2003 Honda S2000 Owners Manual

or dump it on the ground.

Engine Oil

5.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten it to: 33 lbf·ft (45 N·m , 4.6 kgf·m)

6.

Refill the engine with the recom- mended oil.

Engine oil change capacity (including filter): 5.1 US qt (4.8 )

7.

Replace the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator light should go out within five seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine and reinspect your work.

8.

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

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Cooling System

Always use Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. It does not require any additional mixing.

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

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

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

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

1.

Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.

Adding Engine Coolant

RESERVE TANK

MAX

MIN

If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. Inspect the cooling system for leaks. The coolant you add should always be a mixture of 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.

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Cooling System

Fill up to here

RESERVE TANK

RADIATOR CAP

FILLER NECK

2.

Turn the radiator cap counter- clockwise, without pressing down on it, until it stops. This relieves any pressure remaining in the cooling system.

3.

Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.

4.

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

Pour the coolant slowly and carefully so you do not spill. Clean up any spills immediately. Spilled coolant could damage components in the engine compartment.

5.

Put the radiator cap back on. Tighten it fully.

6.

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

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

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Replacing Engine Coolant The cooling system should be completely drained and refilled with new coolant according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule. Only use Honda All season Antifreeze/ Coolant Type 2.

Draining the coolant requires access to the underside of the car. Unless you have the tools and knowledge, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.

Cooling System

DRAIN BOLT

1.

Turn the ignition ON (II). Turn the heater temperature control dial fully clockwise. Turn the ignition off.

2.

Open the hood. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool to the touch.

3.

Remove the radiator cap.

DRAIN PLUG

4.

Loosen the drain plug on the bottom of the radiator. The coolant will drain through the splash guard. Remove the drain bolt and washer from the engine block.

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Cooling System

RESERVE TANK CAP

6.

When the coolant stops draining, tighten the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator. Apply non-hardening sealant to the drain bolt threads, put a new washer on the drain bolt, and reinstall the bolt in the engine block. Tighten it securely. Tightening torque: 61 lbf·ft (83 N·m , 8.5 kgf·m)

BLEEDER BOLT

RESERVE TANK HOLDER Remove the reserve tank from its 5. holder by pulling it straight up. Drain the coolant, then put the tank back in its holder.

7.

Loosen the bleeder bolt on top of the engine, and remove the bleeder cap near the engine oil fill cap.

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BLEEDER CAP

Fill up to here

RESERVE TANK

Cooling System

8.

Pour Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 into the radiator up to the base of the filler neck. This coolant is a mixture of 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Pre-mixing is not required.

The cooling system capacity is: 1.72 US gal (6.5 )

FILLER NECK

9.

Tighten the bleeder bolt and reinstall the bleeder cap when coolant comes out in a steady stream with no bubbles.

10.

Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds. Then turn off the engine.

11.

Pour coolant into the radiator up to the base of the filler neck.

12.

Fill the reserve tank to the MAX mark. Install the reserve tank cap.

13.

Install the radiator cap, and tighten it to the first stop.

14.

Start the engine and let it run until the radiator fan comes on two times. Then stop the engine.

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Cooling System

15.

Remove the radiator cap.

16.

Pour coolant into the radiator up to the base of the filler neck and into the reserve tank up to the MAX mark.

17.

Start the engine and hold it at 1,500 rpm until the radiator fan comes on. Turn off the engine. Check the coolant level in the radiator and add coolant if needed.

18.

Install the radiator cap, and tighten it fully.

19.

If necessary, fill the reserve tank to the MAX mark. Install the reserve tank cap.

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RESERVOIR CAP

Check the reservoir’s fluid level by removing the cap and looking at the level gauge attached to the cap.

Check the level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal usage. In bad weather, when you use the washers often, check the level every time you stop for fuel.

The windshield washer reservoir is located in the rear of the engine compartment on the passenger’s side.

Windshield Washers

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

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

Do not use engine antif reeze or a vinegar/water solution in the windshield washer reservoir.

Antif reeze can damage your car’s paint, while a vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield washer pump.

Use only commercially-available windshield washer f luid.

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6-speed Manual Transmission Fluid

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the time and distance recommen- dations in the maintenance schedule.

