2007 Honda S2000 Owners Manual

Reclining a seat-back so that the shoulder part of the belt no longer rests against the occupant’s chest reduces the protective capability of the belt. It also increases the chance of sliding under the belt in a crash and being seriously injured. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk of injury.

See page 67
seat-backs.

for how to adjust the

Reclining the seat-back too far can result in serious injury or death in a crash.

Adjust the seat-back to an upright position, and sit well back in the seat.

12

Position the lap part of the belt as low as possible across your hips, then pull up on the shoulder part of the belt so the lap part fits snugly. This lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash and reduces the chance of internal injuries.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf necessary, pull up on the belt again to remove any slack, then check that the belt rests across the center of your chest and over your shoulder. This spreads the forces of a crash over the strongest bones in your upper body.

Improperly positioning the seat belts can cause serious injury or death in a crash.

Make sure all seat belts are properly positioned before driving.

Neverplacetheshoulderportionofa lap/shoulderbeltunderyourarmor behindyourback. very serious injuries in a crash.

This could cause

If a seat belt does not seem to work properly, it may not protect the occupant in a crash.

Nooneshouldsitinaseatwithan Using a seat inoperativeseatbelt. belt that is not working properly can result in serious injury or death. Have your dealer check the belt as soon as possible.

18

for additional

See page information about your seat belts and how to take care of them.

Protecting Adults and Teens

5.

Maintain a Proper Sitting Position

After occupants have adjusted their seats and put on seat belts, it is very important that they continue to sit upright, well back in their seats, with their feet on the floor, until the vehicle is parked and the engine is off.

Sitting improperly can increase the chance of injury during a crash. For example, if an occupant slouches, lies down, turns sideways, sits forward, leans forward or sideways, or puts one or both feet up, the chance of injury during a crash is greatly increased.

CONTINUED

13

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Adults and Teens

In addition, an occupant who is out of position can be seriously or fatally injured in a crash by striking interior parts of the vehicle or being struck by an inflating front airbag.

Sitting improperly or out of position can result in serious injury or death in a crash.

Always sit upright, well back in the seat, with your feet on the floor.

14

Advice for Pregnant Women

If you are pregnant, the best way to protect yourself and your unborn child when driving or riding in a vehicle is to always wear a seat belt, and keep the lap part of the belt as low as possible across the hips.

When driving, remember to sit upright and adjust the seat as far back as possible while allowing full control of the vehicle. When riding as a passenger, adjust the seat as far back as possible.

This will reduce the risk of injuries to both you and your unborn child that can be caused by a crash or an inflating front airbag.

Each time you have a checkup, ask your doctor if it’s okay for you to drive.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Safety Precautions

Twopeopleshouldneverusethe sameseatbelt. could be very seriously injured in a crash.

If they do, they

Donotputanyaccessoriesonseat Devices intended to improve belts. occupant comfort or reposition the shoulder part of a seat belt can reduce the protective capability of the belt and increase the chance of serious injury in a crash.

Donotplacehardorsharpobjects betweenyourselfandafront Carrying hard or sharp airbag. objects on your lap, or driving with a pipe or other sharp object in your mouth, can result in injuries if your front airbag inflates.

Donotattachorplaceobjectson Objects on the theairbagcovers. covers marked SRS AIRBAG could interfere with the proper operation of the airbags or be propelled inside the vehicle and hurt someone if the airbags inflate.

Protecting Adults and Teens

Keepyourhandsandarmsaway If your fromtheairbagcovers. hands or arms are close to an airbag cover, they could be injured if the airbag inflates.

15

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt System Components Your seat belt system includes lap/ shoulder belts in both seating positions. The seat belts are also equipped with automatic seat belt tensioners.

This system uses the same sensors as the front airbags to monitor whether the seat belts are latched or unlatched, and how much weight is on the passenger’s seat (see page 24

).

the beeper stops, the indicator will stop flashing but remain on.

If a passenger does not fasten their seat belt, the indicator will come on about 6 seconds after the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position.

If either the driver or passenger does not fasten their seat belt, the beeper will sound and the indicator will flash again at regular intervals.

