2001 Honda S2000 Owners Manual

looking through the top at the wire inside. Removing these fuses requires a Phillips-head screw- driver.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

tMain MenuTable of ContentssFuses

FUSE PULLER

BLOWN

4. Check the smaller fuses by pulling

out the fuse with the fuse puller provided in the interior fuse box.

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

If you cannot drive the 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).

Taking Care of the Unexpected

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.

NOTICE

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

6. If the replacement fuse of the

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

tMain MenuTable of ContentssINTERIOR FUSE BOX

Fuses

* : Canadian Model

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

tMain MenuTable of ContentssFuses

UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOXES (MAIN FUSE BOX)

(AUXILIARY FUSE BOX)

Taking Care of the Unexpected

tMain MenuTable of ContentssIf your car gets stuck in sand, mud, or snow, call a towing service to pull it out (see page 241).

If Your Car Gets Stuck

For very short distances, such as freeing the car, you can use the detachable towing hook that mounts on the anchors in the front and rear bumpers.

To use the towing hook:

1. Remove the cover from the

bumper.

2. Remove the towing hook, hook

extension and wheel wrench from the tool box.

3. Using the wheel wrench, fasten

the extension into the bolt hole in the anchor.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

stMain MenuTable of ContentsIf Your Car Gets Stuck

4. Screw the towing hook into the

extension and tighten it securely by hand.

NOTICE

To avoid damage to your car. use the towing hook for straight, flat ground towing only. Do not tow at an angle. The tow hook should not he used to tow t/ie vehicle onto a flat bed. Do not use it as a tie down.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

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

Flat-bed Equipment — The operator loads your vehicle on the back of a truck. This is the only way your S2000 should be transported. When you contact the towing agency, inform them that you have an S2000
and that a flat-bed is required.

There are three popular types of professional towing equipment.

Emergency Towing

Wheel Lift Equipment — The tow truck uses two pivoting arms that go under the tires (front or rear) and lift them off the ground. The other two tires remain on the ground. Because the S2000 sits so low, the body could come in contact with the ground and be damaged. This method of towing is unacceptable.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

tMain MenuTable of ContentssEmergency Towing

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

Taking Care of the Unexpected

tMain MenuTable of ContentssThe diagrams in this section give you the dimensions and capacities of your Honda, and the locations of the identification numbers. It also includes information you should know about your vehicle's tires and emissions control systems.

Identification Numbers................. 244
Specifications................................. 246
DOT Tire Quality Grading

(U.S. Vehicles)....................... 248
Treadwear.................................. 248
Traction....................................... 248
Temperature............................. 249

Technical Information

Oxygenated Fuels.......................... 250
Driving in Foreign Countries....... 251
Emissions Controls........................ 252
The Clean Air Act...................... 252
Crankcase Emissions Control

System..................................... 252

Evaporative Emissions Control

System..................................... 252
Exhaust Emissions Controls.... 253
PGM-FI System..................... 253
Ignition Timing Control

System................................. 253

Secondary Air Injection

System................................. 253

Three Way Catalytic

Converter............................ 253
Replacement Parts..................... 253
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 254
State Emission Testing................. 255

Technical Information

stMain MenuVEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

Identification Numbers

Your car has several identifying numbers located in various places.

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

Technical Information

CERTIFICATION LABEL

stMain MenuTable of ContentsIdentification Numbers

The Engine Number is stamped on the left front corner of the engine block.

The Transmission Number is on a label underneath the transmission.

TRANSMISSION NUMBER

ENGINE NUMBER

Technical Information

tMain MenuTable of ContentssSpecifications

page 176

Technical Information

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

engine. Reserve tank capacity: 0.16 US gal (0.6

, 0.13 Imp gal)

* 2 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.

tMain MenuTable of ContentssSpecifications

page 238

page 237

Technical Information

tMain MenuTable of ContentssDOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Treadwear The treadwear grade is a compara- tive rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one- half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual condi- tions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm clue to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

Traction — AA, A, B, C The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire's ability to slop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.

Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

The tires on your vehicle meet all U.S. Federal Safety Requirements. All tires are also graded for treadwear, traction, and temperature performance according to Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. The following explains these gradings.

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

Treadwear 200
Traction AA Temperature A

DOT Quality Grades All passenger car tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition to these grades.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentstsDOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not over- loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla- tion, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

Temperature — A, B, C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

Technical Information

Main MenuTable of ContentstsOxygenated Fuels

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

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

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

Technical Information

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Driving in Foreign Countries

Technical Information

tMain MenuTable of ContentssEmissions Controls

The burning of gasoline in your car's engine produces several byproducts. Some of these are carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline evaporating from the tank also produces hydrocarbons. Controlling the production of NOx, CO, and HC is important to the environment. Under certain conditions of sunlight and climate, NOx and HC react to form photochemical "smog." Carbon monoxide does not contribute to smog creation, but it is a poisonous gas.

Technical Information

The Clean Air Act The United States Clean Air Act* sets standards for automobile emissions. It also requires that automobile manufacturers explain to owners how their emissions controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emissions controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page 148.

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

Crankcase Emissions Control System Your car has a Positive Crankcase Ventilation System. This keeps gasses that build up in the engine's crankcase from going into the atmosphere. The Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve routes them from

the crankcase back to the intake manifold. They are then drawn into the engine and burned.