If Honda MTF is not available, you may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40
viscosity motor oil with the API Certification seal that says ‘‘FOR GASOLINE ENGINES’’ as a temporary replacement. However, motor oil does not contain the proper additives and continued use can cause stiffer shifting. Replace as soon as it is convenient.

FILLER BOLT

CORRECT LEVEL

Check the fluid level with the transmission at normal operating temperature and the car sitting on level ground. Remove the transmission filler bolt and carefully feel inside the bolt hole with your finger. The fluid level should be up to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is not, add Honda Manual Transmis- sion Fluid (MTF) until it starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall the filler bolt and tighten it securely.

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Maintenance

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Differential Fluid

Use an SAE 90 viscosity hypoid gear oil, API service classified GL5 or GL6 only, in the differential.

Put a new washer on the filler bolt, then reinstall the filler bolt. Tighten it securely. Tightening torque: 33 lbf·ft (45 N·m , 4.6 kgf·m)

The differential should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule.

FILLER BOLT

CORRECT LEVEL

Check the fluid level with the differential at normal operating temperature and the vehicle sitting on level ground. Remove the differential fluid filler bolt and washer and carefully feel inside the bolt hole with your finger. The fluid level should be up to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is not, slowly add fluid until it starts to run out of the hole.

Maintenance

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Brake and Clutch Fluid

Check the fluid level in the reser- voirs monthly. There are two reser- voirs. They are:

Brake fluid reservoir Clutch fluid reservoir

The brake fluid should be replaced according to the time recommenda- tion in the maintenance schedule.

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Maintenance

Always use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement. However, the use of any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible.

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

Brake System

MAX

MIN

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

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Brake and Clutch Fluid

Low fluid level can indicate a leak in the clutch system. Have this system inspected as soon as possible.

Clutch System

MAX

MIN

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If it is not, add brake fluid to bring it up to that level. Use the same fluid specified for the brake system.

Maintenance

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Air Cleaner Element

The air cleaner element should be replaced according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule.

Follow the replacement procedure for removal and reinstallation.

Replacement

CLAMPS

AIR CLEANER ELEMENT

To replace it:

1.

Unsnap the six clamps holding the air cleaner housing cover.

2.

Remove the air cleaner housing cover. Disconnect the air intake duct from the air cleaner element.

3.

Remove the old air cleaner element.

4.

Carefully clean the inside of the air cleaner housing with a damp rag.

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Maintenance

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Air Cleaner Element

5.

Attach the new air cleaner element to the duct. Install the new air cleaner element in the air cleaner housing. Make sure the pin on the edge of the element fits in the hole in the bottom of the housing.

6.

Reinstall the air cleaner housing cover, snap the six clamps back into place.

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Hood Latch, Spark Plugs

Hood Latch

PIVOTS

Replacement

Spark Plugs The spark plugs in your car are a special platinum-tipped design for longer life. They only need to be replaced every 7 years or 105,000
miles (168,000 km), whichever comes first.

Clean the hood latch assembly with a mild cleaner, then lubricate it with a multipurpose grease. Lubricate all the moving parts (as shown), including the pivot. Follow the time and distance recommendations in the Maintenance Schedule. If you are not sure how to clean and grease the latch, contact your Honda dealer.

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Maintenance

1.

Remove the four hexagon socket head cap bolts holding the ignition coil cover.

2.

Clean off any dirt and oil that have collected around the ignition coils.

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Spark Plugs

3.

Remove the bolt holding the ignition coil and pull the ignition coil straight up slightly. Disconnect the ignition coil connector by pushing the tab and pulling the connector back. Pull the ignition coil all the way up.

4.

Remove the spark plug with a five-eighths inch (16 mm) spark plug socket.

5.

Put the new spark plug into the socket, then screw it into the hole. Screw it in by hand so you do not crossthread it.

6.

Torque the spark plug. (If you do not have a torque wrench, tighten the spark plug two-thirds of a turn after it contacts the cylinder head.) Tightening torque: 18 lbf·ft (25 N·m , 2.5 kgf·m)

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Specifications:

NGK: DENSO:

PFR7G-11S PK22PR-L11S

Spark Plug Gap:

0.04 in (1.1 mm) 0

＋ −

0.1 mm

Spark Plugs

Tighten the spark plugs caref ully. A spark plug that is too loose can overheat and damage the engine. Overtightening can cause damage to the threads in the cylinder head.