The seat belt system includes an indicator on the

instrument panel and a beeper to remind you and your passenger to fasten your seat belts.

When no one is sitting in the passenger’s seat, or a child or small adult is riding there, the indicator should not come on and the beeper should not sound.

If the indicator comes on or the beeper sounds when the driver’s seat belt is latched and there is no passenger and no items on the passenger’s seat, something may be interfering with the monitoring system. Look for and remove:

Any items under the passenger’s seat.

Any objects hanging on the seat.

Any object touching the rear of the seat-back.

If no obstructions are found, have your vehicle checked by a dealer.

This system monitors the seat belts. If you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position before your seat belt is fastened, the beeper will sound and the indicator will flash. If your seat belt is not fastened before

16

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Seat Belts

Lap/Shoulder Belt The lap and shoulder belt goes over your shoulder, across your chest, and across your hips.

To fasten the belt, insert the latch plate into the buckle, then tug on the belt to make sure the buckle is latched (see page for how to properly position the belt).

12

To unlock the belt, press the red PRESSbuttononthebuckle.Guide the belt across your body so that it retracts completely. After exiting the vehicle, be sure the belt is out of the way and will not get closed in the door.

Both seat belts have an emergency retractor. In normal driving, the retractor lets you move freely in your seat while it keeps some tension on the belt. During a collision or sudden stop, the retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body.

The passenger’s seat belt has a lockable retractor that must be activated to secure a forward-facing child seat (see page

34

).

If the shoulder part of the belt is pulled all the way out, the lockable retractor will activate. The belt will retract, but it will not allow the passenger to move freely.

To deactivate the lockable retractor, unlatch the buckle and let the seat belt fully retract. To refasten the seat belt, pull it out only as far as needed.

17

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Seat Belts

The tensioners are designed to activate primarily in frontal collisions, andtheyshouldactivateinany collision severe enough to cause airbag inflation.

However, the tensioners can be activated during a collision in which the airbags do not deploy. In this case, the airbags would not be needed, but the additional restraint could be helpful.

When the tensioners are activated, the seat belts will remain tight until they are unbuckled.

Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners

For added protection, the seat belts are equipped with automatic seat belt tensioners. When activated, the tensioners immediately tighten the beltstohelpholdthedriverand a passenger in place.

18

Seat Belt Maintenance For safety, you should check the condition of your seat belts regularly.

Pull each belt out fully and look for frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check that the latches work smoothly and the belts retract easily. If a belt does not retract easily, cleaning it may correct the problem (see page ). 160
Any belt that is not in good condition or not working properly will not provide good protection and should be replaced as soon as possible.

Honda provides a limited warranty on seat belts. See your WarrantyInformation details.

booklet for

Honda

If a seat belt is worn during a crash, it must be replaced by your dealer. A belt that has been worn during a crash may not provide the same level of protection in a subsequent crash.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Seat Belts

The dealer should also inspect the anchors for damage and replace them if needed. If the automatic seat belt tensioners activate during a crash, they must be replaced.

Not checking or maintaining seat belts can result in serious injury or death if the seat belts do not work properly when needed.

Check your seat belts regularly and have any problem corrected as soon as possible.

19

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Airbags

Airbag System Components

(8)

(2)

(9)

(1)

(1) Driver’s Front Airbag (2) Passenger’s Front Airbag (3) Control Unit (4) Seat Belt Tensioners (5) Driver’s Seat Position Sensor (6) Passenger’s Weight Sensors (7) Passenger’s Weight Sensor Unit (8) Front Impact Sensors (9) Passenger Airbag Off Indicator

(3)

20

(5)

(6)

(7)

(4)

(4)

(6)

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Airbags

Your airbag system includes:

Two SRS (supplemental restraint system) airbags. The driver’s airbag is stored in the center of the steering wheel; the passenger’s airbag is stored in the dashboard. Both are marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG.’’

Automatic seat belt tensioners (see page

18

).

Sensors that can detect a moderate to severe front impact.

Sensors that can detect whether the driver’s seat belt and the passenger’s seat belt are latched or unlatched (see page

16

).

A driver’s seat position sensor that monitors the distance of the seat from the airbag. If the seat is too far forward, the airbag will inflate with less force (see page

24

).