Evaporative Emissions Control System As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, an evaporative emissions control canister filled with charcoal adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this canister while the engine is off. After the engine is started and warmed up, the vapor is drawn into the engine and burned during driving.

tMain MenuTable of ContentssExhaust Emissions Controls The exhaust emissions controls include four systems: PGM-FI, Ignition Timing Control, Secondary Air Injection System and Three Way Catalytic Converter. These four systems work together to control the engine's combustion and minimize the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust emissions control systems are separate from the crankcase and evaporative emissions control systems.

PGM-FI System The PGM-FI System uses sequential multiport fuel injection. It has three subsystems: Air Intake, Engine Control, and Fuel Control. The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses various sensors to determine how much air is going into the engine. It then controls how much fuel to inject under all operating- conditions.

Emissions Controls

Ignition Timing Control System This system constantly adjusts the ignition timing, reducing the amount of HC, CO and NOx produced.

Secondary Air Injection System During engine warm-up, air is pumped into the exhaust to reduce emissions when the engine is cold.

Three Way Catalytic Converter The three way catalytic converter is in the exhaust system. Through chemical reactions, it converts HC, CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaust to carbon dioxide (CO2), dinitrogen (N2), and water vapor.

Replacement Parts The emissions control systems are designed and certified to work to- gether in reducing emissions to levels that comply with the Clean Air Act. To make sure the emissions remain low, you should use only new Genuine Honda replacement parts or their equivalent for repairs. Using lower quality parts may increase the emissions from your car.

The emissions control systems are covered by warranties separate from the rest of your car. Read your warranty manual for more informa- tion.

Technical Information

tMain MenuTable of ContentssKeep the engine tuned-up.

Have your car diagnosed and repaired if it is misfiring, back- firing, stalling, or otherwise not running properly.

Three Way Catalytic Converter

The three way catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts, promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gasses without affecting the metals. The catalytic converter is referred to as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Honda part or its equivalent.

The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the chemical reactions to take place. It can set on fire any com- bustible materials that come near it. Park your car away from high grass, dry leaves, or other flammables.

Technical Information

THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can impair your engine's per- formance. Follow these guidelines to protect your car's three way catalytic converter.

Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter ineffective.

tMain MenuTable of ContentssTesting of Readiness Codes If you take your vehicle for a state emissions test shortly after the battery has been disconnected or gone dead, it may not complete the test. This is because of certain "readiness codes" that must be set in the on-board diagnostics for the emissions systems. These codes are erased when the battery is disconnected, and set again only after several days of driving under a variety of conditions.

If the testing facility determines that the readiness codes are not set, you will be requested to return at a later date to complete the test. If you must get the vehicle re-tested within the next two or three days, you can condition the vehicle for re-testing by doing the following.

Make sure the gas tank is nearly, but not completely, full (around 3/4).

Make sure the vehicle has been parked with the engine off for 8
hours or more.

Make sure the ambient temperature is between 20° and 95° F.

State Emissions Testing

Without touching the accelerator pedal, start the engine and let it idle for 20 seconds.

Keep the vehicle on Neutral. Increase the engine speed to 2,000
rpm and hold it there until the temperature gauge rises to at least 1/4 of the scale (approximately 3
minutes).

CONTINUED

Technical Information

tMain MenuTable of ContentssState Emissions Testing

Select a nearby lightly traveled major highway where you can maintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph for at least 20 minutes. Drive on the highway in 5th. Do not use the cruise control. When traffic allows, drive for 90 seconds without moving the accelerator pedal. (Vehicle speed may vary slightly; this is okay.) If you cannot do this for a continuous 90 seconds because of traffic conditions, drive for at least 30 seconds, then repeat it two more times (for a total of 90
seconds).

Then drive in city/suburban traffic for at least 10 minutes. When traffic conditions allow, let the vehicle coast for several seconds without using the accelerator pedal or the brake pedal.

If the testing facility determines the readiness codes are still not set, see your Honda dealer.

Technical Information

tMain MenuTable of ContentssWarranty and Customer Relations

Customer Relations

Information................................. 258
U.S. Zone Office Map.................... 259
Canada Zone Office Map.............. 260
Warranty Coverages..................... 261
Reporting Safety Defects

(U.S. Vehicles)........................... 262
Authorized Manuals...................... 263

Warranty and Customer Relations

tMain MenusCustomer Relations Information

Honda dealership personnel are trained professionals. They should be able to answer all your questions. If you encounter a problem that your dealership does not solve to your satisfaction, please discuss it with the dealership's management. The Service Manager or General Manager can help. Almost all problems are solved in this way.

If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership's management, contact your Honda Customer Relations Zone Office. Refer to the U.S. and Canadian Zone Office maps on the following pages.

