2007 Honda S2000 Owners Manual

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstMaintenance Record

Mileage

Maintenance Performed

Signature

Date

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Maintenance Performed

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Date

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstENGINE OIL FILL CAP

WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Black handle)

Fluid Locations

CLUTCH FLUID (Gray cap)

BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap)

ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR

RADIATOR CAP

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstMake sure the API Certification Seal says ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

Recommended Engine Oil Oil is major contributor to your engine’s performance and longevity. Always use a premium-grade detergent oil displaying the API certification seal. This seal indicates the oil is energy conserving, and that it meets the American Petroleum Institute’s latest requirements. It is highly recommended that you use Honda motor oil in your vehicle for as long as you own it.

Adding Engine Oil

Unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on the valve cover. Pour in the oil slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately. Spilled oil could damage components in the engine compartment. Reinstall the engine oil fill cap, and tighten it securely. Wait a few minutes, and recheck the oil level on the engine oil dipstick. Do not fill above the upper mark; you could damage the engine.

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdding Engine Oil, Changing the Oil and Filter

The oil’s viscosity or weight is provided on the container’s label. Select the oil for your vehicle according to this chart.

Ambient Temperature

Synthetic Oil You may use a synthetic motor oil if it meets the same requirements given for a conventional motor oil: it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight. You must follow the oil and filter change intervals shown on the information display.

Engine Oil Additives Your vehicle does not require any oil additives. Additives may adversely affect the engine or transmission performance and durability.

An oil with a viscosity of 10W-30 is preferred for optimum fuel economy and year-round protection in your vehicle. You may use 5W-40 oil if the temperature in your area goes below 0°F (

20°C).

−

Changing the Oil and Filter Always change the oil and filter according to the maintenance messages shown on the information display. The oil and filter collect contaminants that can damage your engine if they are not removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle should be raised on a service station- type hydraulic lift for this service. Unless you have the knowledge and proper equipment, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.

1.

Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then shut it off.

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstChanging the Oil and Filter

WASHER

OIL DRAIN BOLT

OIL FILTER

2.

Open the hood, and remove the engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.

3.

Remove the oil filter, and let the remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your dealer) is required.

Make sure the oil filter gasket is not stuck to the engine block. If it is, remove it before installing a new oil filter.

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4.

Install a new oil filter according to the instructions that come with it.

5.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten the drain bolt to: 29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)

6.

Refill the engine with the recommended oil.

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

7.

Install the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator should go out within 5
seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine, and check your work.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstChanging the Oil and Filter, Engine Coolant

8.

9.

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

Adding Engine Coolant

RESERVE TANK

Turn off the engine and let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick. If necessary, add more oil.

Improper disposal of engine oil can be harmf ul to the environment. If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed container and take it to a recycling center. Do not discard it in a trash bin or dump it on the ground.

MAX

MIN

If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

Always use Honda Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 % antifreeze and 50 % water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.

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

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstEngine Coolant

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

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

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

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3.

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

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

4.

Put the radiator cap on, and tighten it fully.

5.

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

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

RADIATOR CAP

1.

When the radiator and engine are cool, relieve any pressure in the cooling system by turning the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pressing down.

2.

Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstWindshield Washers

Check the fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal use.

RESERVOIR CAP

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

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

Do not use engine antif reeze or a vinegar/water solution in the windshield washer reservoir. Antif reeze can damage your vehicle’s paint, while a vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield washer pump. Use only commercially-available windshield washer f luid.

LEVEL GAUGE

Check the fluid level by looking at the level gauge attached to the cap.

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstManual Transmission Fluid

FILLER BOLT

CORRECT LEVEL

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

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Put a new washer on the filler bolt, then reinstall the filler bolt and tighten it securely.

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

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the intervals shown on the information display.

If you are not sure how to check and add fluid, contact your dealer.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstUse an SAE 90 viscosity hypoid gear oil, API service classified GL5 or GL6 only.

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

The differential should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the intervals shown on the information display.

If you are not sure how to check and add fluid, contact your dealer.

FILLER BOLT

CORRECT LEVEL

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

Differential Fluid

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstBrake and Clutch Fluid

Check the brake fluid level in the reservoirs monthly.

Replace the brake fluid according to the time recommendation in the maintenance schedule.

Always use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3
or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement.

Using any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible.

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

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Brake Fluid

MAX

Clutch Fluid

MAX

MIN

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

MIN

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

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstHeadlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk, readjustment may be required. Adjustment should be done by your dealer or other qualified mechanic.

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

Lights

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

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

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstLights

1.

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

2.

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

3.

Remove the rubber weather seal by pulling on the tab.

4.

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

5.

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

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6.

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

7.

Install the rubber seal over the back of the headlight assembly.

8.

