2005 Element Online Reference Owner's Manual …techinfo.honda.com/rjanisis/pubs/OM/AH/AEL0505OM/enu/EL0505OM.pdf2005 Element Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links

2005 Element Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com. Contents

Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i A Few Words About Safety ................................................................................................................. ii

Your Vehicle at a Glance .....................................................................................................................4Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................7 Seat belts, SRS, and child protectionInstruments and Controls ................................................................................................................. 51Indicators, gauges, dashboard, and steering columnFeatures ..............................................................................................................................................89Climate, audio, steering wheel, security, cruise control, and HomeLinkBefore Driving.................................................................................................................................. 121Fuel, vehicle break-in, and cargo loadingDriving .............................................................................................................................................. 135Engine and transmission operationMaintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 161Schedules, fluid checking, minor services, and vehicle storage

Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 195Flat tire, dead battery, overheating, fusesTechnical Information..................................................................................................................... 219Vehicle specifications, tires, fuels, and emissions controlsWarranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 233Warranty and contact informationAuthorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 237How to orderIndex...................................................................................................................................................... I

Service Information Summary Fluid capacities and tire pressures

Owner's Identification Form

This owner’s manual covers allmodels of the Element. You may finddescriptions of equipment andfeatures that are not on yourparticular model.

The information and specificationsincluded in this publication were ineffect at the time of approval forprinting. Honda Motor Co., Ltd.reserves the right, however, todiscontinue or change specificationsor design at any time without noticeand without incurring any obligationwhatsoever.

This owner’s manual should beconsidered a permanent part of thevehicle and should remain with thevehicle when it is sold.

Owner’s Identif ication

OWNER

ADDRESS

V. I. N.

DELIVERY DATE

DEALER NAME DEALER NO.

ADDRESS

OWNER’S SIGNATURE

DEALER’S SIGNATURE

STREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/POSTAL CODE

(Date sold to original retail purchaser)

STREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/POSTAL CODE

Congratulations! Your selection of a 2005 Honda Element was a wiseinvestment. It will give you years of driving pleasure.

California Proposition 65 Warning

This product containsor emits chemicals known to theState of California to cause cancerand birth defects or otherreproductive harm.

Event Data Recorders

This vehicle is equipped with one ormore recording devices commonlyreferred to as event data recordersor sensing and diagnostic modules.

One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new vehicle is toread this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls andconvenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner’s manual in your vehicle soyou can refer to it at any time.

Several warranties protect your new vehicle. Read the warranty bookletthoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rightsand responsibilities.

Maintaining your vehicle according to the schedules given in this manualhelps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment.When your vehicle needs maintenance, keep in mind that your dealer’s staffis specially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your vehicle.Your dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answerany questions and concerns.

As you read this manual, you willfind information that is preceded bya symbol. Thisinformation is intended to help youavoid damage to your vehicle, otherproperty, or the environment.

Introduction

WARNING:

i

－－

－

－－

－

Your safety, and the safety of others,is very important. And operating thisvehicle safely is an importantresponsibility.

To help you make informeddecisions about safety, we haveprovided operating procedures andother information on labels and inthis manual. This information alertsyou to potential hazards that couldhurt you or others.

Of course, it is not practical orpossible to warn you about all thehazards associated with operating ormaintaining your vehicle. You mustuse your own good judgement.

You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms,including:

on the vehicle.preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of

three signal words: , , or .

such as Important Safety Reminders or ImportantSafety Precautions.

such as Driver and Passenger Safety.how to use this vehicle correctly and safely.

This entire book is filled with important safety information please read itcarefully.

These signal words mean:

A Few Words About Safety

Safety LabelsSafety Messages

Safety Headings

Safety SectionInstructions

DANGER WARNING CAUTION

ii

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLYHURT if you don’t follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLYHURT if you don’t follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don’t followinstructions.

Your Element has higher ground clearance than a passenger vehicle designed for use only on pavement. Higherground clearance has many advantages for off-highway driving. It allows you to travel over bumps, obstacles, andrough terrain. It also provides good visibility so you can anticipate problems earlier.

These advantages come at some cost. Because your vehicle is taller and rides higher off the ground, it has a highcenter of gravity. This means your vehicle can tip or roll over if you make abrupt turns. Utility vehicles have asignificantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles. In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantlymore likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt. As a reminder, make sure you and your passengers always wearseat belts.

For information on how to reduce the risk of rollover, read ‘‘Driving Guidelines’’ on page of this manual and thesection on page . Failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control

or an accident.

136159Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

Important Handling Information

iii

Your Vehicle at a Glance

4

POWER DOORLOCK SWITCH

MIRROR CONTROLSGAUGES

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES

A/T model is shown.

HOOD RELEASEHANDLE

INSTRUMENT PANEL

HEATING/COOLINGCONTROLS

PARKING BRAKE

(P.70)

(P.81)

(P.82) (P.58)

(P.90)

(P.83)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONMANUAL TRANSMISSION

(P.53) AIRBAGS

(P.125)

(P.11, 23)

(P.141)(P.139)

＊

＊

To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.:

Your Vehicle at a GlanceY

ourV

ehicleata

Glance

5

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS

REAR WINDOWDEFOGGER

A/T model is shown.

HORNHAZARD WARNINGBUTTON

STEERING WHEEL ADJUSTMENT

AUDIO SYSTEMWINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS

DIGITAL CLOCK

(P.64)

(P.63)

(P.63)

(P.94)(P.61)(P.62)

(P.117)

CRUISE CONTROL BUTTONS

CRUISE CONTROLMASTER BUTTON(P.119)

(P.119)

6

－

This section gives you importantinformation about how to protectyourself and your passengers. Itshows you how to use seat belts. Itexplains how your airbags work. Andit tells you how to properly restraininfants and children in your vehicle.

.........Important Safety Precautions . 8.......Your Vehicle’s Safety Features . 9

.....................................Seat Belts . 10.........................................Airbags . 11

.........Protecting Adults and Teens . 12.....1. Close and Lock the Doors . 12

...........2. Adjust the Front Seats . 12............3. Adjust the Seat-Backs . 14

...4. Adjust the Head Restraints . 155. Fasten and Position the

............................Seat Belts . 156. Maintain a Proper Sitting

................................Position . 17.....Advice for Pregnant Women . 18

...Additional Safety Precautions . 19Additional Information About Your

.................................Seat Belts . 20..Seat Belt System Components . 20

......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 20Automatic Seat Belt

...............................Tensioners . 21...............Seat Belt Maintenance . 21

Additional Information About Your.....................................Airbags . 23

......Airbag System Components . 23How Your Front Airbags

.........................................Work . 24...How Your Side Airbags Work . 26

How the SRS Indicator.......................................Works . 27

How the Side Airbag Cutoff......................Indicator Works . 28

.............................Airbag Service . 28...Additional Safety Precautions . 29

Protecting Children General................................Guidelines . 30

All Children Must Be...............................Restrained . 30

All Children Should Sit in a.................................Back Seat . 31

The Passenger’s Front Airbag...............Poses Serious Risks . 31

If You Must Drive with Several...................................Children . 33

If a Child Requires Close..................................Attention . 33

...Additional Safety Precautions . 34Protecting Infants and

.........................Small Children . 35.......................Protecting Infants . 35

.........Protecting Small Children . 36.....................Selecting a Child Seat . 37....................Installing a Child Seat . 38

...............................With LATCH . 39..........................With a Seat Belt . 41

..............................With a Tether . 43...........Protecting Larger Children . 44

...............Checking Seat Belt Fit . 44..................Using a Booster Seat . 45

When Can a Larger Child Sit in.........................................Front . 45

...Additional Safety Precautions . 46.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 47

...................................Safety Labels . 48

Driver and Passenger SafetyD

riverand

Passenger

Safety

7

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You’ll find many safetyrecommendations throughout thissection, and throughout this manual.The recommendations on this pageare the ones we consider to be themost important.

A seat belt is your best protection inall types of collisions. Airbags aredesigned to supplement seat belts,not replace them. So even thoughyour vehicle is equipped with airbags,make sure you and your passengersalways wear your seat belts, andwear them properly (see page ).

Having a tire blowout or amechanical failure can be extremelyhazardous. To reduce the possibilityof such problems, check your tirepressures and condition frequently,and perform all regularly scheduledmaintenance (see page ).

Excessive speed is a major factor incrash injuries and deaths. Generally,the higher the speed, the greater therisk, but serious injuries can alsooccur at lower speeds. Never drivefaster than is safe for currentconditions, regardless of themaximum speed posted.

Alcohol and driving don’t mix. Evenone drink can reduce your ability torespond to changing conditions, andyour reaction time gets worse with

every additional drink. So don’t drinkand drive, and don’t let your friendsdrink and drive, either.

While airbags can save lives, theycan cause serious or fatal injuries tooccupants who sit too close to them,or are not properly restrained.Infants, young children, and shortadults are at the greatest risk. Besure to follow all instructions andwarnings in this manual.

Children age 12 and under shouldride properly restrained in a backseat. Infants and small childrenshould be restrained in a child seat.Larger children should use a boosterseat and a lap/shoulder belt untilthey can use the belt properlywithout a booster (see pages

).

15

163

4630

Important Safety Precautions

Always Wear Your Seat Belt

Keep Your Vehicle in SafeCondition

Control Your Speed

Don’t Drink and Drive

Be Aware of Airbag Hazards

Restrain All Children

8

Your vehicle is equipped with manyfeatures that work together toprotect you and your passengersduring a crash.

Some features do not require anyaction on your part. These include astrong steel framework that forms asafety cage around the passengercompartment; front and rear crushzones; a collapsible steering column;and tensioners that tighten the frontseat belts in a crash.

However, you and your passengerscan’t take full advantage of thesefeatures unless you remain sitting ina proper position and

. In fact, some safetyfeatures can contribute to injuries ifthey are not used properly.

The following pages explain how youcan take an active role in protectingyourself and your passengers.

Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

always wearyour seat belts

Driver

andP

assengerSafety

9

(9)(2)

(6)

(4)(3)

(1)

(7)

(5)

(2)

(10) (8)

(8)

(1) Safety Cage(2) Crush Zones(3) Seats and Seat-Backs(4) Head Restraints(5) Collapsible Steering Column(6) Seat Belts(7) Front Airbags(8) Side Airbags

(standard on EX model)(9)Front Seat Belt Tensioners(10) Door Locks

Your vehicle is equipped with seatbelts in all seating positions.

Your seat belt system also includesan indicator on the instrument panelto remind you and your passengersto fasten your seat belts.

Seat belts are the single mosteffective safety device for adults andlarger children. (Infants and smallerchildren must be properly restrainedin child seats.)

Not wearing a seat belt properlyincreases the chance of seriousinjury or death in a crash, eventhough your vehicle has airbags.

In addition, most states and allCanadian provinces require you towear seat belts.

When properly worn, seat belts:

Keep you connected to the vehicleso you can take advantage of thevehicle’s built-in safety features.

Help protect you in almost everytype of crash, including frontal,side, and rear impacts androllovers.

Help keep you from being thrownagainst the inside of the vehicleand against other occupants.

Keep you from being thrown outof the vehicle.

Help keep you in a good positionshould the airbags ever deploy. Agood position reduces the risk ofinjury from an inflating airbag andallows you to get the bestadvantage from the airbag.

Of course, seat belts cannotcompletely protect you in everycrash. But in most cases, seat beltscan reduce your risk of seriousinjury.

Always wear your seat belt, andmake sure you wear it properly.


Seat Belts

Why Wear Seat Belts

What You Should Do:

10

Not wearing a seat belt properlyincreases the chance of seriousinjury or death in a crash, eventhough your vehicle has airbags.

Be sure you and yourpassengers always wear seatbelts and wear them properly.

The most important things you needto know about your airbags are:

Your vehicle also has side airbags tohelp protect the upper torso of thedriver or a front seat passengerduring a moderate to severe sideimpact (see page for moreinformation on how your side airbagswork).

Always wearyour seat belt properly, and situpright, and as far back from thesteering wheel while allowing fullcontrol of the vehicle. A frontpassenger should move their seat asfar back from the dashboard aspossible.

To dotheir job, airbags must inflate withtremendous force. So whileairbags help save lives, they cancause minor injuries or moreserious or even fatal injuries ifoccupants are not properlyrestrained or sitting properly.

They are designed to supplementthe seat belts.

Your vehicle has a supplementalrestraint system (SRS) with frontairbags to help protect the heads andchests of the driver and a front seatpassenger during a moderate tosevere frontal collision (see page

for more information on howyour front airbags work).24

26

Standard on EX models

Airbags


What you should do:

Airbags can pose hazards.

Airbags offer no protection in rearimpacts, or minor frontal or sidecollisions.

Airbags do not replace seat belts. Driver

andP

assengerSafety

11

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The rest of this section gives moredetailed information about how youcan maximize your safety.

After everyone has entered thevehicle, be sure the doors are closedand locked.

Adjust the driver’s seat as far to therear as possible while allowing you tomaintain full control of the vehicle.Have a front passenger adjust theirseat as far to the rear as possible.

If you sit too close to the steeringwheel or dashboard, you can beseriously injured by an inflating frontairbag, or by striking the steeringwheel or dashboard.

See pages for importantguidelines on how to properlyprotect infants, small children, andlarger children who ride in yourvehicle.

The following pages provideinstructions on how to properlyprotect the driver, adult passengers,and teenage children who are largeenough and mature enough to driveor ride in the front.

See page for how to lock thedoors, and page for how the doormonitor indicator works.

Locking the doors also helps preventan outsider from unexpectedlyopening a door when you come to astop.

Your vehiclehas a door

monitor indicator on the instrumentpanel to indicate when a specificdoor or the tailgate or the hatch isnot tightly closed.

Locking the doors reduces thechance of someone being thrown outof the vehicle during a crash and ithelps prevent passengers fromaccidentally opening and falling out.

Remember, however, that no safetysystem can prevent all injuries ordeaths that can occur in a severecrash, even when seat belts areproperly worn and the airbags deploy.

30 46

7057

Close and Lock the Doors Adjust the Front Seats

Introduction

1. 2.

Protecting Adults and Teens

12

The National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration and TransportCanada recommend that driversallow at least 10 inches (25 cm)between the center of the steeringwheel and the chest.

If you cannot get far enough awayfrom the steering wheel and stillreach the controls, we recommendthat you investigate whether sometype of adaptive equipment may help.

Once your seat is adjusted correctly,rock it back and forth to make surethe seat is locked into position. Seepage for how to adjust the frontseats.

73

Protecting Adults and TeensD

riverand

Passenger

Safety

13

Sitting too close to a frontairbag can result in seriousinjury or death if the frontairbags inflate.

Always sit as far back from thefront airbags as possible.

Adjust the driver’s seat-back to acomfortable, upright position,leaving ample space between yourchest and the airbag cover in thecenter of the steering wheel.

Passengers with adjustable seat-backs should also adjust their seat-back to a comfortable, uprightposition.

Reclining a seat-back so that theshoulder part of the belt no longerrests against the occupant’s chestreduces the protective capability ofthe belt. It also increases the chanceof sliding under the belt in a crashand being seriously injured. Thefarther a seat-back is reclined, thegreater the risk of injury.

See page for how to adjust theseat-backs.

73

Adjust the Seat-Backs3.


14

Reclining the seat-back too farcan result in serious injury ordeath in a crash.

Adjust the seat-back to anupright position, and sit wellback in the seat.

Adjust the driver’s head restraint sothe back of your head rests againstthe center of the restraint.

Have passengers with adjustablehead restraints adjust their restraintsproperly as well. Taller personsshould adjust their restraint as highas possible.

Properly adjusted head restraintswill help protect occupants fromwhiplash and other crash injuries.

See page for how to adjust thehead restraints.

Insert the latch plate into the buckle,then tug on the belt to make sure thebelt is securely latched. Also checkthat the belt is not twisted, because atwisted belt can cause seriousinjuries in a crash.

75

CONTINUED

Adjust the Head Restraints Fasten and Position the SeatBelts

4. 5.


riverand

Passenger

Safety

15

Improperly positioning headrestraints reduces theireffectiveness and you can beseriously injured in a crash.

Make sure head restraints arein place and positioned properlybefore driving.

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

The front seats have adjustable seatbelt anchors. To adjust the height ofan anchor, press and hold the releasebuttons and slide the anchor up ordown as needed (it has fourpositions).

If necessary, pull up on the belt againto remove any slack, then check thatthe belt rests across the center ofyour chest and over your shoulder.This spreads the forces of a crashover the strongest bones in yourupper body.

If the seat belt touches or crossesyour neck, or if it crosses your arminstead of your shoulder, you need toadjust the seat belt anchor height.


16

RELEASEBUTTONS

Improperly positioning the seatbelts can cause serious injuryor death in a crash.

Make sure all seat belts areproperly positioned beforedriving.

If a seat belt does not seem to workproperly, it may not protect theoccupant in a crash.

This could causevery serious injuries in a crash.

After all occupants have adjustedtheir seats and put on seat belts, it isvery important that they continue tosit upright, well back in their seats,with their feet on the floor, until thevehicle is parked and the engine isoff.

Sitting improperly can increase thechance of injury during a crash. Forexample, if an occupant slouches,lies down, turns sideways, sitsforward, leans forward or sideways,or puts one or both feet up, thechance of injury during a crash isgreatly increased.

See page for additionalinformation about your seat beltsand how to take care of them.

Using a seatbelt that is not working properly canresult in serious injury or death.Have your dealer check the belt assoon as possible.

20

CONTINUED

Never place the shoulder portion of alap/shoulder belt under your arm orbehind your back.

No one should sit in a seat with aninoperative seat belt.

Maintain a Proper SittingPosition

6.


riverand

Passenger

Safety

17

If you are pregnant, the best way toprotect yourself and your unbornchild when driving or riding in avehicle is to always wear a seat belt,and keep the lap part of the belt aslow as possible across the hips.

When driving, remember to situpright and adjust the seat as farback as possible while allowing fullcontrol of the vehicle. When ridingas a front passenger, adjust the seatas far back as possible.

This will reduce the risk of injuriesto both you and your unborn childthat can be caused by a crash or aninflating front airbag.

Each time you have a checkup, askyour doctor if it’s okay for you todrive.

In addition, an occupant who is out ofposition in the front seat can beseriously or fatally injured in a crashby striking interior parts of thevehicle or being struck by aninflating front airbag.

Advice for Pregnant Women


18

Sitting improperly or out ofposition can result in seriousinjury or death in a crash.

Always sit upright, well back inthe seat, with your feet on thefloor.

If a side airbaginflates, a cup holder or other hardobject attached on or near thedoor could be propelled inside thevehicle and hurt someone.

If yourhands or arms are close to anairbag cover, they could be injuredif the front airbag inflates.

Devices intended to improveoccupant comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt canseverely compromise theprotective capability of the seatbelt and increase the chance ofserious injury in a crash.

Carrying hard or sharpobjects on your lap, or driving witha pipe or other sharp object inyour mouth, can result in injuriesif your front airbag inflates.

If they do, theycould be very seriously injured in acrash.

A passenger who is notwearing a seat belt during a crashor emergency stop can be thrownagainst the inside of the vehicle,against other occupants, or out ofthe vehicle.


Objects onthe covers marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG’’could interfere with the properoperation of the airbags. Or, if theairbags inflate, the objects couldbe propelled inside the vehicle andhurt someone.

Additional Safety Precautions

On models with side airbags, donot attach hard objects on or neara front door.

Keep your hands and arms awayfrom the airbag covers.

Do not put any accessories on seatbelts.

Do not place hard or sharp objectsbetween yourself and a frontairbag.

Never let passengers ride in thecargo area or on top of a folded-down back seat.

Passengers should not stand up orchange seats while the vehicle ismoving.

Two people should never use thesame seat belt.

Do not attach or place objects onthe front airbag covers.


riverand

Passenger

Safety

19

The seat belt systemincludes an indicator on the

instrument panel and a beeper toremind you to fasten your seat belt.

To fasten the belt, insert the latchplate into the buckle, then tug on thebelt to make sure the buckle islatched (see page for how toproperly position the belt).

To unlock the belt, push the redPRESS button on the buckle. Guidethe belt across your body so that itretracts completely. After exiting thevehicle, be sure the belt is out of theway and will not get closed in thedoor.

All seat belts have an emergencylocking retractor. In normal driving,the retractor lets you move freely inyour seat while it keeps sometension on the belt. During a collisionor sudden stop, the retractorautomatically locks the belt to help

restrain your body.

The seat belts in all positions exceptthe driver’s have an additionallocking mechanism that must beactivated to secure a child seat (seepage ).

If the shoulder part of the belt ispulled all the way out, the lockingmechanism will activate. The beltwill retract, but it will not allow thepassenger to move freely.

To deactivate the lockingmechanism, unlatch the buckle andlet the seat belt fully retract. Torefasten the seat belt, pull it out onlyas far as needed.

If you turn the ignition to ON (II)before fastening your seat belt, thebeeper will sound and the indicatorwill flash. If you do not fasten yourseat belt before the beeper stops, theindicator will stop flashing butremain on.

If you continue driving withoutfastening your seat belt, the beeperwill sound and the indicator will flashagain at regular intervals.

The lap/shoulder belt goes overyour shoulder, across your chest,and across your hips.

Your seat belt system includes lap/shoulder belts in all four seatingpositions. The front seat belts arealso equipped with automatic seatbelt tensioners.

15

41

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt

20

CONTINUED

For added protection, the front seatbelts are equipped with automaticseat belt tensioners. When activated,the tensioners immediately tightenthe belts to help hold the driver anda front passenger in place.

The tensioners are designed toactivate primarily in frontal collisions,and they should activate in anycollision severe enough to causefront-airbag inflation.

When the tensioners are activated,the seat belts will remain tight untilthey are unbuckled in the normalmanner.

For safety, you should check thecondition of your seat belts regularly.

Pull each belt out fully and look forfrays, cuts, burns, and wear. Checkthat the latches work smoothly andthe belts retract easily. Any belt thatis not in good condition or workingproperly will not provide goodprotection and should be replaced assoon as possible.

The tensioners can also be activatedduring a collision in which the frontairbags do not deploy. In this case,the airbags would not be needed, butthe additional restraint could behelpful.

Honda provides a lifetime warrantyon seat belts for U.S. models. Seeyourbooklet for details.

Honda Warranty Information


Seat Belt MaintenanceAutomatic Seat Belt Tensioners

Driver

andP

assengerSafety

21

If a seat belt is worn during a crash,it must be replaced by the dealer. Abelt that has been worn during acrash may not provide the same levelof protection in a subsequent crash.

The dealer should also inspect theanchors for damage and replacethem if needed. If the automatic seatbelt tensioners activate during acrash, they must be replaced.

For information on how to clean yourseat belts, see page .185


22

Not checking or maintainingseat belts can result in seriousinjury or death if the seat beltsdo not work properly whenneeded.

Check your seat belts regularlyand have any problemcorrected as soon as possible.

Your airbag system includes:

Automatic seat belt tensioners(see page ).

In models with side airbags, onefor the driver and one for a frontpassenger. The airbags are storedin the outer edges of the seat-backs. Both are marked ‘‘SIDEAIRBAG’’ (see page ).

Sensors that can detect amoderate to severe front impact,or side impact in models with sideairbags.

anindicator on the dashboard thatalerts you that the passenger’sside airbag has been turned off(see page ).

Emergency backup power in caseyour vehicle’s electrical system isdisconnected in a crash.

An indicator on the instrumentpanel that alerts you to a possibleproblem with your airbags,sensors, or seat belt tensioners(see page ).

In models with side airbags,sensors that can detect whethera child is in the passenger’s sideairbag path and automaticallyturn the airbag off (see page

).

A sophisticated electronic systemthat continually monitors andrecords information about thesensors, the control unit, theairbag activators, the seat belttensioners, and driver and frontpassenger seat belt use when theignition is in ON (II).

Two SRS (supplemental restraintsystem) front airbags. The driver’sairbag is stored in the center ofthe steering wheel; the frontpassenger’s airbag is stored in thedashboard. Both are marked ‘‘SRSAIRBAG.’’

21

26

27

2826

In models with side airbags,Airbag System Components

Additional Information About Your AirbagsD

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Passenger

Safety

23

After inflating, the front airbagsimmediately deflate, so they won’tinterfere with the driver’s visibility,or the ability to steer or operateother controls.

During a frontal crash, your seat beltrestrains your lower body and torso,and the airbag helps protect yourhead and chest.

Although both airbags normallyinflate within a split second of eachother, it is possible for only oneairbag to deploy.

This can happen if the severity of acollision is at the margin, orthreshold, that determines whetheror not the airbags will deploy. Insuch cases, the seat belt will providesufficient protection, and thesupplemental protection offered bythe airbag would be minimal.

If you ever have a moderate tosevere frontal collision, sensors willdetect the vehicle’s rapiddeceleration.

If the rate of deceleration is highenough, the control unit will instantlyinflate the driver’s and frontpassenger’s airbags, at the time andwith the force needed.

Additional Information About Your Airbags

How Your Front Airbags Work

24

Your front airbags are also dual-threshold airbags. Airbags with thisfeature have two deploymentthresholds that depend on whetheror not the occupant is wearing a seatbelt.

Your front airbags are dual-stageairbags. This means they have twoinflation stages that can be ignitedsequentially or simultaneously,depending on crash severity.

In a crash, both stageswill ignite simultaneously to providethe quickest and greatest protection.

In a crash, one stage willignite first, then the second stagewill ignite a split second later. Thisprovides longer airbag inflation timewith a little less force.

The total time for inflation anddeflation is one-tenth of a second, sofast that most occupants are notaware that the airbags deployed untilthey see them lying in their laps.

After a crash, you may see whatlooks like smoke. This is actuallypowder from the airbag’s surface.Although the powder is not harmful,people with respiratory problemsmay experience some temporarydiscomfort. If this occurs, get out ofthe vehicle as soon as it is safe to doso.

If the occupant’s belt is ,the airbag will deploy at a slightlylower threshold, because theoccupant would need extraprotection.

If the occupant’s belt is , theairbag will deploy at a slightly higherthreshold, when the airbag would beneeded to supplement the protectionprovided by the seat belt.


Dual-Threshold AirbagsDual-Stage Airbags

more severe

less severe

not latched

latched

Driver

andP

assengerSafety

25

Only one airbag will deploy during aside impact. If the impact is on thepassenger’s side, the passenger’sside airbag will deploy even if thereis no passenger.

To get the best protection from theside airbags, front seat occupantsshould wear their seat belts and situpright and well back in their seats.

To reduce the risk of injury from aninflating side airbag, your vehicle hasan automatic cutoff system for thepassenger’s side airbag.

Although Honda does not encouragechildren to ride in front, this systemis designed to shut off the sideairbag if a child leans into the sideairbag’s path.

The side airbag may also shut off if ashort adult leans sideways, or alarger adult slouches and leanssideways into the airbag’sdeployment path.

Objects placed on the frontpassenger seat can also cause theside airbag to be shut off.

If the Side Airbag Off Indicatorcomes on (see page ), have thepassenger sit upright. Once thepassenger is out of the airbag’sdeployment path, the system willturn the airbag back on, and theindicator will go out.

There will be some delay betweenthe moment the passenger movesinto or out of the airbag deploymentpath and when the indicator comeson or goes off.

A front seat passenger should notuse a cushion or other object as abackrest. It may prevent the cutoffsystem from working properly.

If you ever have a moderate tosevere side impact, sensors willdetect rapid deceleration and signalthe control unit to instantly inflateeither the driver’s or the passenger’sside airbag.

28Standard on EX modelsHow Your Side Airbags Work


Side Airbag Cutoff System

26

If the indicator comes on at anyother time, or does not come on at all,you should have the system checkedby your dealer. For example:

If the SRS indicator does not comeon after you turn the ignitionswitch to ON (II).

If the indicator stays on after theengine starts.

If the indicator comes on orflashes on and off while you drive.

If you see any of these indications,the airbags and seat belt tensionersmay not work properly when youneed them.

The SRS indicator alertsyou to a potential problem

with your airbags or seat belttensioners.

When you turn the ignition switch toON (II), this indicator will come onbriefly then go out. This tells you thesystem is working properly.


How the SRS Indicator Works

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27

Ignoring the SRS indicator canresult in serious injury or deathif the airbag systems, ortensioners do not work properly.

Have your vehicle checked by adealer as soon as possible ifthe SRS indicator alerts you toa possible problem.

Your airbag systems are virtuallymaintenance free, and there are noparts you can safely service.However, you must have yourvehicle serviced if:

This indicator alerts you that thepassenger’s side airbag has beenautomatically shut off. It doesmean there is a problem with yourside airbags.

When you turn the ignition switch toON (II), the indicator should comeon briefly and go off (see page ).If it doesn’t come on, stays on, orcomes on while driving without apassenger in the front seat, have thesystem checked.

Any airbagthat has deployed must bereplaced along with the controlunit and other related parts. If afront airbag inflates, the seat belttensioners must also be replaced.Do not try to remove or replaceany airbag by yourself. This mustbe done by a dealer or aknowledgeable body shop.

Take your vehicle to anauthorized dealer as soon aspossible. If you ignore thisindication, your airbags may notoperate properly.

55



How the Side Airbag CutoffIndicator Works

Airbag Service

notAn airbag ever inflates.

The SRS indicator alerts you to aproblem.

28

U.S. Canada

Together, airbags andseat belts provide the bestprotection.

Tampering could causethe airbags to deploy, possiblycausing very serious injury.

Improperly replacingor covering front seat-back coverscan prevent your side airbags frominflating during a side impact.

Models with side airbags:Additional Safety PrecautionsDo not attempt to deactivate yourairbags.

Do not tamper with airbagcomponents or wiring for anyreason.

Do not cover or replace front seat-back covers without consultingyour dealer.

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－

－－

If you have children, or ever need todrive with a child in your vehicle, besure to read this section. It beginswith important general guidelines,then presents special information forinfants, small children, and largerchildren.

Each year, many children are injuredor killed in vehicle crashes becausethey are either unrestrained or notproperly restrained. In fact, vehicleaccidents are the number one causeof the death of children ages 12 andunder.

To reduce the number of childdeaths and injuries, every state andCanadian province requires thatinfants and children be properlyrestrained when they ride in avehicle.

(see pages ).(see pages ).

Children depend on adults to protectthem. However, despite their bestintentions, many adults do not knowhow to properly protect childpassengers.