7.

Install the ignition coil. Reinstall the bolt.

8.

Repeat this procedure for the other three spark plugs.

9.

Reinstall the cover on the cylinder bank. Reinstall the four hexagon socket head cap bolts.

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Maintenance

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Check the condition of your car’s battery monthly. You should check the color of the test indicator window, and for corrosion on the terminals.

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW Check the battery condition by looking at the test indicator window on the battery. The label on the battery explains the test indicator’s colors.

Battery

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

Battery posts,

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

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Maintenance

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Battery

If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damage to the car’s electrical system.

If the terminals are severely cor- roded, clean them with baking soda and water. Then use a wrench to loosen and remove the cables from the terminals. Always disconnect the negative ( ) cable first and recon- nect it last. Clean the battery termi- nals with a terminal cleaning tool or wire brush. Reconnect and tighten the cables, then coat the terminals with grease.

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Maintenance

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

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

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

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If your car’s battery is disconnected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio you will see ‘‘ ’’ in the frequency display. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code (see page

114

).

Charging the battery with the cables connected can seriously damage your car’s electronic controls. Detach the battery cables bef ore connecting the battery to a charger.

Battery

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Wiper Blades

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

LOCK TAB

To replace the blade:

1.

Raise the wiper arm off the windshield.

2.

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

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Maintenance

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BLADE

Wiper Blades

5.

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

6.

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

7.

Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield.

3.

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

REINFORCEMENT Examine the new wiper blades. If 4. they have no plastic or metal rein- forcement along the back edge, remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade.

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Air Conditioning System

Your car’s air conditioning is a sealed system. Any major maintenance, such as recharging, should be done by a qualified mechanic. You can do a couple of things to make sure the air conditioning works efficiently.

Periodically check the engine’s radiator and air conditioning condenser for leaves, insects, and dirt stuck to the front surface. These block the air flow and reduce cooling efficiency. Use a light spray from a hose or a soft brush to remove them.

The condenser and radiator f ins bend easily. Only use a low-pressure spray or sof t-bristle brush to clean them.

186

Maintenance

If the air conditioning does not get as cold as before, have your dealer check the system. Recharge the system with Refrigerant HFC-134a (R-134a). (See Specifications on page 251

.)

Whenever you have the air conditioning system serviced, make sure the service f acility uses a ref rigerant recycling system. This system captures the ref rigerant f or reuse. Releasing ref rigerant into the atmosphere can damage the environment.

AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER

Run the air conditioning at least once a week during the cold weather months. Run it for at least ten minutes while you are driving at a steady speed with the engine at normal operating temperature. This circulates the lubricating oil con- tained in the refrigerant.

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The dust and pollen filter removes pollen and dust from the outside air, The heating and cooling system brings air into the interior. It should be replaced according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule.

This filter should be replaced every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) under normal conditions. It should be replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000
km) if you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air from industry and diesel-powered vehicles. Replace it more often if air flow from the climate control system becomes less than usual. Have the dust and pollen filter replaced by your Honda dealer.

Dust and Pollen Filter

Replacement

The dust and pollen filter is located in the engine compartment on the passenger’s side near the base of the windshield.

1.

Open the hood. Unclip the windshield base by pulling it up.

2.

3.

4.

Push the tab on the dust and pollen filter to unlock it from the holder.

Remove the old filter. Put a new filter in the holder and push it in until it locks.

Put the pins on the windshield base into their mating holes on the support, and push the base down until the pins snap in.

Maintenance

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Drive Belt

Auto-tensioner

INDICATOR

AUTO-TENSIONER

You should check the condition of the drive belt every 2 years. Examine the edges of belt for cracks or fraying.

POINTER

An auto-tensioner adjusts the tension of the drive belt. The pointer on the auto-tensioner should be within the recessed area of the indicator. If the pointer is not within the recessed area, contact your Honda dealer.

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Maintenance

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To safely operate your car, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated. The following pages give more detailed information on how and when to check air pressure, how to inspect your tires for damage and wear, and what to do when your tires need to be replaced.

