2009 Honda Ridgeline Owners Manual

BLADE

LOCK TAB

3.

Disconnect the blade assembly from the wiper arm:

Press and hold the lock tab. Slide the blade assembly toward the lock tab until it releases from the wiper arm.

4.

Remove the blade from its holder by grabbing the tabbed end of the blade. Pull up 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.

CONTINUED

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Wiper Blades, Wheels, Tires

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

348

Wheels Clean the wheels as you would the rest of the exterior. Wash them with the same solution, and rinse them thoroughly.

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

Ifequipped Aluminum alloy wheels have a protective clear-coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing. Cleaning the wheels with harsh chemicals (including some commercial wheel cleaners) or a stiff brush can damage the clear-coat. To clean the wheels, use a mild detergent and a soft brush or sponge.

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.

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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 vehicle ride more harshly, are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warns you when a tire pressure is low. See page or for more information. 281

278

Even though your vehicle is equipped with TPMS, 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.

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 spare tire at the same time.

Check the air pressures when the tires are cold. This means the vehicle has been parked for at least 3
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

350

Tires

If you check air pressures when the tires are hot [driven for several miles (kilometers)], you will see readings 4
to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4
kgf/cm ) higher than the cold readings. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the recommended cold air pressure. The tire will be underinflated.

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

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.

CONTINUED

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Tires

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.

RT,RTSmodels,andCanadianDX,VP models

Tire Size

Cold Tire Pressure

P245/65R17 105T

Front/Rear: 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

RTLmodels,andCanadianEX-Lmodels

Cold Tire Pressure

Front/Rear: 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

Tire Size

P245/60R18 104T

350

The compact spare tire pressure is: 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.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

For additional information about your tires, see page

392

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

You should look for:

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

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

Excessive tread wear.

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

Your tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down, you will see a 1/2
inch (12.7 mm) wide band 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.

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Tire Service Life The service life of your tires is dependent on many factors, including, but not limited to, driving habits, road conditions, vehicle loading, inflation pressure, maintenance history, speed, and environmental conditions (even when the tires are not in use).

In addition to your regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance, it is recommended that you have annual inspections performed once the tires reach five years old. It is also recommended that all tires, including the spare, be removed from service after 10 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their condition or state of wear. The last four digits of the TIN (tire identification number) are found on the sidewall of the tire and indicate Tire the date of manufacture (See Labeling

on page

392

).

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.

On vehicles with aluminum 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 according to the maintenance messages displayed on the information display or multi- information display (depending on models). Move the tires to the positions shown in the diagram 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.

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.

Replacement wheels are available at your dealer.

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 and VSA system work 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 ABS or VSA system to activate.

352

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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Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheels:

RT,RTSmodels,andCanadianDX, VPmodels 17 x 7 1/2 J RTLmodels,andCanadianEX-L models 18 x 7 1/2 J

Tires:

RT,RTSmodels,andCanadianDX, VPmodels P245/65R17 105T RTLmodels,andCanadianEX-L models P245/60R18 104T

390

for DOT tire quality

See page grading information, and page 392
for tire size information.

Tires

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 the original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may be lower than your original tires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.

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When installing chains, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and mount them as tightly as you can. Drive slowly with chains installed. If you hear them contacting the body or chassis, stop and investigate. Make sure the chains are installed tightly, and that they are not contacting the brake lines or suspension. Remove the chains as soon as you start driving on cleared roads.

Tires

Tire Chains Mount tire chains on your tires when required by driving conditions or local laws. Install them only on the front tires.

Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, Honda strongly recommends using the chains listed below.

OnRT,RTSmodels,andCanadianDX, VPmodels Premium Cobra Cable Chain ＃

1046P with accessory adjusters

OnRTLmodels,andCanadianEX-L models SCC Super Z-6 SZ-435

＃

354

Premium Cobra Cable Chain ＃ adjusters

1046P with accessory

＊

OnRT,RTSmodels,andCanadianDX, VPmodels 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 , and enter your www.chainquest.com 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.

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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 contacting 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.

356

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 future 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 technician do the battery maintenance.

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Onmodelswithoutnavigationsystem If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected, or goes dead, the time setting may be lost. To reset the time, see page

205

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

204

).

Onmodelswithnavigationsystem 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.

Checking the Battery, Vehicle Storage

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.

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.

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).

Disconnect the battery.

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

To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door, In-Bed Trunk 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.

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Vehicle Storage

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.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If the Engine Won’t Start Jump Starting If the Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp Brake System Indicator Fuses Fuse Locations Emergency Towing If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

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

. 360
. 361
. 369
. 370
. 372
. 374
. 374
. 375
. 376
. 378
. 381
. 383
. 383

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Compact Spare Tire

Use the compact spare tire as a temporary replacement only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced, and put it back on your vehicle as soon as you can.

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

Follow these precautions:

Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).

This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road surfaces. Use greater caution while driving.

