factors that affect fuel economy, visit fueleconomy.gov vehicles.gc.ca

www. (Canada: Visit

www.

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Fuel Economy

Fuel Economy Factors The following factors can lower your vehicle’s fuel economy:

Aggressive driving (hard acceleration and braking) Excessive idling, accelerating and braking in stop-and-go traffic Cold engine operation (engines are more efficient when warmed up) Driving with a heavy load or the air conditioner running Improperly inflated tires

Improving Fuel Economy

VehicleMaintenance A properly maintained vehicle maximizes fuel economy. Poor maintenance can significantly reduce fuel economy. Always maintain your vehicle according to the maintenance messages displayed on the information display (see Maintenance Checks For example:

Owner’s on page 245

).

186

).

Use the recommended viscosity motor oil, displaying the API Certification Seal (see page 248
Maintain proper tire inflation An under-inflated tire increases − ‘‘rolling resistance,’’ which reduces fuel economy. Avoid carrying excess weight in your vehicle It puts a heavier load on the engine, increasing fuel consumption. Keep your vehicle clean In particular, a build-up of snow or mud on your vehicle’s underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel economy.

−

−

DriveEfficiently

−

Drive moderately acceleration, abrupt cornering, and hard braking increase fuel consumption.

Rapid

−

−

If your vehicle has a

Observe the speed limit Aerodynamic drag has a big effect on fuel mileage at speeds above 45
mph (75 km/h). Reduce your speed and you reduce the drag. Trailers, car top carriers, roof racks and bike racks are also big contributors to increased drag. Always drive in the highest gear possible manual transmission, you can boost your fuel economy by up shifting as early as possible. Avoid excessive idling − results in 0 miles per gallon. Minimize the use of the air conditioning system puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Use the fresh-air ventilation when possible. Plan and combine trips Combine several short trips into one. A warmed-up engine is more fuel efficient than a cold one.

The A/C

Idling

−

−

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Fuel Economy

Calculating Fuel Economy

CheckingYourFuelEconomy

MeasuringTechniques Direct calculation is the recommended source of information about your actual fuel economy. Using frequency of fill-ups or taking fuel gauge readings are NOT accurate measures of fuel economy. Fuel economy may improve over the first several thousand miles.

Miles driven

Gallons of

fuel

Miles per

Gallon

100

Liter

Kilometers

L per 100 km

1. 2. 3. 4.

Fill the fuel tank until the nozzle automatically clicks off. Reset trip counter to zero. Record the total gallons (liters) needed to refill. Follow one of the simple calculations above.

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Accessories and Modifications

Improper accessories or modifications can affect your vehicle’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.

Yourvehicleshouldnotbeusedto carryaslide-incamper. If you install a truck cap, be sure it is properly installed and does not exceed your vehicle’s load limits (see page

191

).

When properly installed, cellular phones, alarms, two-way radios, and low-powered audio systems should not interfere with your vehicle’s computer controlled systems, such as your airbags, anti-lock brakes, and tire pressure monitoring system.

Before installing any accessory:

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

Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits (see page the proper operation of your vehicle.

) or interfere with

293

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

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

Although non-Honda accessories may fit on your vehicle, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your vehicle’s handling and stability.

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Before installing any electronic accessory, have the installer contact your dealer for assistance. If possible, have your dealer inspect the final installation.

Do not install accessories on the side pillars or across the rear windows. Accessories installed in these areas may interfere with proper operation of the side curtain airbags.

Modifying Your Vehicle Removing parts from your vehicle, or replacing components with non-Honda components could seriously affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, and reliability.

Some examples are:

Lowering the vehicle with a non- Honda suspension kit that significantly reduces ground clearance can allow the undercarriage to hit speed bumps or other raised objects, which could cause the airbags to deploy.

Raising your vehicle with a non-Honda suspension kit can affect the handling and stability.

Non-Honda wheels, because they are a universal design, can cause excessive stress on suspension components and will not be compatible with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Accessories and Modifications

Larger or smaller wheels and tires can interfere with the operation of your vehicle’s anti-lock brakes and other systems.