464435 43

Protecting Children General Guidelines

All Children Must Be Restrained

Infants and small children must berestrained in an approved child seatthat is properly secured to thevehicle

Larger children must be restrainedwith a lap/shoulder belt and ride ona booster seat until the seat belt f itsthem properly

30

Children who are unrestrainedor improperly restrained can beseriously injured or killed in acrash.

Any child too small for a seatbelt should be properlyrestrained in a child seat. Alarger child should be properlyrestrained with a seat belt anduse a booster seat if necessary.

－

Front airbags have been designed tohelp protect adults in a moderate tosevere frontal collision. To do thisthe passenger’s front airbag is quitelarge, and it can inflate with enoughforce to cause very serious injuries.

If the vehicle seat istoo far forward, or the child’s head isthrown forward during a collision, aninflating front airbag can strike thechild with enough force to kill orvery seriously injure a small child.

Whenever possible,larger children should sit in the backseat, on a booster seat if needed, andbe properly restrained with a seatbelt (see page for importantinformation about protecting largerchildren).

According to accident statistics,children of all ages and sizes aresafer when they are restrained in aback seat. The National HighwayTraffic Safety Administration andTransport Canada recommend thatall children age 12 and under beproperly restrained in a back seat.

Ifthe airbag inflates, it can hit the backof the child seat with enough forceto kill or very seriously injure aninfant.

Some states have laws restrictingwhere children may ride.

Children who ride in back are lesslikely to be injured by strikinginterior vehicle parts during acollision or hard braking. Also,children cannot be injured by aninflating front airbag when they ridein the back. 44

CONTINUED


Small ChildrenPlacing a forward-facing child seat inthe front seat of a vehicle equippedwith a passenger’s front airbag canbe hazardous.

Larger ChildrenChildren who have outgrown childseats are also at risk of being injuredor killed by an inflating passenger’sfront airbag.

InfantsNever put a rear-facing child seat inthe front seat of a vehicle equippedwith a passenger’s front airbag.

All Children Should Sit in a BackSeat

The Passenger’s Front AirbagPoses Serious Risks

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31

－

To remind you of the passenger’sfront airbag hazards, and thatchildren must be properly restrainedin a back seat, your vehicle haswarning labels on the dashboard(U.S. models) and on the front visors.Please read and follow theinstructions on these labels.

Canadian Models

U.S. Models


32

－

Many parents say they prefer to putan infant or small child in the frontpassenger seat so they can watch thechild, or because the child requiresattention.

Placing a child in the front seatexposes the child to hazards in afrontal collision, and paying closeattention to a child distracts thedriver from the important tasks ofdriving, placing both of you at risk.

If a child requires physical attentionor frequent visual contact, westrongly recommend that anotheradult ride with the child in the backseat. The back seat is far safer for achild than the front.

Place the largest child in the frontseat, provided the child is largeenough to wear the lap/shoulderbelt properly (see page ).

Move the vehicle seat as far to therear as possible (see page ).

Have the child sit upright and wellback in the seat (see page ).

Make sure the seat belt is properlypositioned and secured (see page

).

Your vehicle has two back seatswhere children can be properlyrestrained. If you ever have to carrya group of children, and a child mustride in front:

44

15

31

12

If You Must Drive with SeveralChildren

If a Child Requires CloseAttention

Protecting Children General GuidelinesD

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－

During a crash, thebelt could press deep into the childand cause serious or fatal injuries.


If you are not wearing aseat belt in crash, you could bethrown forward and crush thechild against the dashboard or aseat-back. If you are wearing aseat belt, the child can be tornfrom your arms and be seriouslyhurt or killed.

Leaving children withoutadult supervision is illegal in moststates and Canadian provinces,and can be very hazardous.

For example, infants and smallchildren left in a vehicle on a hotday can die from heatstroke. Achild left alone with the key in theignition can accidentally set thevehicle in motion, possibly injuringthemselves or others.

Children who play in vehiclescan accidentally get trapped inside.Teach your children not to play inor around vehicles.

Even veryyoung children learn how tounlock vehicle doors, turn on theignition, and open the tailgate orhatch, which can lead to accidentalinjury or death.

Additional Safety Precautions


Never put a seat belt over yourselfand a child.

Never let two children use thesame seat belt.

Never hold an infant or child onyour lap.

Do not leave children alone in avehicle.

Lock all doors, the tailgate and thehatch when your vehicle is not inuse.

Keep vehicle keys and remotetransmitters (on some models) outof the reach of children.

34

CONTINUED

An infant must be properlyrestrained in a rear-facing, recliningchild seat until the child reaches theseat maker’s weight or height limitfor the seat and the child is at leastone year old.

Only a rear-facing child seat providesproper support for a baby’s head,neck, and back.

Two types of seats may be used: aseat designed exclusively for infants,or a convertible seat used in the rear-facing, reclining mode.

If placedfacing forward, an infant could bevery seriously injured during afrontal collision.

A rear-facing child seat can be placedin any seating position in the backseat, but not in the front.

If the passenger’s front airbaginflates, it can hit the back of thechild seat with enough force to kill orseriously injure an infant.

When properly installed, a rear-facing child seat may prevent thedriver or a front passenger frommoving the seat as far back asrecommended, or from locking theseat-back in the desired position.

Protecting Infants

Child Seat Type

Child Seat Placement

Do not put a rear-facing child seat ina forward-facing position.

Never put arear-facing child seat in the frontseat.

Protecting Infants and Small ChildrenD

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

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

In either situation, we stronglyrecommend that you install the childseat directly behind the frontpassenger seat, move the seat as farforward as needed, and leave itunoccupied. Or you may wish to geta smaller rear-facing child seat.

We also recommend that a small

child use the child seat as long aspossible, until the child reaches theweight or height limit for the seat.

If the vehicle seat is toofar forward, or the child’s head isthrown forward during a collision, aninflating airbag can strike the childwith enough force to cause veryserious or fatal injuries.

We strongly recommend placing aforward-facing child seat in a backseat, not the front.

Protecting Infants and Small Children

Protecting Small Children

Child Seat Type

Placing a forward-facing child seat inthe front seat of a vehicle equippedwith a passenger’s airbag can behazardous.

Child Seat Placement

36

Placing a rear-facing child seatin the front seat can result inserious injury or death if thepassenger’s front airbag inflates.

Always place a rear-facing childseat in the back seat, not thefront.

Since LATCH-compatible child seatsare easier to install and reduce thepossibility of improper installation,we recommend selecting this style.

We also recommend selecting aLATCH-compatible seat with a rigid,rather than a flexible, anchor (seepage ).

In seating positions and vehicles notequipped with LATCH, a LATCH-compatible child seat can be installedusing a seat belt.

If it is necessary to put a forward-facing child seat in the front, movethe vehicle seat as far to the rear aspossible, be sure the child seat isfirmly secured to the vehicle, and thechild is properly strapped in the seat. Whatever type of seat you choose, to

provide proper protection, a childseat should meet threerequirements:

Look for FMVSS213 or CMVSS 213 on the box.

Rear-facing for infants, forward-facing for small children.

When buying a child seat, you needto choose either a conventional childseat, or one designed for use withthe Lower Anchors and Tethers forChildren (LATCH) system.

Conventional child seats must besecured to a vehicle with a seat belt,whereas LATCH-compatible seatsare secured by attaching the seat tohardware built into the two secondrow seats.

1.

2.

39

CONTINUED

Protecting Infants and Small Children, Selecting a Child Seat

Selecting a Child Seat

The child seat should meet U.S. orCanadian Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard 213.

The child seat should be of theproper type and size to fit the child.

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37

Placing a forward-facing childseat in the front seat can resultin serious injury or death if thefront airbag inflates.

If you must place a forward-facing child seat in front, movethe vehicle seat as far back aspossible, and properly restrainthe child.

After selecting a proper child seat,and a good place to install the seat,there are three main steps ininstalling the seat:

All child seats must besecured to the vehicle with the lappart of a lap/shoulder belt or withthe LATCH (Lower Anchors andTethers for Children) system. Achild whose seat is not properlysecured to the vehicle can beendangered in a crash.

After installing a childseat, push and pull the seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure.

A child seat secured with a seat beltshould be installed as firmly aspossible. However, it does not needto be ‘‘rock solid.’’ Some side-to-side

movement can be expected andshould not reduce the child seat’seffectiveness.

If the child seat is not secure, tryinstalling it in a different seatingposition, or use a different style ofchild seat that can be firmly secured.

Before purchasing a conventionalchild seat, or using a previouslypurchased one, we recommend thatyou test the seat in the specificvehicle seating position, or positions,where the seat will be used.

Make sure the child is properlystrapped in the child seataccording to the child seat maker’sinstructions. A child who is notproperly secured in a child seatcan be seriously injured in a crash.

The following pages provideguidelines on how to properly installa child seat. A forward-facing childseat is used in all examples, but theinstructions are the same for rear-facing child seats.

3.

1.

2.

3.

Selecting a Child Seat, Installing a Child Seat

Installing a Child Seat

Properly secure the child seat tothe vehicle.

Make sure the child seat is firmlysecured.

The child seat should fit thevehicle seating position (orpositions) where it will be used.

Secure the child in the child seat.

38

CONTINUED

Make sure there are no objectsnear the anchors that couldprevent a secure connectionbetween the child seat and theanchors.

To install a LATCH-compatible childseat:

Place the child seat on the vehicleseat, then attach the seat to thelower anchors according to thechild seat maker’s instructions.Remove both anchor covers by

pulling forward.

Your vehicle is equipped withLATCH (Lower Anchors andTethers for Children) at the secondrow seats. The lower anchors arelocated between the seat-back andseat bottom, and are to be used onlywith a child seat designed for usewith LATCH.

Some LATCH-compatible seatshave a rigid-type connector asshown above.

The location of each lower anchor ismarked with a small button abovethe point.

1.

2.

3.

Installing a Child Seat UsingLATCH

Installing a Child SeatD

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39

Rigid type

MARKS

ANCHOR COVER

Whatever type you have, followthe child seat maker’s instructionsfor adjusting or tightening the fit.

Remove the head restraint (seepage ). Make sure the removedhead restraints are secured in thecargo area, and reinstalled whenthe child seat is removed.

Slide the anchor cover open.

Route the tether strap over the topof the seat-back, making sure thestrap is not twisted.

Other LATCH-compatible seats havea flexible-type connector as shownabove.

5.

4.

6.

7.75


40

Flexible type

TETHER ANCHOR

ANCHOR COVER

CONTINUED

With the child seat in the desiredseating position, route the beltthrough the child seat accordingto the seat maker’s instructions,then insert the latch plate into thebuckle.

When not using the LATCH system,all child seats must be secured to thevehicle with the lap part of a lap/shoulder belt.

Push and pull the child seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure.

Attach the tether strap hook to thetether anchor, then tighten thestrap as instructed by the childseat maker.

In addition, the lap/shoulder belts inall seating positions except thedriver’s have a locking mechanismthat must be activated to secure achild seat.

1.8.

9.


Installing a Child Seat with a Lap/Shoulder Belt

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TETHER ANCHOR

TETHER STRAP HOOK

Push and pull the child seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure enough tostay upright during normal drivingmaneuvers. If the child seat is notsecure, unlatch the belt, allow it toretract fully, then repeat thesesteps.

After confirming that the belt islocked, grab the shoulder part ofthe belt near the buckle and pullup to remove any slack from thelap part of the belt. Remember, ifthe lap part of the belt is not tight,the child seat will not be secure.

To remove slack, it may help toput weight on the child seat, orpush on the back of the seat whilepulling up on the belt.

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

After the belt has retracted, tug onit. If the belt is locked, you will notbe able to pull it out. If you can pullthe belt out, it is not locked, andyou will need to repeat these steps.

To deactivate the lockingmechanism and remove a childseat, unlatch the buckle, unroutethe seat belt, and let the belt fullyretract.

4. 5.2.

3.


42

A child seat with a tether can beinstalled in either seating position inthe back seat, using one of theanchorage points shown above.

After securing the child seat in thedesired position (see page ),remove the head restraint, thenroute the tether strap over the topof the seat-back.

Tighten the strap according to theseat maker’s instructions.

Slide the anchor cover open, thenattach the tether strap hook to theanchor, making sure the strap isnot twisted.

Since a tether can provide additionalsecurity to the lap/shoulder beltinstallation, we recommend using atether whenever one is required oravailable.

1.

3.

2.41

Installing a Child Seat with aTether

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TETHER STRAP HOOK

ANCHOR POINTS TETHER ANCHOR

ANCHOR COVER

TETHER ANCHOR

Does the shoulder belt crossbetween the child’s neck and arm?

Is the lap part of the belt as low aspossible, touching the child’sthighs?

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

If you answer yes to all thesequestions, the child is ready to wearthe lap/shoulder belt correctly. Ifyou answer no to any question, thechild needs to ride on a booster seat.To determine if a lap/shoulder belt

properly fits a child, have the childput on the seat belt, then askyourself:

Does the child sit all the way backagainst the seat?

Do the child’s knees bendcomfortably over the edge of theseat?

When a child reaches therecommended weight or height limitfor a forward-facing child seat, thechild should sit in a back seat on abooster seat and wear a lap/shoulderbelt.The following pages giveinstructions on how to check properseat belt fit, what kind of boosterseat to use if one is needed, andimportant precautions for a childwho must sit in front.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Checking Seat Belt FitProtecting Larger Children

Protecting Larger Children

44

Allowing a larger child age 12 orunder to sit in front can result ininjury or death if the passenger’sfront airbag inflates.

If a larger child must ride in front,move the vehicle seat as farback as possible, use a boosterseat if needed, have the childsit up properly and wear theseat belt properly.

A child who has outgrown a forward-facing child seat should ride in aback seat and use a booster seatuntil the lap/shoulder belt fits themproperly without the booster.

A side airbag also poses risks. If anypart of a larger child’s body is in thepath of a deploying side airbag, thechild could receive possibly seriousinjuries.

If the passenger’s front airbaginflates in a moderate to severefrontal collision, the airbag can causeserious injuries to a child who isunrestrained, improperly restrained,sitting too close to the airbag, or outof position.

The National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration and TransportCanada recommend that all childrenage 12 and under be properlyrestrained in the back seat.

Some states and Canadian provincesalso require children to use a boosterseat until they reach a given age orweight (e.g., 6 years or 60 lbs). Besure to check current laws in thestates or provinces where you intend

to drive.

Booster seats can be high-back orlow-back. Whichever style you select,make sure the booster meets federalsafety standards and that you followthe booster seat maker’s instructions.

If a child who uses a booster seatmust ride in front, move the vehicleseat as far back as possible and besure the child is wearing the seatbelt properly.

A child may continue using a boosterseat until the tops of their ears areeven with the top of the vehicle’s orbooster’s seat-back. A child of thisheight should be tall enough to usethe lap/shoulder belt without abooster seat.

CONTINUED

Using a Booster Seat When Can a Larger Child Sit inFront

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If you decide that a child can safelyride up front, be sure to:

Carefully read the owner’s manual,and make sure you understand allseat belt instructions and all safetyinformation.

Move the vehicle seat to the rear-most position.

Have the child sit up straight, backagainst the seat, and feet on ornear the floor.

This could result inserious neck injuries during a crash.

This could causevery serious injuries during a crash.It also increases the chance that thechild will slide under the belt in acrash and be injured.

If they do, they couldbe very seriously injured in a crash.

Devices intended to improve achild’s comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt can makethe belt less effective and increasethe chance of serious injury in acrash.

Of course, children vary widely. Andwhile age may be one indicator ofwhen a child can safely ride in thefront, there are other importantfactors you should consider.

To safely ride in front, a child mustbe able to follow the rules, includingsitting properly, and wearing the seatbelt properly throughout a ride.

Physically, a child must be largeenough for the lap/shoulder belt toproperly fit (see page ). If the seatbelt does not fit properly, with orwithout the child sitting on a boosterseat, the child should not sit in front.

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

Supervise the child. Even maturechildren sometimes need to bereminded to fasten the seat beltsor sit properly.

44

Additional Safety PrecautionsDo not let a child wear a seat beltacross the neck.

Do not let a child put the shoulderpart of a seat belt behind the back orunder the arm.

Two children should never use thesame seat belt.

Do not put any accessories on a seatbelt.

Maturity

Physical Size

Protecting Larger Children

46

Your vehicle’s exhaust containscarbon monoxide gas. You shouldhave no problem with carbonmonoxide entering the vehicle innormal driving if you maintain yourvehicle properly.

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

Have the exhaust system inspectedfor leaks whenever:

The vehicle is raised for an oilchange.

You notice a change in the soundof the exhaust.

The vehicle was in an accidentthat may have damaged theunderside.

With the tailgate/hatch open, airflow can pull exhaust gas into yourvehicle’s interior and create ahazardous condition. If you mustdrive with the tailgate/hatch open,open all the windows and set theheating and cooling system as shownbelow.

Select the fresh air mode.Select the mode.Turn the fan on high speed.Set the temperature control to acomfortable setting.

If you must sit in your parked vehiclewith the engine running, even in anunconfined area, adjust the heatingand cooling system as follows:

1.2.3.4.

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Carbon monoxide gas is toxic.Breathing it can causeunconsciousness and even killyou.

Avoid any enclosed areas oractivities that expose you tocarbon monoxide.

These labels are in the locationsshown. They warn you of potentialhazards that could cause seriousinjury. Read these labels carefully. Ifa label comes off or becomes hard toread, contact your dealer for areplacement.

U.S. models only

U.S. models

Canadian models

U.S. models only

Safety Labels

48

SUN VISOR

DASHBOARD

On models without side airbags

On models with side airbags

On models with side airbags

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HOOD

RADIATOR CAP

50

This section gives information aboutthe controls and displays thatcontribute to the daily operation ofyour vehicle. All the essentialcontrols are within easy reach.

...........................Control Locations . 52............................Instrument Panel . 53

..........Instrument Panel Indicators . 54.............................................Gauges . 58

...................................Trip Meter . 58.....................................Odometer . 58

..................................Fuel Gauge . 58..........Check Fuel Cap Indicator . 59

...................Temperature Gauge . 59Controls Near the Steering

.......................................Wheel . 60.Windshield Wipers and Washers . 61

...........Turn Signal and Headlights . 62........Instrument Panel Brightness . 63

.................Hazard Warning Button . 63

.................Rear Window Defogger . 63..........Steering Wheel Adjustment . 64

...............................Keys and Locks . 65........................Immobilizer System . 66.......................Remote Transmitter . 67

................................Ignition Switch . 69......................................Door Locks . 70

......................Power Door Locks . 70..................................Rear Doors . 70

............................................Hatch . 71........................................Tailgate . 72

.................................................Seats . 73........................Seat Adjustments . 73

Driver’s Seat Height..............................Adjustment . 74

...................Front Seat Armrests . 74..........................Head Restraints . 75........................Rear Seat Access . 75

..........Reclining the Front Seats . 76...............Folding the Rear Seats . 77

..........Removing the Rear Seats . 79..............................Power Windows . 81

.............................................Mirrors . 82....Adjusting the Power Mirrors . 82

.................................Rear Windows . 83

.................................Parking Brake . 83............................................Skylight . 83

...........Interior Convenience Items . 86.......................Beverage Holders . 87

..........Accessory Power Sockets . 87....................................Glove Box . 87

.................................Interior Lights . 88................................Ceiling Light . 88

........................Cargo Area Light . 88.....................................Spotlights . 88

..................Ignition Switch Light . 88

Instruments and ControlsInstrum

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Controls

51

Control Locations

52

POWER DOOR LOCK SWITCH AUDIO SYSTEM

A/T model is shown.

HOOD RELEASEHANDLE

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES

HEATING/COOLINGCONTROLS

(P.70)

(P.81)

(P.82)(P.94)

(P.90)

MIRROR CONTROLS

PARKING BRAKE(P.83)

CRUISE CONTROLMASTER BUTTON

CRUISE CONTROLBUTTONS(P. 119)

(P.125)

(P.119)

＊

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

Instrument PanelInstrum

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53

IMMOBILIZERSYSTEMINDICATOR

MAINTENANCEREQUIRED INDICATOR

DOOR-OPENINDICATOR

CRUISE CONTROLINDICATOR

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

PARKING BRAKE ANDBRAKE SYSTEMINDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEMINDICATOR

LOW FUEL INDICATORHIGH BEAM INDICATOR

TAILGATE AND HATCHOPEN INDICATOR

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINTSYSTEM INDICATOR

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

ANTI-LOCK BRAKESYSTEM INDICATOR

SEAT BELTREMINDERINDICATOR

SIDE AIRBAG OFFINDICATOR

(P.57)

(P.55)(P.56) (P.55) (P.55)

(P.57)

(P.57)

(P.55)

(P.56)(P.56)

(P.54)

(P.54, 210)

(P.54, 209)

(P.54, 211)

(P.54, 209)

CHECK FUEL CAPINDICATOR(P.59)

The instrument panel has manyindicators that give you importantinformation about your vehicle.

See page .

If this indicator comes on when theengine is running, the battery is notbeing charged. For more information,see page .

It comes on when you turn theignition switch to ON (II). It is areminder to check the parkingbrake. Driving with the parkingbrake not fully released candamage the brakes and tires.The engine can be severely damaged

if this indicator flashes or stays onwhen the engine is running. Formore information, see page .

This indicator has two functions:This indicator comes on when youturn the ignition switch to ON (II). Itreminds you and your passengers tofasten your seat belts. A beeper alsosounds if you have not fastened yourseat belt.

If you turn the ignition switch to ON(II) before fastening your seat belt,the beeper sounds and the indicatorflashes. If you do not fasten yourseat belt before the beeper stops, theindicator stops flashing but remainson.

If you continue driving withoutfastening your seat belt, the beepersounds and the indicator flashesagain at regular intervals.

If it stays on after you fully releasethe parking brake while the engineis running, or if it comes on whiledriving, there could be a problemwith the brake system. For moreinformation, see page .

2.

1.210

209

209

211

Malfunction IndicatorLamp

Low Oil PressureIndicator

Charging SystemIndicator

Parking Brake andBrake SystemIndicator

Seat Belt ReminderIndicator

Instrument Panel Indicators

54

U.S. Canada

This indicator also blinks severaltimes when you turn the ignitionswitch from ON (II) to ACCESSORY(I) or LOCK (0).

This indicator normally comes on fora few seconds when you turn theignition switch to ON (II), and whenthe ignition switch is turned toSTART (III). If it comes on at anyother time, there is a problem withthe ABS. If this happens, have yourvehicle checked at a dealer. Withthis on, your vehicle still has normalbraking ability but no anti-lockbrakes. For more information, seepage .

This indicator comes on when youturn the ignition switch to ON (II). Ifit comes on at any other time, itindicates a potential problem withyour front airbags or automatic seatbelt tensioners. On models equippedwith side airbags, this indicator willalso alert you to a potential problemwith your side airbags or passenger’sside airbag automatic cutoff system.For more information, see page .

This indicator comes on for a fewseconds when you turn the ignitionswitch to ON (II). It will then go offif you have inserted a properly-codedignition key. If it is not a properly-coded key, the indicator will blink,and the engine will not start (seepage ).

This indicator comes on when youturn the ignition switch to ON (II). Ifit comes on at any other time, itindicates that the passenger’s sideairbag has automatically shut off.For more information, see page .

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28

148

EX models only


Supplemental RestraintSystem Indicator

Immobilizer SystemIndicator

Anti-lock Brake System(ABS) Indicator

Side Airbag Cutoff Indicator

Instrument Panel IndicatorsInstrum

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CanadaU.S.

This indicator comes on when youturn the ignition switch to ON (II)with the headlight switch off and theparking brake set. It should go off ifyou turn on the headlights or releasethe parking brake. If it comes on atany other time, it means there is aproblem with the DRL. There mayalso be a problem with the highbeam headlights.

This indicator comes on with thehigh beam headlights. For moreinformation, see page .

This indicator comes on as areminder that you must refuel soon.

The left or right turn signal indicatorblinks when you signal a lane changeor turn. If the indicators do not blinkor they blink rapidly, it usuallymeans one of the turn signal bulbs isburned out (see page ). Replacethe bulb as soon as possible, sinceother drivers cannot see that you aresignaling.

When you turn on the hazardwarning button, both turn signalindicators blink. All turn signals onthe outside of the vehicle shouldflash.

This indicator comes on when youset the cruise control. See page

for information on operating thecruise control.

On Canadian models, this indicatorcomes on with reduced brightnesswhen the daytime running lights(DRL) are on (see page ).

When the indicator comes on, thereis about 1.6 U.S. gal (6 ) of fuelremaining in the tank before theneedle reaches E. There is a smallreserve of fuel remaining in the tankwhen the needle does reach E.

180

119

62

62

Canadian models only

If equipped

Turn Signal and Hazard WarningIndicators

‘‘Daytime RunningLights’’ Indicator

High Beam Indicator

Cruise Control Indicator

Low Fuel Indicator

Instrument Panel Indicators

56

－

Canadian models only This indicator reminds you that it istime to take your vehicle in forscheduled maintenance.

This indicator comes on if any dooris not closed tightly.

This indicator comes on if thetailgate or the hatch is not closedtightly.

This indicator comes on when thewasher fluid level is low. Add washerfluid when you see this indicatorcome on (see page ).

Refer to the maintenance schedulesfor normal and severe drivingconditions on pages .

For the first 8,000 miles (12,800 km)after the maintenance requiredindicator is reset, it will come on for2 seconds when you turn the ignitionswitch to ON (II).

Between 8,000 miles (12,800 km)and 10,000 miles (16,000 km), thisindicator will come on for 2 secondswhen you first turn the ignitionswitch to ON (II), and then flash for10 seconds.

Hold the button for about 10seconds until the indicator goesoff.

Press and hold the Select/Resetbutton on the instrument panel,then turn the ignition switch toON (II).

Turn off the engine.

Your dealer will reset this indicatorafter completing the scheduledmaintenance. If this maintenance isnot done by your dealer, reset theindicator as follows.

If you exceed 10,000 miles (16,000km) without having the scheduledmaintenance performed, thisindicator will remain on as a constantreminder.

1.

2.

3.

174165 166

Washer Level Indicator Maintenance RequiredIndicator

Door-open Indicator

Tailgate and Hatch OpenIndicator

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This shows the number of miles (U.S.)or kilometers (Canada) driven sinceyou last reset it.

There are two trip meters: Trip Aand Trip B. Switch between thesedisplays and the odometer bypressing the Select/Reset buttonrepeatedly.

Each trip meter works independently,so you can keep track of twodifferent distances.

To reset a trip meter, display it, andthen press and hold the Select/Resetbutton until the number resets to‘‘0.0.’’ Both trip meters will reset ifthe vehicle’s battery goes dead or isdisconnected.

The odometer shows the totaldistance your vehicle has beendriven. It measures miles in U.S.models and kilometers in Canadianmodels. It is illegal under U.S.federal law and Canadian provincialregulations to disconnect, reset, oralter the odometer with the intent tochange the number of miles orkilometers indicated.

This shows how much fuel you have.It may show slightly more or lessthan the actual amount. Drivinguphill or make turns can cause theneedle to fluctuate or the low fuelindicator to come on early. Theneedle returns to the bottom afteryou turn off the ignition.

Odometer

Trip Meter

Fuel Gauge

Gauges

58

TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE

ODOMETER/TRIP METER TEMPERATURE GAUGE

SELECT/RESETBUTTON

Avoid driving with an extremely lowf uel level. Running out of f uel couldcause the engine to misf ire, damagingthe catalytic converter.

If your fuel cap is loose or missing, a‘‘CHECK FUEL CAP’’ messageappears as text in the odometer/tripmeter display after you start theengine. Turn the engine off andconfirm the fuel cap is installed. If itis, loosen the cap, then retighten it atleast 3 clicks. When you restart theengine, the message appears again.To clear the message, press and holdthe select/reset button until themessage is replaced the odometer/trip meter display.

This shows the temperature of theengine’s coolant. During normaloperation, the pointer should rise toabout the middle of the gauge. Insevere driving conditions, the pointermay rise to the upper zone. If itreaches the red (hot) mark, pullsafely to the side of the road. Turn topage for instructions andprecautions on checking the engine’scooling system.

If the system still detects a loose ormissing fuel cap, the malfunctionindicator lamp (MIL) comes on.Turn the engine off and check orretighten the fuel cap at least 3 clicks.The MIL goes out after 3 days ofnormal driving once the cap istightened or replaced. If it does notgo out, have your dealer inspect thevehicle. For more information, seepage .210

207

Gauges

Check Fuel Cap Indicator(odometer/trip meter message)

Temperature Gauge

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To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.:

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

60

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS

REAR WINDOWDEFOGGER

SHIFT LEVER (A/T)

STEERING WHEEL ADJUSTMENT HAZARD WARNING BUTTON

HORN

(P.62)

(P.64)

(P.61)

(P.63)

(P.63)

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS(P.141)

A/T model is shown.

(P.119)

CRUISE CONTROLMASTER BUTTON

CRUISE CONTROL BUTTONS(P.119)

－

－

－

－－－

－

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Push the right lever up or down toselect a position.

The wipers are not activated.

The wipers run at low speed.

The wipers run at high speed.Rotate the switch clockwise toturn the rear window wiper ON.

OFFRotate the switchcounterclockwise to spray thewindow washer without activatingthe wiper.

MISTOFFINT IntermittentLO Low speedHI High speedWindshield washers

The wipers run at highspeed until you release the lever.

The wipers operate everyfew seconds.

Pull thewiper control lever toward you andhold it. The washers spray until yourelease the lever. The wipers run atlow speed, then complete one moresweep after you release the lever.

Hold past ON to turn the windowwiper on and the window washeron.

1.2.3.4.5.6.

1.

2.

3.4.

Windshield Wiper

OFF

LO

HI

Rear Window Wiper and Washer

MIST

INT

Windshield Washer

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－

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－Push down on theleft lever to signal a left turn and upto signal a right turn. To signal a lanechange, push lightly on the lever andhold it. The lever will return tocenter when you release it orcomplete a turn. To flash the high beams, pull the

lever back lightly, then release it.The high beams will stay on as longas you hold the lever back.

Turn SignalOFFParking and interior lightsHeadlights onHigh BeamsFlash high beams

Turning switch to theposition turns on the parking

lights, taillights, instrument panellights, side-marker lights, and rearlicense plate lights. Turning theswitch to the position turns onthe headlights. If you leave the lightson with the key removed from theignition switch, you will hear areminder tone when you open thedriver’s door.

Push the lever backuntil you hear a click to turn on thehigh beams. The blue high beamindicator will come on (see page ).Pull the lever back again to lowbeams.

