1992 Honda Civic Sedan Owners Manual (DX, EX, LX)

1992 Civic Sedan 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
Owner's Identification
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i
A Few Words About Safety................................................................................................................. ii
Driver and Passenger Safety .............................................................................................................. 3
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls................................................................................................................. 27
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................. 63
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 77
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 87
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 101
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.
Appearance Care.............................................................................................................................. 145
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs.
Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 153
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 173
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 183
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 189
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index..................................................................................................................................................... I
Gas Station Information
Information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
Main Menu

Owner's Identification
OWNER This Owner's Manual should be considered

a permanent part of the car, and should
remain with the car when it is sold.
The information and specifications included

ADDRESS in this publication were in effect at the time
STREET of approval for printing. Honda Motor Co.,
Ltd. reserves the right, however, to
discontinue or change specifications or
design at any time without notice and
CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/ with out incurring any obligation whatsoever.
POSTAL CODE
V. I. N.
DELIVERY DATE
(Date sold to original retail purchaser)
DEALER NAME DEALER NO.
ADDRESS
STREET
CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/

POSTAL CODE
OWNER'S SIGNATURE
DEALER'S SIGNATURE

Main Menu
Introduction
Congratulations ! Your selection of a 1992 Honda Civic was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving
pleasure.
To enhance the enjoyment of your new car, take time to study this manual. In it, you will learn about your car's
many conveniences and useful features. Following the service interval and maintenance recommendations will
help keep your driving trouble-free while preserving your investment.
Keep this owner's manual in your car so you can refer to it at any time. Please make sure the manual stays with
the car if you sell it. The next owner will find it just as helpful.
Several other booklets in the glove box explain the warranties that protect your Honda. We suggest you read
them carefully so you understand the coverages and the responsibilities of ownership.
When your car needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda dealer's service staff is specially-
trained in the service and maintenance of the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda dealer is
dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns.
Best wishes and happy motoring.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Honda Canada Inc.

Main Menu
Safety Messages
Your safety and the safety of others is very important. We have provided You will also see another important
many important safety messages in this manual and on the vehicle. symbol:
Please read these messages carefully.
NOTICE
A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or
others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol and Your Honda or other property can
one of three words, DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION. be damaged if you don't follow
These mean: instructions.
You WILL be KILLED or

SERIOUSLY HURT If you don't
follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or

SERIOUSLY HURT if you don't
follow Instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don't

follow instructions.
Each safety message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen and
what you can do to avoid or reduce injury.

Main Menu
Driver and Passenger Safety
This section gives you important Your Occupant Protection Storing Cargo Safely ................. 16
information about occupant System....................................... 4 Driving with Pets....................... 16
protection. It shows how to use seat The Seat Belt System Child Safety..................................... 17
belts properly. It explains the and How It Works.................... 5 Where Should Children Sit?..... 17
Supplemental Restraint System Why Wear Seat Belts................... 5 Important Safety Reminders... 18
that is standard in most Civics. And Important Safety Reminders..... 5 General Guidelines
it gives useful information about Seat Belt System Components... 6 for Restraining Children
how to protect infants and children Lap/Shoulder Belt........................ 6 Under 18 kg (40 Ibs)............... 18
in your car. Lap Belt.......................................... 6 Restraining
Wearing Seat Belts Properly...... 7 an Infant Who Weighs
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Less Than 9 kg (20 Ibs).......... 19
Belt............................................. 7 Restraining
Wearing the Lap Belt.................. 9 a Child Who Weighs Between
Advice for Pregnant Women... 10 9 and 18 kg (20 and 40 Ibs).... 19
Seat Belt Maintenance.............. 10 Using Child Restraints
Supplemental Restraint System.. 11 with Tethers........................... 20
Important Safety Reminder..... 12 Using a Seat Belt
How the Driver's Airbag Locking Clip.......................... 21
Works........................................ 12 Restraining a Child Who Weighs
How the SRS Indicator Light Over 18 kg (40 Ibs).................. 22
Works........................................ 13 Storing a Child Seat................... 22
System Service........................... 14 Alcohol and Drugs.......................... 23
System Service Precautions .... 14 Carbon Monoxide Hazard ............ 24
Additional Safety Information..... 15 Reporting Safety Defects
Seat-back Position..................... 15 (US Cars)...................................... 25
Door Locks.................................. 15 Safety Labels................................... 26

Main Menu Table of Contents
Your Occupant Protection System
Your Honda is equipped with seat The seats, head restraints, and door To get the maximum protection
belts and other features that work locks also play a role in occupant from your occupant protection
together to protect you and your safety. For example, reclining the system, check the following before
passengers during a crash. seat back can decrease the effec- you drive away:
tiveness of your seat belt. Head
Seat belts are the most important restraints can help protect your Everyone in the car is wearing a
part of your occupant protection neck and head, especially during seat belt properly (see page 7 ) .
system. When worn properly, seat rear-end impacts. Door locks help
belts can reduce the chance of keep your doors from being acciden- A l l doors are closed and locked
serious injury or death in a crash. tally opened during a crash. (see page 15).
For added protection during a Seat backs are upright (see page
severe frontal collision, all Civics 15).
sold in the U.S. and the EX-V
model in Canada have a Supple- There are no loose items that
mental Restraint System (SRS) could be thrown around and hurt
with a driver's airbag. someone during a crash or
sudden stop (see page 16).
Two indicator lights are also part
of your safety system. One reminds By following these guidelines, you
you to make sure you and your can reduce injuries to yourself and
passengers wear your seat belts. your passengers in many crash
The other alerts you to a possible situations. Remember, however,
problem with your supplemental that no safety system can prevent
restraint system (see page 13). all injuries or deaths that can occur
in severe crashes.

The Seat Belt System and How It Works
Why Wear Seat Belts Important Safety Reminders

Wearing seat belts, and wearing Seat belts are designed for adults
them properly, is fundamental to Not wearing a seat belt in- and larger children. A l l infants and
your safety and the safety of your creases the chance of befog small children must be properly
passengers. killed or seriously hurt in a restrained in child safety seats (see
crash. page 17).
During a crash or emergency stop,
seat belts can help keep you from Be sure you and your passen- A pregnant woman needs to wear a
being thrown against the inside of gers always wear seat belts seat belt to protect herself and her
the car, against other occupants, or and wear them properly. unborn child (see page 10).
out of the car.
Two people should never use the
Of course, seat belts cannot same seat belt. If they do, they
completely protect you in every could be very seriously injured in a
crash. But, in most cases, seat belts crash.
reduce your chance of serious
injury. They can even save your Do not put shoulder belt pads or
life. That is why many states and other accessories on seat belts.
all Canadian provinces require you They can reduce the effectiveness
to wear seat belts. of the belts and increase the chance
of injury.

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt Lap Belt

Your Honda has seat belts in all
five seating positions. The front LATCH
seats and the outside rear seats PLATE BUCKLE
have lap/shoulder belts. The center
rear seat has a lap belt.
Your seat belt system also includes

a light on the instrument panel to
remind you to fasten your seat belt, BUCKLE
and to make sure your passengers
fasten theirs. This light comes on
when you turn on the ignition if LATCH PLATE
you have not fastened your seat
belt. A beeper also sounds for This style of seat belt has a single The lap belt has one manually-
several seconds (see page 30). belt that goes over your shoulder, adjusted belt that fits across the
across your chest, and across your hips. It is similar to safety belts
The following pages cover more hips. used in airplanes.
about the seat belt components and
how they work. Each lap/shoulder belt has an
emergency locking retractor. This
lets you move freely in your seat
while keeping some tension on the
belt. During a collision or sudden
stop, the retractor automatically
locks.

Wearing Seat Belts Properly Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt

You can increase the effectiveness
of your seat belts if you take a little
time to read the following pages
and make sure you know how to
wear seat belts properly.
Not wearing a seat belt pro-

perly increases the chance of
serious injury or death in a
crash.
Be sure you and your passen- Before putting on a front seat belt, 2. Check that the belt is not twisted.
gers always wear seat belts be sure your seat is adjusted
and wear them properly. forward or backward to a good 3. Position the lap portion of the
driving or riding position and the belt as low as possible across
back of your seat is upright (see your hips, not across your
page 50). stomach. This lets your strong
pelvic bones take the force of a
1. Pull the latch plate across your crash.
body and insert it into the buckle.
Tug on the belt to make sure the
latch is securely locked.
CONTINUED

RELEASE
BUTTON
RELEASE
BUTTON
4. Pull up on the shoulder part of 5. If the belt crosses your neck, you To unlatch the seat belt, push the
the belt to remove any slack. need to adjust the belt anchor red PRESS button on the buckle.
Make sure the belt goes over height or your seating position. Guide the belt across your body to
your collarbone and across your Front seat: the door pillar. If the belt doesn't
chest. Do not place the belt under Adjust the belt anchor by retract easily, pull it out and check
your arm or behind your back. squeezing the two buttons and for twists or kinks.
This could increase your chance sliding the anchor downward (it
of serious injuries in a crash. has four positions).
Rear seat:
Move toward the center of the
seat until the belt fits over your
collarbone.

Wearing the Lap Belt
1. Pull the latch plate across your 2. Position the belt fits as low as To unlatch the belt, push the red
hips and insert it into the buckle posible across your hips and PRESS button on the buckle.
marked CENTER. pelvic bones, not across your
stomach. Pull the loose end of the
If the belt is too short, hold the belt to adjust for a snug but
latch plate at a right angle and comfortable fit.
pull to extend the belt. Insert the
latch plate into the buckle.

Advice for Pregnant Women If possible, use the lap/shoulder Seat Belt Maintenance
seat belt, remembering to keep the For safety, you should check the
lap portion as low as possible (see condition of your seat belts regu-
page 7). larly.
Each time you have a check up, ask Pull out each belt fully and look for
your doctor if its okay for you to frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check
drive and how you should position a that the latches work smoothly and
lap/shoulder seat belt. the lap/shoulder belts retract easily.
Any belt not in good condition or
not working properly should be
replaced.
If a seat belt is worn during a crash,

Protecting the mother is the best have your dealer replace the belt
way to protect her unborn child. and check the anchors for damage.
Therefore, a pregnant woman
should wear a properly-positioned
seat belt whenever she drives or
rides in a car.

Supplemental Restraint System
Frontal collision range INDICATOR CONTROL AIRBAG

UNIT
SRS
Not wearing a seat belt in-
creases the chance of serious
injury or death in a crash, even
if you have air bags.
Be sure you and your passen-

gers always wear seat belts
and wear them properly.
SENSORS
A l l Civics sold in the U.S. are The main components in your SRS
equipped with a Supplemental are:
Restraint System (SRS). (This An airbag in the steering wheel
system also comes on the EX-V for the driver.
model in Canada.) A diagnostie system that continu-
ally monitors the sensors, control
The supplemental restraint system unit, airbag activator and all
includes an airbag to help protect related wiring while the ignition
your head and chest during a se- is ON (II).
vere frontal collision. This system An indicator light to warn you of
does not replace your seat belt. It a possible problem with the
supplements, or adds to, the protec- system.
tion offered by your seat belt. CONTINUED

Emergency power backup in case How the Driver's Airbag To do its job, the airbag inflates
your car's electrical system is Works with considerable force. So, while it
disconnected in a crash. can reduce serious injuries and
even save your life, the airbag
Important Safety Reminder might cause some facial or other
Even with an airbag, you need to abrasions.
wear a seat belt. The reasons are:
Airbags only inflate in severe

frontal collisions. They offer no
protection in rear impacts, side
impacts, rollovers, or moderate
frontal collisions.
An airbag inflates and deflates

very quickly. It cannot protect If you ever have a severe frontal
you during any additional collision, your airbag will instantly
impacts that can occur during a inflate to help protect your head
crash. and chest.
A seat belt helps keep you in the When the airbag inflates, you may
proper position when an airbag hear a fairly loud noise and you
inflates. An airbag opens with might see smoke and powder. This
considerable force: it can hurt is normal; it is caused by the
you if you are not in the proper inflation of the airbag.
position.

The airbag is stored in the center How the SRS

of the steering wheel. For safety,
SRS Indicator Light Works
do not attach any items to the The purpose of the SRS light on
steering wheel. They could inter- your instrument panel is to alert
fere with the proper operation of you of a potential problem with
the airbag. Or, if the airbag inflates, your supplemental restraint system.
they could be propelled inside the
car and hurt someone. Have the system checked if:
The light does not come on when

you turn the ignition ON (II).
The light stays on after the

engine starts.
After the bag completely inflates, it The light comes on or flashes

immediately starts deflating so it while you are driving.
won't interfere with your visibility,
ability to steer, or ability to operate
other controls.