When you call or write, please give us this information:

Vehicle Identification Number (see page 244) Name and address of the dealer who services your car Date of purchase Mileage on your car Your name, address, and tele- phone number A detailed description of the problem Name of the dealer who sold the car to you

Warranty and Customer Relations

stMain MenuTable of ContentsU.S. Zone Office Map

Western Zone P.O. Box 2260

700 Van Ness Avenue Torrance, California 90501-1490
(310)781-4565

Northwestern Zone P.O. Box 20186

12439 N.E. Airport Way Portland, Oregon 97230
(503) 256-0943
(also includes Alaska and Hawaii)

South Central Zone 4529 Royal Lane

Irving, Texas 75063
(972) 929-5481

Central Zone 101 South Stanfield Road

Troy, Ohio 45373
(937) 332-6250

Mid-Atlantic Zone 902 Wind River Ln., Suite 200

Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878
(301)990-2020

Southeastern Zone P.O. Box 1606

1500 Morrison Parkway Alpharetta, Georgia 30009-1606
(770) 442-2045

North Central Zone 601 Campus Drive, Suite A-9

Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004
(847) 870-5600

New England Zone 555 Old County Road

Windsor Locks, Connecticut 06096
(860)623-3310
See Zone 5 for: NYC Metro area and Fairfield County, CT area

West Central Zone 1600 South Abilene Street, Suite D

Northeastern Zone 115 Gaither Drive

Aurora, Colorado 80012
(303) 696-3935

Mt. Laurel, New Jersey 08054
(856) 235-5533
Includes: NYC Metro area and Fairfield County, CT area

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

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

Warranty and Customer Relations

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

stMain MenuTable of ContentsCanada Zone Office Map

Warranty and Customer Relations

CUSTOMER RELATIONS RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTELE

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

Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9

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

tMain MenuTable of ContentssWarranty Coverages

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rust Perforation Limited Warranty — all exterior body panels are covered for rust-through from the inside for the specified time period with no mileage limit.

Accessory Limited Warranty — Genuine Honda Accessories are covered under this warranty. Time and mileage limits depend on the type of accessory and other factors. Please read your warranty manual for details.

Replacement Parts Limited Warranty — covers all genuine Honda replacement parts against defects in materials and workman- ship.

Replacement Muffler Lifetime Limited Warranty — provides coverage for as long as the pur- chaser of the muffler owns the car.

Restrictions and exclusions apply to all these warranties. Please read the 2001 Honda Warranty Information booklet that came with your car for precise information on warranty coverages. Your Honda's original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty information is in a separate booklet.

Canadian Owners Please refer to the 2001 Warranty Manual that came with your car.

Warranty and Customer Relations

stMain MenuTable of ContentsReporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

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

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

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

Warranty and Customer Relations

tMain MenuTable of ContentssPurchasing Factory Authorized Manuals (U.S. only) The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your car can be obtained from Helm Incorporated, either by filling out the attached form or, for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone number on the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below, contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit, Michigan 48207, or call 1-800-782-4356.

Authorized Manuals

Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners should contact their authorized Honda dealer.

By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can pay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to Helm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.

61S2A01

61S2A01EL

61S2A30

31S2A610

stMain MenuTable of ContentsAuthorized Manuals

Service Manual: This manual covers maintenance and recommended procedures for repair to engine and chassis components. It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simple enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under- stand.

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual: This manual complements the Service Manual by providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit in your car.

Body Repair Manual: This manual describes the procedures involved in the replacement of damaged body parts.

These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14
days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.

P.O. BOX 07280 DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207 1-800-782-4356

tMain MenuTable of ContentssAccessories

Installation.................................. 122
Accessory Power Socket................ 82
ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

Position)....................................... 61
Additives, Engine Oil..................... 158
Airbag (SRS)...................................... 9
Air Cleaner Element...................... 172
Air Conditioning............................... 86
Maintenance............................... 182
Usage........................................... 86
Air Outlets (Vents).......................... 88
Air Pressure, Tires........................ 185
Alarm, Anti-theft............................ 114
Alcohol in Gasoline........................ 250
Aluminum Wheels, Cleaning........ 206
Antifreeze....................................... 161
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Indicator Light.................... 45, 139
Operation.................................... 137
Anti-theft Steering Column Lock .. 60
Anti-theft System........................... 114
Appearance Care........................... 203
Audio Panel....................................... 82

Audio System................................... 94
Automatic Car Washes................. 204
Automatic Speed Control................ 55

Back-up Lamp Replacement......... 198
Battery

Charging System

Indicator........................... 44, 229
Jump Starting............................. 222
Maintenance............................... 177
Specifications............................. 247
Before Driving............................... 115
Belts, Seat......................................... 8
Beverage Holder.............................. 82
Body Repair.................................... 211
Brakes............................................. 136
Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 137
Break-in, New Linings .............. 116
Bulb Replacement..................... 198
Fluid............................................ 170
Parking.......................................... 81
System Indicator.......................... 44
Wear Indicators, Disc ............... 136
Braking System.............................. 136

Index

Break-in, New Car......................... 116
Brightness Control, Instruments... 52
Brights, Headlights......................... 51
Bulb Replacement.......................... 194
Back-up Lights........................... 198
Brake Lights............................... 198
Headlights.................................. 194
License Plate Lights.................. 200
Side Marker Lights ................... 196
Specifications............................. 247
Turn Signal Lights..................... 196
Bulbs, Halogen............................... 194

Capacities Chart............................. 246
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 39
Cargo, Carrying............................. 124
CAUTION, Explanation of............ ii CD Changer.................................... 108
Certification Label......................... 244
Chains............................................. 191

CONTINUED

stMain MenuIndex

Changing Oil

How to......................................... 159
When to....................................... 146
Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 215
Changing Engine Coolant............. 163
Charging System Indicator ... 44, 229
Check Engine Eight............... 45, 230
Checklist, Before Driving............. 130
Child Safety.................................... 19
Child Seats........................................ 22
Cleaner, Air.................................... 172
Cleaning.......................................... 203
Aluminum Wheels..................... 206
Carpeting.................................... 207
Exterior....................................... 204
Floor Mats.................................. 207
Interior........................................ 207
Leather........................................ 208
Seat Belts................................. 208
Vinyl............................................ 208
Windows..................................... 209
Clutch Fluid.................................... 171
CO in the Exhaust......................... 252
Cold Weather, Starting in............. 132
Compact Spare Tire....................... 214
Controls, Instruments and.............. 41