Weight sensors that monitor the weight on the passenger’s seat. If the weight is about 65 lbs (29 kg) or less (the weight of an infant or small child), the passenger’s airbag will be turned off (see page 24

).

A sophisticated electronic system that continually monitors and records information about the sensors, the control unit, the airbag activators, the seat belt tensioners, and driver and passenger seat belt use when the ignition switch is in the ON (II) position.

An indicator on the instrument panel that alerts you to a possible problem with your airbags, sensors, or seat belt tensioners (see page

25

).

An indicator on the dashboard that alerts you that the passenger’s airbag has been turned off (see page

26

).

Emergency backup power in case your vehicle’s electrical system is disconnected in a crash.

21

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Airbags

How Your Airbags Work

If you ever have a moderate to severe frontal collision, sensors will detect the vehicle’s rapid deceleration.

If the rate of deceleration is high enough, the control unit will instantly inflate the driver’s and passenger’s airbags, at the time and with the force needed.

22

During a frontal crash, your seat belt restrains your lower body and torso, and the front airbag helps protect your head and chest.

Although both airbags normally inflate within a split second of each other, it is possible for only one airbag to deploy.

This can happen if the severity of a collision is at the margin, or threshold, that determines whether or not the airbags will deploy. In such cases, the seat belt will provide sufficient protection, and the supplemental protection offered by the airbag would be minimal.

Only the driver’s airbag can deploy if there is no passenger in the passenger’s seat, or if the advanced airbag system has turned the passenger’s airbag off (see page

24

).

After inflating, the front airbags will immediately deflate, so they won’t interfere with the driver’s visibility, or the ability to steer or operate other controls.

The total time for inflation and deflation is one-tenth of a second, so fast that most occupants are not aware that the airbags deployed until they see them lying in their laps.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Airbags

After a crash, you may see what looks like smoke. This is actually powder from the airbag’s surface. Although the powder is not harmful, people with respiratory problems may experience some temporary discomfort. If this occurs, get out of the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.

Dual-StageAirbags Your front airbags are dual-stage airbags. This means they have two inflation stages that can be ignited sequentially or simultaneously, depending on crash severity.

moresevere

crash, both stages In a will ignite simultaneously to provide the quickest and greatest protection.

lesssevere

crash, one stage will

In a ignite first, then the second stage will ignite a split second later. This provides longer airbag inflation time with a little less force.

Dual-ThresholdAirbags Your front airbags are also dual- threshold airbags. Airbags with this feature have two deployment thresholds that depend on whether sensors detect the occupant is wearing a seat belt or not.

notlatched

If the occupant’s belt is the airbag will deploy at a slightly lower threshold, because the occupant would need extra protection.

islatched

If the occupant’s belt , the airbag will inflate at a slightly higher threshold, when the airbag would be needed to supplement the protection provided by the seat belt.

23

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Airbags

AdvancedAirbags Your airbags are also advanced airbags. The main purpose of this feature is to help prevent airbag- caused injuries to short drivers and children who ride in the passenger’s seat.

For both advanced airbags to work properly:

Occupants must sit upright and wear their seat belts properly.

Do not spill any liquids on or under the seats, cover the sensors, or put any objects or metal items under the seats.

Failure to follow these instructions could damage the sensors or prevent them from working properly.

24

DRIVER’S SEAT POSITION SENSOR

PASSENGER’S SEAT WEIGHT SENSOR

The driver’s advanced front airbag system includes a seat position sensor under the seat. If the seat is too far forward, the airbag will inflate with less force, regardless of the severity of the impact.

If there is a problem with the sensor, the SRS indicator will come on, and the airbag will inflate in the normal manner regardless of the driver’s seating position.

The passenger’s advanced airbag system has weight sensors under the seat. Although Honda does not encourage carrying a child in the passenger’s seat, if the sensors detect the weight of an infant or small child (up to about 65 lbs or 29
kg), the system will automatically turn the passenger’s airbag off.

Be aware that objects placed on the passenger’s seat can also cause the airbag to be turned off.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWhen the airbag is turned off, a ‘‘passenger airbag off’’ indicator in the center of the dashboard comes on (see page

26

).