With the headlight switch off, thehigh beam headlights come on withreduced brightness when you turnthe ignition switch to ON (II) andrelease the parking brake. Theyremain on until you turn the ignitionswitch off, even if you set theparking brake.

The headlights revert to normaloperation when you turn them onwith the switch.

1.2.3.4.5.6.

56

Turn Signal

Daytime Running Lights

Headlights

High Beams

(Canadian Models)

Turn Signal and Headlights

62

Push the button next to the shiftlever to turn on the hazard warninglights (four-way flashers). Thiscauses all four outside turn signalsand both turn indicators in theinstrument panel to flash. Use thehazard warning lights if you need topark in a dangerous area near heavytraffic, or if your vehicle is disabled.

The rear window defogger will clearfog, frost, and thin ice from thewindow. Push the defogger button toturn it on and off. The indicator inthe button comes on to show thedefogger is on. If you do not turn itoff, the defogger will shut itself offafter about 15 minutes. It also shutsoff when you turn off the ignitionswitch. You have to turn thedefogger on again when you restartthe vehicle.

Push the button in the speedometerrepeatedly to adjust the brightnessof the instrument panel lights. Thereare six brightness levels. A segmentdisplay shows the current brightnesslevel.

CONTINUED

Instrument Panel Brightness Rear Window DefoggerHazard Warning Button

Instrument Panel Brightness, Hazard Warning Button, Rear Window DefoggerInstrum

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Make sure the rear window is clearand you have good visibility beforestarting to drive.

The defogger wires on the inside ofthe rear window can be accidentallydamaged. When cleaning the glass,always wipe side-to-side.

Push the lever up to lock thesteering wheel in that position.

Make sure you have securelylocked the steering wheel in placeby trying to move it up and down.

Make any steering wheel adjustmentbefore you start driving.

Push the lever under the left sideof the steering column all the waydown.

To adjust the steering wheel upwardor downward:

Move the steering wheel up ordown to the desired position.Make sure you can see theinstrument panel gauges and theindicators.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Steering Wheel Adjustment

Rear Window Defogger, Steering Wheel Adjustment

64

Adjusting the steering wheelposition while driving maycause you to lose control of thevehicle and be seriously injuredin a crash.

Adjust the steering wheel onlywhen the vehicle is stopped.

The master key fits all the locks onyour vehicle. The valet key worksonly in the ignition and the doorlocks. You can keep the glove boxand hatch locked when you leaveyour vehicle and the valet key at aparking facility.

Protect the keys from directsunlight, high temperature, andhigh humidity.

Do not drop the keys or set heavyobjects on them.

Keep the keys away from liquids.If they get wet, dry themimmediately with a soft cloth.

The keys do not contain batteries.Do not try to take them apart.

Some models also come with tworemote transmitters; see page foran explanation of their operation.

You should have received a keynumber tag with your set of keys.You will need this key number if youever have to get a key replaced. Useonly Honda-approved key blanks.

These keys contain electroniccircuits that are activated by theimmobilizer system. They will notwork to start the engine if thecircuits are damaged.

67

Keys and LocksInstrum

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65

KEYNUMBERTAG

MASTERKEYS(Black)

VALETKEY(Gray)

If the system repeatedly does notrecognize the coding of your key,contact your dealer.

Do not attempt to alter this systemor add other devices to it. Electricalproblems could result that may makeyour vehicle undriveable.

If you have lost your key and cannotstart your engine, contact yourdealer.

The system may not recognize yourkey’s coding if another immobilizerkey or other metal object (i.e. keyfob) is near the ignition switch whenyou insert the key.

The immobilizer system protectsyour vehicle from theft. If animproperly-coded key (or otherdevice) is used, the engine will notstart.

When you turn the ignition switch toON (II), the immobilizer systemindicator should come on for a fewseconds, then go out. If the indicatorstarts to blink, it means the systemdoes not recognize the coding of thekey. Turn the ignition switch toLOCK (0), remove the key, reinsertit, and turn the switch to ON (II)again.

As required by the FCC:This device complies with Part 15 of theFCC rules. Operation is subject to thefollowing two conditions: (1) This devicemay not cause harmful interference, and(2) this device must accept anyinterference received, includinginterference that may cause undesiredoperation.

Changes or modifications not expresslyapproved by the party responsible forcompliance could void the user’sauthority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with IndustryCanada Standard RSS-210.Operation is subject to the following twoconditions: (1) this device may not causeinterference, and (2) this device mustaccept any interference that may causeundesired operation of the device.

Immobilizer System

66

－

－

－

Press this button once tolock both doors and hatch. Someexterior lights will flash. When youpush LOCK twice within 5 seconds,you will hear a beep to verify that thedoors are locked. You cannot lock itif any door is not fully closed or keyis in the ignition switch.

Avoid dropping or throwing thetransmitter.Protect the transmitter fromextreme temperature.Do not immerse the transmitter inany liquid.If you lose a transmitter, thereplacement needs to bereprogrammed by your dealer.

Press this button onceto unlock the driver’s door. Push ittwice to unlock the passenger’s doorand the hatch. Some exterior lightswill flash twice each time you pressthe button. If you do not open eitherdoor or the hatch within 30 seconds,they will automatically relock.

Press this button forabout 1 second to attract attention;the horn will sound and the exteriorlights will flash for about 30 seconds.To cancel panic mode, press anyother button on the remotetransmitter, or turn the ignitionswitch to ON (II).

On EX models

Remote Transmitter

LOCK

UNLOCK

PANIC

Remote Transmitter Care

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UNLOCKBUTTON

LED LOCKBUTTON

PANICBUTTON

＋

◎▽

If it takes several pushes on thebutton to lock or unlock the doorsand the hatch, replace the battery assoon as possible.Battery type: CR2025

To replace the battery, remove theround cover on the back of thetransmitter by turning itcounterclockwise with a coin. Inserta new battery with the side facingup, and reinstall the cushion ring.Align the mark on the coverwith the mark on thetransmitter. Set the cover in placeand turn it clockwise.

As required by the FCC:This device complies with Part 15 of theFCC rules. Operation is subject to thefollowing two conditions: (1) This devicemay not cause harmful interference, and(2) this device must accept anyinterference received, includinginterference that may cause undesiredoperation.

Changes or modifications not expresslyapproved by the party responsible forcompliance could void the user’sauthority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with IndustryCanada Standard RSS-210.Operation is subject to the following twoconditions: (1) this device may not causeinterference, and (2) this device mustaccept any interference that may causeundesired operation of the device.

Remote Transmitter

Replacing the TransmitterBattery

68

ROUNDCOVER

CUSHIONRING

BATTERY

－

－

－

－

The ignition switch has fourpositions: LOCK (0), ACCESSORY(I), ON (II), and START (III).

You can insert orremove the key only in this position.To turn the key, push it in slightly. Ifyour vehicle has an automatictransmission, the shift lever mustalso be in park.

If the front wheels are turned, theanti-theft lock may make it difficultto turn the key. Firmly turn thesteering wheel to the left or right asyou turn the key.

You canoperate the audio system and theaccessory power sockets in thisposition.

This is the normal keyposition when driving. Several of theindicators on the instrument panelcome on as a test when you turn theignition switch from ACCESSORY(I) to ON (II).

Use this positiononly to start the engine. The switchreturns to ON (II) when you let go ofthe key.

You will hear a reminder beeper ifyou leave the key in the ignitionswitch in the LOCK (0) orACCESSORY (I) position and openthe driver’s door. Remove the key toturn off the beeper.

If your vehicle has an automatictransmission, the shift lever must bein Park before you can remove thekey from the ignition switch.

Ignition Switch

LOCK (0)

ACCESSORY (I)

ON (II)

START (III)

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Removing the key from theignition switch while drivinglocks the steering. This cancause you to lose control of thevehicle.

Remove the key from theignition switch only whenparked.

To lock the driver’s door, remove thekey from the ignition switch, pull theoutside door handle and push thelock tab down or push the door lockswitch down. Release the handle,then close the door.

To lock all of the doors and hatch,press the door lock switch on eitherfront door, or press the lock tabdown on the driver’s door, or use thekey on the outside lock.Pressing up on the door lock switchwill unlock all of the doors and thehatch.The lock tab on the passenger’s doorlock and unlock only that door.Pulling up on the driver’s door locktab only unlocks the driver’s door.

To unlock the driver’s door from theoutside, turn the key and release it.

To open the rear door, pull the reardoor handle located in the rear dooredge. The rear door can be openedonly when the front door is open.

To close the doors, close the reardoor first, then the front door. Thefront door cannot be latched withoutfirst closing the rear door. Closingthe rear door on the front door willdamage both doors.

Power Door Locks Rear Doors

Door Locks

70

DOOR LOCK SWITCH

LOCK TAB

To lock or unlock the hatch.

Lock the hatch by pushing downthe lock tab on the driver’s door(see page ), or by using themaster key in the driver’s doorlock.

Lock or unlock the hatch with themaster door lock switch.

With the hatch unlocked, open it bypulling the handle and lifting up.To close the hatch, lower it, thenpress down on the back edge.

When both the hatch and tailgate areopen, the hatch cannot be latchedwithout first closing the tailgate.

Use your master key to lock andunlock the hatch. Turn the keyclockwise to lock the hatch, andcounterclockwise to unlock it.

70

Door Locks

Hatch

Instruments

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71

UNLOCK

LOCK

You can open the tailgate only whenthe hatch is open. To open thetailgate, slide the lock lever to theleft and swing down the tailgate. Toclose the tailgate, lift it up and pushit firmly until it latches.

Before closing the tailgate, makesure the hatch is raised. Closing thetailgate on the lowered hatch candamage the hatch and the tailgate.

See page for information oncargo loading. Keep the tailgate andthe hatch closed at all times whiledriving to avoid damaging them, andto prevent exhaust gas from gettinginto the interior. See

on page .

130

47

Door Locks

Tailgate

CarbonMonoxide Hazard

72

－See pages for important safetyinformation and warnings about how toproperly position seats and seat-backs.

12 14

To change the seat-back angle of thefront seat, pull up on the lever on theoutside of the seat bottom. Adjustthe seat-back and make sure it locksinto position.

Make all seat adjustments beforeyou start driving.

To adjust the seat forward andbackward, pull up on the bar underthe seat cushion’s front edge. Try tomove the seat to make sure it islocked in position.

Seats

Seat Adjustments Front Seat

Instruments

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To adjust the height of the driver’sseat, turn the dial on the outside ofthe seat bottom.

To change the angle of the rear seat-back, pull the strap at the insideedge of the seat cushion, make surethe seat-back locks into position.

Each front seat has an armrest onthe side of the seat-back. To use it,pivot it down.

On EX models

Seats

Driver’s Seat Height Adjustment Front Seat Armrests Rear Seat

74

SEAT-BACK ADJUSTMENT STRAP

See page for important safetyinformation and a warning about how toproperly position the head restraints.

15

The rear seat passengers can get outthrough the passenger’s door. Pushdown on the release lever at the baseof the front passenger’s seat-back,and push the seat-back forward. Theseat-back will tilt forward and theentire seat will move forward.

Make sure the seat is upright andfully latched before sitting in it.

Your vehicle is equipped with headrestraints in all seating positions tohelp protect you and yourpassengers from whiplash and otherinjuries.

They are most effective when youadjust them so the back of theoccupant’s head rests against thecenter of the restraint.

The head restraints in the front andrear seating positions adjust forheight. You need both hands toadjust the restraint. To raise it, pullupward. To lower the restraint, pushthe release button sideways andpush the restraint down.

Seats

Head Restraints Rear Seat Access

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RELEASE BUTTON

RELEASE LEVER

You can recline the seat-backs on thefront seats so they are level with therear seat cushions, making a largecushioned area. To do this:

Adjust the front seats forward asfar as they will go. Pull up the seat-back angle adjustment lever andpivot the seat-back backward untilit is level with the rear seatcushion.

Move the front seat backwarduntil it touches the rear seat.

Adjust the rear seat-back to thedesired position.

Reverse this procedure to return thefront and rear seats to the uprightposition. Make sure you install thehead restraints and the seats arelocked securely before driving.

When you return the seat-back tothe upright position, hold the seat-back to keep it from going up tooquickly.

Remove the head restraints fromthe front seats (see page ), andstore them in the side pockets ofthe cargo area.

1.

2.

3.

4.

75

Reclining the Front Seats

Seats

76

To create more cargo space, you canfold up each rear seat to each sidewall separately.

Lower the head restraint to itslowest position.

Pull the seat-back adjustmentstrap at the inside edge of the seatcushion and push the seat-backbackward as far as it will go.

Pull the release strap on the seatsupport, and pivot the seat towardthe vehicle’s side wall.

1.

2. 3.

CONTINUED

Folding the Rear Seats

SeatsInstrum

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SEAT-BACK ADJUSTMENT STRAP RELEASE STRAP

A fastening strap is attached to theinside of the seat cushion. Whilepushing the seat up and towardthe side wall, hook the fasteningstrap to the grab rail.

Fold down the seat support.

Reverse this procedure to return therear seat to the upright position.When not in use, store the fasteningstrap hook in the fabric pocket onthe bottom of the seat cushion.Make sure the seat is lockedsecurely.

4. 5.

Seats

78

GRAB RAIL

FASTENING STRAP

SEAT SUPPORT

Both seats can be removed to givemore cargo capacity. To remove aseat:

Pull the release strap on the seatsupport to unlock the seat support.

Remove the cover between theseat cushion and the side wall bypulling the tab and pulling thecover straight up.

Push the lock lever forward tounlock the seat.

1.

3.2.

CONTINUED

Removing the Rear Seats

SeatsInstrum

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RELEASE STRAP COVER

TAB LOCK LEVER STEEL HANDLE

Reverse this procedure to reinstallthe seat. Make sure the seat issecurely locked.

Always remove an unsecured seatfrom the vehicle before driving. Aseat that is not locked in place couldbe thrown about and cause injury ina sudden stop or crash.

Hold the steel handle next to thelock lever and the handle strap atthe outside edge of the seatcushion, and remove the entireseat by pulling it up and backward.

4.

Seats

80

STEEL HANDLE

HANDLE STRAP

－

－

If the MAIN switch is OFF, thepassenger’s window cannot be raisedor lowered. Keep the MAIN switchoff when you have children in thevehicle so they do not injurethemselves by operating thepassenger’s window unintentionally.

To open/close the driver’swindow, push the window switchfirmly down or up to the seconddetent, and release it. The windowwill automatically go up or down allthe way. To stop the window, pull/push on the window switch briefly.

If the driver’swindow senses any obstacle while itis closing automatically, it willreverse direction and then stop. Toclose the window, remove theobstacle, then use the window switchagain.If your vehicle’s battery isdisconnected or goes dead, or thedriver’s window fuse is removed, theAUTO function will be disabled. Thepower window system needs to bereset after reconnecting the batteryor installing the fuse.

If the power windows do not operateproperly after resetting, have yourvehicle checked by your dealer.

Pull and hold the driver’s windowswitch to close the windowcompletely, then hold the switchfor a second or two more.

Start the engine. Push down andhold the driver’s window switchuntil the window is fully open.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II)to raise or lower either window. Toopen the window, push the switchdown and hold it. Release the switchwhen you want the window to stop.Pull back on the switch and hold it toclose the window.

1.

2.

AUTO

AUTO REVERSE

Power WindowsInstrum

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81

DRIVER’S WINDOW SWITCH

MAIN SWITCH

Closing a power window onsomeone’s hands or fingers cancause serious injury.

Make sure your passenger isaway from the window beforeclosing it.

Keep the inside and outside mirrorsclean and adjusted for best visibility.Be sure to adjust the mirrors beforeyou start driving.

The inside mirror has day and nightpositions. The night position reducesglare from headlights behind you.Flip the tab on the bottom edge ofthe mirror to select the day or nightposition.

Push the appropriate edge of theadjustment switch to move themirror right, left, up, or down.

When you finish, move theselector switch to the center (off)position. This turns theadjustment switch off to keep yoursettings.

Move the selector switch to L(driver’s side) or R (passenger’sside).

1.

2.

3.

Mirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

82

TAB

SELECTOR SWITCH

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

To open a rear window, pull the levertowards you, then push it out until itlocks. To close the rear window pullthe lever towards you, then push itback. Make sure the window is fullyclosed and locked.

To lift up the rear of the skylight forventilation, pull down the lever tounlock the skylight, then push it upuntil the skylight is locked in the tilt-up position.

To close the skylight, pull down thelever to unlock the skylight, thenpush it back in place. Make sure theskylight is fully closed and locked.

To apply the parking brake, pull thelever up fully. To release it, pull upslightly, push the button, and lowerthe lever. The parking brakeindicator on the instrument panelshould go out when the parkingbrake is fully released (see page ).54

CONTINUED

On 4WD models only

Rear Windows, Parking Brake, Skylight

Parking BrakeRear Windows Skylight

Instruments

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PARKING BRAKE LEVER

Driving the vehicle with the parkingbrake applied can damage the rearbrakes and axles.

Turn off the engine, and set theparking brake. Then pull down thelever, squeeze both sides of the pivotwhile pushing up the red tab in thelever, and pull the lever assemblyaway from the ceiling.

Push up the rear of the skylight.Standing on the tailgate with thehatch down, hold both sides of theskylight and pull it toward you toremove it from the vehicle roof.

To remove the skylight:

Skylight

84

Bef ore lif ting the skylight, make surethe roof of the vehicle is dry. Rain orremaining water af ter car-washing mayget into the f rame of the skylight. Inwinter, remove the buildup of snow onthe roof .

If you try to tilt up the skylight inbelow-f reezing temperatures, or whenit is covered with snow or ice, you candamage it.

The maximum weight on the tailgate is440 lbs (200 kg).

With the rear seats in their uprightposition, store the skylight, facedown in its bag in the cargo area.Secure the bag with four hooks onthe cargo area floor. Do not storeanything on top of the skylight.

To reinstall the skylight, make surethe air deflector is pushed down.When reinstalling the lever assembly,push in both red pivots, and alignwith the receptacle holes. Let thepivots move out until they rest in theholes securely. Make sure theskylight is fully closed and latched.

SkylightInstrum

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An unsecured skylight can bethrown about and cause seriousinjury in a sudden stop or crash.

Make sure to store the skylightin its bag, and secure the bag tothe hooks on the cargo areafloor.

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Interior Convenience Items

86

CARGO AREA COIN TRAYCARGO AREASIDE POCKET

DOOR POCKETS

VANITY MIRROR

RADIO POCKET

ACCESSORYPOWERSOCKET

GLOVE BOX

CENTER LOWER POCKETBEVERAGE HOLDERS

CEILING POCKET

: If equipped BUNGEE CORDS

SEAT-BACK POCKET

These sockets are intended to supplypower for 12 volt DC accessoriesthat are rated 120 watts or less (10amps).

Open the glove box by pulling thebottom of the handle. Close it with afirm push. Lock or unlock the glovebox with the master key.

Be careful when you are using thebeverage holders. A spilled liquidthat is very hot can scald you or yourpassengers. Spilled liquids can alsodamage the upholstery, andelectrical components in the interior.

Your vehicle has one or twoaccessory power sockets, dependingon the model. All models have afront accessory power socket on thedashboard above the glove box.

The EX model has anotheraccessory power socket in the cargoarea on the passenger’s side.

None of the sockets will power anautomotive type cigarette lighterelement. When more than onesocket is being used, the combinedpower rating of the accessoriesshould be 120 watts or less(10 amps).

Interior Convenience Items

Beverage Holders Glove Box

Accessory Power Sockets

Instruments

andC

ontrols

87

An open glove box can causeserious injury to your passengerin a crash, even if thepassenger is wearing the seatbelt.

Always keep the glove boxclosed while driving.

The ceiling light has a three-positionswitch: ON, Door Activated, andOFF.In the Door Activated (center)position, the light comes on whenyou:

Open any door.Remove the key from the ignition.If you do not open a door, the lightfades out in about 30 seconds.Unlock the doors with the key orremote transmitter.

The cargo area light has a three-position switch. In the centerposition, the light comes on whenyou open the hatch.

Turn on the spotlight by pushing thelens. Push the lens again to turn itoff. You can use the spotlights at alltimes.

The ignition switch light comes onwhen you unlock the driver’s door,and fades out about 30 seconds afteryou close the door.

On EX models

Interior Lights

Ceiling Light SpotlightsCargo Area Light

Ignition Switch Light

88

ON

OFF

DOOR ACTIVATED

The standard audio system hasmany features. This section de-scribes those features and how touse them. (If you selected anoptional audio system, refer to theoperating instructions that camewith it.)

The heating and air conditioningsystems in your vehicle provide acomfortable driving environment inall weather conditions.

Your vehicle has an anti-theft audiosystem that requires a code numberto enable it.

...............Vents, Heating, and A/C . 90.......................Air Flow Controls . 91

...................................Ventilation . 92........................Using the Heater . 92

.............................Using the A/C . 92.............Dehumidify the Interior . 93

................To Defog and Defrost . 93To Remove Exterior Frost

......or Ice From the Windows . 93............Playing the AM/FM Radio . 94

..............AM/FM Radio Reception . 98Playing the XM

...........................Satellite Radio . 100................................Playing a Disc . 106

..................Protecting Your Discs . 113.......Disc Player Error Messages . 114

...Disc Changer Error Messages . 115.................Radio Theft Protection . 116

..........................Setting the Clock . 117...............................Cruise Control . 119

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FeaturesF

eatures

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Vents, Heating, and A/C

90

FAN CONTROL DIAL TEMPERATURECONTROL DIAL

MODE CONTROL DIAL

RECIRCULATION BUTTON AIR CONDITIONING(A/C) BUTTON

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGERBUTTON

MAX A/C POSITION

DEFROST POSITION

The outside air intakes for theheating and cooling system are atthe base of the windshield. Keep thisarea clear of leaves and other debris.

The system should be left in freshair mode under almost all conditions.Keeping the system in recirculationmode, particularly with the A/C off,can cause the windows to fog up.

Switch to recirculation mode whendriving through dusty or smokyconditions, then return to fresh airmode.

This button turns the rear windowdefogger off and on (see page ).

Use the mode control dial to selectthe vents the air flows from. Someair will flow from the dashboardvents in all modes.

When the recirculation indicator ison, air from the vehicle’s interior issent throughout the system again.When the indicator is off, air isbrought in from the outside of thevehicle (fresh air mode).

This button turns the airconditioning on and off. Theindicator in the button is on whenthe A/C is on.

Turning this dial clockwise increasesthe temperature of the airflow.

Turn this dial clockwise to increasethe fan speed and airflow.

The system automaticallyturns on the A/C and switches torecirculation mode. Air flows fromthe center and side vents in thedashboard.

Air flows from the centerand corner vents in the dashboard.

Airflow is divided betweenthe vents in the dashboard and thefloor vents.

Air flows from the floorvents. When you select , thesystem automatically switches tofresh air mode.

Airflow is divided betweenthe floor vents and the defrostervents at the base of the windshield.

63

CONTINUED

If equipped

Rear Window Defogger Button

Mode Control Dial

Recirculation Button

Air Conditioning (A/C) Button

Temperature Control Dial

Fan Control Dial

Air Flow Controls

Vents, Heating, and A/CF

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Air flows from the defrostervents at the base of the windshield. The heater uses engine coolant to

warm the air. If the engine is cold, itwill be several minutes before youfeel warm air coming from thesystem.

Air conditioning places an extra loadon the engine. Watch the enginecoolant temperature gauge (see page

). If it moves near the red zone,turn off the A/C until the gaugereads normally.

When you select or ,the system automatically switches tofresh air mode and turns on the A/C.The A/C indicator does not come on.

Select and fresh air mode.Set the fan to the desired speed.Adjust the warmth of the air withthe temperature control dial.The flow-through ventilation system

draws in outside air, circulates itthrough the interior, then exhausts itthrough vents near the tailgate.

Turn the temperature control dialall the way to the left.Make sure the A/C is off.Select and fresh air mode.Set the fan to the desired speed.

Set the mode control dial to MAXA/C.The system automatically turns onthe A/C, selects andswitches to recirculation mode.Make sure the temperaturecontrol dial is all the way to the left.Set the fan to the desired speed.

you cancool it down more rapidly by partiallyopening the windows, turning on theA/C, and setting the fan tomaximum speed in fresh air mode.

Turn on the A/C by pressing thebutton. The indicator in the buttoncomes on when a fan speed isselected.Make sure the temperaturecontrol dial is all the way to the left.Select .If the outside air is humid, selectrecirculation mode. If the outsideair is dry, select fresh air mode.Set the fan to the desired speed.

1.

2.3.4.

1.2.3.

1.

2.

3.

59

1.

2.

3.4.

5.

To cool the interior with MAX A/C:

If the interior is very warm,

If equipped


Using the A/C

Using the Heater

Ventilation(fresh air mode)

92

＊

＊＊

＊

Air conditioning, as it cools, removesmoisture from the air. When used incombination with the heater, itmakes the interior warm and dry.

This setting is suitable for all drivingconditions whenever the outsidetemperature is above 32°F (0°C).

To remove fog from the inside of thewindows:

When you switch to another modefrom , the A/C stays on.Press the A/C button to turn it off.

Switch the fan on.Turn on the air conditioning.Select and fresh air mode.Adjust the temperature controldial to your preference.

Set the fan to the desired speed, orhigh for faster defrosting.Select . The systemautomatically switches to fresh airmode and turns on the A/C. (TheA/C indicator will not come on inU.S. vehicles.)Adjust the temperature controldial so the airflow feels warm.Select to help clear therear window.To increase airflow to thewindshield, close the corner vents.

Select . The systemautomatically switches to fresh airmode and turns on the A/C. TheA/C indicator does not come on.Select .Set the fan and temperaturecontrols to maximum level.Select to help clear therear window.

To clear the windows faster, you canclose the dashboard corner vents byrotating the wheel below each vent.This sends more warm air to thewindshield defroster vents. Once thewindshield is clear, select fresh airmode to avoid fogging the windows.

For your safety, make sure you havea clear view through all the windowsbefore driving.

1.2.3.4.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

1.

2.3.

4.

: If equipped with A/C


Dehumidify the Interior To Remove Exterior Frost or IceFrom the Windows

To Defog and Defrost

Features

93

Playing the AM/FM Radio

94

AM/FM BUTTON STEREO INDICATOR

SCAN INDICATOR

SCAN BUTTON

SEEK BAR

PWR/VOLKNOB

AUTO SELECTBUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

PWR/VOL KNOB

SEEK BUTTONS

TUNE KNOB

SCAN BUTTON PRESET BUTTONS

AUTO SELECTBUTTON

TUNE KNOB

AM/FMBUTTON

STEREO INDICATOR

U.S. LX and Canadian DX models Canadian EX models

Playing the AM/FM RadioF

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STEREO INDICATORPWR/VOL KNOB

SEEK BUTTONS

SCAN BUTTON PRESET BUTTONS

AUTO SELECTBUTTON

AM/FMBUTTON

TUNE KNOB

U.S. EX models

－

－

－

－

You can use these five methods tofind radio stations on a selectedband: thepreset buttons, and .

The ignition switch must be inACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position.Turn the system on by pushing thePWR/VOL knob or the AM/FMbutton. Adjust the volume by turningthe same knob.

The band and frequency that theradio was last tuned to is displayed.To change bands, press the AM/FMbutton. On the FM band, ST will bedisplayed if the station is broadcast-ing in stereo. Stereo reproduction onAM is not available.

Use the TUNE knob totune the radio to a desired frequency.Turn the knob right to tune to ahigher frequency, or left to tune to a

lower frequency.

The SEEK functionsearches up and down from thecurrent frequency to find a stationwith a strong signal. To activate it,press either ( or ), thenrelease it.

The SCAN functionsamples all stations with strongsignals on the selected band. Toactivate it, press the SCAN button,then release it. You will see SCAN inthe display. The system will scan fora station with a strong signal. Whenit finds one, it will stop and play thatstation for about 5 seconds (LX andDX models) or 10 seconds (EXmodel).

If you do nothing, the system willthen scan for the next strong stationand play it for 5 seconds (LX and DXmodels) or 10 seconds (EX models).When it plays a station you want to

listen to, press the SCAN buttonagain.

Each preset button canstore one frequency on AM, and twofrequencies on FM.

Select the desired band, AM orFM. FM1 and FM2 let you storetwo frequencies with each presetbutton.Use the TUNE, SEEK, or SCANfunction to tune the radio to adesired station.Pick a preset button, and hold ituntil you hear a beep.Repeat steps 1 through 3 to store atotal of six stations on AM andtwelve stations on FM.

On all models except EX, the presetfrequencies will be lost if yourvehicle’s battery goes dead, isdisconnected, or the radio fuse isremoved.

2.

3.

4.

1.

To Play the Radio

To Select a Station

TUNE, SEEK, SCAN,AUTO SELECT

TUNE

SEEK

SCAN

Preset

Playing the AM/FM Radio

96

－－

－

If you aretraveling far from home and can nolonger receive your preset stations,you can use the auto select feature tofind stations in the local area.

These twomodes adjust the strength of thesound coming from each speaker.BAL adjusts the side-to-side strength,while FAD adjusts the front-to-backstrength.

Usethe TRE/BAS/SUB-W modes toadjust the tone to your liking.

Press the A. SEL button. ‘‘A.SEL’’flashes in the display, and the systemgoes into scan mode for severalseconds. It stores the frequencies ofsix AM, and twelve FM stations inthe preset buttons.

You will see a ‘‘0’’ displayed afterpressing a preset button if autoselect cannot find a strong station forevery preset button.

If you do not like the stations autoselect has stored, you can storeother frequencies on the presetbuttons as previously described.

press theA. SEL button. This restores thepresets you originally set.

Press the MODE or SOUND knobrepeatedly to display the Bass (BAS),Treble (TRE), Balance (BAL), Fader(FAD), and Sub-Woofer (SUB-W)settings.

Each mode is shown in the display asit changes. Turn the MODE orSOUND knob to adjust the setting toyour liking. When the level reachesthe center, you will see ‘‘C’’ in thedisplay. The system willautomatically return the display tothe selected audio mode about 5seconds after you stop adjusting amode.

To turn off auto select,AUTO SELECT Balance/Fader

Treble/Bass/Sub-Woofer

Adjusting the Sound

Playing the AM/FM RadioF

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97

The radio can receive the completeAM and FM bands.Those bands cover these frequen-cies:

AM band: 530 to 1,710 kilohertzFM band: 87.7 to 107.9 megahertz

How well the radio receives stationsis dependent on many factors, suchas the distance from the station’stransmitter, nearby large objects,and atmospheric conditions.

