achieved is also provided.
−
Combined Fuel Economy Represents a combination of city and highway driving. The scale represents the range of combined fuel economy for other vehicles in the class.
Estimated Annual Fuel Cost
−
Provides an estimated annual fuel
cost, based on 15,000 miles (20,000
km) per year multiplied by the cost
per gallon (based on EPA fuel cost
data) divided by the combined fuel
economy.
For more information on fuel economy ratings and factors that affect fuel economy, visit fueleconomy.gov vehicles.gc.ca
www. (Canada: Visit
www.
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Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy Factors The following factors can lower your vehicle’s fuel economy:
Aggressive driving (hard acceleration and braking) Excessive idling, accelerating and braking in stop-and-go traffic Cold engine operation (engines are more efficient when warmed up) Driving with a heavy load or the air conditioner running Improperly inflated tires
Improving Fuel Economy
VehicleMaintenance A properly maintained vehicle maximizes fuel economy. Poor maintenance can significantly reduce fuel economy. Always maintain your vehicle according to the maintenance messages displayed on the information display (see Maintenance Checks For example:
Owner’s
on page
167
).
134
Use the recommended viscosity
motor oil, displaying the API
Certification Seal (see page
170
).
Maintain proper tire inflation An under-inflated tire increases − ‘‘rolling resistance,’’ which reduces fuel economy.
Avoid carrying excess weight in your vehicle It puts a heavier load on the engine, increasing fuel consumption.
−
−
Keep your vehicle clean In particular, a build-up of snow or mud on your vehicle’s underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel economy.
DriveEfficiently
−
Drive moderately acceleration, abrupt cornering, and hard braking increase fuel consumption.
Rapid
−
Observe the speed limit
Aerodynamic drag has a big effect
on fuel mileage at speeds above 45
mph (75 km/h). Reduce your
speed and you reduce the drag.
Trailers, car top carriers, roof
racks and bike racks are also big
contributors to increased drag.
−
If your vehicle has a
Always drive in the highest gear possible manual transmission, you can boost your fuel economy by up shifting as early as possible.
Avoid excessive idling − results in 0 miles per gallon.
Idling
2008 S2000 07/07/25 17:45:42 31S2A680 0140
Minimize the use of the air conditioning system puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Use the fresh-air ventilation when possible.
The A/C
−
Plan and combine trips Combine several short trips into one. A warmed-up engine is more fuel efficient than a cold one.
−
Calculating Fuel Economy
MeasuringTechniques Direct calculation is the recommended source of information about your actual fuel economy. Using frequency of fill-ups or taking fuel gauge readings are NOT accurate measures of fuel economy. Fuel economy may improve over the first several thousand miles.
CheckingYourFuelEconomy
Fuel Economy
Miles driven
Gallons of
fuel
Miles per
Gallon
100
Liter
Kilometers
L per 100 km
1) 2) 3) 4)
Fill the fuel tank until the nozzle automatically clicks off. Reset trip counter to zero. Record the total gallons (liters) needed to refill. Follow one of the simple calculations above.
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Accessories and Modifications
Modifying your vehicle, or installing some non-Honda accessories, can make it unsafe. Before you make any modifications or add any accessories, be sure to read the following information.
Accessories Your dealer has Honda accessories that allow you to personalize your vehicle. These accessories have been designed and approved for your vehicle, and are covered by warranty.
Although non-Honda accessories may fit on your vehicle, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your vehicle’s handling and stability.
Improper accessories or modifications can affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, and performance, and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.
Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding accessories and modifications.
When properly installed, cellular phones, alarms, two-way radios, and low-powered audio systems should not interfere with your vehicle’s computer controlled systems, such as your airbags, anti-lock brakes, and tire pressure monitoring system.
136
Before installing any accessory:
Make sure the accessory does not obscure any lights, or interfere with proper vehicle operation or performance.
Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits (see page the proper operation of your vehicle.
) or interfere with
222
Before installing any electronic accessory, have the installer contact your dealer. If possible, have your dealer inspect the final installation.
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Accessories and Modifications
Larger or smaller wheels and tires can interfere with the operation of your vehicle’s anti-lock brakes and other systems.
Modifying your steering wheel or any other part of your vehicle’s safety systems could make the systems ineffective.
If you plan to modify your vehicle, consult your dealer.