System Service System Service Precautions Scrapping an entire car that has an
Your supplemental restraint Do not modify your steering wheel uninflated airbag can be dangerous.
system is virtually maintenance- or any other part of the supple- Get assistance from a Honda dealer
free. There are no parts you can mental restraint system. Modifica- if your car must be scrapped.
safely service. tions could make the system inef-
You must have the system serviced fective. If you sell your car, please be sure
by an authorized Honda dealer in to tell the new owner that the car
the following situations: Do not tamper with the system has a supplemental restraint sys-
components or wiring. This could tem. Alert them to the information
If your airbag ever inflates. The cause the airbag to inflate inadver- and precautions in this part of the
bag must be replaced. Do not try tently, possibly injuring someone owner's manual.
to remove or discard the airbag very seriously.
by yourself. This must be done
by a Honda dealer. Tell anyone who works on your car
that you have a supplemental
If the SRS indicator light alerts restraint system. Failure to follow
you of a problem. Have the the procedures and precautions in
supplemental restraint system the official Honda service manual
checked as soon as possible. could result in personal injury or
Otherwise, your airbag might not damage to the system.
inflate when you need it.
When the car is ten years old, get

the system inspected. The
production date is on the driver's
door jamb for your convenience.

Additional Safety Information
The seat belts and airbag are obvi- Seat-back Position Door Locks
ously important parts of your occu- The seat-backs should be in an It is not safe to leave your car doors
pant protection system. upright position for you and your unlocked. A passenger, especially a
passengers to get the most protec- child, could open a door and
In addition, you should know that tion from the seat belts. accidentally fall out. Also, there is a
sitting upright, locking the doors, greater chance of being thrown out
and stowing things properly can If you recline a seat-back, you of the car during a crash when the
increase your safety and possibly reduce the protective capability of doors are not locked.
even save your life. your seat belt. The farther a seat-
back is reclined, the greater the
risk that you will slide under the
belt in a severe crash and be very
seriously injured.
For information on how to adjust

the seat-back, see page 50.

Additional Safety Information
Storing Cargo Safely Driving with Pets A small dog, cat, or other small
Before you drive, make sure you Loose pets can be a hazard while animal will be safest in a rigidly-
first securely store or tie down any you are driving. A loose pet can sided pet carrier. Choose a style
items that could be thrown around interfere with your ability to drive that allows you to secure it to the
the car and hurt someone, or the car. In a crash or sudden stop, car's seat by routing a seat belt
interfere with your ability to loose pets or cages can be thrown through the carrier's handle.
operate the controls. around inside the car and hurt you
or your passengers. It is also for For further information, contact
Do not put any items on top of the their safety that pets should be your veterinarian or local animal
rear shelf. They can block your properly restrained in your car. protection society.
view and they could be thrown
about the car in a crash. The recommended way to restrain
a medium-sized or larger dog is
Be sure to keep compartment doors with a special traveling harness.
closed when the car is moving. If a This harness can be secured to the
front passenger hits the door of an rear seat with a seat belt. Travel
open glove box, for example, he harnesses are available at pet
could injure his knees. stores.

Child Safety
Where Should Children Sit?

According to crash statistics,
An infant or child who is not children of all sizes and ages are
properly restrained can be safer when they are properly
killed or seriously injured in a restrained in the rear seat rather
crash. than the front seat.
Be sure any child too small for We recommend that, whenever

seat belts is properly secured possible, you secure your child's
in a child restraint. infant or toddler seat in the center
position of the rear seat with the
lap belt.
Children depend on adults to We also recommend that any child

protect them. To help make sure who is too large to use an infant or
we do, every state and Canadian toddler seat ride in one of the out-
province has laws requiring infants side positions of the rear seat. The
and young children to be properly child should then wear the lap/
restrained whenever they ride in a shoulder belt properly for protec-
car. tion.

Child Safety
Important Safety Reminders General Guidelines for To properly route a seat belt
Never hold a baby or child on your Restraining Children Under through a child seat, follow the seat
lap when riding in a car. If you are 18 kg (40 Ibs) maker's instructions. If you use a
wearing your seat belt, the violent Use an approved child seat. The lap/shoulder belt, be sure you
forces created during a crash will seat must meet Federal Motor install a locking clip on the belt (see
tear the child from your arms. The Vehicle Safety Standard 213 page 21).
child could be seriously hurt or (FMVSS-213) or Canada Motor
killed. Vehicle Safety Standards, Look for Secure the child in the child seat.
If you are holding a child and not the manufacturer's statement of Make sure the infant or child is
wearing a seat belt in a crash, you compliance on the box and seat. firmly secured to the child seat.
could crush the child against the Use the straps provided, and
car's interior. Use a seat of the right size. Make carefully follow the manufacturer's
Never put your seat belt over sure the seat fits your child. Check instructions.
yourself and a child. During a crash, the seat's instructions and labels
the belt could press deep into the for height and weight limits.
child; causing serious internal
injuries. Secure the child seat to the car. All
Two children should never use the approved child seats are designed
same seat belt. If they do, they to be secured in the car seat by the
could be very seriously injured in a lap belt or the lap belt portion of a
crash. lap/shoulder belt. A child whose
If you are driving with small seat is not properly secured to the
children in the car, you should use car can be endangered in a crash.
the childproof door locks to prevent
them from opening the rear doors
(see page 48).

Child Safety
Restraining an Infant Who We recommend that, whenever

Weighs Less Than 9 kg possible, you put the infant seat in
(20 Ibs) the center position of the rear seat
and secure it to the car with the lap
belt.
If you decide to put an infant seat

in an outside position of the rear
seat, you must use a locking clip on
the car's lap/shoulder belt (see page
21).
Restraining a Child Who

Weighs Between 9 and 18 kg The preferred place to put a
(20 and 40 Ibs) toddler seat is in the center position
Toddler seats are designed for of the rear seat. Use the car's lap
An infant up to about 9 kg (20 Ibs) children who weigh between 9 and belt to secure the seat to the car.
must be restrained in an infant seat 18 k g (20 and 40 Ibs).
or a convertible seat designed for a If you decide to put a toddler seat
baby. Because children that size in an outside position of the rear
must ride in a reclining position, be seat, you must use a locking clip on
sure the infant seat always faces the car's lap/shoulder belt (see page
the REAR of the car as shown. 21).

Child Safety
Using Child Restraints with If you are not sure how to install
Tethers the bracket, have it installed by Canadian Cars
your authorized Honda dealer.
90 mm (3.5 in)
If you need an anchor plate and TOOTHED WASHER
mounting hardware, you can obtain
them by writing to:
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Consumer Affairs
1919 Torrance Blvd.
290 mm Torrance, CA 90501-2746
(11.4 in)
Your Honda has three attachment The anchor plate and mounting
points for tether-style child seats. hardware for a top tether are
Use the dimensions in the above supplied with the car. When
illustration to locate the attach- installing, make sure the toothed
ment point you want to use. Cut a washer is on the bottom of the bolt.
12.7 mm (1/2 inch) diameter hole in
the rear shelf, then install the The supplied anchor plate is
tether hardware that came with designed only for mounting a child
the child seat. restraint. Do not use it for any
Tighten the bolt to: other purpose.
22 N.m(2.2 kg-m,16 lb-ft)

Child Safety
Using a Seat Belt Locking 4. Install the locking clip as shown.

Clip Position the clip as close as
Always use a seat belt locking clip possible to the latch plate.
when you secure a child seat to
your car with a lap/shoulder belt. 5. Insert the latch plate into the
This helps prevent the seat from buckle. Push and pull on the
shifting position or overturning. child seat to verify that it is held
firmly in place. If it is not, repeat
A locking clip is usually included these steps until the restraint is
with the child seat. If you need a secure.
clip, contact the seat's manufac-
turer or a store that sells child
restraints.
2. Insert the latch plate into the
To install a locking clip, do the buckle. Pull on the shoulder part
following: of the belt to make sure there is
no slack in the lap portion.
1. Place the child restraint in the
desired position. Route the lap/ 3. Tightly grasp the belt near the
shoulder belt through the latch plate. Pinch both parts of
restraint according to the seat the belt together so they won't
manufacturer's instructions. slip through the latch plate. Un-
buckle the seat belt.

Child Safety
Restraining a Child Who Put the lap/shoulder belt on your Storing a Child Seat
Weighs Over 18 kg (40 Ibs) child and check its fit. The shoul- When you are not using an infant
der belt should fit over the collar- seat or other child restraint, either
bone and across the chest. The lap remove it or make sure it is
belt should sit low on your child's properly secured so it cannot be
hips, not across the stomach. thrown around the car during a
crash.
If the shoulder belt crosses the
neck, have your child move toward
the center of the rear seat until the
belt fits properly. If the belt still
crosses the child's neck, you should
use a booster seat.
Several styles of booster seats are

We recommend that, whenever available. We recommend a design
possible, a child who has outgrown that allows the child to use the car's
a toddler seat ride in one of the lap/shoulder belt.
outside positions of the rear seat
and use a lap/shoulder belt. Whichever style you select, follow
the booster seat manufacturer's
instructions.

Alcohol and Drugs
Driving a car requires your full at- The safest thing you can do is If you have no choice but to drive,
tention and alertness. Traffic condi- never drink and drive. This can be stop drinking and give yourself lots
tions change rapidly. You must be done if you plan ahead. If you know of time to sober up. Time is the
able to react just as rapidly. Alcohol you are going to be drinking, make only thing that can make you sober.
or drugs directly affect your alert- plans to ride with a friend who will Things like coffee or a cold shower
ness and ability to react. Even pre- not be drinking. don't speed up the process.
scription and non-prescription medi-
cines can have this effect. What if you find that you've been If you see friends trying to get
drinking and cannot get a ride from behind the wheel after drinking,
There are laws that deal with a friend? Find alternative transpor- stop them. Drive them yourself or
drunken driving. These laws define tation. Call a taxi. Take a bus. arrange other transportation. If you
how much alcohol it takes in your Many communities have transporta- think you are interfering, remem-
system to be legally "drunk." How- tion services devoted to shuttling ber that your interference will keep
ever, your judgment and reaction people who have been drinking. them from sharing the road with
time get worse with every drink you.
even the first one.

Carbon Monoxide Hazard
Your car's exhaust contains carbon High levels of carbon monoxide can If you must sit in your parked car,
monoxide gas. You should have no collect rapidly in enclosed areas, even in an unconfined area, with
problem with carbon monoxide such as a garage. Do not run the the engine running, adjust the
entering the car in normal driving engine with the garage door closed. heating and cooling system as
if you maintain your car properly. Even with the door open, run the follows:
Have the exhaust system inspected engine only long enough to move
for leaks whenever: the car out of the garage. 1. Push the button.
The car is raised for an oil 2. Select the mode.
change. With the trunk lid open, air flow 3. Turn the fan on high speed.
You notice a change in the sound can pull exhaust gas into the trunk. 4. Set the temperature control to a
of the exhaust. This can get into your car's interior comfortable setting.
The car was in an accident that and create a hazardous condition. If
may have damaged the under- you must drive with the trunk lid
side. open, open all the windows and set
the heating and cooling system as
shown in the next column.
Carbon monoxide gas is toxic.

Breathing it can cause uncon-
sciousness and can even kill
you.
Avoid any enclosed areas or

activities that expose you to
carbon monoxide.

Reporting Safety (US Cars)
If you believe that your vehicle has If NHTSA receives similar com- To contact NHTSA, you may
a defect which could cause a crash plaints, it may open an investiga- either call the Auto Safety Hotline
or could cause injury or death, you tion, and if it finds that a safety toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-
should immediately inform the defect exists in a group of vehicles, 0123 in Washington D.C. area) or
National Highway Traffic Safety it may order a recall and remedy write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department
Administration (NHTSA) in addi- campaign. However, NHTSA can- of Transportation, Washington,
tion to notifying American Honda not become involved in individual D.C. 20590. You can also obtain
Motor Co., Inc.. problems between you, your dealer, other information about motor
or American Honda Motor Co., Inc.. vehicle safety from the Hotline.

