2002 Honda S2000 Owners Manual

Press the button again to cancel MUTE.

The AUDIO CONTROL button changes the mode. Pressing the button repeatedly selects AM, FM1, FM2, or CD (if a CD is loaded) two.

The CHANNEL button has two functions, depending on whether you are listening to the radio, or playing a CD.

If you are listening to the radio, use the CHANNEL button to change stations. Each time you press this button, the system advances to the next preset station on the band you are listening to. You will see the number of the selected Preset button

Comfort and Convenience Features

115

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Theft Protection

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

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

116

Comfort and Convenience Features

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

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

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

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Cruise control allows you to maintain a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal. It should be used for cruising on straight, open highways. It is not recommended for conditions such as city driving, winding roads, slippery roads, heavy rain, or bad weather. You should have full control of the car under those conditions.

Improper use of the cruise control can lead to a crash.

Use the cruise control only when traveling on open highways in good weather.

The cruise control, as it operates, moves the accelerator pedal. You can damage your vehicle’s accelerator mechanism by resting your f oot under the pedal and blocking the movement.

Cruise Control

UsingtheCruiseControl

1.

Push in the Cruise Control Master Switch on the dashboard beside the steering column. The indicator by the switch will light.

2.

Accelerate to the desired cruising speed above 25 mph (40 km/h).

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Comfort and Convenience Features 117

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Cruise Control

RREESSUUMMEE//aacccceell

SSEETT//ddeecceell

3.

Press and release the SET/decel button on the steering wheel. The CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel comes on to show the system is now activated.

The cruise control may not hold the set speed when you are going up and down hills. If your speed increases going down a hill, use the brakes to slow down to the desired speed. This will cancel the

118

Comfort and Convenience Features

cruise control. To resume the set speed, press the RESUME/accel button. The CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel comes on.

ChangingtheSetSpeed You can increase the set cruising speed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the RESUME/ accel button. The car will acceler- ate. When you reach the desired cruising speed, release the button.

Push on the accelerator pedal. Ac- celerate to the desired cruising speed and press the SET/decel button.

To increase your speed in very small amounts, tap the RESUME/ accel button repeatedly. Each time you do this, your car will speed up about 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

You can decrease the set cruising speed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the SET/decel button. The car will decelerate. Release the button when you reach the desired speed.

To slow down in very small amounts, tap the SET/decel button repeatedly. Each time you do this, your car will slow down about 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

Tap the brake or clutch pedal lightly with your foot. The CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out. When the car slows to the desired speed, press the SET/decel button. The car will then maintain the desired speed.

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Even with the cruise control turned on, you can still use the accelerator pedal to speed up for passing. After completing the pass, take your foot off the accelerator pedal. The car will return to the set cruising speed.

Resting your foot on the brake or clutch pedal will cause the cruise control to cancel.

CancellingtheCruiseControl You can cancel the cruise control in any of these ways:

Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

Press the SET/decel and RESUME/accel buttons at the same time.

Press the Cruise Control Master Switch.

When you tap the brake or clutch pedal, or press the SET and RESUME buttons at the same time, the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out and the car will begin to slow down. You can use the accelerator pedal in the normal way.

The system remembers the previously-set cruising speed. To return to that speed, accelerate to above 25 mph (40 km/h), then press

Cruise Control

the RESUME/accel button. The CRUISE CONTROL light comes on, and the car will accelerate to the same cruising speed as before.

Pressing the Cruise Control Master Switch turns the system completely off and erases the previous cruising speed from memory. To use the system again, refer to Usingthe CruiseControl

Comfort and Convenience Features

119

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Before Driving

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

Fuel Economy

Filling the Fuel Tank Opening the Hood

Oil Check Engine Coolant Check

Break-in Period Gasoline Service Station Procedures

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. 122
. 123
. 123
. 124
. 125
. 126
. 127
. 127
. 127
Accessories and Modifications . 128
. 128
Accessories . 129
Modifications Additional Safety Precaution . 129
. 130
. 133

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

Carrying Cargo General Precautions

Car Condition Driving Habits

Before Driving 121

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Break-in Period, Gasoline

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

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration. Do not exceed 5,500 rpm for the first 600 miles (1,000 km) of operation.

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

Do not change the oil until the recommended time or mileage interval shown in the maintenance schedule.