Driving very near the transmitter ofa station that is broadcasting on afrequency close to the frequency ofthe station you are listening to canalso affect your radio’s reception.You may temporarily hear bothstations, or hear only the station youare close to.

A radio station’s signal gets weakeras you get farther away from itstransmitter. If you are listening to anAM station, you will notice the soundvolume becoming weaker and thestation drifting in and out. If you arelistening to an FM station, you willsee the stereo indicator flickering offand on as the signal weakens.Eventually, the stereo indicator willgo off and the sound will fadecompletely as you get out of range ofthe station’s signal.

Radio stations on the AM band areassigned frequencies at least tenkilohertz apart (530, 540, 550).Stations on the FM band areassigned frequencies at least 0.2megahertz apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3).

Stations must use these exactfrequencies. It is fairly common forstations to round-off the frequency intheir advertising, so your radio coulddisplay a frequency of 100.9 eventhough the announcer may identifythe station as ‘‘FM101.’’

Radio Frequencies Radio Reception

AM/FM Radio Reception

98

Radio signals, especially on the FMband, are deflected by large objectssuch as buildings and hills. Yourradio then receives both the directsignal from the station’s transmitter,and the deflected signal. This causesthe sound to distort or flutter. This isa main cause of poor radio receptionin city driving.

Radio reception can be affected byatmospheric conditions such asthunderstorms, high humidity, andeven sunspots. You may be able toreceive a distant radio station oneday and not receive it the next daybecause of a change in conditions.

Electrical interference from passingvehicles and stationary sources cancause temporary reception problems.

As required by the FCC:Changes or modifications not expresslyapproved by the party responsible forcompliance could void the user’sauthority to operate the equipment.

AM/FM Radio ReceptionF

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Your vehicle is capable of receivingXM Satellite Radio anywhere in theUnited States, except Hawaii andAlaska.XM is a registered trade mark ofXM Satellite Radio, Inc.

Satellite radio is only available on U.S.models.

U.S. EX modelsSatellite Digital Radio

Playing the XM Satellite Radio

100

TUNEKNOB

PWR/VOLKNOB

CATEGORY INDICATOR

CATEGORYBUTTONS

XM BUTTON

SCANBUTTON

PRESETBUTTONS

CHANNELINDICATOR

DISPLAY BUTTON

TM

－－Press and release thisbutton to change the display. Thedisplay will change in the followingsequence: channel name, channelnumber, category, artist name, andmusic title.

Turn the TUNE knob tochange channels. Turn the knobright for higher numbered channelsand left for lower numberedchannels.

To listen to XM radio, turn theignition switch to ACCESSORY (I)or ON (II). Push the PWR/VOLknob to turn on the audio system,and press the ‘‘XM’’ button. Adjustthe volume by turning the PWR/VOL knob. The last channel youlistened to will show in the display.

When in the satellite radio mode,you can use any of three methods tofind channels: TUNE, SEEK/SKIP(CATEGORY), and SCAN.

To change between channel modeand category mode, press and holdthe DISP button.

CONTINUED


DISP TUNE

To Select a Channel

To Play XM Satellite Radio

Features

101

TM

－－

－

The scan function samplesall channels for 5 seconds. Toactivate the function, push the SCANbutton. Push it again to get out of thesequence.

Use the TUNE, SEEK or SCANfunction to tune the radio to adesired channel.

TheSEEK/SKIP function selects thevarious categories in XM, such asJazz/Blues, Rock, Classical, etc.Push the to change thecategory forward. Push the tochange the category backward. Tosearch for channels within acategory, turn the TUNE knobclockwise.

Each preset button canstore one channel in XM1 and one inXM2.

Push the XM button. (You will seeXM1 or XM2.)

Pick a preset button and hold ituntil you hear a beep.Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a totalof six stations each on XM1 andXM2.

1.

2.

3.

4.

SCANSEEK/SKIP (CATEGORY)

Preset


102

TM

Satellite radio receives signals fromtwo satellites to produce clear, high-quality digital reception. It offersmany channels in several categories.Along with a large selection ofdifferent types of music, satelliteradio also allows you to view channeland category selections in the audiodisplay.

The XM satellites are in orbit overthe equator; therefore, objects southof the vehicle may cause satellitereception interruptions. To helpcompensate for this, ground-basedrepeaters are placed in majormetropolitan areas. Satellite signalsare more likely to be blocked by tallbuildings and mountains the farthernorth you travel from the equator.

CONTINUED

Satellite Radio Signals

Playing the XM Satellite RadioF

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103

Signal may beblocked bymountains orlarge obstaclesto the south.

SATELLITE

GROUNDREPEATER

TM

Depending on where you drive, youmay experience reception problems.Interference can be caused by any ofthese conditions:

Driving on an east/west road witha mountain on the south side ofthe road.

Driving on a single lane roadalongside dense trees taller than50 ft. (15 m) to the south of you.

Driving on the lower level of amulti-tiered road.

Driving on a road beside a verticalwall, steep cliff, or hill to the southof you.

Driving in the tunnels.

Driving on the north side of alarge commercial truck on aneast/west road.

There may be other geographicsituations that could affect XM radioreception.

Cargo on a roof rack.

If your XM Radio service has expiredor you purchased your vehicle froma previous owner, you can listen to apreview of the broadcasts availableon XM Satellite Radio. With theignition switch in the ACCESSORY(I) or ON (II) position, push thePWR/VOL knob to turn on the audiosystem and press the XM button. AnXM Radio preview will play.

As required by the FCC:Changes or modifications not expresslyapproved by the party responsible forcompliance could void the user’sauthority to operate the equipment.

Receiving Satellite Radio Service


104

TM

If you decide to purchase XMSatellite Radio service, contact XMRadio at , or at1-800-852-9696. You will need to givethem your radio I.D. number andyour credit card number.

Turn the TUNE knob until‘‘0’’ appears in the display. Your I.D.will appear in the display.

After you have registered with XMRadio, keep your audio system in thesatellite radio mode while you waitfor activation. This should take about30 minutes.

While waiting for activation, makesure your vehicle remains in an openarea with good reception. Once youraudio system is activated, ‘‘category’’or ‘‘CH’’ will appear in the display,and you’ll be able to listen to XMRadio broadcasts. XM Radio willcontinue to send an activation signalto your vehicle for at least 12 hoursfrom the activation request. If theservice has not been activated after36 hours, contact XM Radio.

www.xmradio.com


To get your XM Satellite radio IDnumber:

Features

105

TM

Playing a Disc

106

PWR/VOLKNOB

CD BUTTON

REPEAT INDICATOR

EJECT BUTTONCD SLOT

SEEK/SKIP BARSKIP BUTTONS

EJECT BUTTON

CD SLOT

PWR/VOL KNOB

RANDOM INDICATOR

RANDOM BUTTON

RANDOM BUTTON

RANDOM INDICATOR

DISPLAY BUTTON

FOLDER KNOB

CDBUTTONFOLDER

INDICATOR

REPEATBUTTON

SCANBUTTON

DISC INDICATOR

U.S. LX and Canadian DX models Canadian EX models

Playing a DiscF

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CD BUTTON

SKIP BUTTONS

EJECT BUTTON

CD SLOT

PWR/VOL KNOB

RANDOM INDICATOR

FOLDER INDICATOR

DISC INDICATOR

REPEATBUTTON

SCANBUTTON

DISPLAY BUTTON

FOLDER KNOB

RANDOM BUTTON

U.S. EX models

To load or play discs, the ignitionswitch must be in the ACCESSORY(I) or ON (II) position.

The disc player can also play CD-RsWMA files, and CD-RWscompressed in MP3 standard. Whenplaying a disc in MP3, you will see‘‘MP3’’ in the display. You can selectup to folders or tracks.

Video CDs and DVDs will not workin this unit.

The specifications of the compatibleMP3 file are:Sampling frequency: 32/44.1/48 kHzBit rate: 8/16/24/32/40/48/56/64/80/96/112/128/160/192/224/256/320 kbpsCompatible with variable bit rate andmulti-session.Maximum layers (including ROOT):8

Because the compressed audioformat of MP3 and WMA discsallows them to store largeamounts of files and tagginginformation, these discs may takemore time to begin playing.

The sound quality of MP3 andWMA discs generally degrades asthe bit rate increases.

If a file on an MP3 or WMA disc isprotected by digital rightsmanagement (DRM), the audiounit displays FORMAT, and thenskips to the next file.

You operate the disc player with thesame controls used for the radio. Toselect the disc player, press the CD/AUX button. You will see ‘‘CD’’ in thedisplay. The number of the trackplaying is shown in the display. Thesystem will continuously play a discuntil you change modes.

255

On EX models

Playing a Disc

To Play a Disc

Note:

108

Do not use discs with adhesive labels.The label can curl up and cause thedisc to jam in the unit.

－ Each time youpress and release the , theplayer skips forward to thebeginning of the next track (files inMP3/WMA mode). Press andrelease the to skip backward tothe beginning of the current track.Press it again to skip to thebeginning of the previous track.

To move rapidly within a track, pressand hold the or .

You will see CUE or REW in thedisplay while moving within a track.

If you turn the system off while adisc is playing, either with the PWR/VOL knob or by turning off theignition switch, the disc will stay inthe drive. When you turn the systemback on, the disc will begin playingwhere it left off.

Insert a disc into the slot. The drivewill pull the disc in the rest of theway to play it. When the systemreaches the end of the disc, it willreturn to the beginning and play thedisc again.

You can also play 3-inch (8-cm) discswithout using an adapter ring. If you press the DISP/MODE button

while playing a disc, additionalinformation (track, album, artist, etc.)may be displayed.

To play the radio when a disc isplaying, press the AM/FM button.Press the CD/AUX button again toswitch back to the disc player.

You can use the SEEK/SKIP buttonwhile a disc is playing to selectpassages and change tracks (files inMP3/WMA mode).

In MP3/WMA mode, use theFOLDER knob to select folders inthe disc, and use the SEEK/SKIPbutton to change files.

CONTINUED

Except EX models

Playing a Disc

SEEK/SKIP

To Change or Select Tracks/Files

Features

109

－

－

－

－

－

To continuously replaya track (files in MP3/WMA mode),press and release the RPT button.You will see RPT in the display.Press the RPT button again to turn itoff.

Toselect a different folder, use theFOLDER knob to move to thebeginning of the next folder. Turnthe knob right to move to thebeginning of the current folder. Turnthe knob left to skip to the beginningof the previous folder.

This feature,when activated, replays all the fileson the selected folder in the orderthey are compressed in MP3/WMA.To activate folder repeat mode, pressand hold the RPT button for 2seconds. You will see RPT inthe display. The system continuouslyreplays the current folder. Press andhold the RPT button for 2 seconds toturn it off.

This feature plays thetracks (all files in each folder inMP3/WMA mode) within a disc inrandom order. To activate randomplay, press and release the RDMbutton. You will see RDM in thedisplay. Press the RDM button againto return to normal play.

Thisfeature, when activated, plays thefiles within a folder in random order,rather than in the order they arecompressed in MP3/WMA. Toactivate folder random play, pressand hold the RDM button. You willsee RDM in the display. Thesystem will then select and play filesrandomly. This continues until youdeactivate folder random play bypressing the RDM button again orselecting a different folder with theFOLDER knob.

In MP3/WMA mode

On EX models

Playing a Disc

REPEAT (TRACK/FILEREPEAT)

FOLDER SELECTION

FOLDER-REPEAT

RANDOM (Random within aDisc)

FOLDER-RANDOM

110

－－

Pressing either side of the SEEK/SKIP button also turns off the scanfeature.

If you turn the system off while adisc is playing, either with the PWR/VOL knob or by turning off theignition switch, the disc will stay inthe drive. When you turn the systemback on, the disc will begin playingwhere it left off.

The SCAN functionsamples all tracks/files on theselected disc in the order they arerecorded. To activate the scanfeature, press and hold the SCANbutton until you hear a beep. You willsee SCAN in the display. You will geta 10 second sampling of each track/file on the selected disc. Press theSCAN button again to get out of scanmode and play the last track/filesampled.

This feature,when activated, samples all files onthe selected folder in order. Toactivate the folder scan feature,press and hold the SCAN buttonuntil you hear a beep. You will see

SCAN in the display. Thesystem will then play the first file forabout 10 seconds. If you do nothing,the system will then play the first filein each folder for 10 seconds. Whenit plays a file you want to continuelistening to, press the SCAN buttonagain.

Pressing either side of the SEEK/SKIP button or selecting a differentfolder with the FOLDER knob alsoturns off the scan feature.

Press the eject button ( ) toremove the disc. If you eject the disc,but do not remove it from the slot,the system will automatically reloadthe disc after 15 seconds and put it inpause mode. To begin playing, pressthe CD/AUX button.

Press the AM/FM button to switchto the radio while a disc is playing.To play the disc, press the CD button.

Playing a Disc

To Stop Playing a DiscSCAN FOLDER-SCAN

Features

111

－＋

－＋

If you select an empty slot in themagazine, the changer will searchfor the next available disc to load andplay.

The auxiliary input jack is on thedashboard next to the accessorypower socket. The system will acceptauxiliary input from standard audioaccessories.

When the accessory is connected tothe auxiliary input jack, press theAUX button to select it.

See pages and forinformation on error messages.

For information on how to handleand protect discs, see page .

To select the disc changer, press theCD/AUX button. The disc and tracknumbers will be displayed. To selecta different disc, use the preset 5(DISC ) or the preset 6 (DISC )button. To select the previous disc,press the preset 5 (DISC ), or thepreset 6 (DISC ) to select the nextdisc in sequence.

Load the desired discs in themagazine, and load the magazine inthe changer according to theinstructions that came with the unit.

An optional six disc changer isavailable for your vehicle. This discchanger uses the same controls usedfor the in-dash disc player or theradio.

113

115114

On EX modelsLX model only

Auxiliary Input Jack

Audio System Malfunction

Protecting Discs

Operating the Optional DiscChanger

Playing a Disc

112

Never try to insert foreign objects inthe CD player or the magazine.

When a disc is not being played,store it in its case to protect it fromdust and other contamination. Toprevent warpage, keep discs out ofdirect sunlight and extreme heat.

To clean a disc, use a clean soft cloth.Wipe across the disc from the centerto the outside edge.

Handle a disc by its edges; nevertouch either surface. Do not placestabilizer rings or labels on the disc.These, along with contaminationfrom finger prints, liquids, and felt-tip pens, can cause the disc to notplay properly, or possibly jam in thedrive.

When using CD-R or CD-RW discs,use only high quality CDs labeledfor audio use.

When recording a CD-R or CD-RW, the recording must be closedfor it to be used by the system.

Play only standard round discs.Odd-shaped discs may jam in thedrive or cause other problems.

Handle your discs properly toprevent damage and skipping.

A new disc may be rough on theinner and outer edges. The smallplastic pieces causing this roughnesscan flake off and fall on the recordedsurface of the disc, causing skippingor other problems. Remove thesepieces by rubbing the inner andouter edges with the side of a pencilor pen.

General Information Protecting Discs

Protecting Your DiscsF

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IndicationIf you see an error message in thedisplay while playing a disc, find thecause in the chart to the right. If youcannot clear the error message, takethe vehicle to your dealer.

Cause Solution

FOCUS error

Mechanical error

High temperature

Press the EJECT button and pull out the disc.Check if it is inserted correctly in the player.Make sure the disc is not scratched or damaged.

Press the EJECT button and pull out the disc.Check the disc for damage or deformation.If the disc cannot be pulled out, or the errormessage does not disappear after the disc isejected, see your dealer.Will disappear when the temperature returns tonormal.

EX modelsExcept EX models

::

Disc Player Error Messages

114

IndicationIf you see an error message in thedisplay while playing a disc, find thecause in the chart to the right. If youcannot clear the error message, takethe vehicle to your dealer.

SolutionCause

Press the magazine eject button, and pull themagazine out.If the message does not disappear or themagazine cannot be pulled out, see your dealer.

Insert disc.

Press the magazine eject button, and pull themagazine out. Check for an error message, andinsert the magazine again. If the message doesnot disappear or the magazine cannot be pulledout, see your dealer.Will disappear when the temperature returns tonormal.

Insert magazine.

FOCUS error

No disc in the magazine

Mechanical error

High temperature

No magazine in thechanger

:EX models:Except EX models

Disc Changer Error MessagesF

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115

Your vehicle’s audio system willdisable itself if it is disconnectedfrom electrical power for any reason.To make it work again, you mustenter a specific five-digit code in thepreset buttons. Because there arehundreds of number combinationspossible from five-digits, making thesystem work without knowing theexact code is nearly impossible.

You should have received a card thatlists your audio system’s code andserial numbers. It is best to store thiscard in a safe place at home. Inaddition, you should write the audiosystem’s serial number in thisOwner’s Manual.

If you lose the card, you must obtainthe code number from a dealer. Todo this, you will need the system’sserial number.

If your vehicle’s battery isdisconnected or goes dead, or theradio fuse is removed, the audiosystem will disable itself. If thishappens, you will see ‘‘CODE’’ in thefrequency display the next time youturn on the system. Use the presetbuttons to enter the five-digit code.The code is on the radio code cardincluded in your Owner’s Manual kit.When it is entered correctly, theradio will start playing.

If you make a mistake entering thecode, do not start over; complete thefive-digit sequence, then enter thecorrect code. You have ten tries toenter the correct code. If you areunsuccessful in ten attempts, youmust then leave the system on for 1hour before trying again.

On EX models

Radio Theft Protection

116

If your vehicle’s battery isdisconnected or goes dead, you willneed to set the clock.

You can use the R button to quicklyset the time to the nearest hour.Press the R button while pressingthe CLOCK button. If the displayedtime is before the half hour, pressingR sets the clock back to the previoushour. If the displayed time is afterthe half hour, pressing R sets theclock forward to the beginning of thenext hour.For example:1:06 will reset to 1:001:53 will reset to 2:00

To set the hour, press the H buttonwhile pressing the CLOCK (SCAN/RPT) button until the hour advancesto the desired time. Change theminute by pressing the M buttonwhile pressing the CLOCK (SCAN/RPT) button until the minuteadvances to the desired time.

Press and hold the CLOCK buttonuntil the numbers flash and you heara beep. Change the hour by pressingthe H button until the numbersadvance to the desired time. Changethe minute by pressing the M buttonuntil the numbers advance to thedesired time.

CONTINUED

U.S. LX and Canadian DX models

On U.S. EX models

Setting the ClockF

eatures

117

CLOCKBUTTON

H BUTTON R BUTTON

TIME DISPLAY

M BUTTON

CLOCKBUTTON

H BUTTON R BUTTONM BUTTON

TIMEDISPLAY

You can quickly set the time to thenearest hour. If the displayed time isbefore the half hour, press the R(RESET) button to set the clockback to the previous hour. If thedisplayed time is after the half hour,pressing R sets the clock forward tothe beginning of the next hour.

For example:1:06 will reset to 1:001:53 will reset to 2:00

When you are finished, press theCLOCK button again.

On Canadian EX models

Setting the Clock

118

H BUTTON R BUTTONM BUTTON

TIMEDISPLAY CLOCK BUTTON

Accelerate to the desired cruisingspeed above 25 mph (40 km/h).Press and release the SET/DECEL button on the steeringwheel. The indicator on theinstrument panel comes on toshow the system is now activated.

Cruise control may not hold the setspeed when you are going up anddown hills. If your speed increasesgoing down a hill, use the brakes toslow down. This will cancel cruisecontrol. To resume the set speed,press the RES/ACCEL button. Theindicator on the instrument panel willcome back on.

Cruise control allows you to maintaina set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h)without keeping your foot on theaccelerator pedal. It should be usedfor cruising on straight, openhighways. It is not recommended forcity driving, winding roads, slipperyroads, heavy rain, or bad weather.

Push in the cruise control masterbutton. The indicator in the buttoncome on.

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If equipped

Cruise Control

Using Cruise Control

Features

119

CANCELBUTTON

RES/ACCEL BUTTON

SET/DECEL BUTTONImproper use of the cruisecontrol can lead to a crash.

Use the cruise control onlywhen traveling on openhighways in good weather.

You can increase the set cruisingspeed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the RES/ACCELbutton. When you reach thedesired cruising speed, release thebutton.

Push on the accelerator pedal.Accelerate to the desired cruisingspeed, and press the SET/DECELbutton.

You can decrease the set cruisingspeed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the SET/DECELbutton. Release the button whenyou reach the desired speed.

To slow down in very smallamounts, tap the SET/DECELbutton. Each time you do this,your vehicle will slow down about1 mph (1.6 km/h). Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

Push the CANCEL button on thesteering wheel.Push the cruise control masterbutton.

To increase the speed in verysmall amounts, tap the RES/ACCEL button. Each time you dothis, your vehicle speeds up about1 mph (1.6 km/h).

Tap the brake or clutch pedallightly with your foot. TheCRUISE CONTROL indicator onthe instrument panel goes out.When the vehicle slows to thedesired speed, press the SET/DECEL button.

Even with cruise control turned on,you can still use the acceleratorpedal to speed up for passing. Aftercompleting the pass, take your footoff the accelerator pedal. The vehiclewill return to the set cruising speed.

Resting your foot on the brake orclutch pedal causes cruise control tocancel.

You can cancel cruise control in anyof these ways:

When you push the CANCEL button,or tap the brake or clutch pedal, thesystem remembers the previouslyset cruising speed. To return to thatspeed, accelerate to above 25 mph(40 km/h), then press and releasethe RES/ACCEL button. Theindicator comes on, and the vehicleaccelerates to the same cruisingspeed as before.

Pressing the cruise control masterbutton turns the system off anderases the previous cruising speed.

Changing the Set Speed

Resuming the Set Speed

Cancelling Cruise Control

Cruise Control

120

Before you begin driving yourvehicle, you should know whatgasoline to use and how to check thelevels of important fluids. You alsoneed to know how to properly storeluggage or packages. Theinformation in this section will helpyou. If you plan to add anyaccessories to your vehicle, pleaseread the information in this sectionfirst.

.............................Break-in Period . 122.................Fuel Recommendation . 122

.........Service Station Procedures . 124....................................Refueling . 124

Opening and Closing the.......................................Hood . 125

...................................Oil Check . 126.............Engine Coolant Check . 126

...............................Fuel Economy . 127...Accessories and Modifications . 128

.............................Carrying Cargo . 130

Before DrivingB

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Help assure your vehicle’s futurereliability and performance by payingextra attention to how you driveduring the first 600 miles (1,000 km).During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapidacceleration.

Do not change the oil until thescheduled maintenance time.

Avoid hard braking for the first200 miles (300 km).

Do not tow a trailer.

You should also follow theserecommendations with anoverhauled or exchanged engine, orwhen the brakes are replaced.

Your vehicle is designed to operateon unleaded gasoline with a pumpoctane number of 86 or higher. Useof a lower octane gasoline can causea persistent, heavy metallic rappingnoise that can lead to engine damage.

In addition, in order to maintain goodperformance, fuel economy, andemissions control, we stronglyrecommend, in areas where it isavailable, the use of gasoline thatdoes NOT contain manganese-basedfuel additives such as MMT.

You may hear a knocking noise fromthe engine if you drive the vehicle atlow engine speed (below about 1,000rpm) in a higher gear. To stop this,raise the engine speed by shifting toa lower gear.

We recommend quality gasolinecontaining detergent additives thathelp prevent fuel system and enginedeposits.

On vehicles with manual transmission

Break-in Period, Fuel Recommendation

Break-in Period Fuel Recommendation

122

Some gasoline today is blended withoxygenates such as ethanol orMTBE. Your vehicle is designed tooperate on oxygenated gasolinecontaining up to 10 percent ethanolby volume and up to 15 percentMTBE by volume. Do not usegasoline containing methanol.

If you notice any undesirableoperating symptoms, try anotherservice station or switch to anotherbrand of gasoline.

For further important fuel-relatedinformation, please refer to yourQuick Start Guide.

Fuel RecommendationB

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123

If the fuel nozzle keeps clicking offeven though the tank is not full,there may be a problem with yourvehicle’s fuel vapor recoverysystem. The system helps keepfuel vapors from going into theatmosphere. Consult your dealer.

Park with the driver’s side closestto the gas pump.

Open the fuel fill door by pullingon the notched edge.

Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.You may hear a hissing sound aspressure inside the tank escapes.Place the cap in the holder on thefuel fill door.

Stop filling the tank after the fuelnozzle automatically clicks off. Donot try to ‘‘top off’’ the tank. Leavesome room for the fuel to expandwith temperature changes.

Screw the fuel fill cap back onuntil it clicks at least three times.If you do not properly tighten thecap, the malfunction indicatorlamp may come on (see page ).

Push the fuel fill door closed.

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210

Refueling

Service Station Procedures

124

Gasoline is highly flammableand explosive. You can beburned or seriously injuredwhen handling fuel.

Stop the engine and keepheat, sparks, and flame away.Handle fuel only outdoors.Wipe up spills immediately.

Pull the support rod out of its clipand insert the end into the hole inthe hood.

If the hood latch handle movesstiffly, or if you can open the hoodwithout lifting the handle, themechanism should be cleaned andlubricated.

Park the vehicle, and set theparking brake. Pull the hoodrelease handle located under thelower left corner of the dashboard.The hood will pop up slightly.

Put your fingers under the frontedge of the hood near the center.The hood latch handle is abovethe ‘‘H’’ logo. Push this handle upto release it. Lift up the hood.

Lift it up slightly to remove thesupport rod from the hole. Put thesupport rod back into its holding clip.Lower the hood to about a foot (30cm) above the fender, then let itdrop. Make sure it is securelylatched.

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To Close the Hood:

Opening and Closing the Hood

Service Station ProceduresB

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125

LATCH

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE SUPPORT ROD

CLIP

Wait a few minutes after turning theengine off before you check the oil.

Remove the dipstick (orange tab).

Wipe the dipstick with a cleancloth or paper towel.

Insert it all the way back in its tube.

Remove the dipstick again, andcheck the level. It should bebetween the upper and lowermarks.

If it is near or below the lower mark,see on page .

Look at the coolant level in theradiator reserve tank. Make sure it isbetween the MAX and MIN lines. Ifit is below the MIN line, see

on page forinformation on adding the propercoolant.

Refer toon page for information

about checking other items on yourvehicle.

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4.

170

173

164

Oil Check

Adding Oil

Engine Coolant Check

AddingEngine Coolant

Owner’s MaintenanceChecks

Service Station Procedures

126

DIPSTICK

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

RESERVE TANKMAX

MIN

Always maintain your vehicleaccording to the maintenanceschedule. See

(see page).

The build-up of snow or mud onyour vehicle’s underside addsweight and rolling resistance.Frequent cleaning helps your fuelmileage and reduces the chance ofcorrosion.

Always drive in the highest gearpossible.

The air conditioning puts an extraload on the engine which makes ituse more fuel. Use the fresh-airventilation when possible.

Combine several short trips intoone.an underinflated tire

causes more ‘‘rolling resistance,’’which uses more fuel.

Drive moderately. Rapidacceleration, abrupt cornering,and hard braking use more fuel.

Try to maintain a constant speed.Every time you slow down andspeed up, your vehicle uses extrafuel. Use cruise control whenappropriate.

164

For example,

Improving Fuel Economy

Owner’sMaintenance Checks

Fuel EconomyB

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127

When properly installed, cellularphones, alarms, two-way radios, andlow-powered audio systems shouldnot interfere with your vehicle’scomputer controlled systems, suchas your airbags and anti-lock brakes.

Your dealer has Honda accessoriesthat allow you to personalize yourvehicle. These accessories havebeen designed and approved for yourvehicle, and are covered by warranty.

Modifying your vehicle, or installingsome non-Honda accessories, canmake it unsafe. Before you make anymodifications or add any accessories,be sure to read the followinginformation.

Before installing any accessory:

Make sure the accessory does notobscure any lights, or interferewith proper vehicle operation orperformance.

Although non-Honda accessoriesmay fit on your vehicle, they may notmeet factory specifications, andcould adversely affect your vehicle’shandling and stability.

Be sure electronic accessories donot overload electrical circuits(see page ) or interfere withproper the operation of yourvehicle.

Before installing any electronicaccessory, have the installercontact your dealer for assistance.If possible, have your dealerinspect the final installation.

212

Accessories

Accessories and Modifications

128

Improper accessories ormodifications can affect yourvehicle’s handling, stability, andperformance, and cause acrash in which you can be hurtor killed.

Follow all instructions in thisowner’s manual regardingaccessories and modifications.

Some examples are:

Larger or smaller wheels and tirescan interfere with the operation ofyour vehicle’s anti-lock brakes andother systems.

If you plan to modify your vehicle,consult your dealer.

Modifying your steering wheel orany other part of your vehicle’ssafety features can make thesystems ineffective.

Removing parts from your vehicle,or replacing components with somenon-Honda components couldseriously affect your vehicle’shandling, stability, and reliability.

Lowering the vehicle with a non-Honda suspension kit thatsignificantly reduces groundclearance can allow theundercarriage to hit speed bumpsor other raised objects, whichcould cause the airbags to deploy.

Raising your vehicle with anon-Honda suspension kit canaffect the handling and stability.

Non-Honda wheels can causeexcessive stress on suspensioncomponents.

Modifying Your Vehicle

Accessories and ModificationsB

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Your vehicle has several convenientstorage areas:

Cargo area side pockets

Door pockets

Glove boxCeiling pocket (EX model)

Seat-back pocket (EX model)Cargo area

However, carrying too much cargo,or improperly storing it, can affectyour vehicle’s handling, stability,stopping distance, and tires, andmake it unsafe. Before carrying anytype of cargo, be sure to read thefollowing pages.

Seat-back bungees (EX model)

Carrying Cargo

130

CARGO AREA SIDE POCKET DOOR POCKETS

CARGO AREA GLOVE BOX

CEILING POCKET(EX model)

SEAT-BACK POCKET(EX model)

SEAT-BACK BUNGEES(EX model)

－ ×Steps for determining correct loadlimit:

Determine the combined weightof the driver and passengers thatwill be riding in your vehicle.

The maximum load for your vehicleis 675 lbs (308 kg). This figureincludes the total weight of alloccupants, cargo, and accessories,and the tongue load if you are towinga trailer.

Locate the statement, ‘‘thecombined weight of occupants andcargo should never exceed 675lbs’’ on your vehicle’s placard.[The placard is on the driver’sdoorjamb.]

