2003 Honda S2000 Owners Manual

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

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

Corrosion Protection Body Repairs

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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.

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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.

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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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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.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

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

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

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Starter Motor Operates

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Very Slowly

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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

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If Your Car Gets Stuck Emergency Towing

Checking and Replacing

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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 )

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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.

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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.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

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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.

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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.

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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)

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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.

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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.

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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

.)

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

If your car’s battery has been disconnected or gone dead, these codes are erased. It takes several days of driving under various conditions to set the codes again.

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Brake System Indicator

Slow down by shifting to a lower gear, and pull to the side of the road when it is safe. Because of the longer distance needed to stop, it is hazardous to drive the car. You should have it towed, and repaired as Emergency soon as possible. (See Towing .) 245

on page

If you must drive the car a short distance in this condition, drive slowly and cautiously.

If it comes on at any other time, it indicates a problem with the car’s brake system. In most cases, the problem is a low fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir. Press lightly on the brake pedal to see if it feels normal. If it does, check the brake fluid level the next time you stop at a service station (see page ). If the fluid level is low, take the car to your dealer and have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

174

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

BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

The Brake System Indicator normally comes on when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). It is a reminder to check the parking brake. It comes on and stays lit if you do not fully release the parking brake.

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If the electric motor will not close the convertible top, do the following.

1.

2.

Check the fuse for the convertible top motor (see page ). If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same or lower rating.

239

Try closing the convertible top. If the new fuse blows immediately or the convertible top still does not operate, you can close the convertible top manually.

Closing the Convertible Top

CONNECTOR

3.

Locate the electrical connector for the convertible top motor. It is under the lower corner of the dashboard on the passenger’s side. Disconnect the connector by pushing the tab and pulling the connector down.

4.

Holding each corner of the convertible top, raise the top and push it forward as far as it will go.

5.

Follow steps 5 through 7 of the closing procedure on page

76

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Fuses

All the electrical circuits in your car have fuses to protect them from a short circuit or overload. These fuses are located in three fuse boxes.

The interior fuse box is underneath the dashboard on the driver’s side.

There are two under-hood fuse boxes in the engine compartment.

The main fuse box is located on the passenger’s side near the battery. To open it, push the two tabs as shown.

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The auxiliary fuse box is located on the driver’s side near the brake fluid reservoir. To open it, push the tab on each side and remove the lid.

242

and

Checking and Replacing Fuses If something electrical in your car stops working, the first thing you should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on pages , or the diagram on the 241
fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that component. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that a blown fuse is not the cause. Replace any blown fuses and check the component’s operation.

1.

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

2.

Remove the cover from the fuse box.

Fuses

BLOWN

3.

Check each of the large fuses in the under-hood fuse box by looking through the top at the wire inside. Removing these fuses requires a Phillips-head screw- driver.

CONTINUED

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Fuses

FUSE PULLER

BLOWN

4.

Check the smaller fuses by pulling out the fuse with the fuse puller provided in the interior fuse box.

5.

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

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

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

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

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

6.

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

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IINNTTEERRIIOORR FFUUSSEE BBOOXX

No.

Amps.

Circuits Protected

No. Amps.

Circuits Protected

Fuses

10
11
12
13

7.5 A

15 A − − 10 A 20 A 7.5 A 15 A 7.5 A

15 A 7.5 A 15 A 10 A

Windshield Wiper, Auto Stop Signal Washer Motor Not used Not used Accessory Socket Windshield Wiper Turn signal Light ACG Instrument Light, Back-up Lights Ignition Coil Engine Start Fuel Pump, SRS SRS

＊

: Canadian Model

14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21

22
23
24
25
26
27

10 A 10 A 7.5 A 7.5 A 10 A 15 A 7.5 A 7.5 A

7.5 A 20 A 20 A − − −

＊

Daytime Running Lights Keyless Entry Back-up Interior Light Small Lights Radio Starter Signal Heater Control, Cooling Fan Relay Power Mirrors Right Power Window Left Power Window Not used Not used Not used

CONTINUED

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Fuses

UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOXES (MAIN FUSE BOX)

No. Amps.

Circuits Protected

No.

Amps.

Circuits Protected

14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25

− 20 A 15 A 10 A 20 A − 15 A 20 A 20 A 30 A 100 A 40 A

Magnetic Clutch Relay Right Headlight ACG S Hazard Warning Lights Cooling Fan Not used Stop Left Headlight ABS F/S ABS Motor Battery IG1 Main

10
11
12
13

− − − 40 A 20 A − 30 A 20 A 40 A 20 A − − −

Lighting 1 Relay Lighting 2 Relay Horn Relay Power Window Motor Right Roof Motor Not used Back Up ACC Left Roof Motor Heater Motor Condenser Fan Not used Condenser Fan Relay Cooling Fan Relay

No.

