2003 Honda S2000 Owners Manual

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

187

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３５：２６　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０１９１　

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.

188

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３５：３５　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０１９２　

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.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

189

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３５：４９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０１９３　

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).

190

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.

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３６：００　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０１９４　

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.

Maintenance 191

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３６：１０　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０１９５　

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.

192

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３６：１８　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０１９６　

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

Maintenance 193

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３６：３１　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０１９７　

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

252

＋

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.

194

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３６：３９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０１９８　

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.

Maintenance 195

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３６：４５　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０１９９　

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

196

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３６：５２　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２００　

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.

251

Maintenance

197

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３６：５９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２０１　

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.

198

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３７：１２　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２０２　

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.

Maintenance 199

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３７：２５　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２０３　

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.

200

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３７：３５　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２０４　

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

201

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３７：４６　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２０５　

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.

202

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３７：５３　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２０６　

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

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３８：０１　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２０７　

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.

204

Maintenance

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３８：１３　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２０８　

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

205

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３８：２７　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２０９　

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.

206

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.

152

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３８：３３　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２１０　

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

207

Main Menust０２／０８／０６　１８：３８：４５　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２１１　

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.

208

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

).

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３８：５２　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２１２　

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

209

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３９：００　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２１３　

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

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３９：０９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２１４　

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.

Appearance Care 211

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３９：１８　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２１５　

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.

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３９：２９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２１６　

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.

Appearance Care 213

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３９：３６　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２１７　

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.

214

Appearance Care

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３９：４３　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２１８　

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.

Take your car to your authorized Honda dealer for inspection after the repairs are completed. Your dealer can make sure that quality materials were used, and that corrosion- preventive coatings were applied to all repaired and replaced parts.

Appearance Care 215

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：３９：５１　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２２０　

Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more- common problems that motorists experience with their vehicles. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your car towed.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If Your Engine Won’t Start Nothing Happens or the

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

Starter Motor Operates

. 218
. 219
. 224

Very Slowly

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

. 224

The Starter Operates

Normally Jump Starting If Your Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp Brake System Indicator Closing the Convertible Top Fuses

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

If Your Car Gets Stuck Emergency Towing

Checking and Replacing

. 225
. 226
. 229
. 232
. 233
. 234
. 236
. 237
. 238
. 239
. 243
. 245

Taking Care of the Unexpected 217

Main Menust０２／０８／０６　１８：４０：０７　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２２１　

Compact Spare Tire

Your car has a compact spare tire that takes up less space. Use this spare tire as a temporary replace- ment only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced and put it back on your car as soon as you can.

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

218

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Follow these precautions whenever you are using the compact spare tire:

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any circumstances.

This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road sur- faces than the regular tire. Use greater caution while driving on this tire.

Do not mount snow chains on the compact spare.

The wheel of the compact spare tire is designed especially to fit your car. Do not use your spare tire on another vehicle unless it is the same make and model.

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

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

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４０：１９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２２２　

The size difference may also cause damage to the rear differential, so do not mount the compact spare on the rear. If either rear tire goes flat, remove the front tire on that same side, mount the compact spare tire on the front, then mount the front tire on the rear.

1.

2.

Park the car on firm, level, non- slippery ground away from traffic. Put the transmission in Reverse. Apply the parking brake.

Turn on the hazard warning lights and turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Have your passenger get out of the car while you change the tire.

If you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder of a busy road is dangerous. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area to stop that is far away from the traffic lanes.

The car can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the car when it is supported only by the jack.

The compact spare tire is smaller than a standard tire, which will affect the vehicle’s handling. Drive cautiously when this spare is mounted on your vehicle.

Changing a Flat Tire

TOOL BOX LID

JACK

3.

Open the trunk. Lift up the tool box lid and take the jack, wheel wrench, and extension out of the tool box.

Use the jack that came with your car. If you try to raise another car with this jack or use another jack to raise your car, the car or jack can be damaged.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected

219

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４０：２９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２２３　

Changing a Flat Tire

SPARE TIRE COVER

4.

