2009 Honda S2000 Owners Manual

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.

2009 S2000 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 (if equipped) 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 (if equipped) system becomes less than usual.

Audio Antenna (If equipped)

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.

185

2009 S2000 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.

186

2009 S2000 BLADE

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.

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.

Wiper Blades

187

2009 S2000 Wheels, Tires

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

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

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.

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.

Your vehicle is equipped with high performance summer tires. These tires have a high-traction compound and tread pattern to provide superior acceleration, cornering, and stopping under most driving conditions.

However, these tires are not suitable for driving on snow or ice, so all- season or winter tires must be installed for winter driving conditions.

See page

194

for

Winter Driving.

188

2009 S2000 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 vehicle ride more harshly, are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warns you when a tire pressure is low. See page more information.

154

for

Even though your vehicle is equipped with TPMS, 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.

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 spare tire at the same time.

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

190

Tires

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 get 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.

189

2009 S2000 Tires

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

Front:

Tire Size

215/45R17 87W

Rear: ExceptCRmodels

Tire Size

245/40R17 91W

CRmodels Tire Size

255/40R17 94W

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

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

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

ExceptCRmodels The compact spare tire pressure is: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

190

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

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

For additional information about your tires, see page

238

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

Bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if you find either of these conditions.

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

Excessive tread wear.

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.

2009 S2000 Tire Service Life The service life of your tires is dependent on many factors, including, but not limited to, driving habits, road conditions, vehicle loading, inflation pressure, maintenance history, speed, and environmental conditions (even when the tires are not in use).

In addition to your regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance, it is recommended that you have annual inspections performed once the tires reach five years old. It is also recommended that all tires, including the spare, be removed from service after 10 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their condition or state of wear.

The last four digits of the TIN (tire identification number) are found on the sidewall of the tire and indicate Tire the date of manufacture (See Labeling

on page

238

).

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.

191

2009 S2000 Tires

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.

192

The mileage you can expect from your vehicle tires is the same as 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

168

).

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.

2009 S2000 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.

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.

If you ever replace a wheel, make sure that the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheels.

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

Also be sure you use only TPMS specific wheels. If you do not, the tire pressure monitoring system will not work on that tire.

Replacement wheels are available at your dealer.

Tires

Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheels: Front:

17 x 7 J

Rear:

17 x 8 1/2 J

Tires:

Front:

215/45R17 87W

Rear: ExceptCRmodels

245/40R17 91W

CRmodels

255/40R17 94W

236

for information about

See page DOT Tire Quality Grading, and page 238
information.

for tire size and labeling

193

2009 S2000 Tires

Winter Driving Your vehicle is equipped with summer tires. Be aware that these tires are not designed for winter driving conditions.

＋

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.

194

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. For more information on snow tires, consult your dealer.

TireChains CRmodelsonly Your vehicle’s tires are not suitable for mounting any traction device.

ExceptCRmodels Mount tire chains on your tires when required by driving conditions or local laws. Install them only on the rear tires.

Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, Honda strongly recommends using the chains listed below.

U.S.S2000model Cable-type: Security Chain Company (SCC) Radial Chain SC1034

Canadianmodel Cable-type: RUD 48493

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.

2009 S2000 Using the wrong chains, or not properly installing chains, can damage the brake lines and cause a crash in which you can be seriously injured or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding the selection and use of tire chains.

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

195

2009 S2000 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.

Checking the Battery

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW Check the condition of the battery monthly by looking at the test indicator window. The label on the battery explains the test indicator’s colors.

196

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

56

If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected, or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio, 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 123

).

2009 S2000 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.

Checking the Battery

197

2009 S2000 Vehicle Storage

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.

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.

198

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.

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).

Disconnect the battery.

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.

2009 S2000 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 Repairing 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

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

Fuse Locations Emergency Towing If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

Checking and Replacing

. 200
. 201
. 206
. 212
. 214
. 215
. 218
. 218
. 219
. 220
. 221
. 222
. 223
. 226
. 228
. 228

199

2009 S2000 Compact Spare Tire

ExceptCRmodels 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 )

Follow these precautions:

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.

200

Do not use your compact spare tire on another vehicle unless it is the same make and model.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

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

201

).