Safety Labels
These labels are in the locations

shown. They warn you of potential
hazards that could cause serious
injury. Read these labels carefully
and don't remove them.
If a label comes off or becomes

hard to read, contact your Honda RADIATOR CAP
dealer for a replacement.
BATTERY

Main Menu
Instruments and Controls
This section gives information Control Locations........................... 28 Keys and Locks.............................. 45

about the controls and displays that Indicator Lights.............................. 29 Keys.............................................. 45
contribute to the daily operation of Gauges.............................................. 34 Ignition Switch........................... 46
your Honda. All the essential Speedometer............................... 34 Door Locks.................................. 47
controls are within easy reach. Tachometer................................. 34 Power Door Locks ..................... 47
Odometer..................................... 34 Childproof Door Locks.............. 48
Trip Meter................................... 34 Trunk........................................... 48
Fuel Gauge.................................. 35 Seat Adjustments........................... 50
Temperature Gauge.................. 35 Front Seat.................................... 50
Controls Near the Steering Head Restraints.......................... 51
Wheel........................................ 36 Folding Rear Seat...................... 51
Headlights................................... 37 Power Windows.............................. 53
Daytime Running Lights.......... 37 Moonroof......................................... 54
Instrument Panel Brightness... 38 Sunshade...................................... 55
Turn Signals................................ 38 Mirrors............................................. 55
Windshield Wipers..................... 39 Parking Brake................................. 57
Windshield Washers.................. 39 Glove Box........................................ 57
Hazard Warning......................... 40 Digital Clock .................................. 58
Rear Window Defogger ............ 40 Console Compartment................... 59
Steering Wheel Adjustment..... 41 Cup Holder....................................... 59
Steering Wheel Controls............... 42 Vanity Mirror................................. 60
Cruise Control............................. 42 Cigarette Lighter........................... 60
Horn.............................................. 45 Ashtrays........................................... 60
Interior Light.................................. 61

Control Locations
DIGITAL CLOCK HEATING/

MIRROR COOLING
CONTROLS (P.58)
CONTROL
(P.56) (P.64)
DOOR LOCK
SWITCH
(P.47) AUDIO SYSTEM
(P.71)
POWER WINDOW
SWITCH
(P.53)
FUEL FILLER
DOOR RELEASE
(P.80)
TRUNK RELEASE HOOD RELEASE

HANDLE HANDLE
(P.48) (P.81)

Indicator Lights
The instrument panel has many

indicators to give you important HIGH BEAM INDICATOR PARKING BRAKE AND
BRAKE SYSTEM LIGHT*
information about your car.
Lamp Check CHARGING SYSTEM ANTI-LOCK BRAKE

LIGHT SYSTEM INDICATOR
Many of the indicator lights come
on when you turn the ignition
switch ON (II), allowing you to see LOW OIL CRUISE CONTROL
PRESSURE INDICATOR
that they are working. The instru- LIGHT
ment panel should look like the
illustration. If an indicator does not
light during this test, it cannot alert
you if that system develops a prob-
lem. Have the dealer check your
car for burned-out bulbs or other
problems.
* The U.S. instrument panel is

shown. Differences for the Canadi-
an model are noted in the text.
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT CHECK ENGINE TRUNK-OPEN
SYSTEM INDICATOR LIGHT* INDICATOR
SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT
CONTINUED

Indicator Lights
Seat Belt Reminder

CHARGING SYSTEM HIGH BEAM INDICATOR Light
LIGHT
This indicator lights when you turn
the ignition ON (II). It is a reminder
LOW OIL PARKING BRAKE AND to you and your passengers to
PRESSURE BRAKE SYSTEM LIGHT*
LIGHT protect yourselves by fastening the
seat belts. A beeper also sounds if
SEAT BELT you have not fastened your seat
REMINDER
LIGHT belt.
If you do not fasten your seat belt,

the beeper will stop after a few
seconds but the light stays on until
you do. Both the light and the
beeper stay off if you fasten your
seat belt before turning on the
ignition.
* The U.S. instrument panel is

shown. Differences for the Canadi-
CHECK ENGINE an model are noted in the text.
LIGHT*
TRUNK-OPEN SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT

INDICATOR SYSTEM INDICATOR

Indicator Lights
Charging System US Canada Parking Brake Supplemental

and Brake SRS Restraint System
Light BRAKE
This light indicates the battery is System Light Indicator
not being charged. It should come This light has two functions: Only on cars equipped with SRS
on when the ignition is ON (II), and The SRS light normally comes on
go out after the engine starts. If 1. It lights as a reminder that you for a few seconds when you turn
this light comes on while driving, have set the parking brake. the ignition ON (II). If it doesn't, or
the battery is not being charged. Driving with the parking brake it stays on after the engine starts,
Turn to page 166 for information set can damage the brakes and something is wrong with the
about what to do. tires, and cause the Anti-lock Supplemental Restraint System. It
brake system to turn off (see may also flash on and off to indi-
Low Oil Pressure page 97 ). cate a problem.
Light
This indicator lights when the oil 2. It can indicate the brake fluid If you see any of these indications,
pressure in the engine drops low level is low if it remains lit after the airbag may not work when
enough to cause damage. It should you release the parking brake or needed in an accident. Take the car
light when the ignition is ON (II) comes on while driving. This is to your dealer promptly for diag-
and go put after the engine starts. normally due to worn brake pads. nosis and service.
If this light comes on when the Have your dealer check the
engine is running, there is a possi- braking system for worn pads or
bility of serious engine damage. fluid leaks.
Safely pull to the side of the road
and shut off the engine as soon as
you can. Turn to page 165 for in-
structions and precautions on
checking the engine. CONTINUED

Indicator Lights
Anti-lock Brake US Canada Trunk-open Indicator

ABS System (ABS) Check Engine
Indicator Light This light comes on if the trunk lid
Only on cars equipped with ABS (see This light comes on for a few is not closed tightly.
page 97 ) seconds when you turn the ignition
This light normally comes on when switch ON (II). If it comes on at any
you turn the ignition ON (II) and other time, it indicates one of the
goes off after the engine starts. If it engine's emission control systems
comes on at any other time, there is may have a problem. Turn to page
a problem in the ABS. If this 167 for information about what to
happens, stop the car in a safe place do.
and turn off the engine. Reset the
system by restarting the engine.
Watch the ABS light. If it does not
go off, or comes back on again
while driving, take the car to your
dealer to have it checked. With the
light on, your car still has normal
braking ability but no anti-lock.

Indicator Lights
Turn Signal and High Beam Indicator Shift Lever Position

Hazard Warning Indicator
Indicators This light comes on with the high (Automatic Transmission only)
The left or right turn signal light beam headlights. See page 37 for
blinks when you signal a lane information on the headlight
change or turn. If the light does not controls.
blink or blinks rapidly, it usually
means one of the turn signal bulbs CRUISE Cruise Control
is burned out (see page 138). CONTROL Indicator
Replace it as soon as possible, since Only on cars equipped with Cruise
other drivers cannot see that you Control System
are signaling. This lights when you set the cruise
control. See page 42 for informa-
When you turn on the Hazard tion on operating the cruise control.
Warning switch, both turn signal
lights blink. All turn signals on the
outside of the car should flash. This indicator shows which shift
position you are in.

Gauges
TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE TEMPERATURE Odometer

GAUGE The odometer shows the total dis-
tance your car has been driven. It
measures miles in U.S. models and
kilometers in Canadian models.
It is illegal under federal law (in the
U.S.) and provincial regulations (in
Canada) to alter the odometer with
the intent to change the number of
miles or kilometers indicated.
TRIP METER Trip Meter

ODOMETER TRIP METER RESET BUTTON This meter shows the number of
miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada)
Speedometer Tachometer driven since you last reset it. To
U.S. Models On LX and EX models in U.S. reset it, push the trip meter reset
This shows your speed in miles per EX and EX- V models in Canada button.
hour. The smaller inner numbers The tachometer shows the engine
are the speed in kilometers per speed in revolutions per minute
hour. (rpm). To protect the engine from
damage, never drive with the
Canadian Models tachometer needle in the red zone.
This shows your speed in kilo-
meters per hour. The smaller inner
numbers are the speed in miles per
hour.

Gauges
TEMPERATURE SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE Temperature Gauge

GAUGE This shows the temperature of the
engine's coolant. During normal
operation, the pointer should rise
from the bottom white mark to
about the middle of the gauge. In
severe driving conditions, such as
very hot weather or a long period
of uphill driving, the pointer may
rise to the upper white mark. If it
reaches the red (Hot) mark, pull
safely to the side of the road. Turn
TRIP METER
ODOMETER TRIP METER RESET BUTTON to page 163 for instructions and
precautions on checking the
Fuel Gauge engine's cooling system.
This shows how much fuel you The gauge stays at the same fuel
have. It is most accurate when the level reading after you turn off the
car is on level ground. It may show ignition. When you add fuel, the
slightly more or less than the actual gauge slowly changes to the new
amount when you are driving on reading after you turn the ignition
curvy or hilly roads. back ON (II).

Controls Near the Steering Wheel
The two levers on the steering HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS REAR WINDOW
column contain controls for driving DEFOGGER
CRUISE
features you use most often. The INSTRUMENT PANEL CONTROL
left lever controls the turn signals, BRIGHTNESS
headlights, and high beams. The
right lever controls the windshield
wipers.
The rear window defogger switch

is on the dashboard to the right of
the steering column.
The controls under the left air vent

are for the moonroof, mirrors,
cruise control and instrument panel
brightness.
MIRROR
The lever on the underside of the CONTROLS
steering column allows you to tilt
the steering wheel.
HEADLIGHTS/ WINDSHIELD
TURN SIGNALS TILT ADJUSTMENT WIPERS/WASHERS

Headlights To flash the high beams, pull back

and hold the turn signal lever.
Release the lever and the high
beams will go off.
The high beams will stay on for as

long as you hold the lever, no
matter what position the headlight
switch is in.
Daytime Running Lights

(Canadian Models)
With the headlight switch off, the
high beam headlights come on with
The rotating switch on the left To change between low beams and reduced brightness when you turn
lever controls the lights. Turning high beams, pull back on the turn the ignition switch to ON (II) and
this switch to the first position " " signal lever until you hear a click, release the parking brake. They
turns on the parking lights, tail then let go. The high beam indica- remain on until you turn the
lights, instrument panel lights, tor will light (see page 33). ignition off, even if you set the
side-marker lights, and rear license parking brake.
plate lights. Turning the switch to
the second position " " turns on The headlights revert to normal
the headlights. operation when you turn them on
with the switch.
CONTINUED

Instrument Panel Brightness Turn Signals To signal a lane change, push

lightly on the turn signal lever in
the proper direction and hold it.
The lever will return to the center
position as soon as you release it.
TURN SIGNAL LEVER
The dial on the dashboard to the Signal a turn or lane change with
left of the instrument panel con- this lever. Push down on the lever
trols the brightness of the instru- to signal a left turn, and up to
ment panel lights. Turn the dial to signal a right turn. If you push it up
adjust the brightness. or down all the way, the turn signal
continues to blink even when you
release the lever. It shuts off
automatically as you complete the
turn.

Windshield Wipers Windshield Washers
The right lever controls the wind- To operate the wipers in mist mode, To clean the windshield, pull back
shield wipers and washers. The push the control lever down. The on the wiper control lever. The
rotary switch at the end of the wipers run at high speed until you washers spray until you release the
lever has three positions: release the lever. This gives you a lever.
INT intermittent quick way to clear the windshield. On Canadian models, the wipers
LO low speed run at low speed while you're
HI high speed pulling the lever, then complete one
more sweep of the windshield after
In intermittent, the wipers operate you release it.
every few seconds. In low speed
and high speed, the wipers run
continuously.

Hazard Warning Rear Window Defogger Make sure the rear window is clear
and you have good visibility before
starting to drive.
The defogger wires on the inside of

the rear window can be acciden-
tally damaged. When cleaning the
glass, always wipe side to side.
Push the red button under the The rear window defogger will
clock to turn on the hazard warn- clear fog, frost, and thin ice from
ing lights (four-way flashers). This the window. Push the defogger
causes all four outside turn signals button to turn it on and off. The
and both indicators in the instru- light in the button lights to show
ment panel to flash. Use the hazard the defogger is on. If you do not
warning lights if you need to park turn it off, the defogger will shut
in a dangerous area near heavy itself off after about 25 minutes. It
traffic, or if your car is disabled. also shuts off when you turn off the
ignition. You have to turn it on
again when you restart the car.

Steering Wheel Adjustment 3. Move the steering wheel up or

You can adjust the steering wheel down to the desired position.
height to suit your preference. Do Position the wheel so you can see
this before you begin driving. all the instrument panel gauges
and warning lights. Push the
lever up to lock the steering
wheel in that position.
Adjusting the steering wheel
position while driving may 4. Make sure you have securely
cause you to lose control of locked the steering wheel in
the car and be seriously injured place by trying to move it up and
in a crash. down.
Adjust the steering wheel only 1. Adjust the seat so you are a
when the car is stopped. comfortable distance from the
pedals.
2. The lever to tilt the steering

wheel is under the steering
column to the left. Push this
lever all the way down.