If the weight sensors detect there is no passenger in the seat, the airbag will be off. However, the passenger airbag off indicator will not come on.

Additional Information About Your Airbags

To ensure that the passenger’s advanced airbag system will work properly, donotdoanythingthat wouldincreaseordecreasethe weightonthepassenger’sseat,such ashangingheavyobjectsontheseat.

How the SRS Indicator Works The SRS indicator alerts you to a potential problem

with your airbags or seat belt tensioners.

When you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, this indicator comes on briefly then goes off. This tells you the system is working properly.

If the indicator comes on at any other time, or does not come on at all, you should have the system checked by your dealer. For example:

If the SRS indicator does not come on after you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. If the indicator stays on after the engine starts. If the indicator comes on or flashes on and off while you drive.

CONTINUED

25

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBe aware that objects placed on the passenger’s seat can cause the indicator to come on.

If no weight is detected on the passenger’s seat, the airbag will be automatically shut off. However, the indicator will not come on.

Additional Information About Your Airbags

If you see any of these indications, the airbags and seat belt tensioners may not work properly when you need them.

How the Passenger Airbag Off Indicator Works

Ignoring the SRS indicator can result in serious injury or death if the airbag systems or tensioners do not work properly.

Have your vehicle checked by a dealer as soon as possible if the SRS indicator alerts you to a possible problem.

U. S.

Canada

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF INDICATOR

This indicator alerts you that the passenger’s airbag has been shut off because weight sensors detect about 65 lbs (29 kg) or less (the weight of an infant or small child) on the passenger’s seat. It does notmean there is a problem with the airbag.

26

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe passenger airbag off indicator may come on and off repeatedly if the total weight on the seat is near the airbag cutoff threshold.

If this happens, adjust the seat as far to the rear as possible and have the passenger sit upright and wear the seat belt properly.

Additional Information About Your Airbags

If the indicator comes on with no passenger and no objects on the passenger seat, or with an adult riding there, something may be interfering with the weight sensors. Look for and remove:

Airbag Service Your airbag systems are virtually maintenance free, and there are no parts you can safely service. However, you must have your vehicle serviced if:

Any items under the passenger’s seat.

Any objects hanging on the seat.

Any object touching the rear of the seat-back.

If no obstructions are found, have your vehicle checked by a dealer as soon as possible.

Any airbag

Anairbageverinflates. that has deployed must be replaced along with the control unit and other related parts. Any seat belt tensioner that activates must also be replaced.

Do not try to remove or replace any airbag by yourself. This must be done by an authorized dealer or a knowledgeable body shop.

27

Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdditional Information About Your Airbags

Additional Safety Precautions

Donotattempttodeactivateyour airbags. seat belts provide the best protection.

Together, airbags and

Donottamperwithairbag componentsorwiringforany Tampering could cause reason. the airbags to deploy, possibly causing very serious injury.

Donotremoveormodifyaseat withoutconsultingyourdealer. This could make the driver’s seat position sensor or the passenger’s weight sensors ineffective. If it is necessary to remove or modify a seat to accommodate a person with disabilities, first contact Honda Automobile Customer Service at (800) 999-1009.

TheSRSindicatoralertsyoutoa Take your vehicle to an problem. authorized dealer as soon as possible. If you ignore this indication, your airbags may not operate properly.

Even if your

Ifyourvehiclehasamoderateto severeimpact. airbags do not inflate, your dealer should inspect the driver’s seat position sensor, the passenger’s weight sensors, the seat belt tensioners, and all seat belts worn during the crash to make sure they are operating properly.

28

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children General Guidelines

−

Children depend on adults to protect them. However, despite their best intentions, many adults do not know how to passengers.

protect child

properly

If you ever need to drive with a child in your vehicle, be sure to read this section. It begins with important general guidelines, then presents special information for small children who must ride in a forward- facing child seat, and for larger children.

All Children Must Be Restrained Each year, many children are injured or killed in vehicle crashes because they are either unrestrained or not properly restrained. In fact, vehicle accidents are the number one cause of the death of children ages 12 and under.

To reduce the number of child deaths and injuries, every state and Canadian province requires that children be properly restrained when they ride in a vehicle.