Do not mount snow chains on a compact spare.

360

Do not use your compact spare tire on another vehicle unless it is the same make and model.

Onmodelswithoutnavigationsystem The low tire pressure indicator comes on and stays on after you replace the flat tire with the compact spare tire. After several miles (kilometers) driving with the compact spare tire, the TPMS indicator comes on and the low tire pressure indicator goes off.

Onmodelswithnavigationsystem After the flat tire is replaced with the spare tire, the low tire pressure/ TPMS indicator stays on. After several miles (kilometers) driving with the spare, this indicator begins to flash, then stays on again. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message on the multi- information display (see page 284

).

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

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

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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.

367

TOOL BOX

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.

SPARE TIRE

2.

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

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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.

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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

RT/DX model is shown.

14.

Remove the wheel nuts and the wheel cap (on RT and Canadian DX 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.

OnRTandCanadianDXmodels 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 the wheel nuts 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.

OnRTS,RTL,andCanadianVP,EX-L models 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 ).

280

285

or

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Changing a Flat Tire

Securing a Spare Tire on the Pickup Bed

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

362

).

368

SPACER CONE

If you remove the spare tire from the pickup bed, reinstall the clip back into its hole.

WING BOLT

3.

Place the spare tire on the pickup bed as shown.

4.

Place the spacer cone in the wheel hub, and secure the spare tire to the pickup bed with the wing bolt.

5.

Store or secure the tool box.

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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 ignition switch to the START (III) position:

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 the START (III) position, you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound, a series of clicks, or nothing at all. Check these things:

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

Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. Turn on the headlights, and check their brightness. If the headlights are very dim or do not come on at all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting

on page

370

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

on page

383

If the headlights dim noticeably or go out when you try to start the engine, either the battery is discharged 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 370

). You can

356

).

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 the START (III) position, 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 ).

101

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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.

ToJumpStartYourVehicle:

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 270

on page

Do you have fuel? Check the fuel gauge; the low fuel indicator may not be working.

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

378

).

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

Emergency 383

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Jump Starting

5.

6.

7.

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

Start the vehicle. If the starter motor still operates slowly, check that the jumper cables have good metal-to-metal contact.

Once your vehicle is running, disconnect the negative cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery.

Keep the ends of the jumper cables away from each other and any metal on the vehicle until everything is disconnected. Otherwise, you may cause an electrical short.

371

4.

−

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

BOOSTER BATTERY

The numbers in the illustration show you the order to connect the jumper cables.

3.

＋

Connect one jumper cable to the positive ( ) terminal on your vehicle’s battery. Connect the other end to the positive ( terminal on the booster battery.

＋

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If the Engine Overheats

The pointer of your vehicle’s temperature gauge should stay in the midrange under most conditions. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason (hot day, driving up a steep hill, etc.).

If the vehicle overheats, you should take immediate action. The only indication may be the temperature gauge climbing to or above the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the hood.

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

372

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

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

1.

2.

3.

Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in Park, and set the parking brake. Turn off all accessories, and turn on the hazard warning indicators.

If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn off the engine. Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood.

If you do not see steam or spray, leave the engine running and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading, the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the temperature gauge comes down to the midpoint, then continue driving.

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4.

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

5.

6.

7.

Look for any obvious coolant leaks, such as a split radiator hose. Everything is still extremely hot, so use caution. If you find a leak, it must be repaired before you continue driving (see Emergency ). Towing 383

on page

If you do not find an obvious leak, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Add coolant if the level is below the MIN mark.

If there was no coolant in the reserve tank, you may need to add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the pointer reaches the middle of the tempera- ture gauge, or lower, before check- ing the radiator.

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

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

8.

Using gloves or a large heavy cloth, turn the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pushing down, to the first stop. After the pressure releases, push down on the cap, and turn it until it comes off.

If the Engine Overheats

9.

’’). Add coolant to the

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

10.

Put the radiator cap back on tightly. Run the engine, and check the temperature gauge. If it goes back to the red mark, the engine needs repair (see Towing on page

Emergency 383

).

11.

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

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Low Oil Pressure Indicator, Charging System Indicator

1.

2.

3.

4.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

This indicator should never come on when the engine is running. If it starts flashing or stays on, the oil pressure has dropped very low or lost pressure. Serious engine damage is possible, and you should take immediate action.

Onmodelswithnavigationsystem You will also see a ‘‘CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL’’ message on the multi-information display when this indicator comes on.

Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical damage almost immediately. Turn of f the engine as soon as you can saf ely get the vehicle stopped.

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Safely pull off the road, and shut off the engine. Turn on the hazard warning indicators.

Let the vehicle sit for a minute. Open the hood, and check the oil level (see page ). An engine very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.

253

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

326

).

Start the engine, and watch the oil pressure indicator. If it does not go out within 10 seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving (see 383

Emergency Towing ).

on page

Charging System Indicator

If the charging system indicator comes on brightly

when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged.