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

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

Tires

Inflation Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best combination of handling, tread life, and riding comfort. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated. Overinflated tires can make your car ride more harshly, are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

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

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Maintenance

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Tires

Use a gauge to measure the air pressure at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose one to two psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1
to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month. Remember to check the spare tire at the same time you check all the other tires.

Check the pressure in the tires when they are cold. This means the car has been parked for at least three hours. If you have to drive the car before checking the tire pressure, the tires can still be considered ‘‘cold’’ if you drive less than 1 mile (1.6 km).

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Maintenance

Front:

Tire Size

205/55R16 89W

Rear:

Tire Size

225/50R16 92W

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2
kgf/cm )

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2
kgf/cm )

The compact spare tire pressure is: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

These pressures are also given on the tire information label on the driver’s doorjamb.

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

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

RecommendedTirePressuresfor NormalDriving The following chart shows the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving conditions and speeds. Tire pressures for high speed driving are the same as for normal driving.

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Tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured. However, because leakage is often very slow, you should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.

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

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

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

Excessive tread wear.

Tires

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS Your car’s tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down to that point, you will see a 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide band running across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. A tire that is this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see the tread wear indicator in three or more places around the tire.

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Tires

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

The tires were properly balanced by the factory. They may need to be rebalanced at some time before they are worn out. Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consis- tent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel for repair.

Make sure the installer balances the wheels when you have new tires installed. This increases riding comfort and tire life. Your car’s original tires were dynamic or ‘‘spin’’ balanced at the factory. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

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

Tire Rotation You should not rotate your Honda’s tires. The front and rear tires are different sizes, so they cannot be rotated front-to-rear. The original- equipment tires on your Honda have a unidirectional tread pattern, so they cannot be rotated side-to-side.

Tire Wear The tires that came on your car were designed and constructed to provide superior grip during acceleration, braking, and cornering. As a trade- off, they will wear more rapidly than tires used on ordinary passenger cars. Because of the car’s weight distribution, and the fact that they are the driving wheels, you may expect the rear tires to wear more rapidly than the front tires.

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Maintenance

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You should carefully inspect your car’s tires for wear, damage, and proper inflation every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) (see page

189

).

Replacing Tires and Wheels The tires that came with your car were selected to match the perform- ance capabilities of the car while providing the best combination of handling, ride comfort, and long life. You should replace them with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall). Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your car can reduce its braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy.

Tires

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

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

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

CONTINUED

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Wheels and Tires Wheels: Front:

16 x 6 1/2 JJ

16 x 7 1/2 JJ

Rear:

Tires:

Front:

Rear:

205/55R16 89W

225/50R16 92W

See page DOT Tire Quality Grading.

for information about

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＋

Winter Driving Tires that are marked ‘‘M S’’ on the sidewall have an all-weather tread design. They should be suitable for most winter driving conditions. Tires without these markings are designed for optimum traction in dry conditions. They may not provide adequate performance in winter driving.

For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions.

Tires

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

If you ever need to replace a wheel, make sure the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheel that came on your car. Replacement wheels are available at your Honda dealer.

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Maintenance

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SnowTires If you mount snow tires on your Honda, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as the original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels to balance your vehicle’s handling in all weather conditions. Keep in mind the traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may not be as high as your vehicle’s original equipment tires. You should drive cautiously even when the roads are clear. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommenda- tions.

TireChains Because your Honda has limited tire clearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’ cable-type traction devices on the rear tires. Use traction devices only when required by driving conditions or local laws. Make sure they are the correct size for your tires.

Metal link-type ‘‘chains’’ should not be used. No matter how tight they seem to be installed, they can come into contact with the body and suspension, causing serious damage.

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

Tires

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

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Lights

Check the operation of your car’s exterior lights at least once a month. A burned out bulb can create an unsafe condition by reducing your car’s visibility and the ability to signal your intentions to other drivers.

SIDE TURN SIGNAL LIGHT

TURN SIGNAL

FRONT PARKING AND SIDE MARKER LIGHT

LOW BEAM HEADLIGHT

HIGH BEAM HEADLIGHT

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Maintenance

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TURN SIGNAL LIGHT

STOP/TAILLIGHT

LICENSE PLATE LIGHT

SIDE MARKER LIGHT

BACK-UP LIGHT

Lights

Check the following:

Headlights (low and high beam) Parking lights Taillights Brake lights Turn signals Back-up lights Hazard light function License plate light Side marker lights Daytime running lights (Canadian cars)

If you find any bulbs are burned out, replace them as soon as possible. Refer to the chart on page to determine what type of replacement bulb is needed.