Steering Wheel Controls
Cruise Control NOTICE Using the Cruise Control

Available only on LX and EX models
in the U.S., and EX and EX-V models The cruise control, as it operates,
in Canada moves the accelerator pedal. You
Cruise control allows you to can damage your car's accelerator
maintain a set speed above 25 mph mechanism by resting your foot
(40 km/h) without keeping your under the pedal and blocking the
foot on the accelerator pedal. It is movement.
for cruising on straight, open
highways. It is not recommended
for conditions such as city driving,
winding roads, slippery roads,
heavy rain, or bad weather. You
should have full control of the car
under those conditions. 1. Push in the Cruise Control
Master Switch to the left of the
steering column. The indicator in
the switch will light.
Improper use of the cruise con-
trol can lead to a crash. 2. Accelerate to the desired
cruising speed above 25 mph (40
Use the cruise control only km/h).
when traveling on open high-
ways in good weather.

Changing the Set Speed You can decrease the set cruising
You can increase the set cruising speed in either of two ways:
speed in either of two ways:
Press and hold the SET/decel
Press and hold the RESUME/ button. The car will decelerate.
accel button. The car will Release the button when you
accelerate slowly. When you reach the desired speed.
reach the desired cruising speed,
release the button. Tap the brake or clutch pedal
lightly with your foot. The
RESUME/ Push on the accelerator pedal. CRUISE CONTROL light on the
accel Accelerate to the desired instrument panel will go out.
SET/decel cruising speed and press the SET When the car slows to the
/decel button. desired speed, press the SET/
3. Press and hold the SET/decel decel button. The car will then
button on the steering wheel maintain the desired speed.
until the CRUISE CONTROL
light on the instrument panel
comes on. This shows the system
is now activated.
The set speed may vary slightly,

particularly on hills.
CONTINUED

Even with the cruise control turned on. The car will accelerate to the
on, you can still use the accelerator same cruising speed as before.
pedal to speed up for passing. After
completing the pass, take your foot Pressing the Cruise Control Master
off the accelerator pedal. The car Switch turns the system completely
will return to the set cruising speed. off. This erases the previous
cruising speed from memory. To
Resting your foot on the brake or use the system again, you must set
clutch pedal will cause the cruise the system up as explained in
control to cancel. Using the Cruise Control.
Turning off the Cruise Control

Either of these actions take the car
out of cruise control:
When you tap the brake or clutch
Tap the brake or, if manual trans- pedal, the CRUISE CONTROL
mission, clutch pedal. light on the instrument panel will
go out and the car will begin to
Press the Cruise Control Master slow down. You can use the acceler-
Switch. ator pedal in the normal way. The
system retains the previously-set
cruising speed. To return to that
speed, accelerate to above 25 mph
(40 km/h) and then press the
RESUME/accel button until the
CRUISE CONTROL light comes

Steering Wheel Controls, Keys and Locks
Horn Keys The valet key only works the

ignition and the door locks. You
HORN VALET KEY can keep the trunk, trunk release
MASTER KEYS
handle and rear seat trunk access
locked when you leave your car
and valet key at a parking facility.
(See Trunk, page 48.)
Each key has a number stamped in

one side. You will need this number
if you have to get a lost key
replaced. Record this number and
keep it in a safe place.
Press either of the buttons on the Your car comes with two kinds of
steering wheel spokes to sound the keys: a master key and a valet key.
horn. The master key fits all locks on
your car:
Ignition
Doors
Trunk
Trunk release handle
Rear seat trunk access

Keys and Locks
Ignition Switch LOCK (0) - You can insert or ACCESSORY (I) - In this
remove the key only in this position. position, you can operate the audio
When you turn the key from LOCK system and cigarette lighter.
to ACCESSORY, you may have to
turn the steering wheel to release ON (II) This is the normal key
the anti-theft lock. To switch from position when driving. All features
ACCESSORY to LOCK, you must and accessories on the car are
push the key in slightly as you turn usable. Several of the lights on the
it. If your car has an automatic instrument panel come on as a test
transmission, it must also be in when you turn the ignition switch
Park. The anti-theft lock will lock from ACCESSORY to ON (see
the steering column when you page 29).
remove the key.
START (III) - Use this position
The ignition switch is on the right only to start the engine. The switch
side of the steering column. It has returns to ON when you let go of
four positions: LOCK (0), ACCES- Removing the key from the the key.
SORY (I), ON(II), and START (III). ignition switch while driving
locks the steering. This can You will hear a reminder beeper if
cause you to lose control. you open either front door with the
key in the LOCK or ACCESSORY
Remove the key from the igni- position. Remove the key to turn it
tion switch only when parked. off.

Keys and Locks
Door Locks The front doors can be locked and Power Door Locks
unlocked from the outside with the
key.
Each door has a lock tab on the top. Available only on LX and EX models
Push the tab down to lock the door in the U.S., and EX and EX-V models
and pull it up to unlock. in Canada
This allows control of all door locks
To lock any passenger's door when from the driver's door. Push the
getting out of the car, push the lock master door lock switch down to
tab down and close the door. To lock all doors, and up to unlock
lock the driver's door, pull the them.
outside door handle and push the
lock tab down. Release the handle
then close the door.
CONTINUED

Keys and Locks
All doors lock when you push down Childproof Door Locks Trunk
the lock tab on the driver's door, or
lock the driver's door from the
outside with the key. Only the
driver's door unlocks when you use
the key or lock tab. To unlock the
passengers' doors, use the master
door lock switch or the lock tab on
each door.
TRUNK RELEASE
LEVER HANDLE
The childproof door locks are You can open the trunk in two
designed to prevent children seated ways:
in the rear from accidentally
opening the rear doors. Each rear Pull the trunk release handle to
door has a lock lever near the edge. the left of the driver's seat.
With the lever in the LOCK
position, the door cannot be opened Use the master key to open the
from the inside regardless of the trunk lock. The valet key does
position of the lock tab. To open not work in this lock.
the door, pull the lock tab up and
use the outside door handle.

Keys and Locks
MASTER KEY MASTER KEY
To close the trunk, press down on To protect items in the trunk when
the trunk lid. you need to give the key to some-
one else, lock the trunk release
See page 86 for cargo loading and handle with the master key and
weight limit information. Keep the give the other person the valet key.
trunk lid closed at all times while
driving to avoid damaging the lid
and getting exhaust gas in the
interior. See Carbon Monoxide
Hazard on page 24.

Seat Adjustments
Adjust the seat before you start Front Seat Adjustments

driving.
To adjust the seat forward and To change the angle of the seat-
backward, pull up on the lever back, pull up on the lever on the
under the seat cushion's front edge. outside of the seat bottom. Move
Move the seat to the desired the seat-back to the desired
position and release the lever. Try position and release the lever. Let
to move the seat to make sure it is the seat-back latch in the new
locked in position. position.

Seat Adjustments, Folding Rear Seat
Head Restraints Folding Rear Seat

The front head restraints help
MASTER KEY
Reclining the seat-back can protect you and your passengers
decrease the protection you from whiplash and other injuries.
get from your seat belt in a
crash.
You can slide under the seat

belt and be seriously injured.
Adjust the seat-back to an

upright position and sit well
back in the seat.
The back of the rear seat folds

down, giving you direct access to
the trunk. The seat-back can be
released from inside the car or
inside the trunk.
To fold down the seat-back from

inside the car, insert the master
key in the lock on the rear shelf.
Turn the key clockwise and pulling
down the top of the seat-back.
CONTINUED

Folding Rear Seat
Make sure all items in the trunk, or

items extending through the
opening into the back seat, are tied
down. Loose items can fly forward
and cause injury if you have to
brake hard. See Loading Cargo
on page 86 .
Never drive with the seat-back

folded down and the trunk lid open.
See Carbon Monoxide Hazard
Pull on page 2 4 .
RELEASE
To release the seat-back from

inside the trunk, pull the release
loop under the rear shelf.
To lock the seat-back upright, push

if firmly against the rear shelf.
Make sure it is latched in place by
pulling on the top of the seat.

Power Windows
Only on LX and EX models in the U.S., The master control panel also con-
and EX and EX- V models in Canada tains these extra features:
Your car's windows are electri-
cally-powered. Turn the ignition A U T O To open the driver's
switch to ON (II) to raise or lower window fully, push the window
any window. switch firmly down and release it.
The window automatically goes all
Each door has a switch that the way down. To stop the window
controls its window. To open the from going all the way down, push
window, push the switch down and the window switch up briefly.
hold it. Release the switch when
DRIVER'S WINDOW MAIN
you want the window to stop. Close SWITCH SWITCH
To open the driver's window only
the window by pushing the switch partially, push the window switch
up and holding it. The driver's armrest has a master down lightly and hold it. The
power window control panel. To window will stop as soon as you
open any of the passengers' win- release the switch.
dows, push down on the appropri-
ate switch and hold it down until The AUTO function only works to
the window reaches the desired lower the driver's window. To raise
position. To close the window, push the window, you must push the
up on the window switch. Release window switch up and hold it until
the switch when the window gets the window reaches the desired
to the position you want. position.
CONTINUED

Power Windows, Moonroof
The M A I N switch controls power Moonroof To close the moonroof, press and
to the passengers' windows. With hold the switch.
this switch off, the passengers'
windows cannot be raised or lower-
ed. The M A I N switch does not
affect the driver's window. Keep Closing the moonroof on some-
the M A I N switch off when you one's hands or fingers can
have children in the car so they do cause serious injury.
not injure themselves by operating
the windows unintentionally. Make sure passengers are
clear of the moonroof before
closing it.
Closing a power window on a

child's hands or fingers can Only on EX model in the U.S., and NOTICE
cause serious injury. EX-V model in Canada
Use the switches on the dashboard If you try to open the moonroof in
Make sure your children are under the left vent to operate the below-freezing temperatures, or
away from the windows moonroof. The ignition must be ON when it is covered with snow or ice,
before closing them. (II). you can damage the moonroof
To lift the rear of the moonroof for panel or motor.
ventilation, push the button.
To slide the moonroof back, push
the switch. Hold it until the
moonroof reaches the desired
position, then release the switch.

Moonroof, Mirrors
Sunshade Mirrors Manual Door Mirrors
TAB
You can slide the sunshade to any Keep the inside and outside mirrors Only on U.S. DX and Canadian LX
position when the moonroof is clean and adjusted for best visibili- models
closed. The sunshade slides open ty. Be sure to adjust the mirrors The outside mirror on the driver's
with the moonroof. You must close before you start driving. door can be adjusted by moving the
it manually. knob on the inside of the door.
The inside mirror has day and
night positions. The night position
reduces glare from headlights
behind you. Flip the tab on the
bottom edge of the mirror to select
the day or night position.
CONTINUED

Mirrors
Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWSTCH
Only on LX and EX models in the U.S., 3. Push the appropriate edge of the The outside mirror on the passen-
EX and EX- V models in Canada adjustment switch to move the ger's side has curved glass. Objects
Adjust the outside mirrors with the mirror right or left, up or down. look farther away than they are.
adjustment switch on the left side Use this mirror to get a "wide
of the dashboard: 4. When you finish, move the view". Don't use it to judge the dis-
selector switch to the center (off) tance of things behind you.
1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). position. This turns off the
adjustment switch so you can't
2. Move the selector switch to L move a mirror out of position by
(driver's side) or R (passenger's accidentally bumping it.
side).

Parking Brake, Glove Box
Parking Brake NOTICE Glove Box
Driving the car with the parking

brake applied can damage the rear
brakes and axles.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER GLOVE BOX
To apply the parking brake, pull Open the glove box by pulling the
the lever up fully. To release it, pull handle. Close it with a firm push.
up slightly, push the button, and
lower the lever. The parking brake
light on the instrument panel
should go out when the parking An open glove box can cause
brake is fully released (see page 31). serious injury to your passen-
If you try to drive the car without ger in a crash, even If the pas-
releasing the parking brake, the senger is wearing the seat belt.
ABS cannot work properly.
Always keep the glove box
closed while driving.

Digital Clock
HOUR MIN. RESET 3. Press and hold the HOUR button

until the hour advances to the
desired time.
4. Press and hold the M I N . button

until the minute advance to the
desired time.
You can use the RESET button to

quickly set the time to the nearest
hour. If the displayed time is before
the half hour, pressing RESET sets
the clock back to the previous hour.
(Not in U.S. DX and Canadian LX To set the clock: If the displayed time is after the
models) half hour, pressing RESET sets the
The digital clock displays the time 1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) clock forward to the beginning of
with the ignition switch ON (II). To to display the time. the next hour.
see the time with the ignition off,
press and hold the wide button 2. Swing down the front cover of For example:
under the clock. the wide button under the clock 1:06 would RESET backward to
display. You will see HOUR, 1:00.
MIN., and RESET buttons. 1:52 would RESET forward to
2:00.