Subtract the combined weight ofthe driver and passengers from675 pounds or 308 kilograms.

Determine the combined weightof luggage and cargo being loadedon the vehicle. That weight maynot safely exceed the availablecargo and luggage load capacity instep 4.

The resulting figure equals theavailable amount of cargo andluggage load capacity.

For example, if the maximum loadis 675 lbs and there will be four150 lb. passengers in your vehicle,the amount of available cargo and

luggage load capacity is 75 lbs.(675 600 (4 150) = 75 lbs.)

If your vehicle will be towing atrailer, the load from your trailerwill be transferred to your vehicle.Consult this manual to determinehow this reduces the availablecargo and luggage load capacity ofyour vehicle (see page ).

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149

CONTINUED

Carrying Cargo

Load Limits

Before

Driving

131

Overloading or improperloading can affect handling andstability and cause a crash inwhich you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and otherloading guidelines in thismanual.

In addition, the total weight of thevehicle, all passengers, accessories,cargo, and trailer tongue load mustnot exceed the Gross VehicleWeight Rating (GVWR) or the GrossAxle Weight Rating (GAWR). Bothare on a label on the driver’sdoorjamb.

If you carry large items thatprevent you from closing thetailgate or the hatch, exhaust gascan enter the passenger area. Toavoid the possibility of

, follow theinstructions on page .

If you carry any items on a roofrack, be sure the total weight ofthe rack and the items does notexceed 165 lbs (75 kg).

Distribute cargo evenly on thefloor of the cargo area, placing theheaviest items on the bottom andas far forward as possible. Tiedown items that could be thrownabout the vehicle during a crash orsudden stop.

If you use an accessory roof rack,the roof rack weight limit may belower. Refer to the information thatcame with your roof rack.

The separation net can be used tohold back soft, lightweight itemsstored in the cargo area. Heavyitems should be properly secured onthe floor of the cargo area. The netmay not prevent heavy items frombeing thrown forward in a crash or asudden stop.

Store or secure all items that couldbe thrown around and hurtsomeone during a crash.

Keep the glove box closed whiledriving. If it is open, a passengercould injure their knees during acrash or sudden stop.

Be sure items placed on the floorbehind the front seats cannot rollunder the seats and interfere withthe driver’s ability to operate thepedals or the seat.

47

Carrying Cargo

Carrying Items in the PassengerCompartment

carbonmonoxide poisoning

Carrying Cargo in the Cargo Areaor on a Roof Rack

Optional Separation Net

132

The driver’s seat-back and left rearseat-back are equipped withadjustable bungee cords to holdmedium-sized, lightweight objects.

If the cords are not installed, routeone cord through the loops as shown.To attach the hooks, press the top ofthe hook down, and slide to thedesired position, then release. Adjustas needed.

On EX models

Carrying Cargo

Seat-Back Bungee

Before

Driving

133

LOOP

ADJUSTABLE BUNGEE CORD

HOOK

134

This section gives you tips onstarting the engine under variousconditions, and how to operate themanual and automatic transmissions.It also includes importantinformation on parking your vehicle,the braking system, and facts youneed if you are planning to tow atrailer or drive off-highway.

........................Driving Guidelines . 136

........................Preparing to Drive . 137.......................Starting the Engine . 138

...................Manual Transmission . 139..............Automatic Transmission . 141

..................................Parking Tips . 145.............................Braking System . 146

...............Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) . 147...........................Towing a Trailer . 149

Towing Your Vehicle Behind a................................Motorhome . 155

Off-Highway Driving..................................Guidelines . 157

DrivingD

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135

Because your vehicle rides higheroff the ground, it has a high centerof gravity that can cause it to rollover if you make abrupt turns. Utilityvehicles have a significantly higherroll over rate than other types ofvehicles.

To prevent rollovers or loss ofcontrol:

Take corners at slower speedsthan you would with a passengervehicle.

Avoid sharp turns and abruptmaneuvers whenever possible.

Do not carry heavy cargo on theroof.

Do not modify your vehicle in anyway that would raise the center ofgravity.

Your vehicle is equipped with a four-wheel drive (4WD) system. Whenthe system senses a loss of front-wheel traction, it automaticallytransfers some power to the rearwheels. This gives you bettertraction and mobility.

You still need to exercise the samecare when accelerating, steering, andbraking that you would in a two-wheel drive vehicle.

Your vehicle has a higher groundclearance that allows you to travelover bumps, obstacles, and roughterrain. It also provides goodvisibility so you can anticipateproblems earlier.

Four-wheel Drive Models

See page for additional guidelinesfor driving off-highway.

159

Driving Guidelines

136

Check the seat adjustment (seepage ).

Check the adjustment of theinside and outside mirrors (seepage ).

Check the steering wheeladjustment (see page ).

Make sure the doors, hatch, andtailgate are securely closed andlocked.

Fasten your seat belt. Check thatyour passengers have fastenedtheir seat belts (see page ).

You should do the following checksand adjustments before you driveyour vehicle.

Make sure all windows, mirrors,and outside lights are clean andunobstructed. Remove frost, snow,or ice.

When you start the engine, checkthe gauges and indicators in theinstrument panel (see page ).

Check that the hood is fully closed.

Visually check the tires. If a tirelooks low, use a gauge to check itspressure.

Check that any items you may becarrying with you inside are storedproperly or fastened downsecurely.

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Preparing to DriveD

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137

Apply the parking brake.

In cold weather, turn off allelectrical accessories to reducethe drain on the battery.

Push the clutch pedal down all theway.

Make sure the shift lever is inPark. Press on the brake pedal.

Without touching the acceleratorpedal, turn the ignition key to theSTART (III) position. Do not holdthe key in START for more than15 seconds at a time. If the enginedoes not start right away, pausefor at least 10 seconds beforetrying again.

If the engine does not start within15 seconds, or starts but stallsright away, repeat step 4 with theaccelerator pedal pressed halfwaydown. If the engine starts, releasepressure on the accelerator pedalso the engine does not race.

If the engine fails to start, pressthe accelerator pedal all the waydown and hold it there whilestarting to clear flooding. If theengine still does not start, returnto step 5.

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5.

Manual Transmission:

Automatic Transmission:

66

Starting the Engine

138

Immobilizer System

The engine is harder to start in coldweather. Also, the thinner air f ound ataltitudes above 8,000 f eet (2,400meters) adds to this problem.

The immobilizer system protects yourvehicle f rom thef t. If an improperly-coded key (or other device) is used, theengine’s f uel system is disabled. See

on page .

When slowing down, you can getextra braking from the engine byshifting to a lower gear. This extrabraking can help you maintain a safespeed and prevent your brakes fromoverheating while going down asteep hill. Before downshifting,make sure the engine speed will notgo into the tachometer’s red zone inthe lower gear.

The manual transmission issynchronized in all forward gears forsmooth operation. It has a lockout soyou cannot shift directly from fifth toreverse. When shifting up or down,make sure you push the clutch pedaldown all the way, shift to the nextgear, and let the pedal up gradually.When you are not shifting, do notrest your foot on the clutch pedal.This can cause your clutch to wearout faster.

Come to a full stop before you shiftinto reverse. You can damage thetransmission by trying to shift intoreverse with the vehicle moving.Push down the clutch pedal, andpause for a few seconds beforeshifting into reverse, or shift into oneof the forward gears for a moment.This stops the gears so they won’t‘‘grind.’’

Manual TransmissionD

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139

Rapid slowing or speeding-upcan cause loss of control onslippery surfaces. If you crash,you can be injured.

Use extra care when driving onslippery surfaces.

Normal acceleration

15 mph (24 km/h)25 mph (40 km/h)40 mph (64 km/h)48 mph (77 km/h)

Shift up

1st to 2nd2nd to 3rd3rd to 4th4th to 5th

If you exceed the maximum speedfor the gear you are in, the enginespeed will enter into the tachometer’sred zone. If this occurs, you may feelthe engine cut in and out. This iscaused by a limiter in the engine’scomputer controls. The engine willrun normally when you reduce theRPM below the red zone.

Before downshifting, make sure theengine will not go into thetachometer’s red zone.

Drive in the highest gear that letsthe engine run and acceleratesmoothly. This will give you goodfuel economy and effectiveemissions control. The followingshift points are recommended:

Recommended Shift Points Engine Speed Limiter

Manual Transmission

140

－These indicators on the instrumentpanel show which position the shiftlever is in.

To shift from any position, pressfirmly on the brake pedal, push therelease button, and pull the levertoward you. You cannot shift out ofPark when the ignition switch is inthe LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I)position.

This position mechani-cally locks the transmission. UsePark whenever you are turning off orstarting the engine. To shift out ofPark, you must press on the brakepedal and have your foot off theaccelerator pedal.

If you have done all of the above andstill cannot move the lever out ofPark, see onpage .

The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for afew seconds when you turn theignition switch to ON (II). If itflashes while driving (in any shiftposition), it indicates a possibleproblem in the transmission. Avoidrapid acceleration, and have thetransmission checked by your dealeras soon as possible.

144CONTINUED

To shift from:P to R

R to NN to DD to 22 to 11 to 22 to DD to NN to RR to P

Do this:Press the brake pedal, andpress the release button.

Press the release button.

Move the lever.

Shift Lever Position Indicators Shifting

Park (P)

Shift Lock Release

Automatic TransmissionD

riving

141

SHIFT LEVER

－

－－

To avoid transmission damage, cometo a complete stop before shiftinginto Park. The shift lever must be inPark before you can remove the keyfrom the ignition switch.

Use this position foryour normal driving. Thetransmission automatically selects asuitable gear for the vehicle speedand acceleration. You may notice thetransmission shifting up at higherspeeds when the engine is cold. Thishelps the engine warm up faster.

Press the brakepedal and press the release button toshift from Park to reverse. To shiftfrom reverse to neutral, come to acomplete stop and then shift.

Your vehicle has a reverse lockout soyou cannot accidentally shift toreverse when the vehicle speedexceeds 5 mph (8 km/h).

If you cannot shift to reverse whenthe vehicle is stopped, press thebrake pedal and slowly shift toneutral. Then press the releasebutton, and shift to reverse.

If there is a problem in the reverselockout system, or your vehicle’sbattery is disconnected or goes dead,you cannot shift to reverse. (Refer to

on page ).

Use neutral if youneed to restart a stalled engine, or ifit is necessary to stop briefly withthe engine idling. Shift to the Parkposition if you need to leave yourvehicle for any reason. Press on thebrake pedal when you are movingthe shift lever from neutral toanother gear.

144

Automatic Transmission

Drive (D)

Reverse (R)

Shift Lock Release

Neutral (N)

142

－

－

This position locksthe transmission in second gear. Itdoes not downshift to first gearwhen you come to a stop.

This position locks thetransmission in first gear. Byupshifting and downshifting through1, 2, and D, you can operate thistransmission much like a manualtransmission without a clutch pedal.

For more power when climbing.To increase engine braking whengoing down steep hills.For starting out on a slipperysurface or in deep snow.To help reduce wheel spin.When driving downhill with atrailer.

If you exceed the maximum speedfor the gear you are in, the enginespeed will enter into the tachometer’sred zone. If this occurs, you may feelthe engine cut in and out. This iscaused by a limiter in the engine’scomputer controls. The engine willrun normally when you reduce theRPM below the red zone.

Overdrive (O/D) is on whenever youturn the ignition to ON (II). Pressthe O/D switch on the side of theshift lever to turn it off; the O/DOFF indicator comes on.

Overdrive can be turned on or offonly when the ignition switch is inthe ON (II) position.

When overdrive is off, thetransmission selects only the firstthree gears. Use it to provide enginebraking when going down a steep hill,or to keep the transmission fromcycling between third and fourthgear in stop-and-go driving.

Use second gear:

If you shift into first when thevehicle speed is above 31 mph (50km/h), the transmission shifts intosecond gear first to avoid suddenengine braking.


Overdrive (O/D) Mode

Second (2)

First (1)

Engine Speed Limiter

Driving

143

Do this if pushing on the brake pedaland pulling the shift lever does notshift the transmission out of Park:

Set the parking brake.

Make sure the ignition switch is inthe LOCK (0) position.

To release the reverse lockout,make sure the ignition switch is inthe ACCESSORY(I) position.

Put a cloth on the edge of the shiftlock release slot cover next to theshift lever. Using a flatheadscrewdriver, carefully pry on theedge of the cover to remove it.

Insert the flathead screwdriverinto the shift lock release slot.

Remove the screwdriver from theshift lock release slot, then replacethe cover. Make sure the notch onthe cover is on the right side.Press the brake pedal and restartthe engine.

Push down on the screwdriverwhile you press the release buttonand move the shift lever out ofPark to neutral.

To release the reverse lockout,move the shift lever from neutralto reverse, then to Park.

If you need to use the shift lockrelease, it means your vehicle isdeveloping a problem. Have itchecked by your dealer.

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Shift Lock Release

144

COVER

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT

Always use the parking brake whenyou park your vehicle. Make surethe parking brake is set firmly oryour vehicle may roll if it is parkedon an incline.

If your vehicle has an automatictransmission, set the parking brakebefore you put the transmission inPark. This keeps the vehicle frommoving and putting pressure on theparking mechanism in thetransmission.

Make sure the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

Place any packages, valuables, etc.in the cargo area, or take themwith you.

Lock the doors and the hatch withthe key.

Never park over dry leaves, tallgrass, or other flammablematerials. The hot three waycatalytic converter could causethese materials to catch on fire.

If the vehicle is facing uphill, turnthe front wheels away from thecurb. If you have a manualtransmission, put it in first gear.

Make sure the parking brake isfully released before driving away.Driving with the parking brakepartially set can overheat ordamage the rear brakes.

If the vehicle is facing downhill,turn the front wheels toward thecurb. If you have a manualtransmission, put it in reverse gear.

Parking Tips

Parking TipsD

riving

145

Constant application of the brakeswhen going down a long hill buildsup heat and reduces their effective-ness. Use the engine to assist thebrakes by taking your foot off theaccelerator and downshifting to alower gear.

The hydraulic system that operatesthe brakes has two separate circuits.Each circuit works diagonally acrossthe vehicle (the left-front brake isconnected with the right-rear brake,etc.). If one circuit should develop aproblem, you will still have brakingat two wheels.Check the brakes after driving

through deep water. Apply thebrakes moderately to see if they feelnormal. If not, apply them gently andfrequently until they do. Be extracautious in your driving.

Your vehicle is equipped with discbrakes at all four wheels. A powerassist helps reduce the effort neededon the brake pedal. The ABS (onvehicles equipped with ABS) helpsyou retain steering control whenbraking very hard.

Resting your foot on the pedal keepsthe brakes applied lightly, builds upheat, and reduces their effectiveness.It also keeps your brake lights on allthe time, confusing drivers behindyou.

Braking System Design

Braking System

146

If the brake pads need replacing, youwill hear a distinctive, metallicscreeching sound when you applythe brake pedal. If you do not havethe brake pads replaced, they willscreech all the time. It is normal forthe brakes to occasionally squeal orsqueak when you apply them.

The anti-lock brake system (ABS)helps prevent the brakes fromlocking up, and helps you retainsteering control by pumping thebrakes rapidly, much faster than aperson can do it.

The ABS also balances the front-to-rear braking distribution accordingto vehicle loading.

Let the ABS work for you by alwayskeeping firm, steady pressure on thebrake pedal. This is sometimesreferred to as ‘‘stomp and steer.’’

You will feel a pulsation in the brakepedal when the ABS activates, andmay hear some noise. This is normal:it is the ABS rapidly pumping thebrakes. On dry pavement, you willneed to press on the brake pedalvery hard before the ABS activates.However, you may feel the ABSactivate immediately if you are tryingto stop on snow or ice.

You should never pump the brake pedal.

Standard on EX modelsBrake Wear Indicators Anti-lock Brakes

Braking System, Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)D

riving

147

Test your brakes as instructed onpage . If the brakes feel normal,drive slowly and have your vehiclerepaired by your dealer as soon aspossible. Avoid sudden hard brakingwhich could cause the rear wheels tolock up and possibly lead to a loss ofcontrol.

If the ABS indicator comes on, theanti-lock function of the brakingsystem has shut down. The brakesstill work like a conventional system,but without anti-lock. You shouldhave your dealer inspect your vehicleas soon as possible.

If the indicator comes on whiledriving, test the brakes as instructedon page .

If the ABS indicator and the brakesystem indicator come on togetherand the parking break is fullyreleased, the front-to-rear brakingdistribution system may also shutdown.

It only helps with steeringcontrol during braking.

such as trying to take acorner too fast or making a suddenlane change.

Always steer moderatelywhen you are braking hard. Severeor sharp steering wheel movementcan still cause your vehicle to veerinto oncoming traffic or off the road.

on loose oruneven surfaces, such as gravel orsnow, than a vehicle without anti-lock.

211

55

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

ABS Indicator

ABS does not reduce the time ordistance it takes to stop thevehicle.

ABS will not prevent a skid thatresults from changing directionabruptly,

ABS cannot prevent a loss ofstability.

A vehicle with ABS may require alonger distance to stop

Important Safety Reminders

148

Your vehicle has been designed toprimarily carry passengers and theircargo. You can also use it to tow atrailer if you carefully observe theload limits, use the proper equipment,and follow the guidelines in thissection.

The weight thatthe tongue of a fully-loaded trailerputs on the hitch should beapproximately 10 percent of thetotal trailer weight. Too muchtongue load reduces front-tiretraction and steering control. Toolittle tongue load can make thetrailer unstable and cause it tosway.

Be sure to read theon page

if you plan to tow off pavedsurfaces.

Themaximum allowable weight of thetrailer and everything in or on itmust not exceed 1,500 lbs (680 kg).Towing a load that is too heavycan seriously affect your vehicle’shandling and performance. It canalso damage the engine anddrivetrain.

157

Driving Off-Highway Guidelines section

CONTINUED

Load Limits

Tongue Load:Total Trailer Weight:

Towing a TrailerD

riving

149

Exceeding any load limit orimproperly loading your vehicleand trailer can cause a crash inwhich you can be seriously hurtor killed.

Check the loading of yourvehicle and trailer carefullybefore starting to drive.

To achieve a proper tongue load,start by loading 60 percent of theload toward the front of the trailerand 40 percent toward the rear, thenre-adjust the load as needed.

The maximum allowable weight ofthe vehicle, all occupants, all cargo,and the tongue is:

The best way to confirm that vehicleand trailer weights are within limitsis to have them checked at a publicscale.

Using a suitable scale or a specialtongue load gauge, check the tongueload the first time you set up atowing combination (a fully-loadedvehicle and trailer), then recheck thetongue load whenever the conditionschange.

The maximum allowable weight ofthe vehicle axles is:

on the front axle

on the rear axleGross Vehicle Weight Rating(GVWR):

Checking LoadsGross Axle Weight Rating(GAWR):

Towing a Trailer

150

4,450 Ibs (2,020 kg)

2,300 Ibs (1,045 kg)

2,205 Ibs (1,000 kg)

Towing can require a variety ofequipment, depending on the size ofyour trailer, how it will be used, howmuch load you are towing, andwhere you tow.

Discuss your needs with your trailersales or rental agency, and follow theguidelines in the rest of this section.Also make sure that all equipment isproperly installed and that it meetsfederal, state, province, and localregulations.

Honda recommends that any trailerhaving a total weight of 1,000 lbs(450 kg) or more be equipped withits own electric or surge-type brakes.

If you choose electric brakes, besure they are electrically actuated.Do not attempt to tap into yourvehicle’s hydraulic system. Nomatter how successful it may seem,any attempt to attach trailer brakesto your vehicle’s hydraulic systemwill lower braking effectiveness andcreate a potential hazard.

See your trailer dealer for moreinformation on installing electricbrakes.

Any hitch used on your vehicle mustbe properly bolted to the underbody.

Always use safety chains when youtow a trailer. Make sure the chainsare secured to the trailer and hitch,and that they cross under the tongueand can catch the trailer if itbecomes unhitched. Leave enoughslack to allow the trailer to turncorners easily, but do not let thechains drag on the ground.

CONTINUED

Towing Equipment andAccessories

Trailer BrakesHitches

Safety Chains

Towing a TrailerD

riving

151

Trailer lights and equipment mustcomply with federal, state, and localregulations. Check with your localrecreational vehicle dealer for therequirements in your area, and useonly equipment designed for yourvehicle.

Many states and Canadian provincesrequire special outside mirrors whentowing a trailer. Even if they don’t,you should install special mirrors ifyou cannot clearly see behind you, orif the trailer creates a blind spot.

Ask your trailer sales or rentalagency if any other items arerecommended or required for yourtowing situation.

Since lighting and wiring vary bytrailer type and brand, you shouldhave a qualified technician install asuitable connector between thevehicle and the trailer. Improperequipment or installation can causedamage to your vehicle’s electricalsystem and affect your vehiclewarranty.

Trailer Lights Additional Towing Equipment

Towing a Trailer

152

When preparing to tow, and beforedriving away, be sure to check thefollowing:

The vehicle has been properlyserviced, and the tires, brakes,suspension, cooling system, andlights are in good operatingcondition.

The lights and brakes on yourvehicle and the trailer are workingproperly.

All items in or on the trailer areproperly secured and cannot shiftwhile you drive.

The hitch, safety chains, and anyother attachments are secure.

All weights and loads are withinlimits (see pages and ).

Your vehicle tires and spare areproperly inflated (see page ),and the trailer tires and spare areinflated as recommended by thetrailer maker.

The added weight, length, andheight of a trailer will affect yourvehicle’s handling and performance,so driving with a trailer requiressome special driving skills andtechniques.For your safety and the safety ofothers, take time to practice drivingmaneuvers before heading for theopen road, and follow the guidelinesbelow.

Drive slower than normal in alldriving situations, and obey postedspeed limits for vehicles with trailers.If you have an automatictransmission, use overdrive (O/D)when towing a trailer on level roads.Turn off the overdrive (O/D) whentowing a trailer in hilly terrain. (see‘‘ ’’ in the next columnfor additional gear information.)

149 150

187

CONTINUED

Pre-Tow Checklist Driving Safely With a Trailer

Towing a Trailer

Towing Speeds and Gears

Driving on Hills

Driving

153

Make turns more slowly and widerthan normal. The trailer tracks asmaller arc than your vehicle, and itcan hit or run over something thevehicle misses. Allow more time anddistance for braking. Do not brake orturn suddenly as this could cause thetrailer to jackknife or turn over.

When climbing hills, closely watchyour temperature gauge. If it nearsthe red (hot) mark, turn the airconditioning off, reduce speed and, ifnecessary, pull to the side of theroad to let the engine cool.

If the automatic transmission shiftsfrequently between 3rd and 4thgears while going up a hill, turn offthe overdrive (O/D) (see page ).

If you must stop when facing uphill,use the foot brake or parking brake.Do not try to hold the vehicle inplace by pressing on the accelerator,as this can cause the automatictransmission to overheat.

When driving down hills, reduceyour speed and shift down to 3rdgear (manual transmission) or turnoff the overdrive (O/D) (automatictransmission). Do not ‘‘ride’’ thebrakes, and remember it will takelonger to slow down and stop whentowing a trailer.

Crosswinds and air turbulencecaused by passing trucks can disruptyour steering and cause trailerswaying. When being passed by alarge vehicle, keep a constant speed,and steer straight ahead. Do not tryto make quick steering or brakingcorrections.

Always drive slowly and havesomeone guide you when backing up.Grip the of the steeringwheel; then turn the wheel to the leftto get the trailer to move to the left,and turn the wheel right to move thetrailer to the right.

Follow all normal precautions whenparking, including firmly setting theparking brake and putting thetransmission in Park (automatic) orin 1st or reverse (manual). Also,place wheel chocks at each of thetrailer’s tires.

143

bottom

Towing a Trailer

Making Turns and Braking

Driving on Hills

Handling Crosswinds and Buffeting

Backing Up

Parking

154

Your vehicle can be towed behind amotorhome at legal highway speedsup to 65 mph (100 km/h). Do notexceed 65 mph (100 km/h) or severetransmission damage will occur. Toavoid damage to the 4WD system, itmust be towed with all four wheelson the ground (flat towing).

When purchasing a tow bar, makesure you select a reputablemanufacturer. Follow themanufacturer’s attachmentinstructions carefully.

Press on the brake pedal. Movethe shift lever through all itspositions.

Shift to D, then to N. Let theengine run for three minutes, thenturn it off.

Release the parking brake.

Leave the ignition switch in theACCESSORY (I) position so thesteering wheel does not lock.Make sure the radio and any itemsplugged into the accessory powersockets are turned off so you donot run down the battery.

If you tow more than 8 hours in oneday, you should repeat the aboveprocedure at least every 8 hours(when you stop for fuel, etc.)

Start the engine.

Check the transmission fluid level(see page ).

Perform this procedure every dayimmediately before you begin towing.Otherwise, severe automatictransmission damage will occur.

175 Do not overfill.

Automatic transmission models

CONTINUED

Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome

Extended Towing

Driving

155

The steering system can be damaged ifthe steering wheel is locked. Leave theignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I)position, and make sure the steeringwheel turns f reely bef ore you begintowing.

Failure to f ollow the above instructionsexactly will result in severe automatictransmission damage. If you cannotshif t the transmission or start theengine, your vehicle must betransported on a f lat-bed truck ortrailer.

If you tow a vehicle with anautomatic transmission, thetransmission fluid must be changedevery two years or 30,000 miles(48,000 km), whichever comes first.

Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome

156

Severe automatic transmission damagewill occur if the vehicle is not startedor shif ted f rom reverse to neutral andthen towed with the drive wheels on theground.

To avoid loss of control or rollover,be sure to follow all precautions andrecommendations.

Be sure to store cargo properlyand do not exceed your vehiclecargo load limits (see pages

and ).

Wherever you drive, make sureyou and your passengers alwayswear seat belts.

Keep your speed low, and nevergo faster than the conditions allow.

It’s up to you to continually assessthe situation and drive within thelimits.

Your vehicle has been designedprimarily for use on pavement. Butits higher ground clearance allowsyou to occasionally travel on unpavedroads, to campgrounds, picnic sites,and similar locations. It is notdesigned for trail-blazing, mountainclimbing, or other challenging off-road activities.

If you decide to drive on unpavedroads, you will find that it requiressomewhat different driving skills.Your vehicle will also handlesomewhat differently than it does onpavement. So be sure to read thisowner’s manual, pay special attentionto the precautions and tips in thissection, and get acquainted withyour vehicle before you leave thepavement.

131 149

General Information Important Safety Precautions

Off-Highway Driving GuidelinesD

riving

157

Improperly operating thisvehicle on or off-pavement cancause an accident or rollover inwhich you and your passengerscould be seriously injured orkilled.

Follow all instructions andguidelines in the owner’smanual.Keep your speed low anddon’t drive faster thanconditions permit.

Before you leave the pavement, besure to do all scheduled maintenanceand service and that you inspect yourvehicle. Pay special attention to thecondition of the tires and check thetire pressure.

After you return to the pavement,carefully inspect your vehicle tomake sure there is no damage thatcould make driving it unsafe.Recheck the condition of the tiresand the tire pressure.

The route presents limits (too steepor bumpy roads). You have limits(driving skill and comfort). And yourvehicle has limits (traction, stability,and power).

Driving off-highway can behazardous if you fail to recognizelimits and take the properprecautions.

For better traction on all surfaces,accelerate slowly and gradually buildup speed. If you try to start too faston wet soil, mud, snow, or ice, youmight not have enough traction toget underway and you may digyourself a hole. Starting with theshift lever in second gear (2) willhelp you have a smoother start onsnow and ice.

Keep in mind that you will usuallyneed more time and distance tobrake to a stop on unpaved surfaces.Avoid hard braking. Do not pumpthe brakes; let the anti-lock brakingsystem pump them for you.

Debris in the road can damage yoursuspension or other components.Because your vehicle has a highcenter of gravity, driving over a largeobstacle, or allowing a wheel to dropinto a deep hole can cause yourvehicle to tip or roll over.

If you can’t clearly see all roadconditions or obstacles, walk theslope before you drive on it. If youhave any doubt whether or not youcan safely drive on the slope, don’tdo it. Find another route.

If you are driving up a hill and findthat you cannot continue,

. Your vehicle could rollover. Slowly back down the hill,following the same route you took upthe hill.

do not try toturn around

Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

Check Out Your Vehicle

Remember:

Accelerating and Braking Avoiding Obstacles

Driving on Slopes

158

Avoid driving through deep water. Ifyou encounter water in your route (asmall stream or large puddle, forexample), evaluate it carefully beforegoing ahead. Make sure it is shallow,flowing slowly, and has firm groundunderneath. If you are not sure ofthe depth or the ground, turn aroundand find another route.

Driving through deep water can alsodamage your vehicle. The water canget into the transmission anddifferential, diluting the lubricantand causing an eventual failure. Itcan also wash the grease out of thewheel bearings.

Avoid driving on soft sand, deep mud,or other surfaces where you couldget stuck. If you do happen to getstuck because of inclement weatheror other conditions, choose a safeand appropriate course of action.

You should never use a jack to trygetting unstuck. A jack only workson firm, level ground. Also, yourvehicle could easily slip off the jackand hurt you or someone else.

If you spin the wheels excessivelytrying to get unstuck, you mayoverheat the components of the4-wheel drive system. If this happens,the 4-wheel drive system shuts offand only the front wheels receivepower. If this happens, stop andallow everything to cool down. The4-wheel drive system will work againafter its temperature drops.

If you slip the clutch for a long timewhile trying to get unstuck, you mayoverheat and damage it.

Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

If You Get StuckCrossing a Stream 4-Wheel Drive Vehicles

Driving

159

160

This section explains why it isimportant to keep your vehicle wellmaintained and how to follow basicmaintenance safety precautions.

This section also includesmaintenance schedules for normaldriving and severe driving conditions,a maintenance record, andinstructions for simple maintenancetasks you may want to take care ofyourself.

If you have the skills and tools toperform more complex maintenancetasks on your vehicle, you may wantto purchase the service manual. Seepage for information on how toobtain a copy, or see your dealer.