Modifying your steering wheel or any other part of your vehicle’s safety systems could make the systems ineffective.

If you plan to modify your vehicle, consult your dealer.

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Carrying Cargo

GLOVE BOX

DOOR POCKET

DASHBOARD POCKETS

IN-BED TRUNK

CONSOLE COMPARTMENTS

SEAT-BACK POCKETS

FOLD-UP REAR SEAT WITH UNDER-SEAT STORAGE

PICKUP BED

190

The pickup bed on your vehicle allows you to carry heavy and large cargo. You can also store items in the In-Bed Trunk and on a roof-rack (if equipped).

Your vehicle also has these convenient storage areas inside:

Glove box Front door and seat-back pockets Fold-up rear seat with under-seat storage Console compartment Pockets on the dashboard

However, carrying too much cargo, or improperly storing it, can affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, stopping distance, and tires, and make it unsafe. Before carrying any type of cargo, be sure to read the following pages.

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Carrying Cargo

Load Limits (Payload) The maximum load for your vehicle is: Onvehicleswithoutmoonroof 1,530 lbs (690 kg) Onvehicleswithmoonroof 1,480 lbs (670 kg)

See Tire And Loading Information label attached to the driver’s doorjamb.

Label Example

These figures include the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and accessories, and the tongue load if you are towing a trailer.

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.

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit: 1.

Locate the statement ‘‘The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.’’ on your vehicle’s placard.

2.

3.

Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.

CONTINUED

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Carrying Cargo

4.

5.

6.

The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the ‘‘XXX’’ amount equals 1,400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1,400

150) = 650 lbs.)

750 (5

−

×

Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.

If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.

192

Example 1

Example 2

Example 3

Max Load (1,530 lbs)

Passenger Weight (150 lbs x 2 = 300 lbs)

Cargo Weight (1,230 lbs)

Max Load (1,530 lbs)

Passenger Weight (150 lbs x 4 = 600 lbs)

Cargo Weight (930 lbs)

Max Load (1,530 lbs)

Passenger Weight (150 lbs x 5 = 750 lbs)

Cargo Weight (780 lbs)

In addition, the total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, accessories, cargo, and trailer tongue load must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Both are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

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Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment

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

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

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

If you fold the rear seats up, tie down items that could be thrown about the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop. Also, keep all cargo below the bottom of the windows. If it is higher, it could interfere with the proper operation of the side curtain airbags.

Distribute cargo evenly on the floor of the cargo area with the rear seats folded up, placing the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible. Tie down items that could be thrown about the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop.

Carrying Cargo

Carrying Cargo in the In-Bed Trunk or on a Roof Rack

Distribute cargo evenly on the floor in the In-Bed Trunk, placing the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible. Tie down items that could be thrown during a crash or sudden stop.

Make sure the In-Bed Trunk lid is closed securely before driving.

Be sure the total weight of the items in the In-Bed Trunk does not exceed 300 lbs (136 kg).

If you carry any items on a roof rack, be sure the total weight of the rack and the items does not exceed 110 lbs (50 kg).

If you use an accessory roof rack, the roof rack weight limit may be lower. Refer to the information that came with your roof rack.

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Carrying Cargo

Carrying Cargo in the Pickup Bed Your vehicle can carry a large amount of cargo in the pickup bed.

However, the pickup bed is not intended for carrying passengers. People who ride in the pickup bed can be very seriously injured or killed in a crash (see page ).

Make sure your cargo is properly loaded and all items are secured so they will not shift or fall out while driving.

Allowing passengers to ride in the pickup bed or on the tailgate can result in death or serious injury in a crash.

Make sure all passengers ride in a seat and wear a seat belt properly.

194

When loading and unloading cargo, make sure all passengers or any objects are clear of the tailgate before opening or closing it. The tailgate should be closed securely before driving when it is not used as the extended pickup bed.

The maximum allowable loading weight on the pickup bed is 1,100
lbs (500 kg). Do not exceed the load limit (see page

191

).

Distribute cargo evenly on the pickup bed. Place the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible of the rear axle. Tie down and secure all items that could be thrown out of the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop.