122

Before Driving

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

Using gasoline containing lead will damage your car’s emissions controls. This contributes to air pollution.

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

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

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

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

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Filling the Fuel Tank

PPuullll

1.

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

2.

Open the fuel fill door by pulling on the knob on the driver’s door jamb.

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

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

Service Station Procedures

FFUUEELL FFIILLLL CCAAPP Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. 3. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. Place the cap in the holder on the fuel fill door.

CONTINUED

Before Driving 123

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Service Station Procedures

4.

5.

Stop filling the tank after the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off. Do not try to ‘‘top off’’ the tank, leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes.

Opening the Hood

RREELLEEAASSEE HHAANNDDLLEE

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

236

).

6.

Push the fuel fill door closed until it latches.

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Before Driving

1.

2.

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

Standing in front of the car, put your fingers under the front edge of the hood to the right of center. Slide your hand to the left until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle to the left until it

releases the hood. Lift the hood.

If you can open the hood without lifting the hood latch handle, or the hood latch handle moves stiffly or does not spring back as before, the mechanism should be cleaned and lubricated (see page 180

).

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Service Station Procedures

OilCheck

DDIIPPSSTTIICCKK

3.

Pull the support rod out of its clip and insert the end into the hole on the front of the hood around the center. To close the hood, lift it up slightly to remove the support rod from the hole. Put the support rod back into its holding clip. Lower the hood to about a foot (30 cm) above the fender, then let it drop. After closing the hood, make sure it is securely latched.

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

1.

Remove the dipstick (black handle).

2.

Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel.

CONTINUED

Before Driving 125

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Service Station Procedures

EngineCoolantCheck

UUPPPPEERR MMAARRKK

LLOOWWEERR MMAARRKK

3.

Insert it all the way back in its tube.

4.

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

If it is near or below the lower mark, see

Adding Oil

on page

163

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If Adding it is below the MIN line, see Engine Coolant for 167
information on adding the proper coolant.

on page

Owner Maintenance on page

Refer to Checks on checking other items in your Honda.

161

for information

126

Before Driving

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

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

161

(see page

Owner Maintenance

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fuel Economy

combine several short trips into one.

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

Before Driving

127

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Accessories and Modifications

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

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

Non-Honda accessories are usually designed for universal applications. Although aftermarket accessories may fit on your car, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your car’s handling and stability. (See ‘‘Modifications’’ on page 129
additional information.)

for

128

Before Driving

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

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

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

However, if electronic accessories are improperly installed, or exceed your car’s electrical system capacity, they can interfere with the operation of your car, or even cause the airbags to deploy.

Before installing any accessory:

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

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

241

).

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

If possible, have your dealer inspect the final installation.

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Accessories and Modifications

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

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

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

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

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

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

Before Driving 129

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Carrying Cargo

UUPPPPEERR AANNDD LLOOWWEERR CCOONNSSOOLLEE CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTTSS

TTRRUUNNKK

130

Before Driving

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

The upper and lower console compartments are designed for small, lightweight items. The trunk is intended for larger, heavier items.

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

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Load Limit The maximum load for your car is 400 lbs (185 kg).

This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and accessories.

To figure out how much cargo you can carry:

Add up the weight of all occupants.

Subtract the total from 400 lbs (185 kg).

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

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

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

Carrying Cargo

Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment

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

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

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Carrying Cargo

Carrying Cargo in the Trunk

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

132

Before Driving

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Your Honda is designed to give you optimum handling and performance on well-maintained roads. As part of this design, your car has a minimum of ground clearance and very low- profile tires.

Use caution if you should drive your car on very rough or rutted roads. You could damage the suspension and underbody by bottoming out. Going too fast over parking lot ‘‘speed bumps’’ can also cause damage.

General Precautions

Because of the low-profile tires fitted to your car, the alloy wheels are closer to the ground. Driving over a pothole or road debris at too high a speed can seriously damage a wheel. Slow down under these conditions.

Before Driving

133

Curbs and steep inclines could damage the front and rear bumpers. Low curbs that do not affect the average car may be high enough to hit the bumper on your Honda. The front or rear bumper may scrape when trying to drive onto an incline, such as a steep driveway or trailer ramps.

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Driving

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the manual transmission. It also includes important information on parking your car, and the braking system.