Anychildwhoistoosmalltoweara seatbeltmustberestrainedinan approvedchildseatthatisproperly securedtothevehicle 33

(see pages

36

).

−

Largerchildrenmustberestrained withalap/shoulderbeltandrideon aboosterseatuntiltheseatbeltfits ). themproperly

(see pages

37

40

−

Children who are unrestrained or improperly restrained can be seriously injured or killed in a crash.

Any child too small for a seat belt should be properly restrained in a child seat. A larger child should be properly restrained with a seat belt and use a booster seat if necessary.

29

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children General Guidelines

−

Your Vehicle is Not Recommended for Child Passengers The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that all children age 12 and under be properly restrained in a back seat.

The Passenger’s Airbag Can Pose Serious Risks Airbags have been designed to help protect adults in a moderate to severe frontal collision. To do this, the passenger’s airbag is quite large, and it can inflate with enough force to cause very serious injuries.

Since this vehicle does not have a back seat, we strongly recommend that you do not carry any child who is not large enough or mature enough to ride in front (see page

37

).

Even though your vehicle has an advanced airbag system that automatically turns the passenger’s airbag off (see page 24
follow these guidelines:

), please

Infants Neverputarear-facingchildseatin If the airbag inflates, it thisvehicle. can hit the back of the child seat with enough force to kill or very seriously injure an infant.

30

If the vehicle seat is too

SmallChildren Placingaforward-facingchildseatin thepassenger’sseatcanbe hazardous. far forward, or the child’s head is thrown forward during a collision, an inflating airbag can strike the child with enough force to kill or very seriously injure a small child.

LargerChildren Childrenwhohaveoutgrownchild seatsarealsoatriskofbeinginjured orkilledbyaninflatingpassenger’s If a larger child must ride in airbag. this vehicle, see page important guidelines on how to decide when a child is ready to ride in the passenger’s seat and how to properly protect the child.

for

37

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTo remind you of the passenger’s airbag hazards, your vehicle has warning labels on the dashboard (U.S. models) and on the driver’s and passenger’s visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these labels.

Protecting Children General Guidelines

−

U.S.Models Sun Visor

Dashboard

CanadianModels Sun Visor

31

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Children General Guidelines

−

Additional Safety Precautions

Neverholdasmallchildonyour If you are not wearing a seat lap. belt in a crash, you could be thrown forward and crush the child against the dashboard. If you are wearing a seat belt, the child can be torn from your arms and be seriously hurt or killed.

Neverputaseatbeltoveryourself andachild. belt could press deep into the child and cause serious or fatal injuries.

During a crash, the

Neverlettwochildrenusethe If they do, they sameseatbelt. could be very seriously injured in a crash.

32

Donotleavechildrenaloneina Leaving children without vehicle. adult supervision is illegal in most states and Canadian provinces, and can be very hazardous.

For example, a small child left in a vehicle on a hot day can die from heatstroke. A child left alone with the key in the ignition switch can accidentally set the vehicle in motion, possibly injuring themselves or others.

Even very young

Keepvehiclekeysandremote transmittersoutofthereachof children. children learn how to unlock vehicle doors, turn on the ignition switch, and open the trunk, which can lead to accidental injury or death.

Lockbothdoorsandthetrunk whenyourvehicleisnotinuse. Children who play in vehicles can accidentally get trapped inside. Teach your children not to play in or around vehicles. Know how to operate the emergency trunk opener and decide if your children should be shown how to use this feature (see page

64

).

Main MenuTable of ContentsstBecause an inflating airbag can seriously injure or kill small children, we recommend that you do not carry a small child as a passenger in this vehicle.

If you decide to transport a small child in this vehicle, be sure to move the passenger seat as far to the rear as possible, and follow the instructions and guidelines in the following pages.

A child who is at least one year old, and who fits within the child seat maker’s weight and height limits, should be restrained in a forward- facing, upright child seat.

Of the different seats available, we recommend those that have a five- point harness system as shown.

Protecting Small Children

We also recommend that a small child use the child seat until the child reaches the weight or height limit for the seat.