If you stack items higher than the bed sides, tailgate, or back window, secure them with a net or cover. This will reduce the risk of items being thrown out of the pickup bed during a crash or sudden stop.

When the tailgate is dropped open, it can be used as an extended pickup bed. The maximum allowable weight on the tailgate while driving is 300 lbs (136 kg). Exceeding this limit could damage the tailgate.

Carrying heavy cargo in the pickup bed will raise your vehicle’s center of gravity. This can affect handling and performance. Drive more slowly and cautiously, and allow extra time and distance for braking.

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Never let passengers ride on the pickup bed or in the In-Bed Trunk space. This could cause very serious injuries or death in a collision. No one should ride in any position on your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and seat belts.

Exceeding load limits or improperly loading cargo on the vehicle can cause a crash in which you can be seriously injured or killed.

Load the cargo carefully before starting to drive.

Tie Down Cleats

TIE DOWN CLEAT

Your vehicle has six tie down cleats on the pickup bed.

They are used to secure cargo on the pickup bed and to install a cargo net for securing items. Do not use any other parts of the pickup bed to secure cargo or nets.

Carrying Cargo

You can also support motorcycles on the pickup bed floor with the cleats. The floor panel of the pickup bed is designed to hold motorcycle tires. Be sure to tighten motorcycles securely, with an approved tie-down or motorcycle strap, according to the motorcycle maker’s instructions.

When carrying motorcycles or any other cargo, do not spill any oil or fluid on the pickup bed. A spilled liquid may damage the pickup bed.

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Carrying Cargo

Optional Cargo Net The cargo net can be used to hold lightweight items in the pickup bed. Secure all items properly. The net may not prevent heavy items from being thrown outward in a crash or a sudden stop.

Optional Cargo Cover The cargo cover can be used to cover the cargo area on the pickup bed.

Pickup Bed Repair Your vehicle’s pickup bed has a rust resistant surface. To repair small chips and scratches in the bed, a repair kit is available from your dealer. More extensive damage should be repaired by your dealer.

To avoid problems with the bed surface and the In-Bed Trunk lid, do not use spray-in bed liner products.

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Driving

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the automatic transmission. It also includes important information on parking your vehicle, the braking system, the VTM-4 system, the VSA system, the tire pressure monitoring system, and facts you need if you are planning to tow a trailer.

Driving Guidelines Preparing to Drive Starting the Engine Automatic Transmission Variable Torque Management

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

(TPMS)

4WD (VTM-4) System

............. Tire Pressure Monitoring System ...................................... ........................................... ............................. ...............

Parking Braking System Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)

System

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

Towing Weight Limits Towing Weight Guidelines Towing a Trailer Off-Highway Driving

. 198
. 199
. 200
. 201

. 206

. 208
. 211
. 212
. 213

. 215
. 217
. 219
. 220

Guidelines

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

. 232

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Driving Guidelines

Your vehicle has higher ground clearance that allows you to travel over bumps, obstacles, and rough terrain. It also provides good visibility so you can anticipate problems earlier.

Your vehicle allows you to carry more cargo than a typical passenger vehicle.

Because your vehicle rides higher off the ground, it has a high center of gravity that can cause it to roll over if you make abrupt turns. Utility vehicles have a significantly higher roll over rate than other types of vehicles.

To prevent rollovers or loss of control:

Take corners at slower speeds than you would with a passenger vehicle.

Avoid sharp turns and abrupt maneuvers whenever possible.

Make sure the cargo is properly loaded and all items are secured so they will not shift while driving.

Do not modify your vehicle in any way that would raise the center of gravity.

Do not carry heavy cargo on the roof.

198

With heavy cargo on the pickup bed, your vehicle has a higher center of gravity. Drive slowly and cautiously, and allow more time and distance for braking. Loading heavy cargo could affect your vehicle’s handling and performance.

Seepage foroff-highwaydriving guidelines.

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Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checks and adjustments before you drive your vehicle.

7.

Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors (see page

112

).

1.

Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice.

2.