Onmodelswithnavigationsystem You will also see a ‘‘CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page

90

).

Immediately turn off all electrical accessories. Try not to use other electrically operated controls such as the power windows. Keep the engine running; starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly.

Go to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.

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Onmodelswithoutnavigationsystem You will also see a ‘‘CHECK FUEL CAP’’ message on the information display.

Onmodelswithnavigationsystem You will also see a ‘‘TIGHTEN FUEL CAP’’ message on the multi- information display.

If this indicator comes on while driving, it means one

of the engine’s emissions control systems may have a problem. Even though you may feel no difference in your vehicle’s performance, it can reduce your fuel economy and cause increased emissions. Continued operation may cause serious damage.

If you have recently refueled your vehicle, the indicator coming on could be due to a loose or missing fuel fill cap. Tighten the cap until it clicks at least once. Tightening the cap will not turn the indicator off immediately; it can take several days of normal driving.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

If the indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may turn off as you continue driving, have your vehicle checked by the dealer as soon as possible.

If you keep driving with the malf unction indicator lamp on, you can damage your vehicle’s emissions controls and engine. Those repairs may not be covered by your vehicle’s warranties.

The indicator may also come on with the ‘‘D’’ indicator.

Onmodelswithnavigationsystem You will also see a ‘‘CHECK EMISSION SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page

90

).

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Malfunction Indicator Lamp, Brake System Indicator

To check if they are set, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, without starting the engine. The malfunction indicator lamp will come on for 20 seconds. If it then goes off, the readiness codes are set. If it blinks five times, the readiness codes are not set. If possible, do not take your vehicle for an emissions test until the readiness codes are set. Emissions Testing Refer to more information (see page

for 400

).

Readiness Codes Your vehicle has certain ‘‘readiness codes’’ that are part of the on-board diagnostics for the emissions systems. In some states, part of the emissions testing is to make sure these codes are set. If they are not set, the test cannot be completed.

If the battery in your vehicle has been disconnected or gone dead, these codes may be erased. It can take several days of driving under various conditions to set the codes again.

376

Brake System Indicator

U.S.

Canada

The brake system indicator normally comes on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and as a reminder to check the parking brake. It will stay on if you do not fully release the parking brake.

If the brake system indicator comes on while driving, the brake fluid level is probably low. Press lightly on the brake pedal to see if it feels normal. If it does, check the brake fluid level the next time you stop at a service station (see page

334

).

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Brake System Indicator

Onmodelswithnavigationsystem You will also see a ‘‘BRAKE FLUID LOW’’ message on the multi- information display (see page

90

).

If the fluid level is low, take your vehicle to a dealer, and have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

However, if the brake pedal does not feel normal, you should take immediate action. A problem in one part of the system’s dual circuit design will still give you braking at two wheels. You will feel the brake pedal go down much farther before the vehicle begins to slow down, and you will have to press harder on the pedal.

Onmodelswithnavigationsystem You will also see a ‘‘CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM’’ message on the multi- information display (see page 90

).

Slow down by shifting to a lower gear, and pull to the side of the road when it is safe. Because of the long distance needed to stop, it is hazardous to drive the vehicle. You should have it towed, and repaired as soon as possible (see Towing 383

Emergency ).

on page

If you must drive the vehicle a short distance in this condition, drive slowly and carefully.

If the ABS indicator and the VSA system indicator come on with the brake system indicator, have your vehicle inspected by your dealer immediately.

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Fuses

INTERIOR

NOTCH

UNDER-HOOD (PRIMARY)

UNDER-HOOD (SECONDARY)

The vehicle’s fuses are contained in three fuse boxes.

The interior fuse box is on the driver’s lower left side. To remove the fuse box lid, put your finger in the notch on the lid, and pull it outward slightly, then pull it toward you and take it out of its hinges.

The primary under-hood fuse box is on the passenger’s side. The secondary fuse box is next to the brake fluid reservoir. To open them, push the tabs as shown.

378

381

and

Checking and Replacing Fuses If something electrical in your vehicle stops working, check for a blown fuse first. Determine from the chart on pages , or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that device. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that a blown fuse is the cause. Replace any blown fuses, and check if the device works.

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FUSE

BLOWN

Fuses

BLOWN

FUSE PULLER

1.

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

2.

Remove the cover from the fuse box.

3.

Check each of the large fuses in the primary under-hood fuse box by looking through the side window at the wire inside. Removing these fuses requires a Phillips-head screwdriver.

4.

Check the smaller fuses in the under-hood fuse boxes and all the fuses in the interior fuse box by pulling out each one with the fuse puller provided in the primary under-hood fuse box.

CONTINUED

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Fuses

BLOWN

5.

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

380

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

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

Replacing a f use with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chances of damaging the electrical system. If you do not have a replacement f use with the proper