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

9.

(Driver’s side) Reinstall the coolant reserve tank.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstLights

Replacing Front Turn Signal and Side Marker/Parking Light Bulbs 1.

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

2.

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

3.

Pull the inner fender cover back.

4.

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

5.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket.

6.

Install the new bulb in the socket.

7.

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

8.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

9.

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

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstLights

Replacing a Side Turn Signal Bulb

3.

LENS

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

4.

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

5.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

6.

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

BULB

SOCKET

1.

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

2.

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

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstReplacing Rear Bulbs

Lights

1.

Open the trunk.

2.

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

3.

Pull the lining back.

4.

Determine which bulb is burned out: turn signal or back-up light.

5.

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

6.

Remove the burned out bulb by pulling it straight out of its socket.

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstLights, Cleaning the Seat Belts

7.

Install the new bulb into the socket.

8.

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

9.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

10.

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

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

Dirt build-up in the loops of the seat belt anchors can cause the belts to retract slowly. Wipe the insides of the loops with a clean cloth dampened in mild soap and warm water or isopropyl alcohol.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstFloor Mats, Dust and Pollen Filter, Audio Antenna

Floor Mats

The floor mats that came with your vehicle hook over the floor mat anchors. This keeps them from sliding forward and possibly interfering with vehicle operation.

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

If you use a non-Honda floor mat, 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.

Dust and Pollen Filter This filter removes the dust and pollen that is brought in from the outside through the heating and cooling system.

Have your dealer replace the filter when this service is indicated by a maintenance message on the information display. It should be replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000
km) if you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air, or if the flow from the heating and cooling system becomes less than usual.

Audio Antenna

Your vehicle is equipped with an antenna at the right rear f ender. Bef ore using a ‘‘drive-through’’ car wash, remove the antenna by unscrewing it by hand. This prevents the antenna f rom being damaged by the car wash brushes.

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstWiper Blades

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

To replace a wiper blade: 1.

Raise the wiper arm off the windshield.

LOCK TAB

BLADE

Do not open the hood when the wiper arms are raised, or you will damage the hood and the wiper arms.

2.

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

3.

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

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Main MenuTable of Contentsst6.

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

7.

Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield.

Wheels Clean the wheels as you would the rest of the exterior. Wash them with the same solution, and rinse them thoroughly.

Aluminum alloy wheels have a protective clear-coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing. Cleaning the wheels with harsh chemicals (including some commercial wheel cleaners) or a stiff brush can damage the clear-coat. To clean the wheels, use a mild detergent and a soft brush or sponge.

Wiper Blades, Wheels, Tires

Tires To safely operate your vehicle, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated.

The following pages give more detailed information on how to take care of your tires and what to do when they need to be replaced.

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

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

BLADE

REINFORCEMENT

4.

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

5.

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

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstTires

Inflation Guidelines Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best combination of handling, tread life, and riding comfort.

Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

Overinflated tires can make your vehicleridemoreharshly,are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

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

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Use a gauge to measure the air pressure in each tire at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose 1 to 2 psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month. Remember to check the sparetireatthesametime.

Check the air pressures when the tires are cold. This means the vehicle has been parked for at least 3
hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6
km). Add or release air, if needed, to match the recommended cold tire pressures on page

165

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

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

While tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured, you should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstRecommended Tire Pressures The following charts show the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal and high-speed driving conditions.

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

Bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if youfindeitheroftheseconditions.

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

Excessive tread wear.

Front:

Tire Size

215/45R17 87W

Rear:

Tire Size

245/40R17 91W

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

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

Thecompactsparetirepressureis: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

For convenience, the recommended cold air pressures and tire sizes are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

For additional information about your tires, see page

206

Tires

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS Your tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down, you will see a 1/2
inch (12.7 mm) wide band across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire.

A tire this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see three or more tread wear indicators.

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstTires

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

Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This increases riding comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

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

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

Tire Wear The tires that came on your vehicle were designed and constructed to provide superior grip during acceleration, braking, and cornering.

As a trade-off, they will wear more rapidly than tires used on ordinary passenger vehicles. Because of the vehicle’s weight distribution, and the fact that the rear wheels are the driving wheels, you can expect them to wear more rapidly than the front tires.

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The mileage you can expect from yourvehicletiresisthesameas comparable mid-and rear-engine sports cars, and it will vary greatly with your driving habits.

If you drive moderately, the rear tires could last more than 10,000
miles (16,000 km). However, the mileage will be substantially less if you tend to drive your vehicle at the upper limits of its capabilities.

You should carefully inspect your vehicle’s tires for wear, damage, and proper inflation every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or when tire inspection is indicated on the information display (see page

142

).

Main MenuTable of ContentsstReplacing Tires and Wheels Replace your tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s side wall). Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the anti-lock brake and the vehicle stability assist systems to work inconsistently.