Modifying Your Vehicle Removing parts from your vehicle, or replacing components with non-Honda components could seriously affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, and reliability.
Here are some examples:
Lowering the vehicle with a non- Honda suspension kit that significantly reduces ground clearance can allow the undercarriage to hit speed bumps or other raised objects, which could cause the airbags to deploy.
Raising your vehicle with a non-Honda suspension kit can affect the handling and stability.
Non-Honda wheels, because they are a universal design, can cause excessive stress on suspension components and will not be compatible with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
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Carrying Cargo
UPPER AND LOWER CONSOLE COMPARTMENTS
DOOR POCKETS
TRUNK
SEAT-BACK POCKET
CONSOLE SIDE NET
DASHBOARD LOWER POCKET
138
Your vehicle has several convenient storage areas:
Upper and lower console compartments
Dashboard lower pocket
Door pockets
Console side net
Seat-back pocket
Trunk
However, carrying too much cargo, or improperly storing it, can affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, stopping distance, and tires, which may make it unsafe. Before carrying any type of cargo, be sure to read the following pages.
2008 S2000 07/07/25 17:46:16 31S2A680 0144
Carrying Cargo
Load Limits The maximum load for your vehicle is 400 lbs (181 kg) for U.S. vehicles, and 185 kg for Canadian vehicles. This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and accessories.
See Tire And Loading Information label attached to the driver’s doorjamb.
Label Example
Overloading or improper loading can affect handling and stability and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.
Follow all load limits and other loading guidelines in this manual.
−
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit (1)
Locate the statement ‘‘The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.’’ on your vehicle’s placard.
This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and accessories, and the tongue load if you are towing a trailer.
(2)
Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.
(3)
Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.
(4)
The resulting figure equals the
available amount of cargo and
luggage load capacity. For
example, if the ‘‘XXX’’ amount
equals 1,400 lbs. and there will be
five 150 lb. passengers in your
vehicle, the amount of available
cargo and luggage load capacity is
650 lbs.
(1,400
150) = 650 lbs.)
750 (5
−
×
(5)
Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.
(6)
If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.
CONTINUED
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Carrying Cargo
In addition, the total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, accessories, cargo, and trailer tongue load must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Both are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.
Max Load (400 lbs)
Passenger Weight (150 lbs x 1 = 150 lbs)
Cargo Weight (250 lbs)
Max Load (400 lbs)
Passenger Weight (150 lbs x 2 = 300 lbs)
Cargo Weight (100 lbs)
Example 1
Example 2
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Carrying Cargo
Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment
Store or secure all items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash.
Carrying Cargo in the Trunk
Distribute cargo evenly on the floor of the trunk, placing the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible.
Be sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll underneath and interfere with the proper operation of the seats, the sensors under the seats, or the driver’s ability to operate the pedals.
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Driving
This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the manual transmission. It also includes important information on parking your vehicle and the braking system.
Driving Guidelines Preparing to Drive Starting the Engine Manual Transmission Parking Braking System Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
........................ ........................ ....................... ................... ........................................... ............................. ...............
System
........................................ Tire Pressure Monitoring System ...................................... ...........................
Towing a Trailer
(TPMS)
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. 146
. 147
. 149
. 149
. 150
. 152
. 154
. 157
143
2008 S2000 Because of the low-profile tires fitted to your vehicle, the alloy wheels are closer to the ground. Driving over a pothole or road debris at too high a speed can seriously damage a wheel. Slow down under these conditions.
07/07/25 17:46:38 31S2A680 0149
Driving Guidelines
Your vehicle is designed to give you optimum handling and performance on well-maintained roads. As part of this design, your vehicle has a minimum of ground clearance and very low-profile tires.
Use caution if you ever drive your vehicle on very rough or rutted roads. You could damage the suspension and underbody by bottoming out. Going too fast over parking lot ‘‘speed bumps’’ can also cause damage.
144
Curbs and steep inclines could damage the front and rear bumpers. Low curbs that do not affect the average vehicle may be high enough to hit the bumper on your vehicle. The front or rear bumper may scrape when trying to drive onto an incline, such as a steep driveway or trailer ramps.
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Preparing to Drive
Check that any items you may be carrying are stored properly or fastened down securely.
9.
Fasten your seat belt. Check that your passenger has fastened his or her seat belt (see page
12
).