Placing a forward-facing child seat in the passenger’s seat can result in serious injury or death if the airbag inflates.

If you must place a forward- facing child seat in the passenger’s seat, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible and properly restrain the child.

33

Main MenuTable of ContentsstSelecting a Child Seat, Installing a Child Seat

Selecting a Child Seat To provide proper protection, a child seat should meet three requirements:

Installing a Child Seat After selecting a proper child seat, there are three main steps in installing a child seat:

1.

ThechildseatshouldmeetU.S.or CanadianMotorVehicleSafety Look for FMVSS Standard213. 213 or CMVSS 213 on the box.

2.

Thechildseatshouldbeofthe propertypeandsizetofitthechild.

1.

Properlysecurethechildseatto All child seats must be thevehicle. secured to the vehicle with the lap part of a lap/shoulder belt. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the vehicle can be endangered in a crash.

3.

Thechildseatshouldfitthe passenger’sseat.

Before purchasing a child seat, or using a previously purchased one, we recommend that you test the seat to make sure it fits properly in the passenger’s seat.

34

2.

After installing a child

Makesurethechildseatisfirmly secured. seat, push and pull the seat forward and from side-to-side to verify that it is secure.

A child seat secured with a seat belt should be installed as firmly as possible. However, it does not need to be ‘‘rock solid.’’ Some side- to-side movement can be expected and should not reduce the child seat’s effectiveness.

If the child seat is not secure, use a different style of child seat that can be firmly secured.

3.

Securethechildinthechildseat. Make sure the child is properly strapped in the child seat according to the child seat maker’s instructions. A child who is not properly secured in a child seat can be seriously injured in a crash.

The following pages provide guidelines on how to properly install a forward-facing child seat.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIn this vehicle, a forward-facing child seat must be secured to the vehicle with the lap part of the lap/shoulder belt. In addition, the lockable retractor must be activated to secure a child seat.

1.

Move the vehicle seat to the rear- most position. Moving the seat as far back as possible reduces the chance of a child being injured or killed if the passenger’s airbag inflates.

Installing a Child Seat

2.

3.

With the child seat in position, route the belt through the child seat according to the seat maker’s instructions, then insert the latch plate into the buckle.

4.

After the belt has retracted, tug on it. If the belt is locked, you will not be able to pull it out. If you can pull the belt out, it is not locked and you will need to repeat these steps.

To activate the lockable retractor, slowly pull the shoulder part of the belt all the way out until it stops, then let the belt feed back into the retractor.

35

Main MenuTable of ContentsstInstalling a Child Seat

To deactivate the lockable retractor and remove a child seat, unlatch the buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let the belt fully retract.

6.

Push and pull the child seat forward and from side-to-side to verify that it is secure enough to stay upright during normal driving maneuvers. If the child seat is not secure, unlatch the belt, allow it to retract fully, then repeat these steps.

5.

After confirming that the belt is locked, grab the shoulder part of the belt near the buckle, and pull up to remove any slack from the lap part of the belt. Remember, if the lap part of the belt is not tight, the child seat will not be secure.

To remove slack, it may help to put weight on the child seat, or push on the back of the seat while pulling up on the belt.

36

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWhen a child reaches the recommended weight or height limit for a forward-facing child seat, the child should sit on a booster seat and wear a lap/shoulder belt.

Since this vehicle does not have a back seat, we recommend that you do not carry a larger child, age 12 or under, as a passenger.

However, the following pages provide guidelines to help you decide when a given child may ride in this vehicle, and how to properly protect the child.

Allowing a larger child age 12 or under to ride in the vehicle can result in injury or death if the passenger’s airbag inflates.

If a larger child must ride in the vehicle, adjust the vehicle seat as far back as possible, use a booster seat if needed, and have the child sit up properly and wear the seat belt properly.

Protecting Larger Children

Checking Seat Belt Fit

To determine if a lap/shoulder belt properly fits a child, have the child put on the seat belt, then ask yourself:

1.

Does the child sit all the way back against the seat?

2.

Do the child’s knees bend comfortably over the edge of the seat?

37

Main MenuTable of ContentsstProtecting Larger Children

3.

Does the shoulder belt cross between the child’s neck and arm?

4.