The low tire pressure indicator comes on and stays on after you replace the flat tire with the compact spare tire. After several miles (kilometers) driving with the compact spare tire, the TPMS indicator comes on and the low tire pressure indicator goes off.

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 same wheel. The spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the spare wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.

2009 S2000 ExceptCRmodels 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.

CRmodels Your vehicle is equipped with the tire repair kit instead of the spare tire. This kit is available for easy 206
repair of a flat tire (see page

).

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

201

2009 S2000 Changing a Flat Tire

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

CLIPS

SPARE TIRE COVER

4.

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

JACKING POINT

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.

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.

202

2009 S2000 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

203

2009 S2000 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)

204

2009 S2000 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

TOOL BOX

SPARE TIRE COVER

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.

18.

Your vehicle’s original tire has a tire pressure monitoring system sensor. To replace a tire, refer to Changing a Tire with TPMS page

155

).

(see

205

2009 S2000 If you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place, set the parking brake, and thoroughly examine the tire for a puncture or other damage.

If a puncture is wider than 3/16ths of an inch (4 mm), or outside of the tire tread, do not attempt to repair the tire. Have your vehicle towed to a Honda service center.

If the damage is smaller than 3/16ths of an inch (4 mm) and within the tire tread, proceed with the following instructions.

TIRE VALVE

VALVE CAP

1.

Position the vehicle so the tire valve on the flat tire is at the top of the wheel, then remove the tire valve cap.

Repairing a Flat Tire

How to Use the Tire Repair Kit CRmodelsonly To reduce weight, your vehicle is equipped with a tire repair kit instead of a spare tire. This kit will allow you to temporarily repair a flat tire under the following conditions:

Only one tire is flat.

The puncture is smaller than 3/16ths of an inch (4 mm).

The puncture is located within the tread.

The wheel rim is not damaged.

When making a temporary repair, carefully follow all instructions in this owner’s manual and in the instructions that came with the kit.

206

2009 S2000 TOOL BOX LID

TIRE REPAIR KIT

2.

Open the trunk and remove the tire repair kit.

Repairing a Flat Tire

Your tire repair kit contains:

An air pump with a power cord and an air hose attached.

A bottle of sealant with a filler hose attached.

Two labels, one for the tire wheel and one for the instrument panel.

An instruction sheet.

EXPIRATION DATE

3.

Remove the sealant bottle and check the expiration date on the label. If the date has expired, do not continue. Have your vehicle towed to the nearest Honda service center.

If the date has not expired, shake the bottle thoroughly and proceed to step 4.

CONTINUED

207

2009 S2000 Repairing a Flat Tire

BOTTLE HOSE

TIRE VALVE

BOTTLE CAP ADAPTER

PLUG

AIR PUMP

BOTTLE CAP

4.

Screw the sealant filler hose onto the tire valve. Make sure the bottle remains upright to ensure all of the sealant flows into the tire.

AIR PUMP HOSE

ACCESSORY SOCKET

5.

Unscrew the bottle cap from the bottle adapter.

6.

Remove the air pump from the repair kit, then screw the air pump hose onto the bottle adapter. Make sure the hose is secure.

7.

Route the power cord into the vehicle, and insert the plug into the accessory power socket.

8.

Turn the ignition switch to the ACCESSORY (I) position.

208

2009 S2000 AIR PUMP SWITCH

AIR PRESSURE GAUGE

OFF

ON

DEFLATE BUTTON

overheat.

11.

Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position.

12.

Remove the sealant bottle hose from the tire valve, then reinstall the tire valve cap.

9.

Turn the air pump switch ON. The air pressure gauge will show 40 to 60 psi for the first few minutes, then the pressure will go down to about 10 to 20 psi.

10.

Inflate the tire to 32 psi, then turn the air pump switch OFF. If the air pressure exceeds 32 psi, push the deflate button until the pressure reaches the recommended level. Do not use the air pump for more than 15 minutes, or the pump may

Repairing a Flat Tire

13.

Push the deflate button on the air pump until the air pressure gauge shows 0 psi.

CONTINUED

209

2009 S2000 Repairing a Flat Tire

LABEL

18.

Begin driving at no more than 50
mph (80 km/h).

19.