You should do the following checks and adjustments before you drive your vehicle.
1.
Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice.
2.
Check that the hood is fully closed.
5.
6.
7.
Check the seat adjustment (see page
69
).
Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors (see page
87
).
3.
Check that the trunk is fully closed.
8.
Make sure the doors are securely closed and locked.
4.
Visually check the tires. If a tire looks low, use a gauge to check its pressure.
10.
When you start the engine, check the gauges and indicators in the instrument panel (see page ).
45
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Starting the Engine
1.
Apply the parking brake.
2.
3.
In cold weather, turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.
Push the clutch pedal down all the way. The ENGINE START button has no effect unless the clutch pedal is pressed.
4.
Turn the ignition key to the ON (II) position.
5.
Without touching the accelerator
pedal, push the ENGINE START
button. Do not hold the ENGINE
START button for more than 15
seconds at a time. If the engine
does not start right away, pause
for at least 10 seconds before
trying again.
146
6.
7.
If the engine does not start within 15 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 5 with the accelerator pedal pressed halfway down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.
If the engine fails to start, press the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting to clear flooding. If the engine still does not start, return to step 6.
The engine is harder to start in cold
weather. Also, the thinner air f ound at
altitudes above 8,000 f eet (2,400
meters) adds to this problem.
ENGINE START BUTTON
The immobilizer system protects your vehicle f rom thef t. If an improperly- coded key (or other device) is used, the engine’s f uel system is disabled. For more inf ormation, see page
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2008 S2000 07/07/25 17:47:02 31S2A680 0152
Come to a full stop before you shift into reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into reverse with the vehicle moving. Push down the clutch pedal, and pause for a few seconds before shifting into reverse, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This stops the gears so they won’t ‘‘grind.’’
When slowing down, you can get extra braking from the engine by shifting to a lower gear. This extra braking can help you maintain a safe speed and prevent your brakes from overheating while going down a steep hill. Before downshifting, make sure the engine speed will not go into the tachometer’s red zone in the lower gear.
Manual Transmission
Rapid slowing or speeding up can cause loss of control on slippery surfaces. If you crash, you can be injured.
Use extra care when driving on slippery surfaces.
Your vehicle is equipped with an aluminum shift lever. If you leave the vehicle parked outside for a long time on a hot day, be careful before moving the shift lever. Because of the heat, the shift lever may be extremely hot. If the outside temperature is low, the shift lever feels cold.
147
The manual transmission is
synchronized in all forward gears for
smooth operation. It has a lockout so
you cannot shift directly from fifth to
reverse instead of sixth (see page
148
). When shifting up or down,
make sure you push the clutch pedal
down all the way, shift to the next
gear, and let the pedal up gradually.
When you are not shifting, do not
rest your foot on the clutch pedal.
This can cause your clutch to wear
out faster.
2008 S2000 07/07/25 17:47:10 31S2A680 0153
Manual Transmission
Recommended Shift Points Drive in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you good fuel economy and effective emissions control. The following shift points are recommended:
Shift Up
Normal Acceleration
1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th 5th to 6th
15 mph (24 km/h) 25 mph (40 km/h) 40 mph (64 km/h) 47 mph (75 km/h) 52 mph (83 km/h)
Engine Speed Limiter If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer’s red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine’s computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the rpm below the red zone.
Before downshifting, make sure the engine will not go into the tachometer’s red zone.
Reverse Lockout
The manual transmission has a lockout so you cannot accidentally shift from fifth to reverse instead of sixth while the vehicle is moving.
With the clutch pedal pressed, move the shift lever to the reverse side of the neutral gate. Then push the shift lever down, and shift to reverse.
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2008 S2000 07/07/25 17:47:22 31S2A680 0154
materials. The hot three way catalytic converter could cause these materials to catch on fire.
If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb, and put the transmission in first gear.
If the vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb, and put the transmission in reverse gear.
Make sure the parking brake is fully released before driving away. Driving with the parking brake partially set can overheat or damage the rear brakes.
Parking Always use the parking brake when you park your vehicle. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly, or your vehicle may roll if it is parked on an incline.
Parking Tips
ExceptCRmodels Make sure the convertible top and the windows are closed.
CRmodels Make sure the removable hardtop is properly installed and the windows are closed.
Turn off the lights.