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Maintenance

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Lights

Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your car was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk, readjustment may be required. Adjustment of the headlights should be performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb The low beam headlight bulbs are a type of high voltage discharge tube. High voltage can remain in the circuit even with the light switch off and the key removed. Because of this, you should not attempt to examine or change a low beam headlight bulb yourself. If a low beam headlight bulb fails, take the car to your dealer to have it replaced.

Halogen bulbs are used for the high beam headlight bulbs. When replacing a high beam headlight bulb, handle it by its base and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

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

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Maintenance

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1.

Open the hood. If you need to change the high beam headlight bulb on the left side, remove the coolant reserve tank from its holder by pulling it straight up.

2.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by squeezing the connector to unlock the tab, then slide the connector off the bulb.

3.

Remove the rubber weather seal by pulling on the tab.

4.

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

5.

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

Lights

6.

Insert the socket back into the headlight assembly. Make sure the bulb is installed correctly by looking through the headlight lens. The pins on the base of the bulb should fit in the holes in the headlight assembly. Pivot the hold- down wire back in place and clip the end into the slot.

7.

Install the rubber seal over the back of the headlight assembly. Make sure it is right side up; it is marked ‘‘TOP.’’

8.

Push the electrical connector onto the new bulb. Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

9.

(Left side) Reinstall the radiator reserve tank.

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Lights

Replacing Front Turn Signal and Side Marker Light Bulbs 1.

If you are changing the bulb on the driver’s side, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the right, and turn off the engine. If you are changing the bulb on the passenger’s side, turn the steering wheel to the left.

2.

Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to remove the three holding clips from the inner fender.

3.

Pull the inner fender cover back.

4.

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

5.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket.

6.

Install the new bulb in the socket.

7.

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

8.

Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

9.

Put the inner fender cover in place. Install the three holding clips. Lock each clip in place by pushing on the center.

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Maintenance

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Replacing a Side Turn Signal Bulb

3.

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

4.

Put the bulb holder back into its hole in the lens, and turn it clockwise until it locks.

5.

Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

6.

Put the side turn signal assembly back into the body, front first. Push on the back edge until it snaps into place.

1.

Use a small flat blade screwdriver to pry carefully on the back edge of the side turn signal assembly until it pops out of the body.

2.

Turn the bulb holder one-quarter turn counterclockwise to remove it from the lens.

Lights

Maintenance

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Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs

1.

Open the trunk.

2.

Remove the fasteners from the trunk lining. To remove a fastener, push on the center of the head until it pops in. Then pull it out.

3.

Pull the lining back.

4.

Determine which of the four bulbs is burned out: stop/taillight, back- up light, turn signal, or side marker.

5.

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

6.

Remove the burned out bulb. To remove the stop/taillight, back-up or side marker light bulb, pull the bulb straight out of its socket. To remove the turn signal light bulb, push it in and turn it counterclockwise until it unlocks.

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Maintenance

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7.

Install the new bulb in the socket.

8.

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

9.

Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

10.

Install the trunk lining and secure it with the fasteners. To reinstall a fastener, reset the fastener by pushing on the pointed end until it pops back almost flush with the fingers on the housing. Put the fastener in the hole of the trunk lining and push on the center until it locks (the center is flush with the head).

Lights

Maintenance 203

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Lights

Replacing a Rear License Plate Bulb

1.

Insert a flat-tipped screwdriver between the left edge of the lens and the housing. The lens will come down.

2.

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

3.

Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

4.

Put the lens back into the light assembly, right side first. Push on the left edge until it snaps into place.

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Maintenance

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Replacing an Interior Light Bulb

Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb

Lights

1.

Remove the lens by carefully prying on the front edge of the lens near both sides.

2.

Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its metal tabs.

1.

Open the trunk. Pull down the trunk light cover.

3.

Push the new bulb into the metal tabs. Snap the lens back in place.

2.

Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its metal tabs.

3.

Push the new bulb into the metal tabs.

4.

Push the cover back in place.

Maintenance

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Storing Your Car

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

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter (see page

163

).