Check that the hood is fully closed.

8.

Check the steering wheel adjustment (see page 79

).

9.

Make sure the doors and In-Bed Trunk are securely closed and locked.

10.

Fasten your seat belt. Check that your passengers have fastened their seat belts (see page ).

14

11.

When you start the engine, check the gauges and indicators in the instrument panel (see page ).

59

3.

4.

5.

6.

Check that the tailgate is fully closed when it is not used as an extended pickup bed.

Visually check the tires. If a tire looks low, use a gauge to check its pressure.

Check that any items you may be carrying are stored properly or fastened down securely.

Check the seat adjustment (see pages

and

101

99

).

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Starting the Engine

1.

Apply the parking brake.

4.

2.

In cold weather, turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

3.

Make sure the shift lever is in Park. Press on the brake pedal.

Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. Do not hold the key in the START (III) position for more than 15 seconds at a time. If the engine does not start right away, pause for at least 10 seconds before trying again.

The immobilizer system protects your vehicle f rom thef t. If an improperly- coded key (or other device) is used, the engine’s f uel system is disabled. For more inf ormation, see page

81

5.

6.

If the engine does not start within 15 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 4 with the accelerator pedal pressed halfway down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

If the engine fails to start, press the accelerator pedal all the way down, and hold it there while starting to clear flooding. If the engine still does not start, return to step 5.

The engine is harder to start in cold weather. Also, the thinner air f ound at altitudes above 8,000 f eet (2,400
meters) adds to this problem.

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Shift Lever Position Indicators

These indicators on the instrument panel show which position the shift lever is in.

The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission.

If the malfunction indicator lamp comes on along with the ‘‘D’’ indicator, there is a problem with the automatic transmission control system. Avoid rapid acceleration, and have the transmission checked by your dealer as soon as possible.

Automatic Transmission

Shifting

SHIFT LEVER

To shift from Park to any position, press firmly on the brake pedal, and pull the shift lever toward you. You cannot shift out of Park when the ignition switch is in the LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I) position.

CONTINUED

201

2008 Ridgeline −

Press the brake

Reverse (R) pedal and pull the shift lever towards you to shift from Park to reverse. To shift from reverse to neutral, come to a complete stop, and then shift. Pull the shift lever towards you before shifting into reverse from neutral.

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Automatic Transmission

−

This position mechani-

Park (P) cally locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift out of Park, you must press on the brake pedal and have your foot off the accelerator pedal. Pull the shift lever towards you, then move it out of Park.

If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see on page 205

Shift Lock Release

You must also pull the shift lever towards you to shift into Park. To avoid transmission damage, come to a complete stop before shifting into Park. The shift lever must be in Park for you to remove the key from the ignition switch.

To shift from:

Do this:

Press the brake pedal, and pull the shift lever towards you.

Pull the shift lever towards you.

Move the shift lever.

P to R

R to P N to R D to 2
2 to 1
1 to 2
2 to D D to N N to D R to N

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−

Use neutral if you

Neutral (N) need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to the Park position if you need to leave your vehicle for any reason. Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from neutral to another gear.

After you stop in D, 2, 1, N, or R position with the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I) position for an extended period, you may not be able to move the shift lever from neutral to reverse or Park. In this case, press the brake pedal, and turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, then shift out of neutral.

−

Use this position for

Drive (D) your normal driving. The transmission automatically selects a suitable gear (1 through 5) for your speed and acceleration. You may notice the transmission shifting up at higher engine speeds when the engine is cold. This helps the engine warm up faster.

Automatic Transmission

D3

D3 SWITCH

Press the D3 switch on the end of the shift lever to turn this mode on or off; the D3 indicator comes on whenever D3 is selected.

The D3 switch can be operated only when the ignition switch is in the ON (II) position and the shift lever is in the D position.

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Automatic Transmission

When towing a trailer on level roads under normal driving conditions, do not use D3. This will increase the automatic transmission fluid temperature and may cause overheating.

− To shift to second,

Second (2) pull the shift lever towards you, then shift to the lower gear. This position locks the transmission in second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop.