Console Compartment, Cup Holder
Console Compartment Cup Holder
Push
CONSOLE COMPARTMEINT
Only on LX and EX models in the U.S., To open the cup holder, push on the Use the cup holder only when the
EX and EX- V models in Canada top. It is spring-loaded and will car is parked. If you place cups in
To open the console compartment, slide open. To close it, push it down the holder while driving, the liquid
pull up the front edge of the lid. until it latches. may spill when you go over bumps
or around corners.
Be careful when you are using the

cup holder. Spilled liquids can
damage the upholstery, carpeting,
and electrical components in the
interior. If the liquid is very hot, it
can scald you or your passengers.

Vanity Mirror, Cigarette Lighter, Ashtrays
Vanity Mirror Cigarette Lighter Ashtrays
CIGARETTE
LIGHTER
ASHTRAY
Only on LX and EX models in the U.S., The ignition switch must be in Open the front ashtray by pulling
EX and EX- V models in Canada ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for the on the bottom edge. Push it in to
To use the vanity mirror, pull down cigarette lighter to work. To heat close it.
the passenger's sunvisor. up the lighter, push it in. It will pop To remove the ashtray for empty-
out when it is ready for use. Do not ing, push down on the metal plate
hold the lighter in while it is inside, then pull the ashtray out
heating up, you could cause it to completely.
overheat.

Ashtrays, Interior Light
NOTICE Interior Light
Use the ashtray only for cigarettes, DOOR ACTIVATED

cigars and other smoking materials. ON
To prevent a possible fire and
OFF
damage to your car, don't put paper
or other things that can burn in the
ashtrays.
ASHTRAY
The rear ashtray is at the rear end The interior light has a three-
of the center console. Open the position switch. In the OFF
ashtray by swinging the upper edge (forward) position, the light does
of the lid down. To remove the not come on. In the center position,
ashtray for emptying, open it then the interior light comes on when
lift up and out. you open either front door. In the
ON (rearward) position, the interior
light stays on continuously.

Main Menu
Comfort and Convenience Features
The heating/ventilation system in Heating and Cooling...................... 64

your car, when combined with the What Each Control Does .......... 66
optional air conditioner, provides a How to Use the System ............ 67
comfortable driving environment in Controlling Air Flow
all weather conditions. Direction.............................. 67
Ventilation............................... 67
(Canadian EX-V model only) To Cool with A/C................... 68
The standard audio system is very To Dehumidify and Defog
versatile. To get the most benefit with A/C.............................. 69
from this system, read its descrip- To Heat.................................... 70
tion in this manual. To Defrost............................... 70
To Turn Everything off ....... 70
(For other Canadian models and all Audio System.................................. 71
U.S. models) Adjusting the Sound.................. 71
Refer to the operating instructions Operating the Radio .................. 72
that came with the optional audio Presetting.................................... 73
system you selected. Radio Frequencies..................... 74
Operating the Cassette
Player....................................... 75
Caring for Cassettes.................. 76

Heating and Cooling
This system has full heating,

ventilation, and air conditioning CENTER VENT SIDE VENT
(optional) capabilities. You can
adjust the system controls to mix
these in various combinations to
create the desired environment.
The air flows into the interior at
three possible levels, which you can
select.
A Genuine Honda air conditioning

system is available from your
dealer. It meets Honda's high
quality standards and is designed to The direction of airflow from the The heating and cooling system
fit your car. If you purchased your vents in the center and each side of draws air through the exterior
car without air conditioning, it can the dashboard is adjustable. Move vents at the bottom of the wind-
be installed at any time. Please the tab in the center of each vent shield. Keep these vents clear of
contact your dealer for more up-and-down and side-to-side. leaves and other debris.
information.
The side and upper vents can be
opened and closed with the dials
next to them.

Heating and Cooling
UPPER VENT

Heating and Cooling
What Each Control Does RECIRCULATED AIR AIR CONDITIONER

ON/OFF SWITCH
Fan Control Lever MODE BUTTONS FRESH AIR
Sliding this lever to the right
increases the fan speed, which
increases air flow.
Temperature Control Lever

Sliding this lever to the right
increases the temperature of air
flowing through the system.
Mode Buttons
These buttons control the direction
TEMPERATURE FAN CONTROL
of air flow. The indicator light CONTROL LEVER LEVER
shows which button is controlling
air flow.
Fresh Air and Recirculation
Air Conditioner (A/C) Switch Buttons
This switch turns the air condi- These two buttons control the
tioner ON and OFF. The indicator source of air going into the system.
in the switch lights when the A/C is In Fresh Air mode, air comes from
ON. outside the car. In Recirculation
mode, the interior air recycles
through the system.

Heating and Cooling
How to Use the System The engine must be running for the Ventilation
This section covers the best way to heater and air conditioner to pro- Your car has a flow-through
use the system for ventilation, vide hot and cold air. The heater ventilation system. Air enters the
cooling, dehumidifying, defrosting uses engine coolant to warm the air. car through vents in front of the
and heating. In most cases, the If the engine is cold, it will be sever- windshield. It circulates through
mode and air source selections are al minutes before you feel warm air the interior then exits through
only recommendations. You may circulating. vents near the rear window. This
prefer different settings. system provides fresh air even
The air conditioner does not de- when the car is standing still. To
Use mode to heat or cool the pend on engine temperature. It can bring in outside air, press the
interior more quickly, or to keep produce cold air almost immedi- button. Set the fan at a
out smoke and dust. Leaving the ately. comfortable speed.
system in recirculation mode with
the A/C off can cause the windows Con trolling Air Flow direction
to fog up. Switch to mode as Air flows into the interior at three
soon as the interior reaches a levels: Toward the floor ,
comfortable temperature or the through the dash vents and
outside smoky, dusty condition toward the windshield and side
clears. windows You select the air
flow level or combination of levels
with the five mode buttons.
CONTINUED

Heating and Cooling
To Cool with A/C

To operate the air conditioner,
MODE BUTTONS AIR CONDITIONER
press the air conditioning button. ON/OFF BUTTON
Set the fan to the desired speed.
You can also use the mode
button to direct air out of the dash
and heater vents.
To cool the interior down rapidly

after the car has been sitting in the
sun:
1. Start the engine.

2. Turn on the A/C by pressing the
TEMPERATURE FAN CONTROL
button. CONTROL LEVER LEVER
3. Set the fan to maximum speed.
4. Open the windows partially.
Select and The air conditioner places an extra
load on the engine. Watch the
When the interior reaches a com- coolant temperature gauge (see
fortable temperature, close the page 35 ) when using the A/C in
windows and set the system for heavy traffic or driving up long
cooling as described above. hills. If it moves near the red zone,
turn off the air conditioner until
the gauge reads normally.

Heating and Cooling
To Dehumidify and Defog

with A/C
MODE BUTTONS AIR CONDITIONER
An air conditioner removes mois- BUTTON
ture from the air as it operates.
You can use it to defog the win-
dows quickly in cool or damp wea-
ther. Used in combination with the
heater, it also makes the interior
warm and dry. This setting is best
for all driving conditions whenever
the outside temperature is above
32F (0C).
1. Set the fan to a medium speed.

2. Turn on the air conditioner. TEMPERATURE FAN CONTROL
3. Select any desired mode button; CONTROL LEVER LEVER
is usually best.
4. Adjust the temperature control
lever so the mixture of heated
and cooled air is at a comfortable
temperature.
CONTINUED

Heating and Cooling
To Heat To Defrost To Turn Everything Off

To warm the interior, press To remove frost or ice from the To shut off the system temporarily,
and Set the fan to windshield and side windows after slide the fan speed and temperature
the desired speed. Adjust the the car has been sitting out in cold control levers all the way to the left.
warmth of the air with the tempe- weather.
rature control lever. You should only shut the system
1. Start the engine. completely off for the first few
To warm the interior rapidly after 2. Select and minutes of driving in cold weather,
the car has been sitting out in cold 3. Set the fan and temperature until the engine coolant warms up
weather. controls to maximum. enough to operate the heater. Keep
the fan on at all other times so stale
1. Start the engine. These settings direct all the air air does not build up in the interior.
2. Select and flow to the defroster vents at the
3. Slide the temperature control base of the windshield and the side
lever to maximum heat. window defroster vents. The air
4. Leave the fan OFF for the first flow will get warmer and clear the
few minutes. When the tempera- windows faster as the engine
ture gauge rises above the bot- warms up. You can close the side
tom white mark, set the fan to and upper vents with the dial
medium speed. beside each vent. That will send
5. When the interior warms up, more warm air to the windshield
switch to fresh air mode and defroster vents.
adjust the temperature control
lever to a comfortable setting. For safety, make sure you have a
clear view through all the windows
before driving away.

Audio System
AM/FM/Cassette Stereo FADER FF/REW CASSETTE SLOT TONE CONTROL

Audio System CONTROL BUTTONS
For Canadian EX- V model only
Your Honda audio system is easy to
use, and will give clear A M / F M
reception. The preset buttons allow
you to select six stations on each
band.
The cassette player features auto-

reverse for continuous play.
Adjusting the sound

Use the Tone control to adjust the BALANCE
ON/VOL PRESET AM/FM
bass and treble to your liking. KNOB TUNE BAR BUTTONS BUTTON CONTROL
Use the Balance and Fader controls

to adjust the sound "direction". The radio panel illumination comes
The Balance control moves it left- on with the instrument panel lights,
to-right. The Fader control moves even with the radio off. You can
it front-to-back. The rear speakers turn off this illumination even with
are available as an option. the radio on by pulling the Balance
control knob out. Check this knob
if the lights do not come on with
the instrument panel lights.
CONTINUED

Audio System
Operating the Radio STEREO INDICATOR

The ignition switch must be in AC-
CESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate
the audio system. Turn the system
on by turning the ON/VOL knob
clockwise. The radio comes on and
displays the frequency of the
station it was last tuned to.
Adjust the volume by turning the

ON/VOL knob.
Select the band you want to listen

to by pressing the AM/FM button.
You will see the selected band and ON/VOL KNOB TUNE BAR AM/FM BUTTON
the frequency in the display. SEEK BUTTON
STEREO will be displayed next to The SEEK function searches for bottom ( ) to go down. Press and
the frequency if the station is radio stations with strong signals. release to change the frequency to
broadcasting in FM stereo. The Every time you press the ON/VOL the next number.
AM stereo feature is not available. button, it advances to the next
station. Press the TUNE bar and hold it to
You can use any of three methods go to a frequency that is far away.
to find radio stations on the Use the TUNE bar to change the The frequency display will begine
selected band: TUNE, SEEK, or frequency in small increments. to count rapidly. It will stop
the Preset buttons. Press the top ( ) to go up, and the counting when you release the bar.

Audio System
Presetting
The preset buttons allow you to
store radio frequencies for later
selection. Each button will store
one frequency on the AM band, and
one on the FM band.
To store a frequency:
1. Select the desired band, AM or

FM.
2. Use the TUNE or SEEK func-

tion to tune the radio to a desired
station.
SEEK TUNE BAR PRESET AM/FM
3. Pick the Preset button you want BUTTON BUTTONS BUTTON
for that station. Press the button
and hold it until you hear a beep. Once that station's frequency is
stored, simply press and release the
4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a proper preset button to tune to it. If
total of six stations each on AM you want to change any preset
and F M . button's selection, store another fre-
quency as described. The frequen-
cies you preset will be lost if your
car's battery goes dead or is discon-
nected. CONTINUED

Audio System
Radio Frequencies
Your Honda's radio can tune in all
frequencies in both the AM and
FM bands.
Those bands cover these frequen-
cies:
AM band:
530 kilohertz to 1,710 kilohertz
FM band:
87.7 megahertz to 107.9
megahertz
Radio stations on the AM band are

assigned frequencies at least 10
kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550).
Those on the FM band are assigned
frequencies at least 0.2 megahertz Stations must use these exact
apart (87.9,88.1, 88.3). frequencies. It is fairly common for
stations to round-off the frequency
in their advertising, so your radio
will show a frequency of 100.9 even
though the announcer may call the
station "FM101."