Is the lap part of the belt as low as possible, touching the child’s thighs?

5.

Will the child be able to stay seated like this for the whole trip?

If you answer yes to all these questions, the child is ready to wear the lap/shoulder belt correctly. If you answer no to any question, the child needs to ride on a booster seat.

38

Using a Booster Seat

to drive.

Booster seats can be high-back or low-back. Whichever style you select, make sure the booster meets federal safety standards and that you follow the booster seat maker’s instructions.

If a child who uses a booster seat rides in this vehicle, move the vehicle seat as far to the rear as possible, and be sure the child is wearing the seat belt properly.

A child may continue using a booster seat until the tops of their ears are even with the top of the vehicle’s or booster’s seat-back. A child of this height should be tall enough to use the lap/shoulder belt without a booster seat.

A child who has outgrown a forward- facing child seat should use a booster seat until the lap/shoulder belt fits them properly without the booster.

Some states and Canadian provinces also require children to use a booster seat until they reach a given age or weight (e.g., 6 years or 60 lbs). Be sure to check current laws in the states or provinces where you intend

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWhen Can a Larger Child Ride in This Vehicle The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that all children age 12 and under be properly restrained in a back seat.

PhysicalSize Physically, a child must be large enough for the lap/shoulder belt to properly fit (see page belt does not fit properly, with or without the child sitting on a booster, the child should not sit in this vehicle.

). If the seat

37

If the passenger’s airbag inflates in a moderate to severe frontal collision, the airbag can cause serious injuries to a child who is unrestrained, improperly restrained, sitting too close to the airbag, or out of position.

Maturity To safely ride in this vehicle, a child must be able to follow the rules, including sitting properly, and wearing the seat belt properly throughout ride.

Of course, children vary widely. And while age may be one indicator of when a child can safely ride in this vehicle. There are other important factors you should consider.

Protecting Larger Children

If you decide that a child can safely ride in this vehicle, be sure to:

Carefully read the owner’s manual, and make sure you understand all seat belt instructions and all safety information.

Move the vehicle seat to the rear- most position.

Have the child sit up straight, back against the seat, and feet on or near the floor.

Check that the child’s seat belt is properly and securely positioned.

Supervise the child. Even mature children sometimes need to be reminded to fasten the seat belts or sit properly.

39

Main MenuTable of ContentsstDevices intended to

Donotputanyaccessoriesona seatbelt. improve a child’s comfort or reposition the shoulder part of a seat belt can make the belt less effective and increase the chance of serious injury in a crash.

Protecting Larger Children

Additional Safety Precautions

Donotletachildwearaseatbelt This could result acrosstheneck. in serious neck injuries during a crash.

This could

Donotletachildputtheshoulder partofaseatbeltbehindtheback orunderthearm. cause very serious injuries during a crash. It also increases the chance that the child will slide under the belt in a crash and be injured.

Twochildrenshouldneverusethe sameseatbelt. could be very seriously injured in a crash.

If they do, they

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour vehicle’s exhaust contains carbon monoxide gas. Carbon monoxide should not enter the vehicle in normal driving if you maintain your vehicle properly and follow the information on this page.

Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks whenever:

The vehicle is raised for an oil change.

You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust.

The vehicle was in an accident that may have damaged the underside.

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and even kill you.

Avoid any enclosed areas or activities that expose you to carbon monoxide.

High levels of carbon monoxide can collect rapidly in enclosed areas, such as a garage. Do not run the engine with the garage door closed. Even with the door open, run the engine only long enough to move the vehicle out of the garage.

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

With the trunk open, airflow can pull exhaust gas into your vehicle’s interior and create a hazardous condition. If you must drive with the trunk open, open all the windows, and set the heating and cooling system as shown below.

If you must sit in your parked vehicle with the engine running, even in an unconfined area, adjust the heating and cooling system as follows:

1. 2. 3. 4.

Select the fresh air mode. Select the mode. Set the fan speed to high. Set the temperature control to a comfortable setting.

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstSafety Labels

These labels are in the locations shown. They warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury. Read these labels carefully.

If a label comes off or becomes hard to read (except for the U.S. dashboard label which may be removed by the owner), contact your dealer for a replacement.