Preparing to Drive Starting the Engine

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

. 136
. 137

Starting in Cold Weather

at High Altitude

6-speed Manual Transmission Recommended Shift Points Engine Speed Limiter Reverse Lockout

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

Brake Wear Indicators Brake System Design Anti-lock Brakes

Parking The Braking System

. 138
. 139
. 140
. 140
. 140
. 141
. 142
. 142
. 143
. 143

Important Safety

Reminders ABS Indicator

Driving in Bad Weather Towing a Trailer

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

. 144
. 145
. 146
. 147

Driving 135

Main Menu4.

5.

6.

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

Check the adjustment of the seat (see page

67

).

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

78

).

7.

Make sure the doors are securely closed and locked.

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Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checks and adjustments every day before you drive your car.

1.

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

2.

Check that the hood and trunk are fully closed.

3.

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

136

Driving

8.

9.

Fasten your seat belt. Check that your passenger has fastened his or her seat belt (see page

15

).

Turn the ignition switch ON (II). Check the indicator lights in the instrument panel.

10.

Start the engine (see page

137

).

11.

Check the gauges and indicator lights in the instrument panel (see page

43

).

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1.

Apply the parking brake.

2.

3.

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

Push the clutch pedal down all the way. The ENGINE START button has no effect unless the clutch pedal is depressed.

4.

Turn the ignition key to ON (II) position.

Starting the Engine

6.

7.

If the engine does not start within 15 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 5 with the accelerator pedal pressed half-way down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

If the engine still does not start, press the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting in order to clear flooding. As before, hold the ENGINE START button for no more than 15 seconds. Return to step 6 if the engine does not start. If it starts, lift your foot off the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

Driving

137

EENNGGIINNEE SSTTAARRTT BBUUTTTTOONN Without touching the accelerator 5. pedal, push the ENGINE START button. If the engine does not start right away, do not hold the ENGINE START button for more than 15 seconds at a time. Pause for at least 10 seconds before trying again.

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Starting the Engine

Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude (Above 8,000 feet/ 2,400 meters) An engine is harder to start in cold weather. The thinner air found at high altitude above 8,000 feet (2,400
meters) adds to the problem.

138

Driving

Use the following procedure:

1.

Turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

2.

Push the accelerator pedal half- way to the floor and hold it there while starting the engine. Do not hold the ENGINE START button for more than 15 seconds. When the engine starts, release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up and smooths out.

3.

If the engine fails to start in step 2, push the accelerator pedal to the floor and hold it there while you try to start the engine for no more than 15 seconds. If the engine does not start, return to step 2.

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6-speed Manual Transmission

Rapid slowing or speeding-up can cause loss of control on slippery surfaces. If you crash, you can be injured.

Use extra care when driving on slippery surfaces.

Come to a full stop before you shift into Reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into Reverse with the car moving. Push down the clutch pedal, and pause for a few seconds before shifting into Reverse, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This stops the gears so they won’t ‘‘grind.’’

When slowing down, you can get extra braking from the engine by shifting to a lower gear. This extra braking can help you maintain a safe speed and prevent your brakes from overheating while going down a steep hill. Before downshifting, make sure engine speed will not go into the tachometer’s red zone in the lower gear.

Driving

139

The manual transmission is synchro- nized in all forward gears for smooth operation. It has a lockout so you cannot shift directly from Fifth to Reverse instead of sixth (see page ). When shifting up or down, 140
make sure you push the clutch pedal down all the way, shift to the next gear, and let the pedal up gradually. When you are not shifting, do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal. This can cause your clutch to wear out faster.

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6-speed Manual Transmission

Recommended Shift Points Drive in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you the best fuel economy and effective emis- sions control. The following shift points are recommended:

Shift Up

Normal Acceleration

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th 5th to 6th

15 mph (24 km/h) 25 mph (40 km/h) 40 mph (64 km/h) 47 mph (75 km/h) 52 mph (83 km/h)

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

Before downshifting, make sure the engine will not go into the tachometer’s red zone.

Reverse Lockout

The 6-speed manual transmission has a lockout so you cannot accidentally shift from Fifth to Reverse instead of Sixth.

With the clutch pedal depressed, move the shift lever to the Reverse side of the Neutral gate. Then push the shift lever down and shift to Reverse.