Amps.

Circuits Protected

20 A − − 70 A 60 A

Rear Window Defogger Not used Not used EPS Air Pump

(AUXILIARY FUSE BOX)

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If Your Car Gets Stuck

If your car gets stuck in sand, mud, or snow, call a towing service to pull it out (see page

245

).

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

2.

3.

To use the towing hook:

1.

Remove the cover from the bumper.

Remove the towing hook, hook extension, and wheel wrench from the tool box.

Using the wheel wrench, fasten the extension into the bolt hole in the anchor.

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If Your Car Gets Stuck

4.

Screw the towing hook into the extension and tighten it securely by hand.

To avoid damage to your car, use the towing hook f or straight, f lat ground towing only. Do not tow at an angle. The tow hook should not be used to tow the vehicle onto a f lat bed. Do not use it as a tie down.

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Emergency Towing

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

There are three popular types of professional towing equipment.

−

The operator

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

−

The tow

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

This method of

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Emergency Towing

− The tow

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

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Technical Information

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

Identification Numbers Specifications DOT Tire Quality Grading

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

. 248
. 250

(U.S. Vehicles)

Treadwear Traction Temperature

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

. 252
. 252
. 252
. 253

. 254
. 255
. 256
. 256

Oxygenated Fuels ......................... Driving in Foreign Countries ...... Emissions Controls ....................... The Clean Air Act ..................... Crankcase Emissions Control .................................... Evaporative Emissions Control .................................... ... ....................

. 256
Exhaust Emissions Controls . 257
. 257

PGM-FI System Ignition Timing Control

System

System

. 256

System

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

. 257

Secondary Air Injection

System

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

. 257

Three Way Catalytic

Converter

Replacement Parts

. 257
........................... .................... . 257
Three Way Catalytic Converter . 258
.. ................ State Emission Testing . 259

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VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

Identification Numbers

Your car has several identifying numbers located in various places.

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

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Technical Information

CERTIFICATION LABEL

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

The Transmission Number is on a label underneath the transmission.

TRANSMISSION NUMBER

Identification Numbers

ENGINE NUMBER

Technical Information

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162.0 in (4,115 mm) 68.9 in (1,750 mm) 50.6 in (1,285 mm) 94.5 in (2,400 mm) 57.9 in (1,470 mm) 59.4 in (1,510 mm)

See the certification label attached to the driver’s doorjamb.

Water cooled 4-stroke DOHC

VTEC 4-cylinder gasoline engine 3.43 x 3.31 in (87.0 x 84.0 mm)

121.8 cu-in (1,997 cm )

11.0 : 1

See the spark plug maintenance section, page 180 .

Capacities Fuel tank Engine coolant

Engine oil

Manual transmission fluid Differential oil Windshield washer reservoir

Change ＊ Total Change ＊

Including filter Without filter

Total Change Total

13.2 US gal (50 )

1.72 US gal (6.5 ) 2.01 US gal (7.6 )

5.1 US qt (4.8 ) 4.8 US qt (4.5 ) 5.9 US qt (5.6 ) 1.6 US qt (1.5 ) 1.7 US qt (1.6 )

Change Total U.S. Cars Canadian Cars

0.78 US qt (0.74 ) 0.81 US qt (0.77 ) 2.7 US qt (2.6 ) 4.4 US qt (4.2 )

＊

1 :

＊

2 :

Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine. Reserve tank capacity: 0.16 US gal (0.6 ) Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.

Specifications

Dimensions Length Width Height Wheelbase Track

Front Rear

Weights Gross vehicle weight rating

Engine Type

Bore x Stroke Displacement Compression ratio Spark plugs

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Lights Headlights

High Low

Daytime running lights Front turn signal lights Rear turn signal lights Stop/Taillights Side marker lights

Front Rear

Back-up lights License plate light Interior light Trunk light Side turn signal lights

Air conditioning Refrigerant type Charge quantity Lubricant type

12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V

− − − − − − − − − − − − −

55 W 35 W 55 W(H1) 21 W 21 W 21 W/5 W 5 W 5 W 21 W 5 W 5 W 5 W 5 W

HFC-134a (R-134a) −

19.4 21.2 oz (550 600 g)

−

SP-10

Battery