Shifting out of the D position will cancel D3, and cause the D3
indicator to go out. Selecting the D position again will resume D3, and the indicator will come on.

Use second gear:

For more power when climbing.

To increase engine braking when going down steep hills.

Turning the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position turns D3 off. To use D3 when you restart the engine, select the D position, and press the D3 switch again.

The D3 indicator also comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.

For starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow.

To help reduce wheel spin.

When driving downhill with a trailer.

D3 INDICATOR

When D3 is on, the transmission selects only the first three gears. Use D3 for engine braking when going down a steep hill.

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First (1) − To shift from second to first, pull the shift lever towards you, then shift to the lower gear. This position locks the transmission in first gear. By upshifting and downshifting through 1, 2, and D, you can operate the transmission much like a manual transmission without a clutch pedal.

If you shift into first position when the vehicle speed is above 28 mph (45 km/h), the transmission shifts into second gear first to avoid sudden engine braking.

Engine Speed Limiter If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer’s red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine’s computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the rpm below the red zone.

Automatic Transmission

Shift Lock Release This allows you to move the shift lever out of Park if the normal method of pushing on the brake pedal and pulling the shift lever does not work.

1.

Set the parking brake.

2.

Make sure the ignition switch is in the LOCK (0) position.

3.

Put a cloth on the notch of the shift lock release slot cover. Using a small flat-tipped screwdriver or a metal fingernail file, carefully pry on the notch of the cover to remove it.

CONTINUED

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Automatic Transmission, VTM-4 System

COVER

VTM-4 System

VTM-4 LOCK BUTTON

4.

Insert a key into the shift lock release slot.

5.

Push down on the key while you pull the shift lever towards you, and move it out of Park to neutral.

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT

6.

Remove the key from the shift lock release slot, then reinstall the cover. Make sure the notch on the cover is on the instrument panel side. Press the brake pedal, and restart the engine.

If you need to use the shift lock release, it means your vehicle is developing a problem. Have it checked by your dealer.

Your vehicle is equipped with a variable torque management 4-wheel-drive system (VTM-4) that distributes engine torque to the appropriate drive axle depending on the available traction conditions. The system is completely automatic, always active, and does not require any driver interaction.

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VTM-4 System

If you become stuck, you can activate the VTM-4 by pressing the VTM-4 LOCK button while in first (1), second (2), or reverse (R) gear below 18 mph (30 km/h). This mode overrides the auto system to send maximum torque to the rear axle. This mode is only intended for intermittent use at low speed to free your vehicle if it becomes stuck or when you encounter a steep grade with one wheel on a slippery surface. Generally, you should first allow the auto mode to operate to adjust for the available traction conditions.

To Engage the VTM-4 Lock: 1.

The vehicle speed must be below 18 mph (30 km/h).

2.

Move the shift lever to first (1), second (2), or reverse (R) gear.

3.

Press the VTM-4 LOCK button. The indicator in the button comes on.

To get unstuck, apply light pressure to the accelerator pedal. Do not spin the front tires for more than a few seconds. Because of the amount of torque applied to the rear tires, they should not spin. This is normal. If you are not able to move the vehicle, stop and reverse direction.

The VTM-4 Lock will temporarily disengage when the vehicle speed exceeds 18 mph (30 km/h). The indicator in the button will remain on.

To Disengage the VTM-4 Lock, any of the following:

Press the VTM-4 LOCK button.

do

Move the shift lever to D.

Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position.

Do not use the VTM-4 LOCK button on dry, paved roads. Driving on dry, paved roads with VTM-4 Lock ON may damage the rear dif f erential when making a turn. Strange noise and vibration can also result.

Do not continuously spin the f ront tires of your vehicle. Continuously spinning the f ront tires can cause transmission or rear dif f erential damage.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Your vehicle is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that turns on every time you start the engine and monitors the pressure in your tires while driving.

Each tire has its own pressure sensor (not including the spare tire). If the air pressure of a tire becomes significantly low, the sensor in that tire immediately sends a signal that causes the low tire pressure indicator and the appropriate tire on the tire pressure monitor to come on.