140

Driving

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Always use the parking brake when you park your car. The indicator on the instrument panel shows that the parking brake is not fully released; it does not indicate that the parking brake is firmly set. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly or your car may roll if it is parked on an incline.

If the car is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb and put the transmission in first gear. If the car is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb and put the transmission in reverse gear.

Make sure the parking brake is fully released before driving away. Driving with the parking brake partially set can overheat or damage the rear brakes.

Parking

Parking Tips

Make sure the convertible top and the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

Place any packages, valuables, etc., in the trunk or take them with you.

Lock the doors with the key or the remote transmitter.

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

Driving 141

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The Braking System

Your Honda is equipped with disc brakes at all four wheels. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The ABS helps you retain steering control when braking very hard.

Put your foot on the brake pedal only when you intend to brake. Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, causing them to build up heat. Heat build-up can reduce how well your brakes work. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you.

Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by downshifting to a lower gear and taking your foot off the accelerator pedal.

Check your brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them gently and frequently until they do. Since a longer distance is needed to stop with wet brakes, be extra cautious and alert in your driving.

Brake Wear Indicators All four brakes have audible brake wear indicators. When the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive metallic ‘‘screeching’’ sound when you apply the brakes. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will begin screeching all the time.

Your brakes may sometimes squeal or squeak when you apply them lightly. Do not confuse this with the brake wear indicators. They make a very audible ‘‘screeching.’’

142

Driving

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The Braking System

Brake System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the car (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels.

Anti-lock Brakes Your car has an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as standard equipment. ABS helps to prevent the wheels from locking up and skidding during hard braking, allowing you to retain steering control.

When the front tires skid, you lose steering control; the car continues straight ahead even though you turn the steering wheel. The ABS helps to prevent lock-up and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly; much faster than a person can do it.

FFrroonntt

CONTINUED

Driving 143

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The Braking System

You should never pump the brake pedal; this defeats the purpose of the ABS. Let the ABS work for you by always keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal as you steer away from the hazard. This is sometimes referred to as ‘‘stompandsteer.’’

You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and you may hear some noise. This is normal; it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes.

Activation varies with the amount of traction your tires have. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before you activate the ABS. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

144

Driving

ImportantSafetyReminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the car; only helps with steering control during braking. You should always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.

it

on loose or

A car with ABS may require a longer distance to stop uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, than a car without anti-lock. Slow down and allow a greater distance between cars under those conditions.

ABS will not prevent a skid that results from changing direction abruptly, such as trying to take a corner too fast or making a sudden lane change. Always drive at a safe, prudent speed for the road and weather conditions.

ABS cannot prevent a loss of stability. Always steer moderately when you are braking hard. Severe or sharp steering wheel movement can still cause your car to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road.

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ABSIndicator

AANNTTII--LLOOCCKK BBRRAAKKEE SSYYSSTTEEMM IINNDDIICCAATTOORR ＊＊

＊＊

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45

The ABS is self-checking. If anything goes wrong, the ABS indicator on the instrument panel comes on (see page ). This means the anti-lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system without anti- lock, providing normal stopping ability. You should have the dealer inspect your car as soon as possible.

The Braking System

Driving

145

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Driving in Bad Weather

Rain, fog, and snow conditions require a different driving technique because of reduced traction and visibility. Keep your car well- maintained and exercise greater caution when you need to drive in bad weather. The cruise control should not be used in these conditions.

146

Driving

−

Always drive

Driving Technique slower than you would in dry weather. It takes your car longer to react, even in conditions that may seem just barely damp. Apply smooth, even pressure to all the controls. Abrupt steering wheel movements or sudden, hard appli- cation of the brakes can cause loss of control in wet weather. Be extra cautious for the first few miles (kilometers) of driving while you adjust to the change in driving conditions. This is especially true in snow. A person can forget some snow-driving techniques during the summer months. Practice is needed to relearn those skills.

Exercise extra caution when driving in rain after a long dry spell. After months of dry weather, the first rains bring oil to the surface of the roadway, making it slippery.

−

Being able to see

Visibility clearly in all directions and being visible to other drivers are important in all weather conditions. This is more difficult in bad weather. To be seen more clearly during daylight hours, turn on your headlights.