DASHBOARD U.S.modelsonly

RADIATOR

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SUN VISOR U.S.models

Canadianmodels

SEAT BELT TENSIONER

BATTERY

U.S.models

HOOD

Canadianmodels

Main MenuTable of ContentsstThis section gives information about the controls and displays that contribute to the daily operation of your vehicle. All the essential controls are within easy reach.

Control Locations Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Indicators Gauges

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

Odometer Trip meter Select Button Fuel Gauge Check Fuel Cap Message Temperature Gauge Outside Temperature

. 44
. 45
. 46
. 51
. 51
. 51
. 51
. 52
. 52
. 53

Indicator

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

Maintenance Minder Clock

. 53
. 54
. 54

Controls Near the Steering

Wheel

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

. 55

Windshield Wipers and

Washers

Turn Signal and Headlights Instrument Panel Brightness Hazard Warning Button Rear Window Defogger Keys and Locks Immobilizer System Ignition Switch Power Door Locks

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

. 56
. 57
. 58
. 58
. 59
. 60
. 61
. 62
. 63

Instruments and Controls

Trunk

Emergency Trunk Opener

Remote Transmitter Seats Power Windows Convertible Top Mirrors Parking Brake Interior Convenience Items

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

Beverage Holder Accessory Power Socket Console Compartments Audio Panel Dashboard Lower Pocket

Interior Light

. 63
. 64
. 65
. 67
. 68
. 70
. 75
. 76
. 77
. 78
. 78
. 79
. 79
. 80
. 80

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Main MenustControl Locations

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.112)

POWER DOOR LOCK (P.63)

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.68)

MIRROR CONTROLS (P.75)

MANUAL TRANSMISSION (P.125)

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HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS (P.84)

CRUISE CONTROL BUTTONS (P.106)

AUDIO SYSTEM (P.88)

PARKING BRAKE (P.76)

HAZARD WARNING BUTTON (P.58)

ROOF SWITCH ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET (P.71)

(P.78)

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON (P.59)

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTURN SIGNAL AND HAZARD WARNING INDICATORS

(P.48)

VSA ACTIVATION INDICATOR (P.50)

OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE INDICATOR (P.53)

Instrument Panel

VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST (VSA) SYSTEM INDICATOR (P.50)

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) INDICATOR (P.47)

SEAT BELT REMINDER INDICATOR (P.46)

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING (EPS) INDICATOR (P.48)

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR ＊ (P.46, 188)

MAINTENANCE MINDER INDICATOR INFORMATION DISPLAY

(P.51, 135)

(P.50)

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

(P.49)

DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS INDICATOR (P.48)

LOW FUEL INDICATOR (P.49)

DOOR-OPEN INDICATOR

(P.47)

TRUNK-OPEN INDICATOR IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM INDICATOR CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR (P.47) MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

(P.47) (P.49)

(P.47, 187)

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

(P.46, 186)

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR

(P.47)

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

(P.46, 186)

＊

The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for Canadian models are noted in the text.

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstInstrument Panel Indicators

The instrument panel has many indicators to give you important information about your vehicle.

Seat Belt Reminder Indicator

This indicator comes on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. It reminds you and your passenger to fasten your seat belts. A beeper also sounds if you and your passenger have not fastened your seat belts.

If you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position before fastening your seat belts, the beeper sounds, and the indicator flashes. If you do not fasten your seat belts before the beeper stops, the indicator stops flashing but remains on.

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If your passenger does not fasten their seat belt, the indicator comes on about 6 seconds after the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position.

If either of you do not fasten your seat belt while driving, the beeper will sound and the indicator will flash again at regular intervals. For more information, see page

16

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

The engine can be severely damaged if this indicator flashes or stays on when the engine is running. For more information, see page 186

Charging System Indicator

If this indicator comes on when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged. For more information, see page

186

U.S.

Canada

Parking Brake and Brake System Indicator

This indicator has two functions:

1.

2.

Itcomesonwhenyouturnthe ignition switch to the ON (II) position. It is a reminder to check the parking brake. A beeper sounds if you drive with the parking brake not fully released. Driving with the parking brake not