Covertible Top................................. 72
Convertible Top Cover................ 77
Eowering the Convertible Top... 72
Maintenance................................. 78
Raising the Covertible Top......... 75

Coolant

Adding......................................... 161
Checking..................................... 120
Proper Solution.......................... 161
Temperature Gauge.................... 47
Corrosion Protection..................... 209
Crankcase Emission Control

System....................................... 252
Cruise Control Operation............... 55
Customer Relations

Information................................. 258

Dipstick

Engine Oil................................... 119
Directional Signals.......................... 53
Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 136
Disposal of Used Oil...................... 160
Do Not Tow aTrailer.................... 141
Doors

Eocking and Unlocking............... 62
Monitor Eight............................... 45
Power Door Locks....................... 62
DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 248
Downshifting, 6-speed Manual

Transmission.............................. 134
Driving............................................ 129
Economy..................................... 121
In Bad Weather.......................... 140
In Foreign Countries................. 251

DANGER, Explanation of................. ii Dashboard........................................ 42
Daytime Running Eights................ 52
Defects, Reporting Safety............. 262
Defrosting the Windows................ 91
Dimensions..................................... 246
Dimming the Headlights ................ 51

Economy, Fuel............................... 121
Emergencies on the Road............. 213
Battery, Jump Starting.............. 222
Changing a Flat Tire................. 215
Charging System Indicator ...... 229
Checking the Fuses................... 235

tMain MenusClosing the Convertible Top.... 233
Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 228
Malfunction Indicator Lamp .... 230
Overheated Engine................... 225
Emergency Brake............................ 81
Emergency Flashers....................... 80
Emergency Trunk Opener............. 67
Emissions Controls........................ 252
Emissions Testing, State .............. 255
Engine

Check Engine Light............45, 230
Compartment, Checking

in the.......................................118
Coolant........................................ 120
Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 47
Drive Belt.................................... 184
Malfunction Indicator

Lamp................................ 45, 230
Oil Pressure Indicator......... 44, 228
Oil, What Kind to Use............... 157
Overheating................................ 225
Specifications............................. 246
Speed Limiter............................. 134
Starting........................................ 131
Engine Cover, Opening the.......... 118
Ethanol in Gasoline ....................... 250

Evaporative Emission Controls.... 252
Exhaust Fumes................................ 39
Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat

Belts by......................................... 17
Exterior, Cleaning the................... 204

Fabric, Cleaning............................. 208
Fan, Interior...................................... 86
Features, Comfort and

Convenience................................. 85
Filling the Fuel Tank..................... 117
Filters

Oil................................................159
Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 80
Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 215
Fluids

Brake...........................................170
Clutch..........................................171
Manual Transmission............... 168
Windshield Washer................... 167
FM Stereo Radio Reception......... 103
Foreign Countries, Driving in...... 251
Four-way Flashers........................... 80

Index

Fuel..................................................116
Fill Door and Cap....................... 117
Gauge............................................ 48
Octane Requirement................. 116
Oxygenated................................ 250
Reserve Indicator......................... 46
Tank, Filling the......................... 117
Fuel Mileage, Improving............... 121
Fuel Station Procedures ............... 117
Fuses, Checking the...................... 235

Gasohol........................................... 250
Gasoline.......................................... 116
Fuel Reserve Indicator................ 46
Gauge............................................ 48
Octane Requirement................. 116
Oxygenated Fuels...................... 250
Tank, Filling the......................... 117

CONTINUED

tMain MenusIndex

Gauges.............................................. 47
Engine Coolant Temperature .... 47
Fuel................................................ 48
Speedometer................................ 47
Tachometer.................................. 47

Gearshift Lever Positions

6-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 133
Glass Cleaning............................... 209

Ignition

Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 194
Hazard Warning Flashers............... 80
Headlights

Daytime Running Lights............. 52
High Beam Indicator................... 46
Reminder Tone............................ 51
Replacing Halogen Bulbs ......... 194
Turning on.................................... 51
Heating and Cooling System.......... 86
High Altitude, Starting at.............. 132
High-Low Beam Switch .................. 51
High Speed, Shifting at................. 134
Hood Latch..................................... 174
Hood, Opening the ........................ 118

Hydraulic Clutch............................ 171
Hydroplaning.................................. 141

Jump Starting................................. 222

Identification Number,

Vehicle........................................ 244

Keys............................................. 58
Switch............................................ 60
Timing Control System............. 253

Indicator Lights, Instrument

Panel............................................ 43
Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 185
Inside Mirror.................................... 80
Inspection, Tire.............................. 187
Instrument Panel............................. 42
Instrument Panel Brightness......... 52
Interior Cleaning............................ 207
Interior Lights.................................. 83
Introduction......................................... i

Jacking Up the Car........................ 216
Jack, Tire........................................ 215

Keys................................................... 58

Label, Certification........................ 244
Lane Change, Signaling.................. 53
Lap/Shoulder Belts......................... 33
Leather, Cleaning.......................... 208
Lights

Bulb Replacement..................... 194
Indicator........................................ 43
Turn Signal................................. 196
Loading Cargo................................ 124
LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 60
Locks