Inspect your windshield wipers and washers frequently. Keep the wind- shield washer reservoir full of the proper fluid. Have the windshield wiper blades replaced if they start to streak the windshield or leave parts unwiped. Use the defrosters and air conditioning to keep the windows from fogging up on the inside (see page

89

).

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Traction − Check your tires frequently for wear and proper pressure. Both are important in preventing ‘‘hydroplaning’’ (loss of traction on a wet surface). In the winter, mount snow tires on all four wheels for the best handling.

Watch road conditions carefully, they can change from moment to moment. Wet leaves can be as slip- pery as ice. ‘‘Clear’’ roads can have patches of ice. Driving conditions can be very hazardous when the outside temperature is near freezing. The road surface can become covered with areas of water puddles mixed with areas of ice, so your traction can change without warning.

Be careful when downshifting. If traction is low, you can lock up the drive wheels for a moment and cause a skid.

Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer

Towing a Trailer Your car is not designed to tow a trailer. Attempting to do so can void your warranties.

Be very cautious when passing, or being passed by other cars. The spray from large cars reduces your visibility, and the wind buffeting can cause you to lose control.

Driving

147

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This section explains why it is important to keep your car well maintained and how to follow basic maintenance safety precautions.

This section also includes Maintenance Schedules for normal driving and severe driving conditions, a Maintenance Record, and instruc- tions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself.

If you have the skills and tools to per- form more complex maintenance tasks on your Honda, you may want to purchase the Service Manual. See page for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your Honda dealer.

263

Maintenance Safety

...................... . 150
Important Safety Precautions . 151
Maintenance Schedule ................. . 152
Required Maintenance Record . 159
... ....... Owner Maintenance Checks . 161
. 162
Fluid Locations .............................. . 163
...................................... Engine Oil . 163
.................................. .................... . 163
. 164
.............................. . 164
.................................... . 165
..... ............................. . 167
. 167
............ . 169
....... .................... . 173

Adding Oil Recommended Oil Synthetic Oil Additives Changing the Oil and Filter

Adding Engine Coolant Replacing Engine Coolant

Windshield Washers 6-speed Manual Transmission

Cooling System

Differential Fluid Brake and Clutch Fluid

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

. 174
. 175
. 176
. 176
. 176
. 177
. 178
. 180

Brake Fluid Brake System Clutch System

Air Cleaner Element Hood Latch

Fluid

Maintenance

Spark Plugs

Replacement Specifications

Battery Wiper Blades Air Conditioning System Dust and Pollen Filter Drive Belt Tires

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

Inflation Inspection Maintenance Tire Rotation Tire Wear Replacing Tires and Wheels Wheels and Tires Winter Driving

Snow Tires Tire Chains

Storing Your Car

Replacing Bulbs

Lights

. 180
. 180
. 182
. 183
. 186
. 188
. 189
. 190
. 191
. 191
. 193
. 194
. 194
. 194
. 195
. 196
. 196
. 197
. 197
. 198
. 200
. 208

Maintenance 149

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Maintenance Safety

Regularly maintaining your car is the best way to protect your investment. Proper maintenance is essential to your safety and the safety of your passengers. It will also reward you with more economical, trouble-free driving and help reduce air pollution.

This section includes instructions for simple maintenance tasks, such as checking and adding oil. Any service items not detailed in this section should be performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.

Some of the most important safety precautions are given here. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task.

Improperly maintaining this car or failing to correct a problem before driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owner’s manual.

150

Maintenance

Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner’s manual.

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Maintenance Safety

Important Safety Precautions Before you begin any maintenance, make sure your car is parked on level ground and that the parking brake is set. Also, be sure the engine is off. This will help to eliminate several potential hazards:

Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.

Burns from hot parts. Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching any parts.

Injury from moving parts. not run the engine unless in- structed to do so.

Do

Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.

To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline or batteries. Use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.

You should wear eye protection and protective clothing when working near the battery or when using compressed air.

Maintenance

151

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Maintenance Schedule

The Maintenance Schedule specifies how often you should have your car serviced and what things need attention. It is essential that you have your car serviced as scheduled to retain its high level of safety, dependability, and emissions control performance.