......................Maintenance Safety . 162.................Maintenance Schedule . 163

....................Maintenance Record . 167..............................Fluid Locations . 169

........................Adding Engine Oil . 170.........Changing the Oil and Filter . 171

..............................Engine Coolant . 173....................Windshield Washers . 174

....Automatic Transmission Fluid . 175.......Manual Transsmission Fluid . 176

................Brake and Clutch Fluid . 177....................Power Steering Fluid . 178

............Cleaning the Body Panels . 178.............................................Lights . 179

................Cleaning the Seat Belts . 185..................Dust and Pollen Filter . 185

.................................Wiper Blades . 186...............................................Tires . 187

...................Checking the Battery . 193.............................Vehicle Storage . 194

237

MaintenanceM

aintenance

161

To eliminate potential hazards, readthe instructions before you begin,and make sure you have the toolsand skills required.

To clean parts, use a commerciallyavailable degreaser or partscleaner, not gasoline.

To reduce the possibility of fire orexplosion, keep cigarettes, sparks,and flames away from the batteryand all fuel-related parts.

Wear eye protection andprotective clothing when working

with the battery or compressed air.

Be sure there isadequate ventilation whenever youoperate the engine.

Let theengine and exhaust system coolbefore touching any parts.

Donot run the engine unlessinstructed to do so.

Some of the most important safetyprecautions are given here. However,we cannot warn you of everyconceivable hazard that can arise inperforming maintenance. Only youcan decide whether or not youshould perform a given task.

Make sure your vehicle is parkedon level ground, the parking brakeis set, and the engine is off.

All service items not detailed in thissection should be performed by acertified technician or other qualifiedmechanic.

Maintenance Safety

Important Safety Precautions

Potential Vehicle HazardsCarbon Monoxide poison fromengine exhaust.

Burns from hot parts.

Injury from moving parts.

162

Failure to properly followmaintenance instructions andprecautions can cause you tobe seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the proceduresand precautions in this owner’smanual.

Improperly maintaining thisvehicle or failing to correct aproblem before driving cancause a crash in which you canbe seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspectionand maintenancerecommendations, andschedules in this owner’smanual.

－

－

Avoid exceeding your vehicle’sload limit. This puts excess stresson the engine, brakes, and manyother vehicle parts. The load limitis shown on the tire informationlabel on the driver’s doorjamb.

Driving less than 5 miles (8 km)per trip or, in freezingtemperatures, driving less than 10miles (16 km) per trip.

Driving in extremely hot [over90°F (32°C)] conditions.

Used primarily as a deliveryvehicle or taxi that is drivenmostly in stop-and-go traffic and/or parked with the engine idling.

Operate your vehicle onreasonable roads within the legalspeed limit.

Always use unleaded gasoline withthe proper octane rating (see page

).

Drive your vehicle regularly over adistance of several miles(kilometers).

The maintenance schedule assumesyou will use your vehicle as normaltransportation for passengers andtheir possessions. You should alsofollow these recommendations:

Trailer towing, driving with aloaded roof rack, or driving inmountainous conditions.

Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads.

Service your vehicle according to thetime and mileage periods on one ofthe maintenance schedules on thefollowing pages.

Follow themaintenance schedule for severeconditions if you drive your vehicleMAINLY under one or more of thefollowing conditions.

If you onlydrive under a ‘‘severe’’ condition, youshould follow the normal conditionsmaintenance schedule.

Follow themaintenance schedule for severeconditions.

122

OCCASIONALLY

Maintenance Schedule

Which Schedule to Follow

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

Maintenance

163

NOTE:

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－

－

－

－

＃

We recommend the use of Hondaparts and fluids whenever you havemaintenance done.

U.S. Vehicles:You should check the followingitems at the specified intervals. Ifyou are unsure of how to performany check, turn to the appropriatepage listed.

Engine oil level Check everytime you fill the fuel tank. Seepage .Engine coolant level Check theradiator reserve tank every timeyou fill the fuel tank. See page .Automatic transmission Checkthe fluid level monthly. See page

.Brakes Check the fluid levelmonthly. See page .Tires Check the tire pressuremonthly. Examine the tread forwear and foreign objects. See page

.Lights Check the operation ofthe headlights, parking lights,taillights, high-mount brake light,and license plate lights monthly.See page .

According to state and federalregulations, failure to performmaintenance on the items markedwith will not void your emissionswarranties. However, allmaintenance services should beperformed at the recommended timeor mileage period to ensure long-term reliability.

Your authorized dealer knows yourvehicle best and can providecompetent, efficient service.However, service at a dealer is notmandatory to keep your warrantiesin effect. Maintenance may be doneby any qualified service facility orskilled person to keep yourwarranties in effect. Keep all thereceipts as proof of completion, andhave the person who does the workfill out the maintenance record.Check your warranty booklet formore information.

126

126

175

177

188

179

Maintenance Schedule

Servicing Your VehicleMaintenance, replacement, orrepair of emissions controldevices and systems may be doneby any automotive repairestablishment or individual usingparts that are ‘‘certif ied’’ to EPAstandards.

Owner’s Maintenance Checks

164

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Follow the normal maintenanceschedule if the severe drivingconditions specified in the severeconditions maintenance schedule onthe next page do not apply.

NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLYdrive under a ‘‘severe’’ condition, youshould follow the normal conditionsmaintenance schedule.

165

miles x 1,000km x 1,000

Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given).

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

((OOrr eevveerryy 66 yyeeaarrss,, wwhhiicchheevveerr ccoommeess ffiirrsstt))

((OOtthheerrwwiissee aaddjjuusstt oonnllyy iiff nnooiissyy))

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)((OOrr eevveerryy 11 yyeeaarr,, wwhhiicchheevveerr ccoommeess ffiirrsstt))

Check inflation and condition once a monthCheck oil and coolant at each fuel stop

1016

2032

3048

4064

5080

6096

70112

80128


Replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 5 years.

((OOrr eevveerryy 11 yyeeaarr,, wwhhiicchheevveerr ccoommeess ffiirrsstt))

((OOrr eevveerryy 55 yyeeaarrss,, wwhhiicchheevveerr ccoommeess ffiirrsstt))Every 160,000 miles (256,000 km)

At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, thenevery 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years

150240

140224

130208

120192

110176

100160

90144

Check engine oil and coolantCheck tiresReplace engine oil

Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 190 )Replace engine oil filterCheck front and rear brakesCheck parking brake adjustmentInspect the following items:

Tie-rod ends, steering gearbox, and bootsSuspension componentsDriveshaft bootsBrake hoses and lines (including ABS)All fluid levels and condition of fluidsExhaust systemFuel lines and connections

Inspect drive beltsReplace dust and pollen filterReplace air cleaner elementReplace spark plugsInspect valve clearance

Replace automatic transmission fluidReplace manual transmission fluid

Replace rear differential fluid

Inspect idle speedReplace engine coolant

Replace brake fluid

See information on maintenance and emissions warranty on page .1:: 164

1

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＃＃

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Driving less than 5 miles (8 km) pertrip or, in freezing temperatures,driving less than 10 miles (16 km)per trip.Driving in extremely hot [over 90°F(32°C)] conditions.

Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-icedroads.

Extensive idling or long periods ofstop and go driving, such as a taxi ora commercial delivery vehicle.

Follow the severe maintenanceschedule if you drive your vehicleMAINLY under one or more of thefollowing conditions:

Trailer towing, driving with a loadedroof rack, or driving in mountainousconditions.

166

Canadian Owners

miles x 1,000km x 1,000

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)


((OOtthheerrwwiissee aaddjjuusstt oonnllyy iiff nnooiissyy))


1016

5080

70112

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

150240

Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given).

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)

Check inflation and condition once a monthEvery 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or every 6 months,

whichever comes first



4064

2032

6096

80128

3048

Every 160,000 miles (256,000 km)At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, then

every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years


Replace at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3

years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000

km) or 2 years.

90144

100160

140224

130208

120192

110176

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km)(Use normal schedule except in dusty condition)

Check engine oil and coolantCheck tiresReplace engine oil

Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 190 )Replace engine oil filterCheck front and rear brakesLubricate all hinges, locks and latchesInspect the following items:

Tie rod ends, steering gearbox, and bootsSuspension components, driveshaft boots

Check parking brake adjustmentInspect the following items:

Brake hoses and lines (including ABS)All fluid levels and condition of fluidsExhaust system , fuel lines and connectionsLights and controls/vehicle underbody

Inspect drive beltsReplace dust and pollen filterReplace air cleaner element

Replace spark plugsInspect valve clearance

Replace automatic transmission fluidReplace manual transmission fluid

Replace rear differential fluid

Inspect idle speedReplace engine coolant

Replace brake fluid

Follow the maintenance

schedule for severe conditions.

See dust and pollen filter on page for

replacement information under special

driving conditions.

See information on maintenance and

emissions warranty on page .

1 :

2 :

:

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164

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(for Normal and Severe Schedules)Maintenance RecordM

aintenance

167

5,000 mi

10,000 mi

15,000 mi

20,000 mi

25,000 mi

30,000 mi

35,000 mi

40,000 mi

45,000 mi

50,000 mi

55,000 mi

60,000 mi

65,000 mi

70,000 mi

75,000 mi

80,000 mi

8,000 km

16,000 km

24,000 km

32,000 km(or 1 year)

40,000 km

48,000 km

56,000 km

64,000 km(or 2 years)

Signature or dealer stamp72,000 km

80,000 km

88,000 km


104,000 km

112,000 km

120,000 km


Signature or dealer stamp mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page ) or severeconditions (page ). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

165166

(for Normal and Severe Schedules)Maintenance Record

168

85,000 mi

90,000 mi

95,000 mi

100,000 mi

105,000 mi

110,000 mi

115,000 mi

120,000 mi

125,000 mi

130,000 mi

135,000 mi

140,000 mi

145,000 mi

150,000 mi

155,000 mi

160,000 mi

136,000 km

144,000 km

152,000 km


168,000 km

176,000 km

184,000 km



Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

200,000 km

208,000 km

216,000 km


232,000 km

240,000 km

248,000 km



Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

Fluid LocationsM

aintenance

169

BRAKE FLUID(Gray cap)

AUTOMATICTRANSMISSIONFLUID DIPSTICK(Yellow loop)

RADIATOR CAP

ENGINECOOLANTRESERVOIR

WASHER FLUID(Blue cap)

ENGINE OILFILL CAP

POWERSTEERING FLUID(Red cap)

ENGINE OILDIPSTICK(Orange tab)

CLUTCH FLUID(ManualTransmission only)(Gray cap)

Unscrew and remove the engine oilfill cap on top of the valve cover.Pour in the oil slowly and carefully soyou do not spill. Clean up any spillsimmediately. Spilled oil coulddamage components in the enginecompartment. Install the engine oilfill cap, and tighten it securely. Waita few minutes, and recheck the oillevel. Do not fill above the uppermark; you could damage the engine.

Oil is a major contributor to yourengine’s performance and longevity.Always use a premium-grade 5W-20detergent oil displaying the APIcertification seal. This seal indicatesthe oil is energy conserving, and thatit meets the American PetroleumInstitute’s latest requirements.

Honda motor oil is the preferred5W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. It ishighly recommended that you useHonda motor oil in your vehicle foroptimum engine protection. makesure the API certification seal says‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’

The oil viscosity or weight isprovided on the container’s label.5W-20 oil is formulated for year-round protection of your vehicle toimprove cold weather starting andfuel economy.

Adding Engine Oil Recommended Engine Oil

Adding Engine Oil

170

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

Ambient Temperature

Your vehicle does not require any oiladditives. Additives may adverselyaffect your engine’s or transmission’sperformance and durability.

Always change the oil and filteraccording to the recommendations inthe maintenance schedule. The oiland filter collect contaminants thatcan damage your engine if they arenot removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requiresspecial tools and access fromunderneath the vehicle. The vehicleshould be raised on a service station-type hydraulic lift for this service.Unless you have the knowledge andproper equipment, you should havethis maintenance done by a skilledmechanic.

Open the hood and remove theengine oil fill cap. Remove the oildrain bolt and washer from thebottom of the engine. Drain the oilinto an appropriate container.

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

You may use a synthetic motor oil ifit meets the same requirementsgiven for a conventional motor oil: itdisplays the API certification seal,and it is the proper weight. You mustfollow the oil and filter changeintervals given on the maintenanceschedule.

1.

2.

CONTINUED

Synthetic Oil

Engine Oil Additives

Changing the Oil and Filter

Adding Engine Oil, Changing the Oil and FilterM

aintenance

171

WASHER

OIL DRAIN BOLT

Remove the oil filter and let theremaining oil drain. A specialwrench (available from yourdealer) is required.

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

Refill the engine with the recom-mended oil.

Engine oil change capacity(including filter):

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

Let the engine run for severalminutes, then check the drain boltand oil filter for leaks.

Turn off the engine and let it sitfor several minutes, then checkthe oil level on the dipstick. Ifnecessary, add more oil.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt,then reinstall the drain bolt.Tighten the drain bolt to:

4.

3.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Changing the Oil and Filter

172

OIL FILTER

33 lbf·ft (44 N·m , 4.5 kgf·m)

4.4 US qt (4.2 )

Improper disposal of engine oil can beharmf ul to the environment. If youchange your own oil, please dispose ofthe used oil properly. Put it in a sealedcontainer, and take it to a recyclingcenter. Do not discard it in a trash binor dump it on the ground.

If the coolant level in the reservetank is at or below the MIN line, addcoolant to bring it up to between theMIN and MAX lines. Inspect thecooling system for leaks.

Always use Honda All SeasonAntifreeze/Coolant Type 2. Thiscoolant is pre-mixed with 50 percentantifreeze and 50 percent water.Never add straight antifreeze orplain water.

If Honda antifreeze/coolant is notavailable, you may use anothermajor-brand non-silicate coolant as atemporary replacement. Make sure itis a high-quality coolantrecommended for aluminum engines.Continued use of any non-Hondacoolant can result in corrosion,causing the cooling system tomalfunction or fail. Have the coolingsystem flushed and refilled withHonda antifreeze/coolant as soon aspossible.

If the reserve tank is completelyempty, you should also check thecoolant level in the radiator.

CONTINUED

Adding Engine Coolant

Engine CoolantM

aintenance

173

RESERVE TANK

Removing the radiator capwhile the engine is hot cancause the coolant to spray out,seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine andradiator cool down beforeremoving the radiator cap.

When the radiator and engine arecool, relieve any pressure in thecooling system by turning theradiator cap counterclockwise,without pressing down.

Remove the radiator cap bypushing down and turningcounterclockwise.

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

Pour the coolant slowly andcarefully so you do not spill. Cleanup any spill immediately; it coulddamage components in the enginecompartment.

Put the radiator cap back on andtighten it.

Pour coolant into the reserve tank.Fill it to halfway between the MAXand MIN marks. Put the cap backon the reserve tank.

Do not add any rust inhibitors orother additives to your vehicle’scooling system. They may not becompatible with the coolant orengine components.

Fill the reservoir with a good-qualitywindshield washer fluid. Thisincreases the cleaning capability andprevents freezing in cold weather.

Check the fluid level in thewindshield washer reservoir at leastmonthly during normal use.

The low washerlevel indicator comes on when thelevel is low (see page ).

When you refill the reservoir, cleanthe edges of the windshield wiperblades with windshield washer fluidon a clean cloth. This will help tocondition them.

3.

4.

5.

2.

1.

57

On Canadian models:

Windshield Washers

Engine Coolant, Windshield Washers

174

RADIATOR CAP

Do not use engine antif reeze or avinegar/water solution in thewindshield washer reservoir. Antif reezecan damage your vehicle’s paint, whilea vinegar/water solution can damagethe windshield washer pump. Use onlycommercially-available windshieldwasher f luid.

Check the fluid level with the engineat normal operating temperature.

Park the vehicle on level ground.Shut off the engine.

Remove the dipstick (yellow loop)from the transmission, and wipe itwith a clean cloth.

Insert the dipstick all the way intothe transmission securely.

Remove the dipstick and checkthe fluid level. It should bebetween the upper and lowermarks.

If the level is below the lowermark, add fluid into the filler holeto bring it to the upper mark.Pour the fluid slowly and carefullyso you do not spill any. Clean upany spills immediately; it coulddamage components in the enginecompartment.

To thoroughly flush thetransmission, the technicianshould drain and refill it withHonda ATF-Z1, then drive thevehicle for a short distance. Dothis three times. Then drain andrefill the transmission a final time.

Insert the dipstick all the way backin the transmission.

The transmission should be drainedand refilled with new fluid accordingto the time and distance recommen-dations in the maintenance schedule.If you are not sure how to add fluid,contact your dealer.

Always use Honda ATF-Z1(automatic transmission fluid). Ifit’s not available, you may use aDEXRON III automatictransmission fluid as a temporaryreplacement. However, continueduse can affect the shift quality.Have the transmission flushed andrefilled with Honda ATF-Z1 assoon as it is convenient.

3.

4.

5.

1.

2.6.

Automatic Transmission FluidM

aintenance

175

DIPSTICK

UPPERMARKLOWERMARK

If Honda MTF is not available, youmay use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40viscosity motor oil with the APICertification seal that says ‘‘FORGASOLINE ENGINES’’ as atemporary replacement. However,motor oil does not contain the properadditives, and continued use cancause stiffer shifting. Replace assoon as it is convenient.

The transmission should be drainedand refilled with new fluid accordingto the time and distance recommen-dations in the maintenance schedule.Check the fluid level with the

transmission at normal operatingtemperature and the vehicle sittingon level ground. Remove thetransmission filler bolt, and carefullyfeel inside the bolt hole with yourfinger. The fluid level should be upto the edge of the bolt hole. If it isnot, add Honda manual transmissionfluid (MTF) until it starts to run outof the hole. Reinstall the filler bolt,and tighten it securely.

Manual Transmission Fluid

Manual Transmission Fluid

176

FILLER BOLT

Correct Level

WASHER

Check the brake fluid level in thereservoirs monthly.

Always use Honda Heavy DutyBrake Fluid DOT 3. If it is notavailable, you should use only DOT 3or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealedcontainer, as a temporaryreplacement.

The fluid level should be betweenthe MIN and MAX marks on the sideof the reservoir. If the level is at orbelow the MIN mark, your brakesystem needs attention. Have thebrake system inspected for leaks orworn brake pads.

The fluid level should be betweenthe MIN and MAX marks on the sideof the reservoir. If it is not, addbrake fluid to bring it up to that level.Use the same fluid specified for thebrake system.

Replace the brake fluid according tothe time recommendation in themaintenance schedule.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is notcompatible with your vehicle’sbraking system and can causeextensive damage.

Using any non-Honda brake fluid cancause corrosion and decrease the lifeof the system. Have the brakesystem flushed and refilled withHonda Heavy Duty Brake FluidDOT 3 as soon as possible.

Low fluid can indicate a leak in theclutch system. Have this systeminspected as soon as possible.

Manual Transmission only

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake System Clutch System

Maintenance

177

MAX

MIN

MAX

MIN

Always use Honda Power SteeringFluid. You may use another powersteering fluid as an emergencyreplacement, but have the powersteering system flushed and refilledwith Honda PSF as soon as possible.

Check the level on the side of thereservoir when the engine is cold.The fluid should be between theUPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL.If not, add power steering fluid to theUPPER LEVEL.

A low power steering fluid level canindicate a leak in the system. Checkthe fluid level frequently, and havethe system inspected as soon aspossible.

Pour the fluid slowly and carefully soyou do not spill any. Clean up anyspill immediately; it could damagecomponents in the enginecompartment.

To clean the gray composite bodypanels, wash them with soap andwater only. Do not apply wax to thepanels; it will cause discoloration.

Power Steering Fluid Cleaning the Body Panels

Power Steering Fluid, Cleaning the Body Panels

178

UPPER LEVEL

LOWER LEVEL

Turning the steering wheel to f ull lef tor right lock and holding it there candamage the power steering pump.

The headlights were properly aimedwhen your vehicle was new. If youregularly carry heavy items in thecargo area or pull a trailer,readjustment may be required.Adjustments should be done by yourdealer or other qualified mechanic.

Open the hood.If you need to change theheadlight bulb on the driver’s side,remove the front end of the airintake duct by pulling it out.

Your vehicle has halogen headlightbulbs. Handle it by its steel base andprotect the glass from contact withyour skin or hard objects. If youtouch the glass, clean it withdenatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

1.

CONTINUED

Headlight Aiming Replacing a Headlight Bulb

LightsM

aintenance

179

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hotwhen lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratchon the glass can cause the bulb tooverheat and shatter.

Remove the electrical connectorfrom the bulb by pulling theconnector straight back.

Remove the rubber weather sealby pulling on the tab.

Unclip the end of the hold-downwire from its slot. Pivot it out ofthe way and remove the bulb.

Insert the new bulb into the hole,making sure the tabs are in theirslots. Pivot the hold-down wireback in place, and clip the end intothe slot.

Reinstall the rubber seal. Makesure it is right side up; it is marked‘‘TOP.’’

The front parking/turn signal lightis next to the headlight bulb. Onthe driver’s side, remove the frontend of the air intake duct bypulling it out.

Remove the socket from theheadlight assembly by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Push the electrical connector ontothe new bulb.

(Driver’s side)Install the front end of the airintake duct. 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

2.

Replacing a Front Parking/TurnSignal Light Bulb

Lights

180

Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket. Push the new bulb straightinto the socket until it bottoms.

Insert the socket back into theheadlight assembly. Turn itclockwise to lock it in place.

Test the lights to make sure thenew bulb is working.

(Driver’s side)Install the front end of the airintake duct.

Place a cloth between the trim ofthe lens and the body, at the top ofthe lens. Remove the front sidemarker light assembly by carefullyprying on the trim of the lens witha small flat-tipped screwdriver.

Remove the socket from the lightassembly by turning it one-quarterturn counterclockwise.


1.

3.

4.

5.

2.

3.

6.

CONTINUED

Replacing a Front Side MarkerLight Bulb

LightsM

aintenance

181

Put the socket back into the lightassembly, and turn it clockwise tolock it in place.

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

Put the light assembly back intothe body, bottom first. Push on thetop edge until it snaps into place.

Open the hatch and the tailgate.Remove the two mounting screwswith a Phillips-head screwdriver,and remove the taillight assemblyfrom the body by pulling it back.

Remove the socket by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.


Determine which of the threebulbs is burned out: brake/taillight, turn signal light or back-up light.

1.

4.

5.

2.

3.

4.

6.

Replacing Rear Bulbs

Lights

182

Reinstall the socket into the lightassembly by turning it clockwiseuntil it locks.

Place a cloth and insert a smallflat-tipped screwdriver betweenthe left edge of the lens and thehousing. The lens will come down.


When reinstalling the taillightassembly, first place the two pinsin the holes in place. Tighten thetwo mounting bolts.

Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket. Push the new bulb in untilit bottoms in the socket.

Turn on the parking lights andcheck that the new bulb isworking.

Put the lens back into the lightassembly, right side first. Push onthe left edge until it snaps intoplace.

1.

2.

6.

7.

3.

4.

5.

Lights

Replacing a Rear License PlateBulb

Maintenance

183

Open the hatch. Remove the lightassembly cover by pushing in onthe tabs on both sides and pullingthe cover down.

Remove the socket from the lightassembly by turning it one-quarterturn counterclockwise.



Put the socket back into the lightassembly, and turn it clockwise tolock it in place.

Put the cover back onto the lightassembly. Push it on until it locksin place.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Lights

Replacing a High-mount BrakeLight Bulb

184

If your seat belts get dirty, use a softbrush with a mixture of mild soapand warm water to clean them. Donot use bleach, dye, or cleaningsolvents. Let the belts air-dry beforeyou use the vehicle.

Dirt build-up in the loops of the seatbelt anchors can cause the belts toretract slowly. Wipe the insides ofthe loops with a clean clothdampened in mild soap and warmwater or isopropyl alcohol.

This filter removes the dust andpollen that is brought in from theoutside through the heating andcooling system.

Have your dealer replace this filterevery 30,000 miles (48,000 km)under normal conditions. It shouldbe replaced every 15,000 miles(24,000 km) if you drive primarily inurban areas that have highconcentrations of soot in the air, or ifthe flow from the heating andcooling system becomes less thanusual.

Dust and Pollen FilterCleaning the Seat Belts

Cleaning the Seat Belts, Dust and Pollen FilterM

aintenance

185

LOOP

Disconnect the blade assemblyfrom the wiper arm by pushing inthe lock tab. Hold the lock tab inwhile you push the blade assemblytoward the base of the arm.

If you are changing the rear wiperblade, go to step 6.

Front:Raise the wiper arm off thewindshield.

Remove the blade from its holderby grasping the tabbed end of theblade. Pull firmly until the tabscome out of the holder.

Examine the new wiper blades. Ifthey have no plastic or metalreinforcement along the backedge, remove the metalreinforcement strips from the oldwiper blade, and install them inthe slots along the edge of the newblade.

Rear:Raise the wiper arm off the hatchglass and hold it.

Check the condition of the wiperblades at least every 6 months.Replace them if you find signs ofcracking in the rubber, areas that aregetting hard, or if they leave streaksand unwiped areas when used.

1.

3.

2. 4.

Wiper Blades

186

LOCK TAB

BLADE

Do not open the hood when the wiperarms are raised, or you will damagethe hood and the arms.

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

Slide the wiper blade assemblyonto the wiper arm. Make sure itlocks in place.

Lower the wiper arm down againstthe windshield or the hatch glass.

To safely operate your vehicle, yourtires must be the proper type andsize, in good condition with adequatetread, and correctly inflated.

The following pages give moredetailed information on how to takecare of your tires and what to dowhen they need to be replaced.

Keeping the tires properly inflatedprovides the best combination ofhandling, tread life, and ridingcomfort.

Underinflated tires wear unevenly,adversely affect handling and fueleconomy, and are more likely tofail from being overheated.

Overinflated tires can make yourvehicle ride more harshly, aremore prone to damage from roadhazards, and wear unevenly.

We recommend that you visuallycheck your tires every day. If youthink a tire might be low, check itimmediately with a tire gauge.

5.

6.

7.

CONTINUED

Tires Inflation Guidelines

Wiper Blades, TiresM

aintenance

187

REINFORCEMENT

BLADE

Using tires that are excessivelyworn or improperly inflated cancause a crash in which you canbe seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in thisowner’s manual regarding tireinflation and maintenance.

You should get your own tirepressure gauge and use it wheneveryou check your tire pressures. Thiswill make it easier for you to tell if apressure loss is due to a tire problemand not due to a variation betweengauges.

Use a gauge to measure the airpressure in each tire at least once amonth. Even tires that are in goodcondition may lose 1 to 2 psi (10 to20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm ) permonth. Remember to check thespare tire at the same time.

If you check air pressures when thetires are hot (driven for severalmiles), you will see readings 4 to 6psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4 kgf/cm )higher than the cold readings. Thisis normal. Do not let air out to matchthe recommended cold air pressure.The tire will be underinflated.

While tubeless tires have someability to self-seal if they arepunctured, you should look closelyfor punctures if a tire starts losingpressure.

Check the air pressures when thetires are cold. This means thevehicle has been parked for at least 3hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6km). Add or release air, if needed, tomatch the recommended cold tirepressures.

The following chart shows therecommended cold tire pressures formost normal driving conditions andspeed.

The compact spare tire pressure is:

For convenience, the recommendedtire sizes and cold air pressures areon a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

For additional technical informationabout your tires, see page .223

Tire Size Cold Tire Pressurefor Normal DrivingFront:

Rear:

Recommended Tire Pressures forNormal Driving

Tires

188

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

P215/70R16 99S32 psi (220 kPa ,2.2 kgf/cm )

34 psi (235 kPa ,2.4 kgf/cm )

Every time you check inflation, youshould also examine the tires fordamage, foreign objects, and wear.

You should look for:Bumps or bulges in the tread orside of the tire. Replace the tire ifyou find either of these conditions.

Cuts, splits, or cracks in the sideof the tire. Replace the tire if youcan see fabric or cord.

Excessive tread wear.

In addition to proper inflation,correct wheel alignment helps todecrease tire wear. If you find a tireis worn unevenly, have your dealercheck the wheel alignment.

Have your dealer check the tires ifyou feel a consistent vibration whiledriving. A tire should always berebalanced if it is removed from thewheel. When you have new tiresinstalled, make sure they arebalanced. This increases ridingcomfort and tire life. For best results,have the installer perform a dynamicbalance.

Your tires have wear indicatorsmolded into the tread. When thetread wears down, you will see aband 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide acrossthe tread. This shows there is lessthan 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread lefton the tire. A tire that is this worngives very little traction on wet roads.You should replace the tire if you cansee the tread wear indicator in threeor more places on the tire.

For vehicles with aluminum wheels:

Tire Inspection Tire Maintenance

TiresM

aintenance

189

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

Improper wheel weights can damageyour vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Useonly genuine Honda wheel weights f orbalancing.

To help increase tire life anddistribute wear more evenly, rotatethe tires every 10,000 miles (16,000km). Move the tires to the positionsshown in the chart each time theyare rotated. If you purchasedirectional tires, rotate only front-to-back.

It is best to replace all four tires atthe same time. If that is not possibleor necessary, replace the two fronttires or two rear tires as a pair.Replacing just one tire can seriouslyaffect your vehicle’s handling.

If you ever replace a wheel, makesure that the wheel’s specificationsmatch those of the original wheels.Replacement wheels are available atyour dealer.

Replace your tires with radial tires ofthe same size, load range, speedrating, and maximum cold tirepressure rating (as shown on thetire’s sidewall).

Mixing radial and bias-ply tires onyour vehicle can reduce brakingability, traction, and steeringaccuracy. Using tires of a differentsize or construction can cause theABS to work inconsistently.

Tire Rotation Replacing Tires and Wheels

Tires

190

Front Front

(Non-directional Tiresand Wheels)

(Directional Tiresand Wheels)

＋Wheels: Tires marked ‘‘M S’’ or ‘‘AllSeason’’ on the sidewall have an all-weather tread design suitable formost winter driving conditions.

For the best performance in snowyor icy conditions, you should installsnow tires or tire chains. They maybe required by local laws undercertain conditions.

If you mount snow tires on yourvehicle, make sure they are radialtires of the same size and load rangeas original tires. Mount snow tires onall four wheels. The tractionprovided by snow tires on dry roadsmay be lower than your original tires.Check with the tire dealer formaximum speed recommendations.

Tires:

See page for DOT tire qualitygrading information, and page

for tire size and labelinginformation.

224

226

Wheel and Tire Specifications Winter Driving

Snow Tires

TiresM

aintenance

191

16 x 6 1/2JJ16 x 6 1/2

P215/70R16 99S

Installing improper tires on yourvehicle can affect handling andstability. This can cause a crashin which you can be seriouslyhurt or killed.