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

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

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

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

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

Tires

Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheels: Front:

17 x 7 J

Rear:

17 x 8 1/2 J

Tires:

Front:

Rear:

215/45R17 87W

245/40R17 91W

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for information about

See page DOT Tire Quality Grading, and page 206
information.

for tire size and labeling

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstTraction devices that are the wrong size or improperly installed can damage your vehicle’s brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if they are hitting any part of the vehicle.

Tires

Winter Driving Tires marked ‘‘M S’’ or ‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- weather tread design suitable for most winter driving conditions.

＋

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

SnowTires If you mount snow tires on your vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may be lower than your original tires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.

TireChains Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’ cable-type traction devices, with rubber chain tensioners on the rear tires. Use traction devices only when required by driving conditions or local laws. Make sure they are the correct size for your tires. Metal link- type ‘‘chains’’ should not be used.

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

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

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW Check the condition of the battery monthlybylookingatthetest indicator window. The label on the battery explains the test indicator’s colors.

Checking the Battery

If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected, or goes dead, the clock setting in the instrument panel will be canceled. To reset the time, see page

54

If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected, or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. The nexttimeyouturnontheradio,you may see ‘‘CODE’’ (U.S. model) or ‘‘Code’’ (Canadian model) in the frequency display. Use the preset buttons to enter the code (see page 105

).

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstChecking the Battery

If additional battery maintenance is needed, see your dealer or a qualified technician.

Battery posts,

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

If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damaging your vehicle’s electrical system. Always disconnect the negative ( − reconnect it last.

) cable first, and

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

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

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

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf you need to park your vehicle for an extended period (more than 1
month), there are several things you should do to prepare it for storage. Proper preparation helps prevent deterioration and makes it easier to get your vehicle back on the road. If possible, store your vehicle indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Block the rear wheels.

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

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

Change the engine oil and filter.

Disconnect the battery.

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

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

Raise the convertible top cover.

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

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

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

Vehicle Storage

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

If possible, periodically run the engine until it reaches full operating temperature (the cooling fan cycles on and off twice). Preferably, do this once a month.

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Main MenuTable of Contentsst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 vehicle towed.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If the Engine Won’t Start Jump Starting If the Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp Brake System Indicator Closing the Convertible Top Fuses

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Fuse Locations Emergency Towing If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

Checking and Replacing

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Main MenustCompact Spare Tire

Use the compact spare tire as a temporary replacement only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced, and put it back on your vehicle 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:

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).

This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road surfaces. Use greater caution while driving.

Do not mount tire chains on the compact spare tire.

Do not use your compact spare tire on another vehicle unless it is thesamemakeandmodel.

Do not mount the compact spare tire on either rear wheel position; it will damage the limited slip differential (see page

175

).

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

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

Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. 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 vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the vehicle 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.

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 vehicle on firm, level, and non-slippery ground. Put the transmission in reverse. Apply the parking brake.

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

Changing a Flat Tire

TOOL BOX LID

JACK

3.

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

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

CONTINUED

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstChanging a Flat Tire

SPARE TIRE COVER

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

CLIPS

4.

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

5.

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

6.

Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turn with the wheel nut wrench.

JACKING POINT

7.

Place the jack under the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the center of the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.

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Main MenuTable of ContentsstChanging a Flat Tire

EXTENSION

8.

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

BRAKE HUB

9.

Remove the wheel nuts, then remove the flat tire. Handle the wheel nuts carefully; they may be hot from driving. Place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface facing up.

10.

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

CONTINUED

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Main MenuTable of Contentsst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 nut wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten the wheel nuts fully.

12.

Lower the vehicle to the ground, and remove the jack.

13.

Tighten the wheel nuts securely in a 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)

178

Main MenuTable of Contentsst14.

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

15.

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

CLIPS

16.

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

Changing a Flat Tire

17.

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

179

Main MenuTable of ContentsstPress the ENGINE START button, then release it. If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses.IfthefusesareOK,thereis probably something wrong with the electrical circuit for the ignition switch or starter motor. You will need a qualified mechanic to determine the problem. (See Emergency Towing

on page

196

.)

If the Engine Won’t Start

Diagnosing why the 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.

180

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:

Check the transmission interlock. The clutch pedal must be pushed all the way to the floor or the starter will not operate.

Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. Turn on the headlights, and check their brightness. If the headlights are very dim or do not come on at all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting

on page

182

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

169

182

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 a properly coded key? An improperly coded key will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the instrument panel to blink rapidly (see page ).

61

Are you using the proper starting Starting the procedure? Refer to Engine 124

on page

Do you have fuel? Check the fuel gauge; the low fuel indicator may not be working.

If the Engine Won’t Start