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

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

Raise the convertible top cover.

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

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Maintenance

Block the rear wheels.

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

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

Disconnect the battery.

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

To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door and trunk seals. Also, apply a vehicle body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and trunk seals.

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

If possible, run the engine for a while periodically (preferably once a month).

If you store your car for 12 months or longer, have your Honda dealer perform the inspections called for in the 24 months/30,000 miles (48,000
km) maintenance schedule as soon as you take it out of storage (see page ). The replacements called for in the maintenance schedule are not needed unless the car has actually reached that time or mileage.

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Appearance Care

Regular cleaning and polishing of your Honda helps to keep it ‘‘new’’ looking. This section gives you hints on how to clean your car and preserve its appearance: the paint, brightwork, wheels and interior. Also included are several things you can do to help prevent corrosion.

Exterior Care

Washing Waxing Aluminum Wheels Paint Touch-up

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

Interior Care Carpeting Floor Mats Fabric Vinyl Leather Seat Belts Windows Air Fresheners

Corrosion Protection Body Repairs

. 208
. 208
. 209
. 210
. 210
. 211
. 211
. 211
. 212
. 212
. 212
. 212
. 213
. 213
. 213
. 215

Appearance Care

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Exterior Care

Washing Frequent washing helps preserve your car’s beauty. Dirt and grit can scratch the paint, while tree sap and bird droppings can permanently ruin the finish.

Wash your car in a shady area, not in direct sunlight. If the car is parked in the sun, move it into the shade and let the exterior cool down before you start.

Only use the solvents and cleaners recommended in this Owner’s Manual.

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Appearance Care

Chemical solvents and strong cleaners can damage the paint, metal, and plastic on your car.

Rinse the car thoroughly with cool water to remove loose dirt.

Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix in a mild detergent, such as dishwashing liquid or a product made especially for car washing.

Wash the car, using the water and neutral detergent solution and sponge or soft cloth. Start at a top and work your way down. Rinse frequently.

Check the body for road tar, tree sap, etc. Remove these stains with tar remover or turpentine. Rinse it off immediately so it does not harm the finish. Remember to re- wax these areas, even if the rest of

the car does not need waxing. Do not use harsh chemicals to remove stains from the convertible top or rear window. Use a mild detergent/water solution with a soft-bristle brush on the top, and with a soft cloth on the rear window.

When you have washed and rinsed the whole exterior, dry it with a chamois or soft towel. Letting it air-dry will cause dulling and water spots. Make sure the top is completely dry before you fold it.

As you dry the car, inspect it for chips and scratches that could allow corrosion to start. Repair them with touch-up paint (see page

210

).

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Exterior Care

Waxing Always wash and dry the whole car before waxing it. You should wax your car, including the metal trim, whenever water sits on the surface in large patches. It should form into beads or droplets after waxing.

You should use a quality liquid or paste wax. Apply it according to the instructions on the container. In general, there are two types of products:

−

Waxes A wax coats the finish and protects it from damage by exposure to sunlight, air pollution, etc. You should use a wax on your Honda when it is new.

−

Polishes and cleaner/

Polishes waxes can restore the shine to paint that has oxidized and lost some of its shine. They normally contain mild abrasives and solvents that remove the top layer of the finish. You should use a polish on your Honda if the finish does not have its original shine after using a wax.

Cleaning tar, insects, etc. with removers also takes off the wax. Remember to re-wax those areas, even if the rest of the car does not need waxing.

Appearance Care

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Paint Touch-up Your dealer has touch-up paint to match your car’s color. The color code is printed on a sticker on the driver’s doorjamb. Take this code to your dealer so you are sure to get the correct color.

Inspect your car frequently for chips or scratches in the paint. Repair them right away to prevent corrosion of the metal underneath. Use the touch-up paint only on small chips and scratches. More extensive paint damage should be repaired by a professional.

Exterior Care

Aluminum Wheels Clean your Honda’s aluminum alloy wheels as you do the rest of the exterior. Wash them with the same solution, and rinse them thoroughly.

The wheels have a protective clear- coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing. Using harsh chemicals, including some commercial wheel cleaners, or stiff brushes can damage this clear-coat. Only use a mild detergent and soft brush or sponge to clean the wheels.