Audio System
Operating the Cassette Player

EJECT FF/REW CASSETTE SLOT TAPE DIRECTION
Turn the system ON. Insert the BUTTON BUTTONS INDICATOR
cassette into the slot with the tape
opening to the right. Push the
cassette in most of the way. The
drive will pull it in the rest of the
way and begin to play.
The or will light to show you

which side of the cassette is playing.
The indicates the side you
inserted facing upward is now
playing. To play the other side of
the tape, press the PROG/PLAY
PROG/PLAY
button. BUTTON
The system also has an Auto-

reverse feature. It will automati- To remove the cassette from the direction the tape is moving from
cally reverse direction when it drive, press the EJECT button. The the Tape Direction Indicator. Press
reaches the end of the cassette. system automatically ejects the the FF or REW button to move the
cassette whenever you turn off the tape in the same direction or the
system or the ignition switch. opposite direction. It will go back to
PLAY when you push the PLAY
Fast forward and rewind allow you button.
to move the tape rapidly to find a
desired program. Note which

Audio System
Caring for the Cassette Player To remind you, a small red light Use 100-minute or shorter cas-
labelled CLEAN comes on every 50 settes. Cassettes longer than 100
CLEAN LIGHT
hours of tape use. If you are minutes use thinner tape that may
already regularly cleaning the tape break or jam the drive.
drive at least every 30 hours,
simply push the CLEAN light for Look at a cassette before you insert
five seconds to turn it off. it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by
CLEAN
turning one of the hubs with a
If you do not clean the cassette pencil or your finger.
drive regularly, it may eventually If the label is peeling off, do not put
become impossible to remove the it in the player. It may cause the
deposits with a normal cleaning kit. cassette to jam in the drive mecha-
nism when you try to eject it.
The cassette player automatically
The cassette drive picks up dirt ejects cassettes that do not play Do not leave cassettes sitting
and oxides whenever you play a normally. If it ejects a cassette where they are exposed to high
tape. This builds up over time and before it begins to play, it is heat or humidity, such as on top of
causes the sound quality to degrade. probably defective and should not the dashboard or in the player. If a
To prevent this, you should clean be inserted again. You may have a cassette is exposed to extreme heat
the cassette drive after every 30 cassette suddenly stop playing, or cold, let it reach a moderate
hours of use. Your dealer has a reverse directions once or twice temperature before putting it in the
cleaning kit available for this and then eject. This is normally an player.
purpose. indication the tape is wound
unevenly. It should play normally
after being manually rewound.

Main Menu
Before Driving
Before you begin driving your Break-in Period.............................. 78

Honda, you should know what gaso- Gasoline............................................ 78
line to use, and that your car is full Oxygenated Fuels...................... 78
of oil and other important fluids. Driving in Foreign Countries... 79
You also need to know how to pro- Service Station Procedures.......... 80
perly stow luggage or packages. Filling the Gas Tank ................. 80
This section will help you. If you Opening the Hood....................... 81
plan to add any accessories to your Fuel Economy................................. 84
car, please read the information in Vehicle Condition....................... 84
this section first. Driving Habits............................ 84
Accessories...................................... 85
Loading Cargo................................ 86
Before Driving

Break-in Period, Gasoline
Break-in Period Gasoline Oxygenated Fuels

Help assure your car's future Your Honda is designed to operate Some conventional gasolines are
reliability and performance by most effectively on unleaded being blended with alcohol or an
paying extra attention to how you gasoline. ether compound to increase the
drive during the first 1,000 km (600 gasoline's octane. These gasolines
miles). US: Pump octane number of are collectively referred to as
During this period: 86 or higher. oxygenated fuels. Some areas of
Canada: Minimum 91 research the United States and Canada use
Avoid full-throttle starts and octane number. oxygenated fuels to help meet clean
rapid acceleration. air standards.
Using gasoline containing lead will
If you need to add oil, use the damage your car's emission If you use an oxygenated fuel, be
engine oil recommended in this controls. This contributes to air sure it meets the minimum octane
owner's manual. pollution and can void certain parts rating requirement as recom-
of your warranty. mended.
Avoid hard braking. New brakes
need to be broken-in by moderate Use of a lower octane gasoline can ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol)
use for the first 300 km (200 cause persistent, heavy metallic Gasoline containing more than
miles). rapping noise which can lead to 10% ethanol by volume may cause
engine damage if severe. starting and/or performance
You should follow these same re- problems. Gasoline containing
commendations with an overhauled ethanol may be marketed under the
or exchanged engine, or when the name "Gasohol."
brakes are relined.
Before Driving

Gasoline
METHANOL (methyl or wood Before using an oxygenated fuel, Driving in Foreign Countries
alcohol) Gasoline containing try to confirm the fuel's contents. Using any type of leaded gasoline
methanol must contain cosolvents Some states and provinces require in your Honda will affect perform-
and corrosion inhibitors to protect this information to be posted on the ance and damage its emission con-
the fuel system. Gasoline contain- pump. If you notice any undesirable trols. Unleaded gasoline may not be
ing more than 5% methanol by operating symptoms, switch to a available in other countries. If you
volume may cause starting and/or conventional unleaded gasoline. are planning to take your car out-
performance problems and may Fuel system damage or perform- side the U.S. or Canada, write to
damage metal, rubber and plastic ance problems resulting from the Honda at the address shown for
parts of your fuel system. use of an oxygenated fuel are not information about any modifica-
the responsibility of Honda and are tions your car may need. Be sure to
MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl not covered under warranty. include the year and model of your
Ether) You may use gasoline car.
containing up to 15% MTBE by NOTICE
volume. U.S. Owners:
Oxygenated fuels can damage paint American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
and plastic. Be careful not to spill Consumer Affairs
fuel when filling your fuel tank. 1919 Torrance Blvd.
Damage caused by spilled fuel is Torrance, CA 90501-2746
not covered under warranty.
Canadian Owners:
Honda Canada Inc.
715 Milner Ave.
Scarborough, Ontario M1B2K8
Before Driving

Service Station Procedures
Filling the Gas Tank 3. Remove the gas cap slowly. You
may hear a hissing sound as
Handling gasoline improperly pressure inside the tank escapes.
can cause it to ignite or ex-
plode, causing you to be seri- 4. Stop filling the tank after the gas
Pull ously or fatally injured. pump automatically clicks off.
Do not try to "top off" the tank,
Always put out cigarettes and leave some room for the fuel to
other smoking materials, and expand with temperature
keep all sparks and open changes.
flames away when you are
around gasoline. 5. Screw the gas cap back on,
tighten it until it clicks.
1. The fuel filler is on the driver's 6. Push the fuel filler door until it
side of the car. Park with that latches.
side closest to the service station
pumps.
2. Open the fuel filler door by

pulling on the handle to the left
of the driver's seat.
GAS CAP
Before Driving

Opening the Hood

SUPPORT ROD
LATCH
HOOD RELEASE HANDLE CLIP
1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set 2. Standing in front of the car, put 3. Pull the support rod out of its clip
the parking brake. Pull the hood your fingers under the front edge and insert the end into the hole
release handle, located under the of the hood to the right of center. on the left side of the hood.
left lower corner of the dash- Slide your hand to the left until
board. The hood will pop up you feel the hood latch handle. To close the hood, lift it up slightly
slightly. Push this handle to the left until to remove the support rod from the
it releases the hood. Lift the hood. hole. Put the support rod back into
its holding clip. Lower the hood to
about a foot above the fender, then
let it drop.
CONTINUED
Before Driving

Oil Check
DIPSTICK
Check the engine oil level every 2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean 3. Insert it all the way back in its
time you fill the car with gas. Wait cloth or paper towel. tube.
at least two minutes after turning
the engine off before you check the
oil.
1. Remove the dipstick (orange

handle).
Before Driving

Coolant Check Refer to Periodic Checks on

page 107 for information on check-
RESERVE TANK
ing other items in your Honda.
MAX
UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK MIN
4. Remove it again and check the Look at the coolant level in the
level. It should be between the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it
upper and lower marks. is between the MAX and MIN lines.
If it is below the MIN line, see
If it is near or below the lower A d d i n g Coolant on page 113 for
mark, see page 109 for information information on adding the proper
on the proper oil and how to add it. coolant.
Before Driving

Fuel Economy
The condition of your car and your Driving Habits The air conditioner puts an extra
driving habits are the two most You can improve fuel economy by load on the engine which makes it
important things that affect the driving moderately. Rapid acceler- use more fuel. Turn off the A/C to
fuel mileage you get. ation, abrupt cornering, and hard cut down on air conditioner use.
braking use more fuel. Always Use the flow-through ventilation
Vehicle Condition drive in the highest gear that al- when the outside air temperature is
Always maintain your car accord- lows the engine to run and acceler- moderate.
ing to the maintenance schedule. ate smoothly. Depending on traffic
This will keep it in top operating conditions, try to maintain a con-
condition. stant speed. Every time you slow
down and speed up, your car uses
An important part of that mainte- extra fuel. Use the cruise control,
nance is the Periodic Checks when appropriate, to increase fuel
(see page 107). For example an economy.
underinflated tire causes more
"rolling resistance," which uses A cold engine uses more fuel than a
fuel. It also wears out faster, so warm engine. It is not necessary to
check the tire pressure at least "warm-up" a cold engine by letting
monthly. In winter, the build-up of it idle, no matter what the outside
snow on your car's underside adds temperature is. Drive away as soon
weight and rolling resistance. as the engine is running. The
Frequent cleaning helps your fuel engine will warm up faster, and you
mileage and reduces the chance of get better fuel economy. To cut
corrosion. down on the number of "cold starts,"
try to combine several short trips
into one.
Before Driving

Accessories
Your Honda dealer has many acces- Some non-Honda accessories you Electronic communications equip-
sories available to personalize your can buy in the "aftermarket" are ment, such as cellular telephones
car. Some of these are audio sys- designed for universal applications. and two-way radios are regulated
tems, alloy wheels, air conditioning, Although they may fit your Honda, by the FCC and should not inter-
and color-coordinated carpet floor they may not be within factory fere with your car's systems.
mats. A l l Genuine Honda Acces- specifications. For example, after- Improper installation, or using
sories have been approved by our market wheels may not meet electrical equipment not intended
engineers for installation and use Honda's specifications for width for mobile use may interfere with
on your car, and are covered by and offset. They could cause sus- your car's operation. If you want to
warranty. For a complete guide to pension problems which would not install a cellular telephone, other
the Genuine Honda Accessories be covered by your warranty. Im- mobile communications equipment
available, see your dealer for a 1992 properly-designed accessories can or even add-on stereo amplifiers,
Accessories brochure. adversely affect your car's han- please discuss it first with your
dling and stability. Honda dealer.
Your car has several computer- In many cases, improper instal-

controlled systems, including the lation is the real cause of problems
SRS system, the engine's fuel with aftermarket accessories. Have
injection, and the Anti-lock brake these accessories installed by quali-
system. Strong electronic inter- fied technicians who are familiar
ference can affect their operation. with your Honda. If possible, have
your Honda dealer inspect the final
installation.
Before Driving

Loading Cargo
The maximum load you can carry To figure out how much cargo you Where you store this cargo, and
in your Honda is 395 kg (850 Ibs). It can carry: how well you secure it, are just as
includes the total weight of all important as how much it weighs.
passengers and their belongings, Figure the total "occupant Make sure you load cargo so it will
and any accessories. This 395 kg weight" you will be transporting. not shift while driving. Items
(850 Ibs) figure is shown as the To do this, multiply the number stored in the trunk should be
Vehicle Capacity Weight on the of people (driver and all passen- placed as far forward as possible.
tire information label attached to gers) by 70 kg (150 Ibs). You could store additional items on
the inside of the glove box. Subtract this number from the the floor behind the front seats.
Vehicle Capacity Weight (395 kg/ Make sure they cannot roll under
850 Ibs). the front seat and interfere with
the pedals.
This final number is the total
weight of cargo you can load in or If you must carry large objects that
on the car. With five occupants prevent you from closing the trunk
(driver and four passengers), the lid, be aware that exhaust gas can
maximum recommended weight enter the interior. See Carbon
for cargo is 45 kg (100 Ibs). Monoxide Hazard on page 24 .
Never place items on the shelf

behind the back seat. Those items
can fly forward and injure you or
your passengers if you brake hard
or are involved in a collision.
Before Driving

Main Menu
Driving
This section gives you tips on Preparing to Drive ........................ 88

starting the engine under various Starting the Engine....................... 89
conditions, and how to operate the 5-speed Transmission.............. 89
5-speed and automatic transmis- Automatic Transmission......... 89
sions. It also includes important Starting in Cold Weather
information on your car's braking at High Altitude..................... 90
system. 5-speed Manual Transmission..... 91
Recommended Shift Points...... 91
Maximum Speeds....................... 92
Automatic Transmission.............. 92
Shift Lever Positions................. 92
Maximum Speeds....................... 95
Shift Lock Release..................... 95
The Braking System...................... 96
Brake Wear Indicators.............. 96
Brake System Design................ 96
Anti-lock Brakes........................ 97
Driving in Bad Weather................ 98
Towing a Trailer.......................... 100
Driving