Anti-theft Steering Column........ 60
Fuel Fill Door............................. 117
Power Door.................................. 62
Trunk............................................ 66
Low Coolant Level......................... 120
Lower Gear, Downshifting to a.... 134
Low Fuel Indicator .......................... 46

tMain MenusLow Oil Pressure Indicator... 44, 228
Lubricant Specifications Chart.... 246
Luggage.......................................... 124

Maintenance................................... 143
Owner Maintenance Checks.... 155
Record......................................... 153
Schedule..................................... 146
Maintenance Required Indicator... 49
Malfunction Indicator Lamp. 45, 230
Manual Transmission.................... 133
Manual Transmission Fluid ......... 168
Meters, Gauges................................ 47
Methanol in Gasoline.................... 250
Mirrors, Adjusting........................... 80

New Vehicle Break-in ................... 116
Normal Shift Speeds...................... 134
NOTICE, Explanation of................... ii Numbers, Identification................ 244

Octane Requirement, Gasoline.... 116
Odometer.......................................... 48
Odometer, Trip................................ 48
Oil

Change, How to ......................... 159
Change, When to....................... 146
Checking Engine....................... 119
Pressure Indicator............... 44, 228
Selecting Proper Viscosity

Chart....................................... 158
ON (Ignition Key Position)............ 61
Opening the Trunk.......................... 66
Operation in Foreign Countries... 251
Outside Mirrors............................... 80
Overheating, Engine..................... 225
Oxygenated Fuels.......................... 250

Paint Touch-up............................... 206
Panel Brightness Control............... 52
Parking Brake.................................. 81
Parking Lights.................................. 51
PGM-FI System.............................. 253

Index

Polishing and Waxing................... 205
Power

Door Locks................................... 62
Engine, Specifications............... 246
Mirrors.......................................... 80
Windows....................................... 70
Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts.......... 17
Protecting Adults............................. 12
Additional Safety Precautions.... 18
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 17
Protecting Children......................... 19
Protecting Larger Children........ 29
Protecting Small Children.......... 26

Radiator Overheating.................... 225
Radio Sound System........................ 94
Readiness Codes............................ 255
Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 198
Rear View Mirror............................. 80
Reclining the Seat-backs................. 69
Recommended Shift Speeds ........ 134

CONTINUED

stMain MenuIndex

Recovery Vehicle, Emergency

Towing........................................ 241
Reminder Lights............................. 43
Remote Transmitter........................ 63
Replacement Information

Air Cleaner................................. 172
Engine Coolant........................... 163
Engine Oil and Filter................. 159
Fuses........................................... 235
Eight Bulbs................................. 194
Schedule..................................... 146
Spark Plugs................................. 174
Tires............................................ 189
Wiper Blades.............................. 180

Replacing Seat Belts After a

Crash.............................................34
Restraint, Child................................ 19
Rotation, Tire................................. 188

Safety Belts....................................... 8
Safety Defects, Reporting............. 262
Safety Labels, Location of.............. 40
Safety Messages................................ ii

Seat Belts............................................ 8
Additional information................ 33
Advice for pregnant Women...... 17
Cleaning.................................... 208
Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 33
Maintenance................................. 34
Reminder Eight and Beeper....... 44
System Components.................... 33
Use During Pregnancy................ 17
Seats, Adjusting the......................... 69
Serial Number................................ 244
Service Intervals............................ 146
Service Manual.............................. 263
Service Station Procedures .......... 117
Shifting

The 6-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 133

Side Marker Eights, Bulb

Replacement in.......................... 196
Signaling Turns................................ 53
6-speed Manual Transmission

Checking Fluid Level............... 168
Shifting the................................. 133
Snow Tires...................................... 191
Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 204
Sound System................................... 94

Spare Tire

Inflating.......................................214
Specifications............................. 247
Spark Plugs, Replacing................. 174
Specifications Charts..................... 246
Speed Control.................................. 55
Speedometer.................................... 47
SRS, Additional Information........... 35
Additional Safety Precautions.... 38
How the Automatic Seat Belt

Tensioners Work..................... 37

How the SRS Indicator

Works....................................... 37
How Your Airbags Work............ 35
SRS Components......................... 35
SRS Service................................... 38
SRS Indicator Light.................. 37, 45
Starting the Engine........................ 131

In Cold Weather at High

Altitude................................... 132
With a Dead Battery ................. 222
State Emissions Testing............... 255
Steam Coming from Engine......... 225
Steering Wheel

Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 60
Stereo Sound System ...................... 94

tMain MenusStoring Your Car............................ 202
Stuck Car........................................ 239
Supplemental Restraint System

Servicing....................................... 38
SRS Indicator..........................37, 45
Tensioners, Seat Belts................ 37

Tachometer...................................... 47
Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 198
Taking Care of the Unexpected .. 213
Technical Descriptions

DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 248
Emissions Control Systems...... 250
Oxygenated Fuels...................... 252
Three Way Catalytic

Converter................................ 254
Temperature Gauge........................ 47
Tensioners, Seat Belts .................... 37
Three Way Catalytic Converter... 254
Tire Chains..................................... 191
Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 215
Tires................................................ 185
Air Pressure............................... 185
Balancing.................................... 188

Checking Wear.......................... 187
Compact Spare Tire .................. 214
DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 248
Inflation....................................... 185
Inspection................................... 187
Replacing.................................... 189
Rotating....................................... 188
Snow............................................191
Specifications............................. 247
Tools, Tire Changing.................... 215
Towing