152

Maintenance

Which Schedule to Follow: Service your car according to the time and mileage periods on one of the Maintenance Schedules on the following pages. Select the schedule for ‘‘Severe Conditions’’ if most of your driving is done under one or more of the conditions listed on that page. Otherwise, follow the schedule for ‘‘Normal Conditions.’’

The services and time or distance intervals shown in the maintenance schedule assume you will use your car as normal transportation for your passenger and possessions. You should also follow these recommendations:

Avoid exceeding your car’s load limit. This puts excess stress on the engine, brakes, and many other parts of your car. The load limit is shown on the label on the driver’s doorjamb.

Operate your car on reasonable roads within the legal speed limit.

Drive your car regularly over a distance of several miles (kilometers).

Always use unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating (see page 122

).

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Your authorized Honda dealer knows your car best and can provide competent, efficient service. However, service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in this type of automotive service. Keep all the receipts as proof of completion, and have the person who does the work fill out the Maintenance Record. Check your warranty booklet for more information.

We recommend the use of genuine Honda parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done. These are manufactured to the same high- quality standards as the original components, so you can be confident of their performance and durability.

U.S. Cars: Maintenance, replacement or repair of emissions control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA standards.

Maintenance Schedule

＃

According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with will not void your emissions warranties. However, Honda recommends that all maintenance services be performed at the recommended time or mileage period to ensure long-term reliability.

Maintenance

153

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U.S. Owners Follow the Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule if the severe driving conditions specified in the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule do not apply.

NOTE: If you only drive under a OCCASIONALLY ‘‘severe’’ condition, you should follow the Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule.

Canadian Owners Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

＃

See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page

153

−

Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first. Replace engine oil Replace engine oil filter Check engine oil and coolant Replace air cleaner element Inspect valve clearance Replace spark plugs Inspect drive belt Inspect idle speed Replace engine coolant

Replace transmission fluid Replace rear differential fluid Inspect front and rear brakes Replace brake fluid Check parking brake adjustment Replace dust and pollen filter Check tire inflation and condition

miles x 1,000
km x 1,000
months

15
24
12

30
105
48
168
24
84
Replace every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 1 year

75
120
60

90
144
72

60
96
48

45
72
36

120
192
96

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

Adjust only if noisy

120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, then every 60,000 miles

(96,000 km) or 5 years

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

Visually inspect the following items:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and boots Suspension components Driveshaft boots Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Cooling system hoses and connections Exhaust system ＃ Fuel lines and connections

＃

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Maintenance

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Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in U.S. Owners Canadian owners:

Follow the schedule for Severe Conditions.

to determine which schedule to use.

Refer to page

149

−

A, B, C

as required for each distance/time interval.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)

7,500 mi/12,000 km 15,000 mi/24,000 km/1 yr 22,500 mi/36,000 km 30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs 37,500 mi/60,000 km 3 yrs 45,000 mi/72,000 km/3 yrs 52,500 mi/84,000 km 60,000 mi/96,000 km/4 yrs 67,500 mi/108,000 km 75,000 mi/120,000 km/5 yrs 82,500 mi/132,000 km 6 yrs 90,000 mi/144,000 km/6 yrs 97,500 mi/156,000 km 105,000 mi/168,000 km/7 yrs

112,500 mi/180,000 km 120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs

120,000 mi/192,000 km/8 yrs

Do items in A. Do items in A, B. Do items in A. Do items in A, B, C. Do items in A. □ Do items in A, B. Do items in A. Do items in A, B, C. Do items in A. Do items in A, B. Do items in A. □ Do items in A, B, C. Do items in A. □ □ □ Do items in A, B. Do items in A. □ 60.000 mi/96,000 km/5 yrs. □ Do items in A, B, C.

Inspect valve clearance. Check idle speed. Replace spark plugs.

Replace transmission fluid.

Replace engine coolant, then replace every

＃

□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

Replace engine oil. Check tire inflation and condition. Replace engine oil filter. Inspect front and rear brakes. Check parking brake adjustment. Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots. Inspect suspension components. Inspect driveshaft boots. Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS). Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check for leaks. Inspect cooling system hoses and connections. □ Inspect exhaust system. □ ＃ Inspect fuel lines and connections. □ ＃ Replace air cleaner element. □ Replace rear differential fluid. □ Replace dust and pollen filter. □ Inspect drive belt. □ See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page

153

Note:

Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop. Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.

Maintenance 155