Place any packages, valuables, etc., in the trunk or take them with you.
Lock the doors.
Never park over dry leaves, tall grass, or other flammable
Parking, Braking System
Braking System Your vehicle is equipped with disc brakes at all four wheels. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps you retain steering control when braking very hard. Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, builds up heat, and reduces their effectiveness and reduces brake pad life. In addition, fuel economy can be reduced. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you. Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by taking your foot off the accelerator and downshifting to a lower gear.
CONTINUED
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Braking System, Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
Check the brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them gently and frequently until they do. Be extra cautious in your driving.
Braking System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels.
Brake Pad Wear Indicators If the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive, metallic screeching sound when you apply the brake pedal. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will screech all the time. It is normal for the brakes to occasionally squeal or squeak when you apply them.
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) The anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps prevent the wheels from locking up, and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly, much faster than a person can do it.
The electronic brake distribution (EBD) system, which is part of the ABS, also balances the front-to-rear braking distribution according to vehicle loading.
Youshouldneverpumpthebrakepedal. Let the ABS work for you by always keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal. This is sometimes referred to as ‘‘stomp and steer.’’
You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and may hear some noise. This is normal: it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before the ABS activates. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.
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ABS Indicator
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR
Important Safety Reminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the vehicle; control during braking.
it only helps with steering
A vehicle with ABS may require a longer distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, than a vehicle without anti- lock.
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
ABS will not prevent a skid that results from changing direction abruptly, such as trying to take a corner too fast or making a sudden lane change.
ABS cannot prevent a loss of stability. Always steer moderately when you are braking hard. Severe or sharp steering wheel movement can still cause your vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road.
If this indicator comes on, the anti- lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system, but without anti-lock. You should have your dealer inspect your vehicle as soon as possible.
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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System
Without VSA, your vehicle still has normal braking and cornering ability, but it does not have VSA traction and stability enhancement.
VSA Activation Indicator
When VSA activates, you will see the VSA activation indicator blink (see page
50
).
VSA System Indicator
If this indicator comes on while driving, pull to the side of the road when it is safe, and turn off the engine. Reset the system by restarting the engine. If the VSA system indicator stays on or comes back on while driving, have the VSA system inspected by your dealer.
If the indicator does not come on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON (II) position, there may be a problem with the VSA system. Have your dealer inspect your vehicle as soon as possible (see page
50
).
The vehicle stability assist (VSA) system helps to stabilize the vehicle during cornering if the vehicle turns more or less than desired. It also assists you in maintaining traction while accelerating on loose or slippery road surfaces. It does this by regulating the engine’s output and by selectively applying the brakes.
When VSA activates, you may notice that the engine does not respond to the accelerator in the same way it does at other times.
The VSA system cannot enhance the vehicle’s driving stability in all situations and does not control your vehicle’s entire braking system. It is still your responsibility to drive and corner at reasonable speeds and to leave a sufficient margin of safety.
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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System
VSA Off Switch
VSA OFF SWITCH
In certain unusual conditions when your vehicle gets stuck in shallow mud or fresh snow, it may be easier to free it with the VSA temporarily switched off. When the VSA system is off, the traction control system is also off. You should only attempt to free your vehicle with the VSA off if you are not able to free it when the VSA is on.
Immediately after freeing your vehicle, be sure to switch the VSA on again. We do not recommend driving your vehicle with the VSA and traction control systems switched off.
This switch is at the left side of the right vent. Press it to turn VSA on and off.
To turn VSA off, press and hold the switch until the VSA activation indicator comes on.
When VSA is off, the VSA activation indicator comes on as a reminder.
VSA is turned on every time you start the engine, even if you turned it off the last time you drove the vehicle.
VSA and Tire Sizes Driving with varying tire or wheel sizes may cause the VSA to malfunction. When replacing tires, make sure they are of the same size and type as your original tires (see page
190
).
ExceptCRmodels Deactivate the VSA system if you need to drive with the compact spare tire installed (see page
200
).
If you install winter tires, make sure they are the same size as those that were originally supplied with your vehicle. Exercise the same caution during winter driving as you would if your vehicle was not equipped with VSA.
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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Your vehicle is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that turns on every time you start the engine and monitors the pressure in your tires while driving.
If you think you can safely drive a short distance to a service station, proceed slowly, and inflate the tire to the recommended pressure shown on the driver’s doorjamb.