A Trailer, Do Not....................... 141
Emergency Wrecker ................ 240
Trailer, Do Not Tow a................... 141
Transmission

Checking Fluid Level, 6-speed

Manual Transmission........... 168
Fluid Selection............................ 168
Identification Number............... 244
Shifting the 6-speed Manual

Transmission.......................... 133
Treadwear...................................... 248
Trip Meter........................................ 48
Trunk................................................. 66
Emergency Trunk Opener......... 67
Opening the ................................. 66

Index

Open Monitor Light.................... 45
Turn Signals..................................... 53

Underside, Cleaning...................... 209
Unexpected, Taking Care

of the........................................... 213
Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 248
Unleaded Gasoline......................... 116
Upholstery Cleaning...................... 207
Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 160

Vehicle Dimensions....................... 246
Vehicle Identification Number..... 244
Vehicle Storage.............................. 202
Ventilation......................................... 88
VIN..................................................244
Vinyl Cleaning................................ 208
Viscosity, Oil................................... 158

CONTINUED

tMain MenusIndex

WARNING, Explanation of.............. ii Warning Labels, Location of.......... 40
Warranty Coverages..................... 261
Washer, Windshield

Checking the Fluid Level......... 167
Operation.................................... 54
Washing.......................................... 204
Waxing and Polishing................... 205
Wheels............................................ 189
Alignment and Balance............. 188
Cleaning Aluminum Alloys....... 206
Wrench....................................... 215

Windows

Windshield

Cleaning...................................... 209
Operating the Power................... 70

Cleaning...................................... 209
Defroster...................................... 91
Washers........................................ 54

Wipers, Windshield

Changing Blades........................ 180
Operation...................................... 53
Worn Tires..................................... 187
Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 241

tMain MenusService Information Summary

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

Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 US gal (50 l ,11.0 Imp gal)

Recommended Engine Oil: API Service SJ "Energy Conserving" oil, SAE 10W-30
viscosity (see page 158).

Oil change capacity (including filter):

5.1 US qt(4.8 l ,4.2 Imp qt)

6-speed Manual Transmission Fluid: Honda Manual Transmission Fluid preferred, or an API service SG, SH or SJ, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 motor oil as a temporary replacement (see page 168).

Capacity:

1.6 US qt(1.5 l ,1.3 Imp qt)

Brake Fluid: Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid as a temporary replacement (see page 170).

Tire Pressure (measured cold): Front:

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Rear:

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Spare Tire Pressure: Front:

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm2)

stMain MenuS2000 2001 Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.

Contents

Owner's Identification Form

Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... i A Few Words About Safety............................................................................................................... ii Your Vehicle at a Glance................................................................................................................... 2 Driver and Passenger Safety ............................................................................................................ 5
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls................................................................................................................. 41
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................. 85
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving..................................................................................................................................115
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving ..............................................................................................................................................129
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................143
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care..............................................................................................................................203
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected......................................................................................................213
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information.....................................................................................................................243
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................257
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................263
How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...................................................................................................................................................... I Service Information Summary A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

Introduction

NOTICE

As you read this manual, you will find information that is preceded by information is intended to help you avoid damage to your S2000, other property, or the environment.

symbol. This

Congratulations on your selection of the 2001 Honda S2000. We are certain you will be pleased with your purchase of one of the most sophisticated and technologically-advanced sports cars in the world.

One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Honda is to read this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls and convenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner's manual in your car so you can refer to it at any time.

Several warranties protect your new Honda. Read the warranty booklet thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights and responsibilities.

Maintaining your car according to the schedules given in this manual helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment. When your car needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's staff is specially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns.

California Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING: This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

stMain MenuA Few Words About Safety

Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And operating this car safely is an important responsibility.

To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others.

Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or maintaining your car. You must use your own good judgement.

You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms, including:

Safety Labels — on the car. Safety Messages — preceded by a safety alert symbol

three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION. These signal words mean:

and one of

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don't follow instructions.

Safety Headings — such as Important Safety Reminders or Important

Safety Precautions.

Safety Section — such as Driver and Passenger Safety. Instructions — how to use this car correctly and safely.

This entire book is filled with important safety information — please read it carefully.

stMain MenuYour Car at a Glance

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNAL SWITCH (P.51)

WINDSHIELD WIPER CONTROLS (P.53)

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING (P.86)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.118)

DOOR LOCK SWITCH (P.62)

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.70)

MIRROR CONTROLS (P.80)

AUDIO SYSTEM (P.94)

ROOF SWITCH (P.73)

HAZARD WARNING SWITCH (P.80)

stMain MenuREMOTE AUDIO CONTROLS (P.113)

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS (P.52)

ENGINE START BUTTON (P.131)

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS (P.51)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.118)

CRUISE CONTROL MASTER SWITCH (P.55)

HORN

Your Car at a Glance

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/ WASHERS (P.53)

stMain MenusThis section gives you important information about how to protect yourself and your passenger. It shows you how to use seat belts properly. It explains your Supple- mental Restraint System. And it tells you how to properly restrain children in your car.