Always use the size and type oftires recommended in thisowner’s manual.

When installing cables, follow themanufacturer’s instructions, andmount them as tight as you can.Make sure they are not contactingthe brake lines or suspension. Driveslowly with them installed. If youhear them coming into contact withthe body or chassis, stop andinvestigate. Remove them as soon asyou begin driving on cleared roads.

Because your vehicle has limited tireclearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’cable-type traction devices, withrubber chain tensioners on the fronttires. Use traction devices only whenrequired by driving conditions orlocal laws. Make sure they are thecorrect size for your tires. Metal link-type ‘‘chains’’ should not be used.

Tire Chains

Tires

192

Traction devices that are the wrongsize or improperly installed candamage your vehicle’s brake lines,suspension, body, and wheels. Stopdriving if they are hitting any part ofthe vehicle.

－

Check the condition of the batterymonthly by looking at the testindicator window. The label on thebattery explains the test indicator’scolors.

Check the terminals for corrosion (awhite or yellowish powder). Toremove it, cover the terminals with asolution of baking soda and water. Itwill bubble up and turn brown. Whenthis stops, wash it off with plainwater. Dry off the battery with acloth or paper towel. Coat theterminals with grease to help preventfuture corrosion.

If additional battery maintenance isneeded, see your dealer or aqualified technician.

Battery posts,terminals, and related accessoriescontain lead and lead compounds.

If you need to connect the battery toa charger, disconnect both cables toprevent damaging your vehicle’selectrical system. Always disconnectthe negative ( ) cable first, andreconnect it last.

Checking the Battery

WARNING:

Wash your hands after handling.

Maintenance

193

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

The battery gives off explosivehydrogen gas during normaloperation.

A spark or flame can cause thebattery to explode with enoughforce to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and aface shield, or have a skilledmechanic do the batterymaintenance.

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter.

Wash and dry the exteriorcompletely.

Clean the interior. Make sure thecarpeting, floor mats, etc., arecompletely dry.

Block the rear wheels.

If the vehicle is to be stored for alonger period, it should besupported on jackstands so thetires are off the ground.

Cover the vehicle with a‘‘breathable’’ cover, one madefrom a porous material such ascotton. Non-porous materials, suchas plastic sheeting, trap moisture,which can damage the paint.

If you need to park your vehicle foran extended period (more than onemonth), there are several things youshould do to prepare it for storage.Proper preparation helps preventdeterioration and makes it easier toget your vehicle back on the road. Ifpossible, store your vehicle indoors. Leave one window open slightly (if

the vehicle is being storedindoors).

Disconnect the battery.

Support the front and rear wiperblade arms with a folded towel orrag so they do not touch thewindshield.

To minimize sticking, apply asilicone spray lubricant to all doorand tailgate seals. Also, apply avehicle body wax to the paintedsurfaces that mate with the doorand tailgate seals.

If possible, periodically run theengine until it reaches fulloperating temperature (thecooling fan cycles twice).Preferably, do this once a month.

Leave the parking brake off. Putthe transmission in reverse(manual) or Park (automatic).

If you store your vehicle for 12months or longer, have your dealerperform the inspections called for inthe 24 months/30,000 miles(48,000 km) maintenance schedule(normal conditions) as soon as youtake it out of storage (see page ).The replacements called for in themaintenance schedule are notneeded unless the vehicle hasactually reached that time or mileage.

165

Vehicle Storage

194

This section covers the morecommon problems that motoristsexperience with their vehicles. Itgives you information about how tosafely evaluate the problem and whatto do to correct it. If the problem hasstranded you on the side of the road,you may be able to get going again.If not, you will also find instructionson getting your vehicle towed.

......................Compact Spare Tire . 196....................Changing a Flat Tire . 197

.............If the Engine Won’t Start . 203................................Jump Starting . 205

..............If the Engine Overheats . 207.........Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 209..........Charging System Indicator . 209

.......Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 210...............Brake System Indicator . 211

..............................................Fuses . 212..............................Fuse Locations . 215

......................Emergency Towing . 217

Taking Care of the UnexpectedTaking

Care

ofthe

Unexpected

195

Check the inflation pressure of thecompact spare tire every time youcheck the other tires. It should beinflated to:

Follow these precautions:

Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).

This tire gives a harsher ride andless traction on some road sur-faces. Use greater caution whiledriving.

Use the compact spare tire as atemporary replacement only. Getyour regular tire repaired or replaced,and put it back on your vehicle assoon as you can.

Replace the tire when you can seethe tread wear indicator bars. Thereplacement should be the same sizeand design tire, mounted on thesame wheel. The spare tire is notdesigned to be mounted on a regularwheel, and the spare wheel is notdesigned for mounting a regular tire.

Do not mount snow chains on thecompact spare tire.

Do not use your compact sparetire on another vehicle unless it isthe same make and model.

On models with manualtransmission, do not drive for along period with the compactspare tire mounted on a frontwheel; it will damage the limitedslip differential.

Compact Spare Tire

196

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

If you have a flat tire while driving,stop in a safe place to change it.Drive slowly along the shoulder untilyou get to an exit or an area to stopthat is far away from the traffic lanes.

Open the hatch and the tailgate.

The spare tire, jack, and tools areunder the cargo area floor.

Park the vehicle on firm, level, andnon-slippery ground. Put thetransmission in Park (automatic)or reverse (manual). Apply theparking brake.

If you are towing a trailer, unhitchit.

Turn on the hazard warning lights,and turn the ignition switch toLOCK (0). Have all thepassengers get out of the vehiclewhile you change the tire.

1.

2.

3.

4.

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Changing a Flat TireTaking

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197

TOOLS

SPARE TIRE

JACK

The vehicle can easily roll offthe jack, seriously injuringanyone underneath.

Follow the directions forchanging a tire exactly, andnever get under the vehiclewhen it is supported only by thejack.

Push the rear edge of the handleto raise the handle loop and pull upthe loop to raise the cargo areafloor.

Unscrew the wing bolt, and takethe spare tire out of the cargo area.

Remove the tools and the jack. Toremove the jack, turn the jack’send bracket counterclockwise toloosen it.

Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2turn with the wheel nut wrench.

8.

7.

6.5.

Changing a Flat Tire

198

WHEEL NUTSJACK

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

Locate the jacking point nearestthe tire you need to change. It ispointed to by an arrow molded intothe underside of the body. Placethe jack under the jacking point.Turn the end bracket clockwiseuntil the top of the jack contactsthe jacking point. Make sure thejacking point tab is resting in thejack notch.

Use the extension and the wheelnut wrench as shown to raise thevehicle until the flat tire is off theground.

Remove the wheel nuts and wheelcover. The wheel nuts will be veryhot if you were recently driving. Thewheel cover cannot be removedwithout first removing the wheelnuts. Do not attempt to forcibly prythe wheel cover off with ascrewdriver or other tool.

9. 10.

CONTINUED

LX and DX models


Care

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199

EXTENSION

WHEEL WRENCHJACKING POINTSWHEEL COVER

WHEEL NUTS

WHEEL NUTS

Before mounting the spare tire,wipe any dirt off the mountingsurface of the wheel and hub witha clean cloth. Wipe the hubcarefully; it may be hot fromdriving.

Put on the spare tire. Put thewheel nuts back on finger-tight,then tighten them in a crisscrosspattern with the wheel nut wrenchuntil the wheel is firmly againstthe hub. Do not try to tightenthem fully.

Remove the wheel nuts and theflat tire. Temporarily place the flattire on the ground with the outsidesurface of the wheel facing up.

13.

12.11.


200

BRAKE HUB

Store the jack in its holder. Turnthe jack’s end bracket to lock it inplace. Store the tools.

Remove the center cap from theflat tire, and store it in the sparetire well.

Remove the wing bolt on the sparetire mount, and pivot the arm 90°to the upright position. Thentighten the wing bolt securely.Tighten the wheel nuts securely in

the same crisscross pattern. Havethe wheel nut torque checked atthe nearest automotive servicefacility.Tighten the wheel nuts to:

Lower the vehicle to the groundand remove the jack.

18.

16.

17.

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Care

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201

80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)

Loose items can fly around theinterior in a crash and couldseriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack, and toolssecurely before driving.

Remove the small round plug fromthe cargo area floor by pushing itfrom the back side to make a hole.Store the removed plug in a placeyou can easily remember.

Reinstall the cargo area floor.Place the flat tire face down on thecargo area floor.

Align the center of the flat tirewith the hole in the cargo areafloor. Remove the spacer conefrom the wing bolt, turn it over,and put it back on the bolt.

Secure the flat tire by screwingthe wing bolt to the spare tiremount through the hole in thecargo area floor.

19. 20.

21.

22.


202

Diagnosing why the engine won’tstart falls into two areas, dependingon what you hear when you turn thekey to START (III):

You hear nothing, or almostnothing. The engine’s startermotor does not operate at all, oroperates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motoroperating normally, or the startermotor sounds like it is spinningfaster than normal, but the enginedoes not start up and run.

When you turn the ignition switch toSTART (III), you do not hear thenormal noise of the engine trying tostart. You may hear a clicking soundor series of clicks, or nothing at all.Check these things:

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).Turn on the headlights, and checktheir brightness. If the headlightsare very dim or do not come on atall, the battery is discharged. See

on page .

Turn the ignition switch to START(III). If the headlights do not dim,check the condition of the fuses. Ifthe fuses are OK, there isprobably something wrong withthe electrical circuit for theignition switch or starter motor.You will need a qualifiedtechnician to determine theproblem (seeon page ).

If the headlights dim noticeably orgo out when you try to start theengine, either the battery is dis-charged or the connections arecorroded. Check the condition of thebattery and terminal connections(see page ). You can then tryjump starting the vehicle from abooster battery (see page ).

Check the transmission interlock.If you have a manual transmission,the clutch pedal must be pushedall the way to the floor or thestarter will not operate. With anautomatic transmission, the shiftlever must be in Park or neutral.

205

217

193

205

Nothing Happens or the StarterMotor Operates Very Slowly

Jump Starting

Emergency Towing

If the Engine Won’t StartTaking

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203

Are you using a properly codedkey? An improperly coded key willcause the immobilizer systemindicator in the instrument panelto blink rapidly (see page ).

In this case, the starter motor’sspeed sounds normal, or even fasterthan normal, when you turn theignition switch to START (III), butthe engine does not run.

Are you using the proper startingprocedure? Refer to

on page .

Do you have fuel? Check the fuelgauge; the low fuel indicator maynot be working.

There may be an electricalproblem, such as no power to thefuel pump. Check all the fuses(see page ).

If you find nothing wrong, you willneed a qualified technician to findthe problem. See

on page .

138

212

21755

The Starter Operates Normally

Starting theEngine

EmergencyTowing

If the Engine Won’t Start

204

＋

＋

Although this seems like a simpleprocedure, you should take severalprecautions.

You cannot start your vehicle with anautomatic transmission by pushingor pulling it.

Open the hood, and check thephysical condition of the battery.In very cold weather, check thecondition of the electrolyte. If itseems slushy or frozen, do not tryjump starting until it thaws. Connect one jumper cable to the

positive ( ) terminal on yourbattery. Connect the other end tothe positive ( ) terminal on thebooster battery.

Turn off all the electrical acces-sories: heater, A/C, stereo system,lights, etc. Put the transmission inneutral or Park, and set theparking brake.

1.2.

3.

CONTINUED

To Jump Start Your Vehicle:

Jump StartingTaking

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205

A battery can explode if you donot follow the correct procedure,seriously injuring anyonenearby.

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

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

－

If the booster battery is in anothervehicle, have an assistant startthat vehicle and run it at a fast idle.

The numbers in the illustration showyou the order to connect the jumpercables.

Start your vehicle. If the startermotor still operates slowly, checkthat the jumper cables have goodmetal-to-metal contact.

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

Keep the ends of the jumper cablesaway from each other and any metalon the vehicle until everything isdisconnected. Otherwise, you maycause an electrical short.

Connect the second jumper cableto the negative ( ) terminal onthe booster battery. Connect theother end to the grounding strapon your vehicle as shown. Do notconnect this jumper cable to anyother part of the engine.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Jump Starting

206

BOOSTER BATTERY

If you do not see steam or spray,leave the engine running, andwatch the temperature gauge. Ifthe high heat is due to overloading,the engine should start to cooldown almost immediately. If itdoes, wait until the temperaturegauge comes down to the midpoint,then continue driving.

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

The pointer of the vehicle’stemperature gauge should stay inthe midrange. If it climbs to the redmark, you should determine thereason (hot day, driving up a steephill, etc.).

If the vehicle overheats, you shouldtake immediate action. The onlyindication may be the temperaturegauge climbing to or above the redmark. Or you may see steam orspray coming from under the hood.

Safely pull to the side of the road.Put the transmission in neutral(manual) or Park (automatic), andset the parking brake. Turn off allthe accessories, and turn on thehazard indicators.

If you see steam and/or spraycoming from under the hood, turnoff the engine. Wait until you seeno more signs of steam or spray,then open the hood.

1.

2.

3.

4.

CONTINUED

If the Engine OverheatsTaking

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207

Steam and spray from anoverheated engine canseriously scald you.

Do not open the hood if steamis coming out.

Driving with the temperature gaugepointer at the red mark can causeserious damage to your engine.

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, itmust be repaired before youcontinue driving (see

on page ).

If you don’t find an obvious leak,check the coolant level in theradiator reserve tank (see page

).Using gloves or a large heavycloth, turn the radiator capcounterclockwise, without pushingdown, to the first stop. After thepressure releases, push down onthe cap, and turn it until it comesoff.

Put the radiator cap back ontightly. Run the engine, and watchthe temperature gauge. If it goesback to the red mark, the engineneeds repair (see

on page ).

If the temperature stays normal,check the coolant level in theradiator reserve tank. If it hasgone down, add coolant to theMAX mark. Put the cap back ontightly.

If there was no coolant in thereserve tank, you may need to addcoolant to the radiator. Let theengine cool down until the pointerreaches the middle of thetemperature gauge or lowerbefore checking the radiator.

Start the engine, and set thetemperature control dial tomaximum heat. Add coolant to theradiator up to the base of the fillerneck. If you do not have theproper coolant mixture available,you can add plain water.Remember to have the coolingsystem drained and refilled withthe proper mixture as soon as youcan.

9.

8.7.

6.

5.

11.

10.

217

126

217

EmergencyTowing

EmergencyTowing

If the Engine Overheats

208

Removing the radiator capwhile the engine is hot cancause the coolant to spray out,seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine andradiator cool down beforeremoving the radiator cap.

Let the vehicle sit for a minute.Open the hood, and check the oillevel (see page ). An enginevery low on oil can lose pressureduring cornering and other drivingmaneuvers.

If necessary, add oil to bring thelevel back to the full mark on thedipstick (see page ).

If the charging systemindicator comes on brightly

when the engine is running, thebattery is not being charged.

Immediately turn off all electricalaccessories. Try not to use otherelectrically operated controls such asthe power windows. Keep the enginerunning; starting the engine willdischarge the battery rapidly.

Go to a service station or garagewhere you can get technicalassistance.

Safely pull off the road, and shutoff the engine. Turn on the hazardwarning lights.

This indicator should nevercome on when the engine is

running. If it starts flashing or stayson, the oil pressure has dropped verylow. Serious engine damage ispossible and you should takeimmediate action.

Start the engine, and watch the oilpressure indicator. If it does not goout within 10 seconds, turn off theengine. There is a mechanicalproblem that needs to be repairedbefore you can continue driving(see on page

).

1.

2.

4.

3.

126

170

217

Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator

Emergency Towing

Low Oil Pressure Indicator, Charging System IndicatorTaking

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209

Running the engine with low oilpressure can cause serious mechanicaldamage almost immediately. Turn of fthe engine as soon as you can saf ely getthe vehicle stopped.

If you have recently refueled yourvehicle, the indicator coming oncould be due to a loose or missingfuel fill cap. Tighten the cap until itclicks at least three times.Tightening the cap will not turn theindicator off immediately; it takes atleast three days of normal driving.

If the indicator comes on repeatedly,even though it may turn off as youcontinue driving, have the vehiclechecked by the dealer as soon aspossible.

If your vehicle battery has beendisconnected or gone dead, thesecodes are erased. It takes at leastthree days of driving under variousconditions to set the codes again.

Your vehicle has certain ‘‘readinesscodes’’ that are part of the on-boarddiagnostics for the emissionssystems. In some states, part of theemissions testing is to make surethese codes are set. If they are notset, the test cannot be completed.

If this indicator comes onwhile driving, it means one

of the engine’s emissions controlsystems may have a problem. Eventhough you may feel no difference inyour vehicle’s performance, it canreduce your fuel economy and causeincreased emissions. Continuedoperation may cause serious damage.

To check if they are set, turn theignition to ON (II), without startingthe engine. The malfunctionindicator lamp will come on for 20seconds. If it then goes off, thereadiness codes are set. If it blinksfive times, the readiness codes arenot set. If possible, do not take yourvehicle for a state emissions testuntil the readiness codes are set.Refer tofor more information (see page ).230

Readiness CodesState Emissions Testing

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

210

If you keep driving with themalf unction indicator lamp on, you candamage your vehicle’s emissionscontrols and engine. Those repairs maynot be covered by your vehicle’swarranties.

However, if the brake pedal does notfeel normal, you should takeimmediate action. A problem in onepart of the system’s dual circuitdesign will still give you braking attwo wheels. You will feel the brakepedal go down much farther beforethe vehicle begins to slow down, andyou will have to press harder on thepedal.

Slow down by shifting to a lowergear, and pull to the side of the roadwhen it is safe. Because of the longdistance needed to stop, it ishazardous to drive the vehicle. Youshould have it towed and repaired assoon as possible (see

on page ).

If you must drive the vehicle a shortdistance in this condition, driveslowly and carefully.

If the brake system indicator comeson while driving, the brake fluid levelis probably low. Press lightly on thebrake pedal to see if it feels normal.If it does, check the brake fluid levelthe next time you stop at a servicestation (see page ).

If the fluid level is low, take yourvehicle to a dealer, and have thebrake system inspected for leaks orworn brake pads.

The brake system indicatornormally comes on whenyou turn the ignition switchto ON (II), and as areminder to check theparking brake. It will stayon if you do not fullyrelease the parking brake.

177

217Emergency

Towing

Brake System IndicatorTaking

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211

Canada

U.S.

Turn the ignition switch to LOCK(0). Make sure the headlights andall other accessories are off.

Remove the cover from the fusebox.

If something electrical in yourvehicle stops working, check for ablown fuse first. Determine from thechart on pages and , or thediagram on the fuse box lid, whichfuse or fuses control that device.Check those fuses first, but check allthe fuses before deciding that ablown fuse is the cause. Replace anyblown fuses, and check if the deviceworks.

The interior fuse box is underneaththe steering column. To remove thefuse box lid, turn the knobscounterclockwise and pull the lid outof its hinges.

The vehicle’s fuses are located intwo fuse boxes. The under-hood fusebox is located in the enginecompartment on the driver’s side. Toopen it, push the tabs as shown.

1.

2.

215 216

Checking and Replacing Fuses

Fuses

212

TAB

INTERIORUNDER-HOOD

Check the smaller fuses in theunder-hood fuse box and all thefuses in the interior fuse box bypulling out each one with the fusepuller provided in the under-hoodfuse box.

Check each of the large fuses inthe under-hood fuse box bylooking through the top at the wireinside. Remove the screws with aPhillips-head screwdriver.

If you cannot drive the vehiclewithout fixing the problem, and youdo not have a spare fuse, take a fuseof the same rating or a lower ratingfrom one of the other circuits. Makesure you can do without that circuittemporarily (such as the accessorypower socket or radio).

If you replace the blown fuse with aspare fuse that has a lower rating, itmight blow out again. This does notindicate anything wrong. Replace thefuse with one of the correct rating assoon as you can.

Look for a blown wire inside thefuse. If it is blown, replace it withone of the spare fuses of the samerating or lower.

3. 4.

5.

CONTINUED

FusesTaking

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213

FUSE

BLOWN

BLOWN

If the replacement fuse of thesame rating blows in a short time,there is probably a seriouselectrical problem in your vehicle.Leave the blown fuse in thatcircuit and have your vehiclechecked by a qualified mechanic.

If the radio fuse is removed, theaudio system will disable itself. Thenext time you turn on the radio youwill see ‘‘CODE’’ in the frequencydisplay. Use the preset buttons toenter the five-digit code (see page

).

6.

116

On EX models

Fuses

214

Replacing a f use with one that has ahigher rating greatly increases thechances of damaging the electricalsystem. If you do not have areplacement f use with the proper ratingf or the circuit, install one with a lowerrating.

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－

－

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＊

＊

＊＊

No. Amps. Circuits Protected

No. Amps. Circuits Protected

CONTINUED

12

345

15 A15 A

10 A10 A

Ignition CoilRear Accessory PowerSocketDaytime running lightsACGNot Used

6789

101112131415161718

19202122232425

7.5 A20 A

7.5 A10 A

7.5 A7.5 A7.5 A10 A10 A20 A

15 A15 A

7.5 A20 A

20 A20 A

Power Window RelayAMPAccessory, RadioRear WiperMeterABSDaytime running lightsSRSRemote Control MirrorsLAF HeaterNot UsedFuel PumpFront Accessory PowerSocketTurn Signal LightsFront WiperNot UsedPassenger’s Power WindowDriver’s Power WindowNot UsedNot Used

2 :1 : If equipped

Canadian models

1

2

2

Fuse LocationsTaking

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215

INTERIOR FUSE BOX

－

－

－

No. Circuits ProtectedAmps.

123456789

1011121314151617181920

Condenser FanSmall LightInterior LightCooling Fan MotorHazardIGPHorn, StopNot UsedBack UpABS MotorRear DefrosterHeater MotorPower WindowOptionLeft HeadlightDoor LockRight HeadlightABS F/SBatteryIgnition 1Spare Fuses

30 A15 A

7.5 A20 A15 A15 A15 A

10 A30 A20 A40 A40 A40 A15 A15 A15 A30 A

100 A50 A

21 25 7.5A 30A

Fuse Locations

216

UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX

The operator will loadyour vehicle on the back of a truck.Any other method of towing willdamage the drive system. When youcontact the towing agency, informthem a flat-bed is required.

Refer toon page

for non-emergency towinginformation.

If your vehicle needs to be towed,call a professional towing service ororganization. Never tow your vehiclewith just a rope or chain. It is verydangerous.

155

The only way you can safely towyour vehicle is with flat-bedequipment.

Towing Your VehicleBehind a Motorhome

Emergency TowingTaking

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217

Towing with only two tires on theground will damage parts of the 4WDsystem. It should be transported on af lat-bed truck or trailer.

218

The diagrams in this section giveyou the dimensions and capacities ofyour vehicle, and the locations of theidentification numbers. It alsoincludes information you shouldknow about your vehicle’s tires andemissions control systems.

................Identification Numbers . 220................................Specifications . 222

DOT Tire Quality Grading......................(U.S. Vehicles) . 224

Uniform Tire Quality..................................Grading . 224.................................Treadwear . 224

......................................Traction . 224.............................Temperature . 225

.................................Tire Labeling . 226

.......................Emissions Controls . 227.....................The Clean Air Act . 227

Crankcase Emissions Control....................................System . 227

Evaporative Emissions Control....................................System . 227

Onboard Refueling Vapor................................Recovery . 227

...Exhaust Emissions Controls . 228....................PGM-FI System . 228

Ignition Timing Control................................System . 228

Three Way Catalytic...........................Converter . 228

....................Replacement Parts . 228..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 229

..............State Emissions Testing . 230

Technical InformationTechnicalInform

ation

219

Your vehicle has several identifyingnumbers located in various places.

The vehicle identification number(VIN) is the 17-digit number yourdealer uses to register your vehiclefor warranty purposes. It is alsonecessary for licensing and insuringyour vehicle. The easiest place tofind the VIN is on a plate fastened tothe top of the dashboard. You cansee it by looking through thewindshield on the driver’s side. It isalso on the certification labelattached to the driver’s doorjamb(front edge of rear door), and isstamped on the engine compartmentbulkhead. The VIN is also providedin bar code on the certification label.

Identif ication Numbers

220

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

CERTIFICATION LABEL

The transmission number is on alabel on top of the transmission.

The engine number is stamped intothe engine block.

Identif ication NumbersTechnicalInform

ation

221

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER

ENGINE NUMBER MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER

＊

＊

＊

＊＊

Specifications

222

Dimensions

Weights

Engine

Capacities

169.3 in (4,300 mm)71.5 in (1,815 mm)70.4 in (1,788 mm)101.4 in (2,575 mm)62.1 in (1,577 mm)62.3 in (1,582 mm)

1.88 US gal (7.1 )

1.90 US gal (7.2 )

3.3 US qt (3.1 )

7.6 US qt (7.2 )

2.0 US qt (1.9 )

1.43 US gal (5.4 )

3.1 US qt (2.9 )

1.45 US gal (5.5 )

6.9 US qt (6.5 )

5.6 US qt (5.3 )4.2 US qt (4.0 )4.4 US qt (4.2 )

15.9 US gal (60 )

9.7 : 1144 cu-in (2,354 cm )

3.43 x 3.90 in (87.0 x 99.0 mm)

0.145 US gal (0.55 )

1.3 US qt (1.2 )1.1 US qt (1.0 )

2.4 US qt (2.3 )2.3 US qt (2.2 )

Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in theengine.Reserve tank capacity:

LengthWidthHeightWheelbaseTrack

Gross vehicle weight rating

Type

Bore x StrokeDisplacementCompression ratioSpark plugs

Fuel tank

Engine oil

See the certification label attachedto the driver’s doorjamb (frontedge of rear door).

Water cooled 4-stroke DOHCVTEC 4-cylinder gasoline engine

Enginecoolant

Automatictransmissionfluid

Manualtransmissionfluid

Reardifferentialfluid (4WD)Windshieldwasherreservoir

IZFR6K-11SKJ20DR-M11 4.8 US qt (4.5 )

Approx.

FrontRear

Change

Without filterTotal

1 :2 :

NGK:DENSO:

ChangeTotal

ChangeTotalChange

4WD2WD

Total4WD2WD

ChangeTotal

4WD2WD

ChangeTotal


Manual Transmission

1

2

2

Including filter

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SpecificationsTechnicalInform

ation

223

Air Conditioning

Lights

Battery

Fuses

Alignment

Tires

HFC-134a (R-134a)16.9 18.7 oz (480 530 g)

SP-10

12 V 60/55 W (H4/HB2)

12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V

8 W4 CP8 W5 W18 W (21 CP)21/5 W21 W

P215/70R16 99S

1°50’1°

0°13’0.08 in (2.0 mm)

0.0 in (0 mm)

12 V 21/5 W

12 V 3 CP

12 V 21 W 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )34 psi (235 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm )

45 AH/20 HR12 V

Refrigerant typeCharge quantityLubricant type

HeadlightsFront turn signal/parkinglightsFront side marker lightsRear turn signal lightsBrake/TaillightsBack-up lightsLicense plate lightsCeiling lightSpotlightsCargo area lightHigh-mount brake light

Capacity

Interior

Under-hood

Toe-in

Camber

Caster

SizePressure

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

See page 215 or the fuse labelattached to the inside of the fusebox door under the steeringcolumn.See page 216 or the fuse boxcover.

FrontRearFrontRearFront

Front/RearFrontRearSpare

－

Quality grades can be found whereapplicable on the tire sidewallbetween the tread shoulder and themaximum section width. Forexample:

All passenger car tires must conformto Federal Safety Requirements inaddition to these grades.

The treadwear grade is a compara-tive rating based on the wear rate ofthe tire when tested under controlledconditions on a specified governmenttest course. For example, a tiregraded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on thegovernment course as a tire graded100. The relative performance oftires depends upon the actual condi-tions of their use, however, and maydepart significantly from the normdue to variations in driving habits,service practices, and differences inroad characteristics and climate.

The traction grades, from highest tolowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Thosegrades represent the tire’s ability tostop on wet pavement as measuredunder controlled conditions onspecified government test surfacesof asphalt and concrete. A tiremarked C may have poor tractionperformance.

Warning: The traction gradeassigned to this tire is based onstraight-ahead braking traction tests,and does not include acceleration,cornering, hydroplaning, or peaktraction characteristics.

The tires on your vehicle meet allU.S. Federal Safety Requirements.All tires are also graded fortreadwear, traction, and temperatureperformance according toDepartment of Transportation(DOT) standards. The followingexplains these gradings.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Treadwear 200Traction AATemperature A

Treadwear Traction AA, A, B, C

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

224

－The temperature grades are A (thehighest), B, and C, representing thetire’s resistance to the generation ofheat and its ability to dissipate heatwhen tested under controlledconditions on a specified indoorlaboratory test wheel. Sustained hightemperature can cause the materialof the tire to degenerate and reducetire life, and excessive temperaturecan lead to sudden tire failure. Thegrade C corresponds to a level ofperformance, which all passengervehicle tires must meet under theFederal Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard No. 109. Grades B and Arepresent higher levels ofperformance on the laboratory testwheel than the minimum required bylaw.

Warning: The temperature grade forthis tire is established for a tire thatis properly inflated and not over-loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-tion, or excessive loading, eitherseparately or in combination, cancause heat buildup and possible tirefailure.

Temperature A, B, C

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)TechnicalInform

ation

225

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The tires that came on your vehiclehave a number of markings. Thoseyou should be aware of are describedbelow.

Whenever tires are replaced, theyshould be replaced with tires of thesame size. Following is an exampleof tire size with an explanation ofwhat each component means.

Vehicle type (P indicatespassenger vehicle).Tire width in millimeters.Aspect ratio (the tire’s sectionheight as a percentage of itswidth).Tire construction code (Rindicates radial).Rim diameter in inches.

Load index (a numerical codeassociated with the maximumload the tire can carry).Speed symbol (analphabetical code indicatingthe maximum speed rating).

Tire Identification Number (TIN) isa group of numbers and letters thatlook like the following example TIN.

This indicates that the tiremeets all requirements ofthe U.S. Department ofTransportation.Manufacturer’sidentification mark.Tire type code.Date of manufacture.

The maximum airpressure the tire canhold.

The maximum load thetire can carry atmaximum air pressure.