Each tire has its own pressure sensor (not including the spare tire). If the air pressure of a tire becomes significantly low while driving, the sensor in that tire immediately sends a signal that causes the low tire pressure indicator to come on.
Low Tire Pressure Indicator
When the low tire pressure indicator is on, one or more of your tires is significantly underinflated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure as indicated on the vehicle’s tire information placard.
154
ExceptCRmodels
If the tire is flat, or if the tire
pressure is too low to continue
driving, replace the tire with the
compact spare tire (see page
200
).
CRmodels If the tire is flat, or if the tire pressure is too low to continue driving, repair the tire with the tire repair kit (see page
206
).
If you cannot make the low tire pressure indicator go out after inflating the tires to the specified values, have your dealer check the system as soon as possible.
Driving on a significantly under- inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
Because tire pressure varies by temperature and other conditions, the low tire pressure indicator may come on unexpectedly.
2008 S2000 07/07/25 17:48:13 31S2A680 0160
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
information label and in the owner’s manual (see page
190
).
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Indicator This indicator comes on and stays on if there is a problem with the tire pressure monitoring system.
If this happens, the system will shut off and no longer monitor tire pressures. Have the system checked by your dealer as soon as possible.
When you restart the vehicle with the compact spare tire, the TPMS indicator may also come on and stay on after driving several miles (kilometers).
For example, if you check and fill your tires in a warm area, then drive in extremely cold weather, the tire pressure will be lower than measured and could be underinflated and cause the low tire pressure indicator to come on. Or, if you check and adjust your tire pressure in cooler conditions, and drive into extremely hot conditions, the tire may become overinflated. However, the low tire pressure indicator will not come on if the tires are overinflated.
Refer to page guidelines.
189
for tire inflation
Although your tire pressure is monitored, you must manually check the tire pressures monthly.
Each tire, including the spare, should be checked monthly when cold, and set to the recommended inflation pressure as specified on the tire
Changing a Tire with TPMS ExceptCRmodels If you have a flat tire, the low tire pressure indicator will come on. Replace the flat tire with the compact spare tire (see page
200
).
Each wheel (except the compact spare tire wheel) is equipped with a tire pressure sensor mounted inside the tire behind the valve stem. You must use TPMS specific wheels. It is recommended that you always have your tires serviced by your dealer or qualified technician.
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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Repairing a Tire with TPMS CRmodels If you have a flat tire, the low tire pressure indicator will come on. Repair the flat tire with the tire repair kit (see page
206
).
Each wheel is equipped with a tire pressure sensor mounted inside the tire behind the valve stem. You must use TPMS specific wheels. It is recommended that you always have your tires serviced by your dealer or a qualified technician.
After you repair the flat tire, the low tire pressure indicator may come on. This is normal; the system is not monitoring the repaired tire pressure.
Have the flat tire repaired by the dealer as soon as possible.
AsrequiredbytheFCC: ThisdevicecomplieswithPart15ofthe FCCrules.Operationissubjecttothe followingtwoconditions:(1)Thisdevice maynotcauseharmfulinterference,and (2)thisdevicemustacceptany interferencereceived,including interferencethatmaycauseundesired operation.
Changesormodificationsnotexpressly approvedbythepartyresponsiblefor compliancecouldvoidtheuser’s authoritytooperatetheequipment.
ThisdevicecomplieswithIndustry CanadaStandardRSS-210. Operationissubjecttothefollowingtwo conditions:(1)thisdevicemaynotcause interference,and(2)thisdevicemust acceptanyinterferencethatmaycause undesiredoperationofthedevice.
After you replace the flat tire with the compact spare tire, the low tire pressure indicator stays on. This is normal; the system is not monitoring the spare tire pressure. Manually check the spare tire pressure to be sure it is correct. After several miles (kilometers) driving with the compact spare tire, the TPMS indicator comes on and the low tire pressure indicator goes off.
The low tire pressure indicator or the TPMS indicator will go off, after several miles (kilometers) driving, when you replace the spare tire with the specified regular tire equipped with the tire pressure monitor sensor.
Never use a puncture-repairing agent in a flat tire. If used, you will have to replace the tire pressure sensor. Have the flat tire repaired by your dealer as soon as possible.