After 10 minutes, stop safely and use the air pump to check the pressure in the tire (see page

207

20.

Your vehicle’s tire has a tire pressure monitoring system sensor. To repair a tire with the tire repair kit, refer to a Tire with TPMS

Repairing 156

(see page

WHEEL LABEL

14.

Remove the wheel label from the repair kit and attach it to the center of the wheel.

15.

Remove the instrument panel label from the repair kit and place it as shown above.

16.

Remove the power plug from the accessory power socket.

17.

Return all items except the air pump to the repair kit, and store the kit in the tool box. Keep the air pump handy as you will need it soon.

210

).

).

2009 S2000 VALVE CAP

TIRE VALVE

AIR PUMP HOSE

Remove the tire valve cap, screw the air pump hose onto the tire valve, and check the air gauge. (You do not need to attach the power cord or turn the air pump switch on.)

Repairing a Flat Tire

If the pressure is at 32 psi, continue driving to the nearest service station.

If the pressure is lower than 32 psi and higher than 19 psi, use the air pump to bring air to the desired level as described in step 10. Then drive to the nearest service station.

In any case, be sure to have the damaged tire permanently repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Remember to return the tire sealant bottle to your Honda service center for proper disposal.

If the pressure is below 19 psi, do not continue. Have the vehicle towed (see page

228

).

211

2009 S2000 Press the ENGINE START button, then release it. If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses. If the fuses are OK, there is probably something wrong with the electrical circuit for the ignition switch or starter motor. You will need a qualified mechanic to determine the problem. (See Emergency Towing

on page

228

.)

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.

212

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

214

2009 S2000 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 ).

196

214

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 ).

63

Are you using the proper starting Starting the procedure? Refer to Engine 146

on page

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

If the Engine Won’t Start

There may be an electrical problem, such as no power to the fuel pump. Check all the fuses (see page

222

).

If you find nothing wrong, you will need a qualified mechanic to find the problem. See on page 228

Emergency Towing

213

2009 S2000 Jump Starting

Although this seems like a simple procedure, you should take several precautions.

A battery can explode if you do not follow the correct procedure, seriously injuring anyone nearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away from the battery.

214

To jump start your vehicle:

1.

Open the hood, and check the physical condition of the battery. In very cold weather, check the condition of the electrolyte. If it seems slushy or frozen, do not try jump starting until it thaws.

If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can f reeze. Attempting to jump start with a f rozen battery can cause it to rupture.

2.

Turn off all the electrical accessories: heater, A/C, audio system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in neutral, and set the parking brake.

The numbers in the illustrations show you the order to connect the jumper cables.

3.

＋

) terminal on your

Connect one jumper cable to the positive ( battery. Connect the other end to the positive ( ) terminal on the ＋ booster battery.

2009 S2000 Jump Starting, If the Engine Overheats

5.

6.

7.

If the booster battery is in another vehicle, have an assistant start that vehicle and run it at a fast idle.

Start your vehicle. If the starter motor still operates slowly, check that the jumper cables have good metal-to-metal contact.

Once your vehicle is running, disconnect the negative cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery.

Keep the ends of the jumper cables away from each other and any metal on the vehicle until everything is disconnected. Otherwise, you may cause an electrical short.

If the Engine Overheats The reading on your vehicle’s temperature gauge should stay in the midrange under most conditions. If it reaches the red mark, you should determine the reason (hot day, driving up a steep hill, etc.).

If your vehicle overheats, you should take immediate action. The only indication may be the temperature gauge reading reaching the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the hood.

Driving with the temperature gauge reading at the red mark can cause serious damage to your engine.

CONTINUED

215

4.

−

Connect the second jumper cable to the negative ( ) terminal on the booster battery. Connect the other end to the boss on the intake manifold as shown. Do not connect this jumper cable to any other part of the engine.

2009 S2000 If the Engine Overheats

Steam and spray from an overheated engine can seriously scald you.

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

216

1.

2.

3.

Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in neutral, and set the parking brake. Turn off the all accessories, and turn on the hazard warning lights.

If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn off the engine. Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood.

If you do not see steam or spray, leave the engine running and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading, the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the temperature gauge comes down to the midpoint, then continue driving.

4.

If the temperature gauge stays at the red mark, turn off the engine.