Remove the three clips holding the spare tire cover by pulling straight up on the rings. Remove the spare tire cover.

5.

Unscrew the wing bolt and take the spare tire out of the spare tire shelf.

7.

6.

Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2
turn with the wheel wrench.

Locate the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. It is pointed to by an arrow molded into the underside of the body. Place the jack under the jacking point. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.

220

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４０：３９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２２４　

Changing a Flat Tire

8.

Use the extension and wheel wrench as shown to raise the car until the flat tire is off the ground.

BRAKE HUB

9.

Remove the wheel nuts and flat tire. Temporarily place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface of the wheel facing up. Placing the wheel face down could mar its finish.

10.

Before mounting the spare tire, wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with a clean cloth. Wipe the hub carefully; it may be hot from driving.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected 221

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４０：４９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２２５　

Changing a Flat Tire

11.

Put on the spare tire. Put the wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten them fully.

12.

Lower the car to the ground and remove the jack.

13.

Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)

222

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４０：５７　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２２６　

Changing a Flat Tire

14.

Remove the tool box from the trunk well and replace the jack, wheel wrench and extension in the tool box.

16.

Replace the spare tire cover. Secure it with the three clips. Push each clip down securely, and pivot the ring down flat.

15.

Place the tool box into the spare tire shelf in the trunk.

17.

Put the flat tire in the trunk well vertically as shown.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 223

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４１：０８　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２２７　

If Your Engine Won’t Start

Diagnosing why your engine won’t start falls into two areas, depending on what you hear when you press the ENGINE START button.

You hear nothing, or almost nothing. The engine’s starter motor does not operate at all, or operates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motor operating normally, or the starter motor sounds like it is spinning faster than normal, but the engine does not start up and run.

Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly When you press the ENGINE START button, you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound or series of clicks, or nothing at all. Check these things:

Your car has the Immobilizer System. You should use a properly-coded master or valet key to start the engine (see page ). 59
A key that is not properly coded will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the dash panel to blink rapidly.

224

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Turn on the headlights and check their brightness. If the headlights are very dim or don’t light at all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting

on page

226

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

on page

245

.)

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４１：１６　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２２８　

If Your Engine Won’t Start

If the headlights dim noticeably or go out when you try to start the engine, either the battery is dis- charged or the connections are corroded. Check the condition of the battery and terminal connections (see page ). You can then try jump starting the car from a booster battery (see page

181

226

).

The Starter Operates Normally In this case, the starter motor’s speed sounds normal, or even faster than normal, when you press the ENGINE START button, but the engine does not run.

Are you using the proper starting Starting the procedure? Refer to Engine 135

on page

Do you have fuel? Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) for a minute and watch the fuel gauge. The low fuel level warning light may not be working, so you were not reminded to fill the tank.

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

239

).

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

Emergency 245

Taking Care of the Unexpected 225

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４１：２３　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２２９　

Jump Starting

If your car’s battery has run down, you may be able to start the engine by using a booster battery. Although this seems like a simple procedure, you should take several precautions.

A battery can explode if you do not follow the correct procedure, seriously injuring anyone nearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away from the battery.

226

Taking Care of the Unexpected

To jump start your car, follow these directions closely:

1.

181

). In very cold

Open the hood and check the physical condition of the battery (see page weather, check the condition of the electrolyte. If it seems slushy or like ice, do not try jump starting until it thaws.

If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can f reeze. Attempting to jump start with a f rozen battery can cause it to rupture.

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４１：３１　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２３０　

2.

Turn off all the electrical acces- sories: heater, A/C, stereo system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in Neutral and set the parking brake.

Jump Starting

3.

＋

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

4.

−

Connect the second jumper cable to the negative ( ) terminal on the booster battery. Connect the other end to the metal projection near the intake manifold as shown in the illustration. Do not connect this jumper cable to any other part of the engine.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected 227

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４１：３９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２３１　

Jump Starting

6.

7.

Start your car. If the starter motor still operates slowly, check the jumper cable connections to make sure they have good metal-to- metal contact.

Once your car is running, discon- nect the negative cable from your car, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your car, then the booster battery.