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Your vehicle is not designed to tow a trailer. Attempting to do so can void your warranties.
Towing a Trailer
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Maintenance
This section explains why it is important to keep your vehicle well maintained and how to follow basic maintenance safety precautions.
This section also includes instructions on how to read the maintenance minder messages on the information display, and instructions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself.
If you have the skills and tools to perform more complex maintenance tasks on your vehicle, you may want to purchase the service manual. See page for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your dealer.
251
Maintenance Safety Maintenance Minder Fluid Locations Adding Engine Oil Changing the Oil and Filter Engine Coolant Windshield Washers Manual Transmission Fluid Differential Fluid Brake and Clutch Fluid Lights Cleaning the Seat Belts Floor Mats Dust and Pollen Filter Audio Antenna Wiper Blades Wheels Tires Checking the Battery Vehicle Storage
...................... .................... .............................. ........................ ......... .............................. .................... ........ .......................... ................ ............................................. ................ ..................................... .................. .............................. ................................. ........................................... ............................................... ................... .............................
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. 198
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Maintenance Safety
All service items not detailed in this section should be performed by a certified technician or other qualified mechanic.
Important Safety Precautions To eliminate potential hazards, read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.
Make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground, the parking brake is set, and the engine is off.
To clean parts, use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline.
To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.
Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with the battery or compressed air.
160
Improperly maintaining this vehicle, or failing to correct a problem before driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owner’s manual.
Potential Vehicle Hazards Carbon Monoxide poison from engine exhaust. there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.
Be sure
Burns from hot parts. Let the engine and exhaust system cool down before touching any parts.
Injury from moving parts. not run the engine unless instructed to do so.
Do
Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner’s manual.
Some of the most important safety precautions are given here. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task.
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Your vehicle displays engine oil life and maintenance service items on the information display to show you when you should have your dealer do engine oil replacement and indicated maintenance service.
Based on the engine operating conditions and accumulated engine revolutions, the onboard computer in your vehicle calculates the remaining engine oil life and displays it as a percentage.
Maintenance Minder
Engine Oil Life Display
TRIP BUTTON
The remaining engine oil life is shown on the display according to this table:
Calculated Engine
Displayed
ENGINE OIL LIFE DISPLAY
To see the current engine oil life, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and push and release the TRIP button repeatedly until the engine oil life display appears (see page
53
).
Oil Life (%) 91 % 100 % 81 % 90 % 80 % 71 % 61 % 70 % 51 % 60 % 41 % 50 % 40 % 31 % 21 % 30 % 16 % 20 % 11 % 15 % 6 % 10 % 5 % 1 %
− − − − − − − − − − − − 0 %
Engine Oil Life (%)
100 % 90 % 80 % 70 % 60 % 50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 15 % 10 % 5 % 0 %
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The maintenance item code or codes indicate the main and sub items required at the time of the oil change (see page
168
).
The 15 and 10 percent oil life indicator reminds you that the time is coming soon to take your vehicle in for the required maintenance.
Maintenance Minder
MAINTENANCE MINDER INDICATOR
ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR
MAINTENANCE ITEM CODE(S)
If the remaining engine oil life is 15
to 6 percent, you will see the engine
oil life indicator every time you turn
the ignition switch to the ON (II)
position. The maintenance minder
indicator will also come on, and the
maintenance item code(s) for other
scheduled maintenance items
needing service will be displayed
next to the engine oil life indicator.
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Maintenance Minder
When the remaining engine oil life is 5 to 1 percent, you will see a ‘‘SERVICE OIL LIFE’’ message along with the same maintenance item code(s), every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. The maintenance minder ) also comes on and indicator ( remains on in the instrument panel.
When the remaining engine oil life is 0 percent, the engine oil life indicator will blink. The display comes on every time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position. The maintenance minder indicator on in the instrument panel. When you see this message, immediately have the indicated maintenance done by your dealer.
) also comes on and remains
If you do not perform the indicated maintenance, negative mileage is displayed and begins to blink after the vehicle has been driven 10 miles (10 km) or more.
Negative mileage means your vehicle has passed the maintenance required point. Immediately have the indicated maintenance done by your dealer.
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Maintenance Minder
The maximum total mileage shown is ‘‘ 9999.’’
−
You can change the information display from the engine oil life display to the odometer, the trip meter, or the outside temperature every time you press and release the TRIP button.