Important Safety Precautions .......... 6
Your Car's Safety Features .............. 7
Seat Belts........................................ 8
Airbags............................................ 9
Seats & Seat-Backs...................... 10
Head Restraints............................ 10
Door Locks................................... 10
Pre-Drive Safety Checklist......... 11
Protecting Adults............................. 12
1. Close and Lock the Doors...... 12
2. Adjust the Front Seats............ 12
3. Adjust the Seat-Backs............. 13
4. Fasten and Position the Seat

Belts...................................... 15

5. Maintain a Proper Sitting

Position................................. 16
Advice for Pregnant Women...... 17
Additional Safety Precautions.... 18
Protecting Children......................... 19

All Children Must Be

Restrained................................ 19

Your Car is Not Recommended

for Child Passengers............... 20

The Passenger's Airbag Poses

Serious Risks to Children....... 20
Additional Safety Precaution...... 22

Driver and Passenger Safety

General Guidelines for Using

Child Seats............................. 22
Protecting Small Children.......... 26
Protecting Larger Children........ 29

Additional Information About Your

Seat Belts.................................. 33
Seat Belt System Components... 33
Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 33
Seat Belt Maintenance................ 34

Additional Information About Your

SRS........................................... 35
SRS Components......................... 35
How Your Airbags Work............ 35
How the Automatic Seat Belt

Tensioners Work..................... 37

How the SRS Indicator Light

Works....................................... 37
SRS Service.................................. 38
Additional Safety Precautions.... 38
Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 39
Safety Labels.................................... 40

Driver and Passenger Safety

stMain MenuImportant Safety Precautions

You'll find many safety recommendations throughout this section, and throughout this manual. The recommendations on this page are the ones we consider to be the most important.

Always Wear Your Seat Belt A seat belt is your best protection in all types of collisions. Airbags supplement seat belts, but airbags are designed to inflate only in a moderate to severe frontal collision. So even though your car is equipped with airbags, make sure you and your passenger always wear your seat belts, and wear them properly. (See page 15).

Your Car is Not Recommended for Child Passengers Since all children are safest in the back seat of a car, and your car does not have a back seat, we recommend that you do not carry a child passenger. Due to the passenger's

Driver and Passenger Safety

airbag hazard, you should never carry an infant in a rear-facing child seat in this car. If a small child who must be restrained in a forward- facing child seat, or a larger child, must ride in this car, be sure to follow all instructions and safety warnings in this manual. (See pages 26 and 29.)

Be Aware of Airbag Hazards While airbags can save lives, they can cause serious or fatal injuries to occupants who sit too close to them, or are not properly restrained. Infants, young children, and short adults are at the greatest risk. Be sure to follow all instructions and warnings in this manual. (See page 7).

Don't Drink and Drive Alcohol and driving don't mix. Even one drink can reduce your ability to respond to changing conditions, and your reaction time gets worse with

every additional drink. So don't drink and drive, and don't let your friends drink and drive, either.

Control Your Speed Excessive speed is a major factor in crash injuries and deaths. Generally, the higher the speed the greater the risk, but serious accidents can also occur at lower speeds. Never drive faster than is safe for current conditions, regardless of the maximum speed posted.

Keep Your Car in Safe Condition Having a tire blowout or a mechanical failure can be extremely hazardous. To reduce the possibility of such problems, check your tire pressures and condition frequently, and perform all regularly scheduled maintenance. (See page 146.)

stMain MenuTable of ContentsYour Car's Safety Features

Your car is equipped with many features that work together to protect you and your passenger during a crash.

Some safety features do not require any action on your part. These include a strong steel framework that forms a safety cage around the passenger compartment; front and rear crush zones that are designed to crumple and absorb energy during a crash; a collapsible steering column; and seat belt tensioners that automatically tighten the seat belts in the event of a crash. These safety features are designed to reduce the severity of injuries in a crash. However, you and your passenger can't take full advantage of these safety features unless you remain sitting in a proper position and always wear your seat belts properly. In fact, some safety features can contribute to injuries if they are not used properly.

Driver and Passenger Safety

(1) Safety Cage (2) Crush Zones (3) Seats & Seat-Backs (4) Head Restraints (5) Collapsible Steering Column (6) Seat Belts (7) Seat Belt Tensioners (8) Airbags (9) Door Locks

tMain MenuTable of ContentssYour Car's Safety Features

Seat Belts For your safety, and the safety of your passenger, your car is equipped with seat belts in both seating positions.

Your seat belt system also includes a light on the

instrument panel to remind you and your passenger to fasten your seat belts.

Why Wear Seat Belts Seat belts have proven to be the single most effective safety device.

Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even though your car has airbags.

Driver and Passenger Safety

In addition, most states and all Canadian provinces require you to wear seat belts.

Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even if you have airbags.

Be sure you and your passenger always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

When properly worn, seat belts:

Keep you connected to the vehicle so you can take advantage of the vehicle's built-in safety features.

Help protect you in almost every type of crash, including side and rear impacts and rollovers. (Your airbag can only be helpful in a

moderate to severe frontal collision.)

Help keep you from being thrown against the inside of the vehicle and against other occupants.

Keep you from being thrown out of the vehicle.

Help keep you in a good position should the airbags ever deploy. A good position reduces the risk of injury from an inflating airbag, and allows you to get the best advantage from the airbag.

Of course, seat belts cannot completely protect you in every crash. But in most cases, seat belts can reduce your risk of serious injury.

What you should do: Always wear your seat belt, and make sure you wear it properly.

tMain MenuTable of ContentssThe most important things you need to know about your airbags are:

Airbags do not replace seat belts. The seat belts are the occupants' primary protection in all types of collisions. Airbags supplement seat belts by providing extra protection for occupants' heads and chests.

Airbags offer no protection in side impacts, rear impacts, rollovers, or minor collisions. Airbags are designed to deploy only during a moderate to severe frontal collision.