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

BOOSTER BATTERY

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

5.

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

228

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４１：４９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２３２　

The reading on your car’s temperature gauge should stay in the midrange under most conditions. It may go higher if you are driving up a long steep hill on a very hot day. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason.

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

Your car can overheat for several reasons, such as lack of coolant or a mechanical problem. The only indication may be the temperature gauge climbing to or above the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the car or engine cover. In either case, you should take immediate action.

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

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

1.

Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in Neutral and set the parking brake. Turn off the heating and cooling system and all other accessories. Turn on the hazard warning indicators.

2.

If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn off the engine.

If Your Engine Overheats

3.

If you do not see steam or spray, leave the engine running and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading (climbing a long, steep hill on a hot day with the A/C running, for example), the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the tempera- ture gauge comes down to the mid- point then continue driving.

4.

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

5.

Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood.

CONTINUED

Taking Care of the Unexpected 229

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４１：５７　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２３３　

7.

8.

If you don’t find an obvious leak, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank (see page ). If the level is below the 124
MIN mark, add coolant to halfway between the MIN and MAX marks.

If there was no coolant in the reserve tank, you may also have to add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the reading reaches the middle of the temperature gauge, or lower, before checking the radiator.

9.

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

If Your Engine Overheats

6.

Look for any obvious coolant leaks, such as a split radiator hose. Everything is still extremely hot, so use caution. If you find a leak, it must be repaired before you Emergency continue driving (see Towing ). 245

on page

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.

230

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４２：０３　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２３４　

11.

10.

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

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

Emergency

on page

245

.)

If Your Engine Overheats

12.

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

Taking Care of the Unexpected 231

Main MenuTable of ContentsstStart the engine and watch the oil pressure indicator. If the light does not go out within ten seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving. (See Towing .) 245

Emergency

on page

０２／０８／０６　１８：４２：１２　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２３５　

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

4.

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

1.

2.

3.

This indicator should light when the ignition switch is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. It should never come on when the engine is running. If it starts flashing, it indicates that the oil pressure dropped very low for a moment, then recovered. If the indicator stays on with the engine running, it shows that the engine has lost oil pressure and serious engine damage is possible. In either case, you should take immediate action.

232

Taking Care of the Unexpected

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

123

). Although oil level

Let the car sit for a minute. Open the hood and check the oil level (see page and oil pressure are not directly connected, an engine that is very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.

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

161

).

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４２：１９　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２３６　

Charging System Indicator

By eliminating as much of the electrical load as possible, you can drive several miles (kilometers) before the battery is too discharged to keep the engine running. Drive to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.

Immediately turn off all electrical accessories: radio, heater, A/C, cruise control, etc. Try not to use other electrically-operated controls such as the power windows. Keep the engine running and take extra care not to stall it. Starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly.

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

This indicator should come on when the ignition switch is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. If it comes on brightly when the engine is running, it indicates that the charging system has stopped charging the battery.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 233

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４２：２６　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２３７　

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

This indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, it indicates one of the engine’s emissions control systems may have a problem. Even though you may feel no difference in your car’s performance, it can reduce your fuel economy and cause your car to put out excessive emissions. Continued operation may cause serious damage.

234

Taking Care of the Unexpected

If you have recently refueled your car, the cause of this indicator coming on could be a loose or missing fuel fill cap. Check the cap and tighten it until it clicks several times. Replace the fuel fill cap if it is missing. Tightening the cap will not make the indicator turn off immediately; it takes three driving trips.

If the indicator remains on past three driving trips, or the fuel cap was not loose or missing, have the car checked by the dealer as soon as possible. Drive moderately until the dealer has inspected the problem. Avoid full-throttle acceleration and driving at high speed.

You should also have the dealer inspect your car if this indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may turn off as you continue driving.

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

Main MenuTable of Contentsst０２／０８／０６　１８：４２：３３　３１Ｓ２Ａ６３０　０２３８　

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

If possible, do not take your car for a state emissions test until the readiness codes are set. See State Emissions Testing on pages 260

and

259

Readiness Codes