When the engine oil life is 0 percent or negative mileage, the maintenance minder indicator ) remains on even if you change the information display.
Immediately have the service done, and make sure to reset the display as described on the next page.
Maintenance Main Items and Sub Items
MAINTENANCE SUB ITEM (S)
ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR
MAINTENANCE MAIN ITEM
All maintenance items displayed on the information display are in code. For an explanation of these maintenance codes, see page
168
164
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Maintenance Minder
Resetting the Engine Oil Life Indicator Your dealer will reset the display after completing the required maintenance service. You will see ‘‘OIL LIFE 100%’’ on the information display the next time you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.
If maintenance service is done by someone other than your dealer, reset the maintenance minder as follows:
1.
Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position.
2.
Press the TRIP button until the engine oil life indicator is displayed.
ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR
ENGINE OIL LIFE INDICATOR
3.
Press the TRIP button for about 10 seconds. The engine oil life indicator and the maintenance item code(s) will blink.
4.
Press the TRIP button for about 5
seconds. The maintenance items
code(s) will disappear, and the
engine oil life will reset to ‘‘100.’’
165
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We recommend using Honda parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done. These are manufactured to the same high quality standards as the original components, so you can be confident of their performance and durability.
Your authorized Honda dealer knows your vehicle best and can provide competent, efficient service. However, service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in this type of automotive service. Make sure to have the service facility or person reset the display as previously described. Keep all receipts as proof of completion, and have the person who does the work fill out your Honda Service History or Canadian Maintenance Log. Check your warranty booklet for more information.
Maintenance Minder
Important Maintenance Precautions If you have the required service done but do not reset the display, or reset the display without doing the service, the system will not show the proper maintenance intervals. This can lead to serious mechanical problems because you will no longer have an accurate record of when maintenance is needed.
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Maintenance Minder
U.S. Vehicles: Maintenance, replacement, or repair of emissions control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA standards.
#
According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with will not void your emissions warranties. However, all maintenance services should be performed in accordance with the intervals indicated by the information display.
Owner’s Maintenance Checks You should check the following items at the specified intervals. If you are unsure of how to perform any check, turn to the appropriate page listed.
Engine oil level time you fill the fuel tank. See page
Check every
131
−
Engine coolant level radiator reserve tank every time you fill the fuel tank. See page
Check the
132
−
Brakes and clutch fluid level monthly. See page
Check the
178
−
−
Tires
Check the tire pressure
monthly. Examine the tread for
wear and foreign objects. See page
189
−
Check the operation of
Lights the headlights, parking lights, taillights, high-mount brake light, and license plate lights monthly. See page
179
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167
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Maintenance Minder
Symbol
Maintenance Main Items
Replace engine oil * Replace engine oil and oil filter Inspect front and rear brakes Check parking brake adjustment Inspect these items:
Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and boots Suspension components Driveshaft boots Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system # Fuel lines and connections # Check expiration date for tire sealant bottle *
*
1 :
If the message ‘‘SERVICE’’ does not appear more than 12 months after the display is reset, change the engine oil every year.
*
2 : CR models
See information on maintenance and emissions warranty on page
167
Independent of the maintenance messages in the information display, replace the brake fluid every 3 years. Inspect idle speed every 160,000 miles (256,000 km). Adjust the valves during services A, B, 1, 2, or 3 if they are noisy.
#
NOTE:
168
Symbol
Maintenance Sub Items
Check tire inflation and condition Replace air cleaner element
If you drive in dusty conditions, replace every 15,000
miles (24,000 km).
Replace dust and pollen filter
If you drive primarily in urban areas that have high
concentrations of soot in the air from industry and
from diesel-powered vehicles, replace every 15,000
miles (24,000 km).
Inspect drive belt Replace transmission fluid Replace spark plugs Inspect valve clearance Replace engine coolant Replace rear differential fluid
Driving in mountainous areas results in higher level of mechanical (shear) stress to fluid. This requires differential fluid changes more frequently than recommended by the maintenance minder. If you regularly drive your vehicle under these conditions, have the differential fluid changed every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
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ENGINE OIL FILL CAP
WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)
ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Black handle)
Fluid Locations
CLUTCH FLUID (Gray cap)
BRAKE FLUID (Black cap)
ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR
RADIATOR CAP
169
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Adding Engine Oil
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.
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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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