Low Tire Pressure Indicator

When the low tire pressure indicator is on, one or more of your tires is significantly underinflated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure as indicated on the vehicle’s tire information placard.

If you think you can safely drive a short distance to a service station, proceed slowly, and inflate the tire to the recommended pressure shown on the driver’s doorjamb.

If the tire is flat, or if the tire pressure is too low to continue driving, replace the tire with the compact spare tire (see page 276

).

If you cannot make the low tire pressure indicator go out after inflating the tires to the specified values, have your dealer check the system as soon as possible.

208

Driving on a significantly under- inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.

Because tire pressure varies by temperature and other conditions, the low tire pressure indicator may come on unexpectedly.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

For example, if you check and fill your tires in a warm area, then drive in extremely cold weather, the tire pressure will be lower than measured and could be underinflated and cause the low tire pressure indicator to come on. Or, if you check and adjust your tire pressure in cooler conditions, and drive into extremely hot conditions, the tire may become overinflated. However, the low tire pressure indicator will not come on if the tires are overinflated.

Refer to page guidelines.

267

for tire inflation

Although your tire pressure is monitored, you must manually check the tire pressures monthly.

Each tire, including the spare, should be checked monthly when cold and set to the recommended inflation pressure as specified in the vehicle placard and this owner’s manual (see page

268

).

Tire Pressure Monitor

The appropriate tire indicator and low tire pressure indicator comes on if a tire becomes significantly Low Tire underinflated. See Pressure Indicator on page

208

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Indicator This indicator comes on and stays on if there is a problem with the tire pressure monitoring system.

If this happens, the system will shut off and no longer monitor tire pressures. Have the system checked by your dealer as soon as possible.

If the low tire pressure indicator or TPMS indicator comes on, the VSA system automatically turns on even when the VSA system is turned off by pressing the VSA OFF switch (see page cannot turn the VSA system off by pressing the VSA off switch again.

). If this happens, you

216

When you restart the vehicle with the compact spare tire, the TPMS indicator may also come on and stay on.

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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The low tire pressure indicator or the TPMS indicator will go off when you replace the spare tire with the specified regular tire equipped with the tire pressure monitor sensor.

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.

AsrequiredbytheFCC: ThisdevicecomplieswithPart15ofthe FCCrules.Operationissubjecttothe followingtwoconditions:(1)Thisdevice maynotcauseharmfulinterference,and (2)thisdevicemustacceptany interferencereceived,including interferencethatmaycauseundesired operation.

Changesormodificationsnotexpressly approvedbythepartyresponsiblefor compliancecouldvoidtheuser’s authoritytooperatetheequipment.

ThisdevicecomplieswithIndustry CanadaStandardRSS-210. Operationissubjecttothefollowingtwo conditions:(1)thisdevicemaynotcause interference,and(2)thisdevicemust acceptanyinterferencethatmaycause undesiredoperationofthedevice.

Changing a Tire with TPMS If you have a flat tire, the low tire pressure and tire monitor indicators will come on. Replace the indicated flat tire with the compact spare tire (see page

277

).

Each wheel is equipped with a tire pressure sensor mounted inside the tire behind the valve stem. You must use TPMS specific wheels. It is recommended that you always have your tires serviced by your dealer or a qualified technician.

After you replace the flat tire with the spare, the TPMS indicator stays on. This is normal; the system is not monitoring the spare tire pressure. Manually check the spare tire pressure to be sure it is correct.

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Always use the parking brake when you park your vehicle. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly, or your vehicle may roll if it is parked on an incline.

Set the parking brake before you put the transmission in Park. This keeps the vehicle from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission.

Parking Tips

Make sure the moonroof (if equipped) and the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

Place any packages, valuables, etc. in the cargo area in your vehicle or the In-Bed Trunk, or take them with you.

Lock the doors.

Onvehicleswithsecuritysystem Check the indicator on the driver’s door to verify that the security system is set.

Never park over dry leaves, tall grass, or other flammable materials. The hot three way catalytic converter could cause these materials to catch on fire.