Preparing to Drive
You should do the following checks 4. Check the adjustment of the seat 9. Turn the ignition ON (II). Check
and adjustments every day before (see page 50). the indicator lights in the instru-
you drive your car. ment panel.
5. Check the adjustment of the
1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, inside and outside mirrors (see 10. Start the engine.
and outside lights are clean and page 55).
unobstructed. Remove frost, 11. Check the gauges and indicator
snow, or ice. 6. Check the adjustment of the lights in the instrument panel
steering wheel (see page 41). (see page 29).
2. Check that the hood and trunk
are fully closed. 7. Make sure the doors are securely
closed and locked.
3. Check that any items you may be
carrying with you inside are 8. Fasten your seat belt. Check that
stored properly or fastened down your passengers have fastened
securely. their seat belts (see page 7).
Driving

Starting the Engine
5-Speed Transmission 5. If the engine does not start Automatic Transmission

1. Apply the parking brake. within 15 seconds, or starts but 1. Apply the parking brake.
stalls right away, repeat step 4
2. In cold weather, turn off all with the accelerator pedal 2. In cold weather, turn off all
electrical accessories to reduce pressed half-way down. If the electrical accessories to reduce
the drain on the battery. engine starts, release pressure on the drain on the battery.
the accelerator pedal so the
3. Push the clutch pedal down all engine does not race. 3. Make sure the shift lever is in
the way. START (III) does not Park. Press on the brake pedal.
function unless the clutch pedal 6. If the engine still does not start,
is depressed. press the accelerator pedal all the 4. Without touching the accelerator
way down and hold it there while pedal, turn the ignition key to the
4. Without touching the accelerator starting in order to clear flooding. START (III) position. If the
pedal, turn the ignition key to the As before, keep the ignition key engine does not start right away,
START (III) position. If the in the START (III) position for do not hold the key in START
engine does not start right away, no more than 15 seconds. Return (III) for more than 15 seconds at
do not hold the key in START to step 5 if the engine does not a time. Pause for at least 10
(III) for more than 15 seconds at start. If it starts, lift your foot off seconds before trying again.
a time. Pause for at lease 10 the accelerator pedal so the
seconds before trying again. engine does not race.
CONTINUED
Driving

Starting the Engine
5. If the engine does not start Starting in Cold Weather at 3. If the engine fails to start in step
within 15 seconds, or starts but High Altitude (Above 2,400 2, push the accelerator pedal to
stalls right away, repeat step 4 meters/8,000 feet) the floor and hold it there while
with the accelerator pedal An engine is harder to start in cold you try to start the engine for no
pressed half-way down. If the weather. The thinner air found at more than 15 seconds. If the
engine starts, release pressure on high altitude above 2,400 meters engine does not start, return to
the accelerator pedal so the (8,000 feet) adds to the problem. step 2.
engine does not race. Use the following procedure:
6. If the engine still does not start, 1. Turn off all electrical accessories
press the accelerator pedal all the to reduce the drain on the
way down and hold it there while battery.
starting in order to clear flooding.
As before, keep the ignition key 2. Push the accelerator pedal half-
in the START (III) position for way to the floor and hold it there
no more than 15 seconds. Return while starting the engine. Do not
to step 5 if the engine does not hold the ignition key in START
start. If it starts, lift your foot off (III) for more than 15 seconds.
the accelerator pedal so the When the engine starts, release
engine does not race. the accelerator pedal gradually
as the engine speeds up and
smooths out.
Driving

5-speed Manual Transmission
Come to a full stop before you shift

into reverse. You can damage the
transmission by trying to shift into Rapid slowing or speeding-up
reverse with the car moving. can cause loss of control on
Depress the clutch pedal and pause slippery surfaces. If you crash,
for a few seconds before putting it you can be injured.
in reverse, or shift into one of the
forward gears for a moment. This Use extra care when driving on
stops the gears so they won't slippery surfaces.
"grind".
Recommended Shift Points
You can get extra braking from the Drive in the highest gear that lets
engine when slowing down by the engine run and accelerate
The manual transmission is syn- shifting to a lower gear. This extra smoothly. This will give you the
chronized in all forward gears for braking can help you maintain a best fuel economy and effective
smooth operation. It has a lockout safe speed and prevent your brakes emissions control. The following
so you cannot shift directly from from overheating while going down shift points are recommended:
Fifth to Reverse. When shifting up a steep hill. Before downshifting,
or down, make sure you push the make sure engine speed will not go
clutch pedal down all the way, shift into the red zone in the lower gear.
to the next gear, and let the pedal Refer to the Maximum Speeds
up gradually. When you are not chart.
shifting, do not rest your foot on
the clutch pedal. This can cause
your clutch to wear out faster.
CONTINUED
Driving

5-speed Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission
(US: DX, L X , Canada: L X , EX) Automatic Transmission

Your Honda's transmission has
four forward speeds, and is electro-
nically controlled for smoother
shifting. It also has a "lock-up"
torque converter for better fuel
economy. You may feel what seems
like another shift when the con-
verter locks.
Maximum Speeds
The speeds in this table are the Shift Lever Positions
maximums for the given gears. If (US: EX, Canada: EX-V)
you exceed these speeds, the
engine speed will enter into the
tachometer's red zone. If this
occurs, you may feel the engine cut
in and out. This is caused by a
limiter in the engine's computer
controls. The engine will run
normally when you reduce the
RPM below the red zone.
Driving

Automatic Transmission
This display is on the instrument

panel. It shows you the position of
the shift lever.
You must also press the release

SHIFT
LEVER
Park (P) This position mechani- button to shift into Park. To avoid
cally locks the transmission. Use transmission damage, come to a
The shift lever has seven positions. Park whenever you are turning off complete stop before shifting into
It must be in Park or Neutral to or starting the engine. To shift out Park. The shift lever must be in
start the engine. When you are of Park, you must press on the Park before you can remove the
stopped in D4, D3, 2,1 or R, press brake pedal and have your foot off key from the ignition switch.
firmly on the brake pedal and keep the accelerator pedal. Press the
your foot off the accelerator pedal. release button on the side of the If you have done all of the above
shift lever to move it. and still cannot move the lever out
of Park, see Shift Lock Release on
page 95 .
CONTINUED
Driving

Reverse (R) To shift to Re- Drive (D3) This position is simi- hills. Use second gear when start-
verse from Park, see the explana- lar to D4, except only the first three ing out on a slippery surface or in
tion under Park. To shift to Re- gears are selected. Use D3 to deep snow. It will help reduce
verse from Neutral, come to a com- provide engine braking when going wheelspin.
plete stop and then shift. Press the down a steep hill. D3 can also keep
release button before shifting into the transmission from cycling Whenever you move the shift lever
Reverse from Neutral. between third and fourth gears in to a lower gear, the transmission
stop-and-go driving. downshifts only if the engine's
Neutral (N) Use Neutral if you redline will not be exceeded in the
need to restart a stalled engine, or For faster acceleration when in D3 lower gear.
if it is necessary to stop briefly with or D4, you can get the transmission
the engine idling. Shift to Park posi- to automatically downshift by push- First (1) To shift from Second
tion if you need to leave the car for ing the accelerator pedal to the to First, press the release button on
any reason. Press on the brake pe- floor. The transmission will shift the side of the shift lever. With the
dal when you are moving the shift down one or two gears, depending lever in this position, the transmis-
lever from Neutral to another gear. on your speed. sion locks in First gear. By upshift-
ing and downshifting through 1,2,
Drive (D4) Use this position for Second (2) - To shift to Second, D3 and D4, you can operate this
your normal driving. The transmis- press the release button on the side transmission much like a manual
sion automatically selects a suita- of the shift lever. This position transmission without a clutch pedal.
ble gear for your speed and acceler- locks the transmission in second
ation. You may notice the transmis- gear. It does not downshift to first
sion shifting up at higher speeds gear when you come to a stop.
when the engine is cold. This helps Second gives you more power when
the engine warm up faster. climbing, and increased engine
braking when going down steep
Driving

Maximum Speeds Shift Lock Release

The speeds in this table are the This allows you to move the shift
maximums for the given position. lever out of Park if the normal
If you exceed these speeds, the method of pushing on the brake
engine speed will enter into the pedal and pressing the release
tachometer's red zone. If this button does not work.
occurs, you will feel the engine cut
in and out. This is caused by a 1. Set the Parking brake.
limiter in the engine's computer
controls. The engine will run 2. Remove the key from the
normally when you reduce the ignition switch.
RPM below the red zone. RELEASE SHIFT LOCK
BUTTON RELEASE SLOT
3. Insert the key in the Shift Lock
(US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) Release slot next to the shift 5. Remove the key from the Shift
lever. Lock Release slot. Depress the
brake pedal and restart the
4. Push down on the key while you engine.
press the release button and
move the shift lever out of Park If you need to use the Shift Lock
to Neutral. Release, it could mean your car is
(US: EX, Canada: EX-V) developing a problem. Have the car
checked by your Honda dealer.
Driving

The Braking System
All Civics are equipped with front Check your brakes after driving Brake System Design
disc brakes. The brakes on the rear through deep water. Apply the The hydraulic system that operates
wheels may be disc or drum, brakes moderately to see if they the brakes has two separate cir-
depending on model. The braking feel normal. If not, apply them cuits. Each circuit works diago-
system is power-assisted to reduce gently and frequently until they do. nally across the car (the left-front
the effort needed on the brake Since a longer distance is needed to brake is connected with the right-
pedal. stop with wet brakes, be extra rear brake, etc.). If one circuit
cautious and alert in your driving. should develop a problem, you will
Put your foot on the brake pedal still have braking at two wheels.
only when you intend to brake. Brake Wear Indicators
Resting your foot on the pedal The front disc brakes on all cars
keeps the brakes applied lightly, have audible brake wear indicators.
causing them to build up heat. Heat They are also on the rear brakes of
build-up can reduce how well your cars equipped with ABS.
brakes work. It also keeps your When the brake pads need re- Front
brake lights on all the time, placing, you will hear a distinctive
confusing drivers behind you. metallic "screeching" sound when
you apply the brakes. If you do not
Constant application of the brakes have the brake pads replaced, they
when going down a long hill builds will begin screeching all the time.
up heat and reduces their effective-
ness. Use the engine to assist the Your brakes may sometimes squeal
brakes by downshifting to a lower or squeak when you apply them
gear and taking your foot off the lightly. Do not confuse this with the
accelerator pedal. brake wear indicators. They make
a very audible "screeching".
Driving

The Braking System
If this happens, you will immediate- Anti-lock Brakes The ABS is always "On". It
ly notice that the brake pedal goes The Civic EX model in the U.S. and requires no special effort or driving
down much farther and you need to EX-V model in Canada have an technique. You will feel a pulsation
press on it much harder. A much Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as in the brake pedal when the ABS
longer distance will be needed to standard equipment. activates.
stop the car. ABS has disc brakes on the rear
wheels in place of the standard Activation varies with the amount
Slow the car by downshifting to a drum-type brakes. For a further of traction your tires have. On dry
lower gear and removing your foot explanation of the ABS equipment, pavement, you will need to press on
from the accelerator pedal. Pull to refer to page 178. the brake pedal very hard before
the side of the road as soon as it is you feel the pedal pulsation that
safe. Because of the longer stop- ABS helps you maintain stopping means the ABS has activated.
ping distance needed, brake system and steering control. It does this by However, you may feel the ABS
failure is very hazardous. It is best helping you to prevent the wheels activate immediately if you are
to have your car towed, but if you from locking up and skidding. trying to stop on snow or ice. Under
must drive the car in this condition, all conditions, the ABS is helping to
be extremely cautious. Have your prevent the wheels from locking so
car repaired as soon as possible. you can retain steering control.
You should continue to press on the
brake pedal with the same force.
You may feel a slight movement of

the brake pedal just after you start
the engine. This is the ABS
working.
CONTINUED
Driving

The Braking System, Driving in Bad Weather
The ABS works by comparing the Driving in Bad Weather

speed of the wheels. When re-
placing tires, use the same size
originally supplied with the car.
ABS Tire size and construction can
affect wheel speed and may cause
the system to work inconsistently.
A car with ABS may require a

longer distance to stop on loose or
uneven surfaces than an equivalent
car without Anti-lock. The ABS
cannot make up for road conditions
The ABS is self-checking. If or bad judgment. It is still your
anything goes wrong, the ABS indi- responsibility to drive at reasonable Rain, fog, and snow conditions re-
cator on the instrument panel speeds for weather and traffic quire a different driving technique
conies on (see page 32 ). This means conditions, and to leave a margin of because of reduced traction and
the Anti-lock function of the brak- safety. visibility. Keep your car well-
ing system has shut down. The maintained and exercise greater
brakes still work like a convention- For a technical description of the caution when you need to drive in
al system, providing normal stop- Anti-lock brake system hardware, bad weather. The cruise control
ping ability. You should have the refer to page 178 . should not be used in these condi-
dealer inspect your car as soon as tions.
possible.
Driving