210

Appearance Care

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Floor Mats

Carpeting Vacuum the carpeting frequently to remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make the carpet wear out faster. Periodically shampoo the carpet to keep it looking new. Use one of the foam-type carpet cleaners on the market. Follow the instructions that come with the cleaner, applying it with a sponge or soft brush. Keep the carpeting as dry as possible by not adding water to the foam.

The Honda driver’s floor mat that came with your car was designed to be hooked over the floor mat anchor. This keeps the floor mat from sliding forward and possibly interfering with the pedals.

Interior Care

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

If you replace it, use a genuine Honda floor mat that is designed to be used with the floor mat anchors in your car.

If you use a non-Honda floor mat in the driver’s footwell, make sure it fits properly and that it can be used with the floor mat anchor.

Do not put additional floor mats on top of the anchored mat, otherwise the additional mats may slide forward and interfere with the pedals.

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Interior Care

Fabric Vacuum dirt and dust out of the material frequently. For general cleaning, use a solution of mild soap and lukewarm water, letting it air dry. To clean off stubborn spots, use a commercially-available fabric cleaner. Test it on a hidden area of the fabric first, to make sure it does not bleach or stain the fabric. Follow the instructions that come with the cleaner.

212

Appearance Care

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

Vinyl Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft cloth dampened in a solution of mild soap and water. Use the same solution with a soft-bristle brush on more difficult spots. You can also use commercially-available spray or foam-type vinyl cleaners.

Leather Vacuum dirt and dust from the leather frequently. Pay particular attention to the pleats and seams. Clean the leather with a soft cloth dampened with clear water, then buff it with a clean, dry cloth. If further cleaning is needed, use a soap specifically for leather, such as saddle soap. Apply this soap with a damp, soft cloth. Wipe down and buff as described above.

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Interior Care, Corrosion Protection

Air Fresheners If you want to use an air freshener/ deodorizer in the interior of your car, it is best to use a solid type. Some liquid air fresheners contain chemi- cals that may cause parts of the interior trim and fabric to crack or discolor.

If you use a liquid air freshener, make sure you fasten it securely so it does not spill as you drive.

Corrosion Protection Two factors normally contribute to causing corrosion in your car:

1.

Moisture trapped in body cavities. Dirt and road salt that collects in hollows on the underside of the car stays damp, promoting corrosion in that area.

2.

Removal of paint and protective coatings from the exterior and underside of the car.

Windows Clean the windows, inside and out, with a commercially-available glass cleaner. You can also use a mixture of one part white vinegar to ten parts water. This will remove the haze that builds up on the inside of the windows. Use a soft cloth or paper towels to clean all glass and clear plastic surfaces.

If you get any glass cleaner on the convertible top, immediately spray the area with water, and dry it with a soft cloth.

The rear window def ogger is bonded to the inside of the glass. Wiping vigorously up-and-down can dislodge and break these wires. When cleaning the rear window, use gentle pressure and wipe side-to-side.

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Use a high-pressure spray to clean the underside of your car. This is especially important in areas that use road salt in winter. It is also a good idea in humid climates and areas subject to salt air. Be careful of the ABS wheel sensors and wiring at each wheel.

Have the corrosion-preventive coatings on the underside of your car inspected and repaired periodically.

Corrosion Protection

Many corrosion-preventive measures are built into your Honda. You can help keep your car from corroding by performing some simple periodic maintenance:

Repair chips and scratches in the paint as soon as you discover them.

Inspect and clean out the drain holes in the bottom of the doors and body.

Check the floor coverings for dampness. Carpeting and floor mats may remain damp for a long time, especially in winter. This dampness can eventually cause the floor panels to corrode.

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Appearance Care

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Body Repairs

Body repairs can affect your car’s resistance to corrosion. If your car needs repairs after a collision, pay close attention to the parts used in the repair and the quality of the work.

Make sure the repair facility uses genuine Honda replacement body parts. Some companies make sheet metal pieces that seem to duplicate the original Honda body parts, but are actually inferior in fit, finish, and corrosion resistance. Once installed, they do not give the same high- quality appearance.

When reporting your collision to the insurance company, tell them you want genuine Honda parts used in the repair. Although most insurers recognize the quality of original parts, some may try to specify that the repairs be done with other available parts. You should investi- gate this before any repairs have begun.