2003 Honda S2000 Owners Manual

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.

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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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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.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 223

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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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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

.)

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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

Taking Care of the Unexpected 225

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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.

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

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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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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.

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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

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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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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

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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 Capacity

Fuses Under-hood

Interior

Alignment Toe

Camber

Caster

Tires Size

Pressure

Front Rear Front Rear Front

Front Rear Spare Tire Front Rear Spare Tire

Specifications

12 V

−

36 AH/5 HR

See page 242 or the fuse box cover. See page 241 or the fuse label attached to the inside of the fuse box door under the dashboard.

0.00 in (0.0 mm) 0.24 in (6.0 mm)

in

− −

0°30’ 1°30’ 6°

205/55R16 89W 225/50R16 92W T125/70D16 96M

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm ) 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm ) 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

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DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

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

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

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

Treadwear 200
Traction AA Temperature A

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

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−

AA, A, B, C

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

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

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−

A, B, C

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

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

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

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Oxygenated Fuels

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

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

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

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

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

(methyl or wood

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

(Methyl Tertiary Butyl

MTBE Ether) You may use gasoline containing up to 15 percent MTBE by volume.

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

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

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Driving in Foreign Countries

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

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

Technical Information

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Emissions Controls

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

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＊

The Clean Air Act The United States Clean Air Act sets standards for automobile emissions. It also requires that automobile manufacturers explain to owners how their emissions controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emissions controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page 152

＊

In Canada, Honda vehicles comply

with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) for Emissions valid at the time they are manufactured.

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

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

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

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IgnitionTimingControlSystem This system constantly adjusts the ignition timing, reducing the amount of HC, CO and NOx produced.

SecondaryAirInjectionSystem During engine warm-up, air is pumped into the exhaust to reduce emissions when the engine is cold.

ThreeWayCatalyticConverter The three way catalytic converter is in the exhaust system. Through chemical reactions, it converts HC, CO, and NOx in the engine’s exhaust to carbon dioxide (CO ), dinitrogen (N ), and water vapor.

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

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

Emissions Controls

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

Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery The Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR) system captures the fuel vapors during refueling. The vapors are adsorbed in a canister filled with activated carbon. While driving, the fuel vapors are drawn into the engine and burned off.

Technical Information 257

Main MenuTable of ContentsstKeep the engine tuned-up.

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

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Three Way Catalytic Converter

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

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

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THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

State Emissions Testing

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

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

CONTINUED

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State Emissions Testing

Select a nearby lightly traveled major highway where you can maintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph (80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20
minutes. Drive on the highway in 5th. Do not use the cruise control. When traffic allows, drive for 90
seconds without moving the accelerator pedal. (Vehicle speed may vary slightly; this is okay.) If you cannot do this for a continuous 90 seconds because of traffic conditions, drive for at least 30 seconds, then repeat it two more times (for a total of 90
seconds).

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

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

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Warranty and Customer Relations

Customer Relations

Information

Warranty Coverages Reporting Safety Defects

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

. 262
. 263

(U.S. Vehicles)

Authorized Manuals

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

. 264
. 265

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