Your Car's Safety Features

Airbags can pose serious hazards. To do their job, airbags must inflate with tremendous force and speed. So while airbags save lives, they can cause serious injuries to adults and larger children who are not wearing seat belts, are not wearing them properly, are sitting too close to the airbag, or are not sitting in a proper position. Infants and small children are at an even greater risk of injury or death.

What you should do: Always wear your seat belt properly, and sit upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel or dashboard.

Airbags

Your car has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with frontal airbags to help protect the driver and a passenger.

This system also includes SRS an indicator light on the instrument panel to alert you to a possible problem with the system.

Driver and Passenger Safety

tMain MenuTable of ContentssWhat you should do: Move the seats as far back as possible, and keep adjustable seat-backs in an upright position whenever the car is moving.

Head Restraints Head restraints can help protect you from whiplash and other injuries.

Door Locks Keeping your doors locked reduces the chance of being thrown out of the car during a crash. It also helps prevent occupants from accidentally opening a door and falling out, and outsiders from unexpectedly opening your doors.

Your Car's Safety Features

Seats & Seat-Backs Your car's seats are designed to keep you in a comfortable, upright position so you can take full advantage of the protection offered by seat belts and the energy absorbing materials in the seats.

How you adjust your seats and seat- backs can also affect your safety. For example, sitting too close to the steering wheel or dashboard increases the risk of you or your passenger being injured by striking the inside of the car, or by an inflating airbag.

Reclining a seat-back too far reduces the seat belt's effectiveness and increases the chance that the seat's occupant will slide under the seat belt in a crash and be seriously injured.

Driver and Passenger Safety

tMain MenuTable of ContentssBoth doors are closed and locked (see page 12 ).

All cargo is properly stored or secured (see page 124).

The rest of this section gives more detailed information about how you can maximize your safety.

Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in severe crashes, even when seat belts are properly worn and the airbags deploy.

Pre-Drive Safety Checklist To make sure you and your passenger get the maximum protection from your car's safety features, check the following each time before you drive away:

You and any adult passenger, or a larger child who has outgrown child seats, are wearing your seat belts and wearing them properly (see page 15 ).

A small child riding in a forward- facing child seat is properly restrained (see page 26).

Occupants are sitting upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel and dashboard (see page 12 ).

Seat-backs are upright (see page 13).

Your Car's Safety Features

Driver and Passenger Safety

tMain MenuTable of ContentssProtecting Adults

Introduction The following pages provide instructions on how to properly protect adult occupants.

Your car has a door monitor light on the

instrument panel to indicate when a specific door is not tightly closed.

These instructions also apply to a child whom you have decided is large enough and mature enough to ride as a passenger. (See page 29 for important additional guidelines on how to properly protect larger children.)

For safety, locking the doors reduces the chance that a passenger, especially a child, will open a door while the car is moving and accidentally fall out. It also reduces the chance of someone being thrown out of the car during a crash.

1. Close and Lock the Doors After everyone has entered the car, be sure the doors are closed and locked.

For security, locked doors can prevent an outsider from unexpectedly opening a door when you come to a stop.

See page 62 for how to lock the doors.

2.Adjust the Front Seats

Any driver who sits too close to the steering wheel is at risk of being seriously injured or killed by striking the steering wheel, or from being struck by an inflating airbag during a crash.

Driver and Passenger Safety

tMain MenuTable of ContentssTo reduce the chance of injury, wear your seat belt properly, sit upright with your back against the seat, and move the seat as far back as possible from the steering wheel while still maintaining full control of the car. Also make sure your passenger moves the seat as far to the rear as possible.

Sitting too close to an airbag can result in serious injury or death if the airbags inflate.

Always sit as far back from the airbags as possible.

Most shorter drivers can get far enough away from the steering wheel and still reach the pedals. However, if you are concerned about sitting too close, we recommend that you investigate whether some type of adaptive equipment may help.

Once your seat is adjusted correctly, rock it back and forth to make sure the seat is locked in position.

See page 69 for how to adjust the seats.

3.Adjust the Seat-Backs Adjust the driver's seat-back to a comfortable, upright position, leaving ample space between your chest and the airbag cover in the center of the steering wheel. If you sit too close to the steering wheel, you could be injured if the airbag inflates.

Protecting Adults

A passenger should also adjust the seat-back to an upright position, but as far from the dashboard as possible. A passenger who sits too close to the dashboard could be injured if the airbag inflates.

CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety

tMain MenuTable of ContentssProtecting Adults

Reclining a seat-back so that the shoulder part of the belt no longer rests against the occupant's chest reduces the protective capability of the belt. It also increases the chance of sliding under the belt in a crash and being seriously injured. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk of injury.

Reclining the seat-back too far can result in serious injury or death in a crash.

Adjust the seat-back to an upright position and sit well back in the seat.

See page 69 for how to adjust seat- backs.

Driver and Passenger Safety

tMain MenuTable of Contentss4.Fasten and Position the Seat

Belts

Insert the latch plate into the buckle, then tug on the belt to make sure the belt is securely latched. Also check that the belt is not twisted, because a twisted belt can cause serious injuries in a crash.

Protecting Adults

spreads the forces of a crash over the strongest bones in your upper body.

Improperly positioning the seat belts can cause serious injury or death in a crash.

Make sure all seat belts are properly positioned before driving.

Never place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. This could cause very serious injuries in a crash.

CONTINUED