5.

6.

Look for any obvious coolant leaks, such as a split radiator hose. Everything is still extremely hot, so use caution. If you find a leak, it must be repaired before you Emergency continue driving (see Towing ). 228

on page

If you don’t find an obvious leak, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Add coolant if the level is below the MIN mark (see on page

Adding Engine Coolant 173

).

2009 S2000 7.

If there was no coolant in the reserve tank, you may need to add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the reading reaches the middle of the temperature gauge or lower before checking the radiator.

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.

8.

9.

Using gloves or a large heavy cloth, turn the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pushing down, to the first stop. After the pressure releases, push down on the cap, and turn it until it comes off.

Start the engine, and set the temperature control dial to maximum heat. Add coolant to the radiator up to the base of the filler neck. If you do not have the proper coolant mixture available, you can add plain water. Remember to have the cooling system drained and refilled with the proper mixture as soon as you can.

If the Engine Overheats

10.

Put the radiator cap back on tightly. Run the engine, and check the temperature gauge. If it goes back to the red mark, the engine needs repair (see Towing on page

Emergency 228

).

11.

If the temperature stays normal, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. If it has gone down, add coolant to the MAX mark. Put the cap back on tightly.

217

2009 S2000 Low Oil Pressure Indicator, Charging System Indicator

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

This indicator should never come on when the engine is running. If it starts flashing or stays on, the oil pressure has dropped very low or lost pressure. Serious engine damage is possible, and you should take immediate action.

Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical damage almost immediately. Turn of f the engine as soon as you can saf ely get the vehicle stopped.

1.

2.

3.

4.

218

Safely pull off the road and shut off the engine. Turn on the hazard warning lights.

Let the vehicle sit for a minute. Open the hood, and check the oil level (see page ). An engine very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.

131

If necessary, add oil to bring the level back to the full mark on the dipstick (see page

170

).

Start the engine, and watch the oil pressure indicator. If it does not go out within 10 seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving (see 228

Emergency Towing ).

on page

Charging System Indicator

If the charging system indicator comes on brightly when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged.

Immediately turn off all electrical accessories. Try not to use other electrically operated controls such as the power windows. Keep the engine running; starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly.

Go to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.

2009 S2000 If this indicator comes on while driving, it means one

of the engine’s emissions control systems may have a problem. Even though you may feel no difference in your vehicle’s performance, it can reduce your fuel economy and cause increased emissions. Continued operation may cause serious damage.

If you have recently refueled your vehicle, the indicator coming on could be due to a loose or missing fuel fill cap. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK FUEL CAP’’ message on the information display. Tighten the cap until it clicks at least once. Tightening the cap will not turn the indicator off immediately; it can take several days of normal driving.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

If the indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may go off as you continue driving, have your vehicle checked by a dealer as soon as possible.

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

To check if they are set, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, without starting the engine. The malfunction indicator lamp will come on for 20 seconds. If it then goes off, the readiness codes are set. If it blinks five times, the readiness codes are not set. If possible, do not take your vehicle for an emissions test until the readiness codes are set. Emissions Testing Refer to more information (see page

for 245

).

If you keep driving with the malf unction indicator lamp on, you can damage your vehicle’s emissions controls and engine. Those repairs may not be covered by your vehicle’s warranties.

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

219

2009 S2000 Brake System Indicator

U.S.

Canada

The brake system indicator normally comes on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and as a reminder to check the parking brake. It will stay on if you do not fully release the parking brake.

If the brake system indicator comes on while driving, the brake fluid level is probably low. Press lightly on the brake pedal to see if it feels normal. If it does, check the brake fluid level the next time you stop at a service station (see page

178

).

If the fluid level is low, take your vehicle to a dealer, and have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

220

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

Slow down by shifting to a lower gear, and pull to the side of the road when it is safe. Because of the long distance needed to stop, it is hazardous to drive the vehicle. You should have it towed and repaired as soon as possible (see Towing 228

Emergency ).

on page

If you must drive the vehicle a short distance in this condition, drive slowly and carefully.

2009 S2000 ExceptCRmodels If the electric motor will not close the convertible top, do the following.

1.

2.

Check the fuse for the convertible top motor (see page