P

R

16

DOT

B97R

FW6X2202

Max Press

Max Load

21570

99

S

Tire Labeling

Tire Labeling

Tire SizeTire Identif ication Number

Maximum Tire Pressure

Maximum Tire Load

226

DOT B97R FW6X 2202

P215/70R16 99S

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The burning of gasoline in yourvehicle’s engine produces several by-products. Some of these are carbonmonoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen(NOx), and hydrocarbons (HC).Gasoline evaporating from the tankalso produces hydrocarbons.Controlling the production of NOx,CO, and HC is important to theenvironment. Under certainconditions of sunlight and climate,NOx and HC react to formphotochemical ‘‘smog.’’ Carbonmonoxide does not contribute tosmog creation, but it is a poisonousgas.

The United States Clean Air Actsets standards for automobileemissions. It also requires thatautomobile manufacturers explain toowners how their emissions controlswork and what to do to maintainthem. This section summarizes howthe emissions controls work.Scheduled maintenance is on page

.

In Canada, Honda vehicles complywith the Canadian emissionrequirements, as specified in anagreement with EnvironmentCanada, at the time they aremanufactured.

Your vehicle has a positivecrankcase ventilation system. Thiskeeps gasses that build up in theengine’s crankcase from going intothe atmosphere. The positive

crankcase ventilation valve routesthem from the crankcase back to theintake manifold. They are thendrawn into the engine and burned.

As gasoline evaporates in the fueltank, an evaporative emissionscontrol canister filled with charcoaladsorbs the vapor. It is stored in thiscanister while the engine is off. Afterthe engine is started and warmed up,the vapor is drawn into the engineand burned during driving.

The onboard refueling vaporrecovery (ORVR) system capturesthe fuel vapors during refueling. Thevapors are adsorbed in a canisterfilled with activated carbon. Whiledriving, the fuel vapors are drawninto the engine and burned off.

163

Emissions Controls

The Clean Air Act

Crankcase Emissions ControlSystem

Evaporative Emissions ControlSystem

Onboard Refueling VaporRecovery T

echnicalInformation

227

The PGM-FI system uses sequentialmultiport fuel injection. It has threesubsystems: air intake, enginecontrol, and fuel control. Thepowertrain control module (PCM) inautomatic transmission vehicles orthe engine control module (ECM) inmanual transmission vehicles usesvarious sensors to determine howmuch air is going into the engine. Itthen controls how much fuel to injectunder all operating conditions.

The emissions control systems aredesigned and certified to work to-gether in reducing emissions tolevels that comply with the Clean AirAct. To make sure the emissionsremain low, you should use only newHonda replacement parts or theirequivalent for repairs. Using lowerquality parts may increase theemissions from your vehicle.

The exhaust emissions controlsinclude three systems: PGM-FI,ignition timing control, and threeway catalytic converter. These threesystems work together to control theengine’s combustion and minimizethe amount of HC, CO, and NOx thatcomes out the tailpipe. The exhaustemissions control systems areseparate from the crankcase andevaporative emissions controlsystems. The emissions control systems are

covered by warranties separate fromthe rest of your vehicle. Read yourwarranty manual for more informa-tion.

The three way catalytic converter isin the exhaust system. Throughchemical reactions, it converts HC,CO, and NOx in the engine’s exhaustto carbon dioxide (CO ), nitrogen(N ), and water vapor.

This system constantly adjusts theignition timing, reducing the amountof HC, CO, and NOx produced.

2

2

Exhaust Emissions Controls Replacement PartsPGM-FI System

Three Way Catalytic Converter

Ignition Timing Control System

Emissions Controls

228

The three way catalytic convertercontains precious metals that serveas catalysts, promoting chemicalreactions to convert the exhaustgasses without affecting the metals.The catalytic converter is referred toas a three-way catalyst, since it actson HC, CO, and NOx. A replacementunit must be an original Honda partor its equivalent.

Always use unleaded gasoline.Even a small amount of leadedgasoline can contaminate thecatalyst metals, making the threeway catalytic converter ineffective.

Keep the engine tuned-up.

The three way catalytic convertermust operate at a high temperaturefor the chemical reactions to takeplace. It can set on fire any com-bustible materials that come near it.Park your vehicle away from highgrass, dry leaves, or other flamma-bles.

A defective three way catalyticconverter contributes to air pollution,and can impair your engine’s per-formance. Follow these guidelines toprotect your vehicle’s three waycatalytic converter.

Have your vehicle diagnosed andrepaired if it is misfiring, back-firing, stalling, or otherwise notrunning properly.

Three Way Catalytic ConverterTechnicalInform

ation

229

THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER

Make sure the ambienttemperature is between 20° and95°F.

Without touching the acceleratorpedal, start the engine, and let itidle for 20 seconds.

If you take your vehicle for a stateemissions test shortly after thebattery has been disconnected orgone dead, it may not pass the test.This is because of certain ‘‘readinesscodes’’ that must be set in the on-board diagnostics for the emissionssystems. These codes are erasedwhen the battery is disconnected,and set again only after several daysof driving under a variety ofconditions.

If the testing facility determines thatthe readiness codes are not set, youwill be requested to return at a laterdate to complete the test. If you mustget the vehicle retested within thenext two or three days, you cancondition the vehicle for retesting bydoing the following.

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

Make sure the fuel tank is nearly,but not completely full (around3/4).

Keep the vehicle in Park(automatic transmission) orneutral (manual transmission).Increase the engine speed to 2,000rpm, and hold it there until thetemperature gauge rises to at least1/4 of the scale (about 3 minutes).

Testing of Readiness Codes

State Emissions Testing

230

Then drive in city/suburbantraffic for at least 10 minutes.When traffic conditions allow, letthe vehicle coast for severalseconds without using theaccelerator pedal or the brakepedal.

If the testing facility determines thereadiness codes are still not set, seeyour dealer.

Select a nearby lightly traveledmajor highway where you canmaintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph(80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20minutes. Drive on the highway inD (A/T) or 5th (M/T). Do not usecruise control. When traffic allows,drive for 90 seconds withoutmoving the accelerator pedal.(Vehicle speed may vary slightly;this is okay.) If you cannot do thisfor a continuous 90 secondsbecause of traffic conditions, drivefor at least 30 seconds, then repeatit two more times (for a total of 90seconds).

State Emissions TestingTechnicalInform

ation

231

232

....Customer Service Information . 234....................Warranty Coverages . 235

Reporting Safety Defects..........................(U.S. Vehicles) . 236

.....................Authorized Manuals . 237

Warranty and Customer RelationsW

arrantyand

Custom

erR

elations

233

Honda dealership personnel aretrained professionals. They shouldbe able to answer all your questions.If you encounter a problem that yourdealership does not solve to yoursatisfaction, please discuss it withthe dealership’s management. Theservice manager or general managercan help. Almost all problems aresolved in this way.

If you are dissatisfied with thedecision made by the dealership’smanagement, contact your HondaCustomer Service Office.

U.S. Owners:

Canadian Owners:

In Puerto Rico and the U.S. VirginIslands:

When you call or write, please giveus this information:

Vehicle identification number (seepage )

Name and address of the dealerwho services your vehicle

Date of purchase

Mileage on your vehicle

Your name, address, and tele-phone number

A detailed description of theproblem

Name of the dealer who sold thevehicle to you

220

Customer Service Information

234

CUSTOMER RELATIONSRELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTÈLE

American Honda Motor Co., Inc.Honda Automobile Customer ServiceMail Stop 500-2N-7A1919 Torrance BoulevardTorrance, California 90501-2746

Tel: (800) 999-1009

Honda Canada Inc.715 Milner AvenueToronto, ONM1B 2K8

Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909

Toronto (416) 287-4776

Bella InternationalP.O. Box 190816San Juan, PR 00919-0816

Tel: (787) 250-4327

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Your new vehicle is covered by thesewarranties:

covers your new vehicle, except forthe battery, emissions controlsystems, and accessories, againstdefects in materials andworkmanship.

provides proratedcoverage for a replacement batterypurchased from your dealer.

these twowarranties cover your vehicle’semissions control systems. Time,mileage, and coverage areconditional. Please read yourwarranty manual for exactinformation.

a seatbelt that fails to function properly iscovered for the useful life of thevehicle.

all exterior body panels arecovered for rust-through from theinside for the specified time periodwith no mileage limit.

Honda accessories are coveredunder this warranty. Time andmileage limits depend on the type ofaccessory and other factors. Pleaseread your warranty manual fordetails.

covers all Hondareplacement parts against defects inmaterials and workmanship.

providescoverage for as long as the pur-chaser of the muffler owns thevehicle.

Restrictions and exclusions apply toall these warranties. Please read the2005 Honda Warranty Informationbooklet that came with your vehiclefor precise information on warrantycoverages. Your vehicle’s originaltires are covered by theirmanufacturer. Tire warranty infor-mation is in a separate booklet.

Please refer to the 2005 WarrantyManual that came with your vehicle.

this warranty gives upto 100 percent credit toward areplacement battery.

Warranty Coverages

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

New Vehicle Limited Warranty

Replacement Battery LimitedWarranty

Emissions Control Systems DefectsWarranty and EmissionsPerformance Warranty

Seat Belt Limited Warranty

Rust Perforation Limited Warranty

Accessory Limited Warranty

Replacement Parts LimitedWarranty

Replacement Muffler LifetimeLimited Warranty

Original Equipment Battery LimitedWarranty

Warranty

andC

ustomer

Relations

235

If NHTSA receives similar com-plaints, it may open an investigation,and if it finds that a safety defectexists in a group of vehicles, it mayorder a recall and remedy campaign.However, NHTSA cannot becomeinvolved in individual problemsbetween you, your dealer, orAmerican Honda Motor Co., Inc.

If you believe that your vehicle has adefect which could cause a crash orcould cause injury or death, youshould immediately inform theNational Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) in additionto notifying American Honda MotorCo., Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may eithercall the Auto Safety Hotline toll-freeat 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 inWashington D.C. area) or write to:NHTSA, U.S. Department ofTransportation, Washington,D.C. 20590. You can also obtainother information about motorvehicle safety from the Hotline.

Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

236

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Valid only for sales within the United States. Canadianowners should contact their authorized Honda dealer.

The publications shown below can be purchased from HelmIncorporated. You can order in any of three ways:

If you are interested in other years or models, contact Helm Inc.at 1-800-782-4356.

Detach and mail the order form on the right half of this pageCall Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356Go online at

(credit card orders only)

Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals(U.S. only)

Authorized ManualsA

uthorizedM

anuals

237

ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-782-4356

OR

(NOTE: For Credit Card Holder Orders Only)

MINIMUM CREDIT CARD PURCHASE $10.00

Price

Each

$70.00

$50.00

$44.00

$34.00

$12.00

$12.00

FREE

Form Description

2003 2005 Honda Element

Service Manual


Electrical Troubleshooting Manual


Body Repair Manual

2005 Honda Element

Owner’s Manual

2005 Honda Element

Honda Service History

2005 Honda Element

Quick Start Guide

Order Form for Previous Years-

Indicate Year and Model Desired

Publication

Form Number

61SCV03

61SCV03EL

61SCV30

31SCV620

31SCVM00

31SCVQ20

HON-R

PUBLICATION NUMBERVEHICLE MODEL

Name YearQty

Price

Each

Total

Price

GRAND TOTAL

HANDLING CHARGE

Mich. Purchases

Add 6% Sales Tax

TOTAL MATERIAL

$6.95

Monday-Friday 8:00 A.M. 6:00 P.M. EST

By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You canpay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail toHelm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.

Prices are subject to change withoutnotice and without incurring obligation.

Orders are mailed within 10 days. Pleaseallow adequate time for delivery.

Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring obligation.

www. helminc. com

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This manual covers maintenance and recommendedprocedures for repair to engine and chassis components.It is written for the journeyman mechanic, but is simpleenough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under-stand.

This manual describes the procedures involved in thereplacement of damaged body parts.

This manual complements the service manual byproviding in-depth troubleshooting information for eachelectrical circuit in your vehicle.

Authorized Manuals

Service Manual:

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:

Body Repair Manual:

238

NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name,and also the name of the person to whose attention the shipment shouldbe sent. For purchases outside U.S.A. please write to the address shownbelow for a quotation.

P.O. BOX 07280·DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207·1-800-782-4356

Customer Name Attention

Apartment Number

State & Zip CodeCity

Daytime Telephone Number

Check or money order enclosed payable to Helm Inc U.S. funds only.Do not send cash

MasterCard

VISA Check here if your billing address is differentfrom the shipping address shown above.

Account Number Expiration: Mo. Yr.

CUSTOMER SIGNATURE DATE

Street Address No P.O. Box Number

( )

These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.

CONTINUED

....................................Accessories . 128ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

.......................................Position) . 69..............Accessory Power Sockets . 87

....................Additives, Engine Oil . 171.............................Airbag (SRS) . 11, 23

...Airbags, Additional Information . 23

...Additional Safety Precautions . 29.............................Airbag Service . 28

How the Side Airbag Cutoff......................Indicator Works . 28

..How the SRS Indicator Works . 27How Your Front Airbags

.........................................Work . 24...How Your Side Airbags Work . 26

........................SRS Components . 23................Air Conditioning System . 91

............................................Usage . 91.......................Air Pressure, Tires . 188

.........................Normal Driving . 188......................................Antifreeze . 173

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)...............................Indicator . 55, 148

...................................Operation . 147

..............Anti-theft, Audio System . 116.Anti-theft Steering Column Lock . 69

......................Armrests, Front Seat . 74..................................Audio System . 94

...Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners . 21.............Automatic Speed Control . 119..............Automatic Transmission . 141

..........................Capacity, Fluid . 222...............Checking Fluid Level . 175

.......................................Shifting . 141.Shift Lever Position Indicator . 141

................Shift Lever Positions . 141....................Shift Lock Release . 144

......................Auxiliary Input Jack . 112

BatteryCharging System

...........................Indicator . 54, 209............................Jump Starting . 205

..............................Maintenance . 193............................Specifications . 223

..............................Before Driving . 121..................................Belts, Seat . 10, 20

...........................Beverage Holders . 87

...................................Body Panels . 178..................................Booster Seats . 45

Brakes...........Anti-lock System (ABS) . 147

.............Break-in, New Linings . 122....................Bulb Replacement . 179

...........................................Fluid . 177.........................................Parking . 83

.................System Indicator . 54, 211........................Wear Indicators . 147

.............................Braking System . 146.................Break-in, New Vehicle . 122

..Brightness Control, Instruments . 63........................Brights, Headlights . 62

Bulb Replacement..........................Back-up Lights . 182

..............................Brake Lights . 182................Front Parking Lights . 180

........Front Side Marker Lights . 181.................................Headlights . 179

............................Specifications . 223....................Turn Signal Lights . 180

..............................Bulbs, Halogen . 179................................Bungee Cords . 133

Index

A

B

IND

EX

I

＊

＊＊

＊

............................Capacities Chart . 222.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 47

...............................Carring Cargo . 130..............CAUTION, Explanation of . ii

.........................................CD Care . 113...................................CD Changer . 112

.......................CD Error Message . 114.......CD Changer Error Message . 115

.......................................CD Player . 106.................................Ceiling Pocket . 86

........................Certification Label . 220............................................Chains . 192

....................Changing a Flat Tire . 197.................................Changing Oil . 171

........................................How to . 171......................................When to . 165

...Charging System Indicator . 54, 209............Checklist, Before Driving . 137

.....................................Child Safety . 30Child Seats

......LATCH Anchorage System . 39...........................Lower Anchors . 39

..........Tether Anchorage Points . 43............Cleaning the Body Panels . 178

..............................................Clock . 117.........................Clock, Setting the . 117

...................................Clutch Fluid . 177........................CO in the Exhaust . 227

............Cold Weather, Starting in . 138..............................Compact Spare . 196

...............Consumer Information . 234.............Controls, Instruments and . 51

Coolant........................................Adding . 173

....................................Checking . 126.........................Proper Solution . 173

...................Temperature Gauge . 59Crankcase Emissions Control

........................................System . 227................Cruise Control Indicator . 56............Cruise Control Operation . 119.............Customer Service Office . 234

................DANGER, Explanation of . ii...................................Dashboard . 4, 52

Daytime Running Lights...................................Indicator . 56.................................Dead Battery . 205

............Defects, Reporting Safety . 236..........................Defog and Defrost . 91

................Defogger, Rear Window . 63

................Defrosting the Windows . 93....................................Dimensions . 222

...............Dimming the Headlights . 62Dipstick

..........Automatic Transmission . 175..................................Engine Oil . 126

..........................Directional Signals . 62........Disc Brake Wear Indicators . 147

.....................Disposal of Used Oil . 172Doors

..............Locking and Unlocking . 70......................Power Door Locks . 70

........DOT Tire Quality Grading . 224Downshifting, Manual

.............................Transmission . 139...........Driver and Passenger Safety . 7

...........................................Driving . 135....................................Economy . 127

........................Driving Guidelines . 136..................Dust and Pollen Filter . 185

Index

D

C

II

CONTINUED

..............................Economy, Fuel . 127............Emergencies on the Road . 195.............Battery, Jump Starting . 205...........Brake System Indicator . 211

................Changing a Flat Tire . 197.....Charging System Indicator . 209

..................Checking the Fuses . 212.........Hazard Warning Flashers . 63.....Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 209...Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 210

..................Overheated Engine . 207...........................Emergency Brake . 83

......................Emergency Flashers . 63......................Emergency Towing . 217.......................Emissions Controls . 227

.............Emissions Testing, State . 230Engine

....Coolant Temperature Gauge . 59......Engine Speed Limiter . 140, 143

Malfunction Indicator................................Lamp . 54, 210

........Oil Pressure Indicator . 54, 209

..............Oil, What Kind to Use . 170...............................Overheating . 207

............................Specifications . 222.......................................Starting . 138

.Evaporative Emissions Controls . 227...............................Exhaust Fumes . 47

Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat........................................Belts by . 18

.....................................Fan, Interior . 90...........................................Features . 89

....................Filling the Fuel Tank . 124Filters

.........................Dust and Pollen . 185...............................................Oil . 171

.............Flashers, Hazard Warning . 63...................Flat Tire, Changing a . 197

Fluids..........Automatic Transmission . 175

..........................................Brake . 177.........................................Clutch . 177

..............Manual Transmission . 176..........................Power Steering . 178

..................Windshield Washer . 174FM Stereo Radio

.....................................Reception . 98

...........................Folding Rear Seat . 77..........................Four-way Flashers . 63

..........................Four-wheel Drive . 136............................Front Airbags . 11, 23

Front Seat......................................Adjusting . 12

.........................................Airbags . 23.................................................Fuel . 122

......................Fill Door and Cap . 124...........................................Gauge . 58

................Octane Requirement . 122........................Reserve Indicator . 56

........................Tank, Filling the . 124.....................Fuses, Checking the . 212

...............Gas Mileage, Improving . 127.........................................Gasoline . 122

...............Fuel Reserve Indicator . 56...........................................Gauge . 58

................Octane Requirement . 122........................Tank, Filling the . 124

Index

E

F

G

IND

EX

III

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................Gas Station Procedures . 124Gauges

...Engine Coolant Temperature . 59...............................................Fuel . 58

Gearshift Lever Positions..........Automatic Transmission . 141

..............Manual Transmission . 139........................................Glove Box . 87

.............Halogen Headlight Bulbs . 179................................................Hatch . 71

..............Hazard Warning Flashers . 63Headlights

........................................Aiming . 179.......Daytime Running Lights . 62

..................High Beam Indicator . 56........................Reminder Beeper . 62

........Replacing Halogen Bulbs . 179...................................Turning on . 62

..............................Head Restraints . 75.......................Heating and Cooling . 90

.............High Altitude, Starting at . 138.................High-Low Beam Switch . 62

..Hood, Opening and Closing the . 125

..............................................Horn . 5, 60...........................Hydraulic Clutch . 177

...Identification Number, Vehicle . 220Ignition

..............................................Keys . 65...........................................Switch . 69

............Timing Control System . 228........................Immobilizer System . 66

.........Important Safety Precautions . 8.........Indicators, Instrument Panel . 53

...............................Infant Restraint . 35......................................Infant Seats . 35

......LATCH Anchorage System . 39...........................Lower Anchors . 39

..........Tether Anchorage Points . 43...................Inflation, Proper Tire . 187

.........................Normal Driving . 188...................................Inside Mirror . 82

.............................Inspection, Tire . 189............................Instrument Panel . 53

........Instrument Panel Brightness . 63.................................Interior Lights . 88

........................................Introduction . i

.................Jacking up the Vehicle . 199.......................................Jack, Tire . 197

................................Jump Starting . 205

..................................................Keys . 65

.......................Label, Certification . 220.................Lane Change, Signaling . 62

..................Lap/Shoulder Belts . 15, 20...........LATCH Anchorage System . 39

Lights....................Bulb Replacement . 179

.......................................Indicator . 53.........................................Parking . 62

..................................Turn Signal . 62....................................Load Limits . 131

......LOCK (Ignition Key Position) . 69Locks

.......Anti-theft Steering Column . 69............................Fuel Fill Door . 124

Index

H

I

J

K

L

IV

CONTINUED

....................................Glove Box . 87.................................Power Door . 70

........................................Tailgate . 72........................Low Coolant Level . 126.........................Low Fuel Indicator . 56

...Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 54, 209................................Lower Anchors . 39

...Lower Gear, Downshifting to a . 139

...Lubricant Specifications Chart . 222.........................................Luggage . 130

..................................Maintenance . 161...Owner Maintenance Checks . 164

.................................Record . 167-168......................Required Indicator . 57

..........................................Safety . 162.............................Schedule . 165-166

.Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 54, 210...................Manual Transmission . 139

...............Checking Fluid Level . 176................................Shifting the . 139

........Manual Transmission Fluid . 176.........................Meters, Gauges . 53, 58

..........................Mirrors, Adjusting . 82

...............Modifying Your Vehicle . 129

...................Neutral Gear Position . 142..................New Vehicle Break-in . 122

.....................Normal Shift Speeds . 140...................NOTICE, Explanation of . i

...............Numbers, Identification . 220

...Octane Requirement, Gasoline . 122.........................................Odometer . 58

...............................Odometer, Trip . 58....................Off-Highway Driving . 157

Oil........................Change, How to . 171......................Change, When to . 165......................Checking Engine . 126..............Pressure Indicator . 54, 209

Selecting Proper Viscosity......................................Chart . 170

...........ON (Ignition Key Position) . 69Onboard Refueling Vapor

....................................Recovery . 227

..............................Outside Mirrors . 82.......................................Overdrive . 143

....................Overheating, Engine . 207.......Owner Maintenance Checks . 164

..............Panel Brightness Control . 63........................Park Gear Position . 141

...........................................Parking . 145.................................Parking Brake . 83

Parking Brake and Brake.................System Indicator . 54, 211

.................................Parking Lights . 62..Parking Over Things that Burn . 145

................................Playing a Disc . 106............Playing the AM/FM Radio . 94

Playing the XM Satellite..........................................Radio . 100

.............................PGM-FI System . 228.................Power Socket Locations . 87

..............................Power Windows . 81..........................Power Door Locks . 70

.........Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts . 18

TM

Index

M

N

O

P

IND

EX

V

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...................Radiator Overheating . 207...............Radio/CD Sound System . 94

...........................Readiness Codes . 230.......................................Rear Doors . 70

..Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement . 182............................Rear Seat Access . 75..........................Rear Seat, Folding . 77

............................Rear View Mirror . 82.................Rear Window Defogger . 63

.Rear Window Wiper and Washer . 61...............Reclining the Seat-Backs . 73

.......Recommended Shift Speeds . 140.............................Reminder Lights . 53

...............Removing the Rear Seats . 79.......................Remote Transmitter . 67

Replacement Information..............Dust and Pollen Filter . 185

................Engine Oil and Filter . 171..........................................Fuses . 212

................................Light Bulbs . 179....................................Schedule . 165

...........................................Tires . 187.............................Wiper Blades . 186

Replacing Seat Belts After a............................................Crash . 21

Reserve Tank, Engine...............................Coolant . 126, 173

...............................Restraint, Child . 30..................Reverse Gear Position . 142

...........................Reverse Lockout . 144......................................Roof Rack . 132

................................Rotation, Tire . 190

................................Safety Belts . 10, 20.........Safety Defects, Reporting . 236

.................................Safety Features . 9.........................................Airbags . 11

.....................................Seat Belts . 10.............Safety Labels, Location of . 48

...............................Safety Messages . ii................................Satellite Radio . 100

...................................Seat Belts . 10, 20...............Additional Information . 20

Automatic Seat Belt...............................Tensioners . 21

................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 15, 20................................Maintenance . 21

.....................Reminder Light . 20, 54...................System Components . 20

...............Use During Pregnancy . 18...Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt . 15

........................Seats, Adjusting the . 73...............................Serial Number . 220

...........................Service Intervals . 165

...........................Service Manual . 237...........Service Station Procedure . 124

..........................Setting the Clock . 117.....Shift Lever Position Indicator . 141

........................Shift Lock Release . 144....................................Side Airbags . 26

..........................Cutoff Indicator . 28Side Marker Lights, Bulb

..............................Replacement . 181...............................Signaling Turns . 62

............................................Skylight . 83

.........Protecting Adults and Teens . 12...Additional Safety Precautions . 19

.....Advice for Pregnant Women . 18........................Protecting Children . 30

Protecting Infants and Small.......................................Children . 35

...........Protecting Larger Children . 44.....................Using Booster Seat . 45

Index

R

S

VI

＊

CONTINUED

.....................................Snow Tires . 191..................................Sound System . 94

......................................Spare Tire . 196

......................................Inflating . 196............................Specifications . 223

....................Specifications Charts . 222................................Speed Control . 119

..........SRS, Additional Information . 23...Additional Safety Precautions . 29

.............................Airbag Service . 28How the Side Airbag Cutoff

......................Indicator Works . 28..How the SRS Indicator Works . 27

How Your Front Airbags.........................................Work . 24

...How Your Side Airbags Work . 26........................SRS Components . 23

.............................SRS Indicator . 27, 55....START (Ignition Key Position) . 69

..............State Emissions Testing . 230.......................Starting the Engine . 138

In Cold Weather at High..................................Altitude . 138

................With a Dead Battery . 205........Steam Coming from Engine . 207

Steering Wheel..................................Adjustment . 64

.............Anti-theft Column Lock . 69.....................Stereo Sound System . 94

....................Storing Your Vehicle . 194Supplemental Restraint

................................System . 11, 23

......................................Servicing . 28.........................SRS Indicator . 27, 55

...................System Components . 23..................................Synthetic Oil . 171

Tailgate............................Open Indicator . 57

.................................Opening the . 72..........Taillights, Changing Bulbs . 182

.Taking Care of the Unexpected . 195Technical Descriptions

......DOT Tire Quality Grading . 224.....Emissions Control Systems . 227

..........State Emissions Testing . 230Three Way Catalytic

...............................Converter . 229.................................Tire Labeling . 226

.......................Temperature Gauge . 59..............Tether Anchorage Points . 43

............................Theft Protection . 116..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 229

..................Tilt the Steering Wheel . 64..........................Time, Setting the . 117

....................................Tire Chains . 192.........Tire, How to Change a Flat . 197

...........................Tire Information . 224...............................................Tires . 187

..............................Air Pressure . 188.........................Checking Wear . 189..........................Compact Spare . 196

....DOT Tire Quality Grading . 224......................................Inflation . 187

..................................Inspection . 189..............................Maintenance . 189

...................................Replacing . 190......................................Rotating . 190

...........................................Snow . 191............................Specifications . 223

................................Tire Chains . 192

Index

T

IND

EX

VII

＊

＊

＊＊

...................Tools, Tire Changing . 197Towing

.....................................A Trailer . 149...............Behind a Motorhome . 155

................................Emergency . 217...Equipment And Accessories . 151

.............................Weight Limit . 149

.............................Trailer Loading . 150......................Trailer Towing Tips . 153

...........................Traction Devices . 192Transmission

Checking Fluid Level,..............................Automatic . 175

Checking Fluid Level,...................................Manual . 176

..................Fluid Selection . 175, 176..............Identification Number . 220.............Shifting the Automatic . 141

..................Shifting the Manual . 139.....................................Treadwear . 224.......................................Trip Meter . 58

....................................Turn Signals . 62

Unexpected, Taking Care..........................................of the . 195

....Uniform Tire Quality Grading . 224........................Unleaded Gasoline . 122

.......Used Oil, How to Dispose of . 172

.................Vehicle Capacity Load . 131......................Vehicle Dimensions . 222

....Vehicle Identification Number . 220.............................Vehicle Storage . 194

........................................Ventilation . 92.................................................VIN . 220

..................................Viscosity, Oil . 170

.............WARNING, Explanation of . ii.........Warning Labels, Location of . 48

..................Warranty Coverages . 235Washers, Windshield

........Checking the Fluid Level . 174.....................................Operation . 61

Wheels...............Adjusting the Steering . 64............Alignment and Balance . 189

......................................Wrench . 198Windows

..................Operating the Power . 81...........................Rear, Defogger . 63

Windshield.......................................Cleaning . 61.....................................Defroster . 91

.....................................Washers . 174Wipers, Windshield

.......................Changing Blades . 186.....................................Operation . 61

....................................Worn Tires . 189.....Wrecker, Emergency Towing . 217

: U.S. only: Canada only

Index

U

V

W

VIII

Service Information Summary

Gasoline:

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Recommended Engine Oil:

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Brake Fluid:

Tire Pressure (measured cold):

Spare Tire Pressure:

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Rear Differential Fluid:

Power Steering Fluid:

15.9 US gal (60 )

4.4 US qt (4.2 )

Unleaded gasoline, pump octanenumber of 86 or higher.

API Premium grade 5W-20detergent oil (see page ).

Oil change capacity (includingfilter):

Honda Heavy Duty Brake FluidDOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 orDOT 4 brake fluid as a temporaryreplacement (see page ).

Honda ATF-Z1 (AutomaticTransmission Fluid) preferred, ora DEXRON III ATF as atemporary replacement (see page

).

Front:

Rear:32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

34 psi (235 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm )

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

Honda Manual TransmissionFluid preferred, or an SAE 10W-30or 10W-40 motor oil as atemporary replacement (see page

).

Capacity (including differential):2.0 US qt (1.9 )

Honda Dual Pump Fluid. Do notuse ATF.

Capacity:1.1 US qt (1.0 )

Honda Power Steering Fluidpreferred, or another brand ofpower steering fluid as atemporary replacement. Do notuse ATF (see page ).

170

175

177

178

176

Documents

2005 Element Online Reference Owner's Manual …techinfo.honda.com/rjanisis/pubs/OM/AH/AEL0505OM/enu/EL0505OM.pdf2005 Element Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links