Driving in Bad Weather
Driving Technique Always Visibility Being able to see Traction Check your tires
drive slower than you would in dry clearly in all directions and being frequently for wear and proper
weather. It takes your car longer to visible to other drivers are impor- pressure. Both are important in
react, even in conditions that may tant in all weather conditions. This preventing "hydroplaning" (loss of
seem just barely damp. Apply is more difficult in bad weather. To traction on a wet surface). In the
smooth, even pressure to all the be seen more clearly during day- winter, mount snow tires on all four
controls. Abrupt steering wheel light hours, turn on your headlights. wheels for the best handling.
movements or sudden, hard appli-
cation of the brakes can cause loss Inspect your windshield wipers and Watch road conditions carefully,
of control in wet weather. Be extra washers frequently. Keep the wind- they can change from moment to
cautious for the first few miles of shield washer reservoir full of the moment. Wet leaves can be as slip-
driving while you adjust to the proper fluid. Replace the wind- pery as ice. "Clear" roads can have
change in driving conditions. This shield wiper blades if they start to patches of ice. Driving conditions
is especially true in snow. A person streak the windshield or leave parts can be very hazardous when the
can forget some snow-driving tech- unwiped. Use the defrosters and air outside temperature is near freez-
niques during the summer months. conditioner to keep the windows ing. The road surface can become
Practice is needed to relearn those from fogging up on the inside (see covered with areas of water pud-
skills. page 69). dles mixed with areas of ice, so
your traction can change without
Exercise extra caution when warning.
driving in rain after a long dry spell.
After months of dry weather, the Be careful when downshifting. If
first rains bring oil to the surface of traction is low, you can lock up the
the roadway, making it slippery. drive wheels for a moment and
cause a skid.
CONTINUED
Driving

Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer
Towing a Trailer
Your car is not designed to tow a
trailer. Attempting to do so can
void your warranties.
Be very cautious when passing, or

being passed by, other vehicles.
The spray from large vehicles
reduces your visibility, and the
wind buffeting can cause you to
lose control.
Driving

Main Menu
Maintenance
Regularly maintaining your Honda Maintenance Schedule................ 102 Spark Plugs................................... 124
is the best way to protect your Maintenance Record............... 105 Replacement.............................. 124
investment. You will be rewarded Periodic Checks............................ 107 Specification.............................. 126
with safer, more economical, Fluid Locations............................. 108 Battery............................................ 126
trouble-free driving. This section Engine Oil...................................... 109 Windshield Wipers....................... 129
lists items that need to be checked Checking Engine Oil................ 109 Air Conditioner............................. 131
regularly and explains how to Adding........................................ 109 Engine Belts.................................. 132
check them. It also details some Recommended Oil.................... 110 Tires................................................ 132
simple maintenance tasks you can Additives.................................... 110 Inflation...................................... 132
do yourself. The maintenance Oil and Filter Changes............. 111 Inspection................................... 133
schedules for normal and severe Cooling System............................. 113 Maintenance.............................. 134
driving conditions show you when Checking the Coolant Level... 113 Tire Rotation............................ 134
these things need to be done. Adding Radiator Coolant........ 113 Replacing Tires........................ 135
Replacing Coolant.................... 114 Wheels and Tires...................... 135
If you are interested in how to per- Windshield Washers.................... 117 DOT Tire Quality Grading..... 135
form more complex maintenance Transmission Oil.......................... 118 Treadwear............................. 135
on your Honda, you can purchase Automatic Transmission........ 118 Traction................................. 136
the Service Manual. See page 5-speed Transmission.............. 119 Temperature......................... 136
189 for information on how to Brake and Clutch Fluid............... 120 Winter Driving.......................... 137
obtain a copy, or see your Honda Brake System............................ 120 Snow Tires................................. 137
dealer. Anti-lock Brake System.......... 121 Tire Chains................................ 137
Clutch System........................... 121 Lights.............................................. 138
Power Steering............................. 122 Replacing Bulbs........................ 138
Air Filter........................................ 123 Storing Your Car.......................... 144
Fuel Filter...................................... 124
Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule
The Required Maintenance Always use unleaded gasoline We recommend the use of Genuine
Schedule specifies how often you with a pump octane number of 86 Honda parts and fluids or their
should have your car serviced, and (research octane number of 91) or equivalent whenever you have
what things need attention. It is higher. maintenance done. These are the
essential that your car be serviced same high-quality items that went
as scheduled to retain its high level Your authorized Honda dealer into your car when it was new, so
of safety, dependability, and knows your car best, and can you can be sure they fit and
emission control performance. provide competent, efficient perform flawlessly.
service. However, service at a
The services and time or mileage dealer is not mandatory to keep U.S. Cars:
intervals shown in the maintenance your warranties in effect. Mainte- Maintenance, replacement or
schedule assume you will use your nance may be done by any qualified repair of emission control
car as normal transportation for service facility or person who is devices and systems may be
passengers and their possessions. skilled in this type of automotive done by any automotive re-
You should: service. Keep all the receipts as pair establishment or indi-
proof of completion, and have the vidual using parts that are
Avoid exceeding your car's load person who does the work fill out "certified" to EPA standards.
limit. This puts excess strain on the maintenance record on page
the engine, brakes, and many 105. Check your warranty booklet Vehicles sold in California have
other parts of your car. The load for more information. slightly different maintenance
limit is shown on the label in the requirements. These are noted in
glove box. the Required Maintenance
Operate your car on reasonable Schedule. Other maintenance
roads within the legal speed limit. operations are required by
Drive your car regularly over a California regulations, and
distance of several miles. condition the emission warranty.
Maintenance

R Replace I Inspect After inspection, clean, adjust, repair or replace if necessary.
: Check oil and coolant level at each fuel stop. * 2 : Tension adjustment only.
: Under severe driving conditions, service these items more often. * 3 : Thereafter, replace every 2 years or 48,000 km (30,000 miles), which-
* 1: For cars sold in California, this service is recommended only: other ever comes first.
areas, it is required.
*4 : For cars with Anti-lock brake system.
(US: EX, Canada: EX-V)

Maintenance Schedule
R Replace I Inspect After inspection, clean, adjust, repair or replace if necessary.
Severe Driving Conditions The services are:

Items with an or in the chart will need service Replace the air cleaner element every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 12 months under
more often, if you drive in some servere conditions. condition B or E.
Replace engine oil and oil filter every 6,000 km (3,750 miles) or 3 months under condition A
The conditions are: or B.
A. Repeated short distance driving. Inspect front brake discs and calipers, and rear brake discs, calipers and pads every 12,000
B. Dusty conditions. km (7,500 miles) or 6 months under condition A, B, D or E.
C. Severe cold weather. Inspect the power steering system every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 6 months under
D. Areas with road salt or other corrosive materials. condition B, C or E.
E. Rough or muddy roads.
Maintenance

Required Maintenance Record

Have your servicing dealer record all Required Maintenance below. Keep receipts for all work done on your car.
Maintenance

Non-Scheduled Maintenance Record

Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or non-scheduled maintenance on this page (see page 104).
Maintenance

Periodic Checks
You should check the following Engine oil level Check every Tires Check the tire pressure
items at the specified intervals. If time you fill the gas tank. See monthly. Examine the tread for
you are unsure of how to perform page 82. wear and foreign objects. See
any check, turn to the page given. page 132.
Engine coolant level Check
the radiator reserve tank every Battery Check its condition
time you fill the gas tank. See and the terminals for corrosion
page 83. monthly. See page 126.
Windshield washer fluid Air conditioner Check its

Check the level in the reservoir operation weekly. See page 131.
monthly. If weather conditions
cause you to use the washers Lights Check the operation of
frequently, check the reservoir the headlights, parking lights,
each time you stop for gas. See taillights, high-mount brake light,
page 117. turn signals, brake lights, and
license plate lights monthly. See
Automatic transmission page 138.
Check the fluid level monthly.
See page 118.
Brakes, clutch and power

steering Check the fluid level
monthly. See page 120.
Maintenance

Fluid Locations
BRAKE FLUID
(Gray cap)
(5-M/T only)
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE CLUTCH FLUID
RESERVOIR (Gray cap) (Gray cap)
ENGINE OIL
AUTOMATIC FILLER CAP
TRANSMISSION
FLUID DIPSTICK
(Yellow loop)
POWER STEERING
FLUID (Red cap)
COOLANT
RESERVOIR WASHER FLUID
(Blue cap)
ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK

(Orange loop)
Maintenance

Engine Oil
Checking Engine Oil Adding

OIL FILLER CAP
UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK
DIPSTICK
Check the engine oil a couple of 3. Pull it out again and look at the To add oil, unscrew and remove the
minutes after shutting off the oil level at the end of the dipstick. oil filler cap on top of the valve
engine. This will allow the oil to If it is between the upper and cover. Pour in the oil, and replace
drain down to the bottom of the lower marks, the level is correct. the filler cap. Tighten it securely.
engine. Make sure the car is parked Add oil if the level is at or below Wait a few minutes and recheck
on level ground. the lower mark. the oil level. Do not fill above the
1. Pull out the dipstick (orange upper mark; you could damage the
loop) and wipe it with a cloth or engine.
paper towel.
2. Insert it all the way back in its

tube.
Maintenance

Engine Oil
Recommended Oil The numbers in the middle tell you A fuel-efficient oil is recommended
Oil is a major contributor to your the oil's SAE viscosity or weight. for your Honda. This is shown on
engine's performance and longevity. Select the oil for your car accord- the A P I Service label by the words
Always use a premium-grade deter- ing to this chart: "Energy Conserving I I . " This oil is
gent oil. You can determine an oil's formulated to help your engine use
SAE viscosity and Service Classifi- less fuel.
cation from the API Service label
on the oil container. It should look Ambient Temperature The API Service label also tells you
like this: the service classification of the oil.
Always use an oil that says "API
Service SG." This service rating
may also include other designations,
such as CD. These additional
classifications are not a problem, as
long as the label also carries the SG
classification. An oil that is only
classified SF is not recommended.
An oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 is
preferred for improved fuel econo- Additives
my and year-round protection in Your Honda does not need any oil
your Honda. You may use a 10W-30 additives. Purchasing additives for
oil if the temperature in your area the engine or transmission will not
never goes below 20F (7C). increase your car's performance or
longevity. It only increases the cost
of operating your car.
Maintenance

Engine Oil
Oil and Filter Changes OIL FILTER

Always change the oil and filter
according to the time and mileage
recommendations on the mainte-
nance schedule. The oil and filter
collect contaminants that can dam-
age your engine if they are not
removed regularly.
Changing the oil and filter requires
special tools and access from
underneath the car. The car should
be raised on a service station-type OIL DRAIN BOLT
hydraulic lift for this service.
Unless you have the knowledge 1. Run the engine until it reaches 2. Open the hood and remove the oil
and proper equipment, you should normal operating temperature, filler cap. Remove the oil drain
have this maintenance done by a then shut it off. bolt from the bottom of the
skilled mechanic. engine. Drain the oil into an
appropriate container.
Repeated, prolonged exposure The oil, engine components 3. Remove the oil filter and let the
to used motor oil may cause and the exhaust system are remaining oil drain. A special
skin cancer. hot and can burn you. wrench (available from your
Honda dealer) is required to
Wash your hands thoroughly Use caution and wear protec- remove the filter.
with strong soap as soon as tive clothing while working in
possible after handling used oil. the engine compartment. CONTINUED
Maintenance

Engine Oil
7. Replace the oil filler cap. Start The oil and filter should be chang-
the engine. The oil pressure ed every 6 months or 12,000 km
indicator light should go out (7,500 miles), whichever comes first.
within five seconds. If it does not, Under severe driving conditions,
turn off the engine and reinspect they should be changed every 3
your work. months or 6,000 km (3,750 miles).
See page 104 for a description of
8. Let the engine run for several severe driving conditions.
minutes and check the drain bolt
and oil filter for leaks.
OIL DRAIN BOLT 9. Turn off the engine, let it sit for
several minutes, then check the
4. Install a new oil filter according oil level. If necessary, add oil to
to instructions that come with it. bring the level to the upper mark
on the dipstick.
5. Put a new washer on the drain
bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. NOTICE
Tighten it to:
40 N.m (4.0 kg-m , 29 Ib-ft) If you change your own oil, please
dispose of the used oil properly. Put
6. Refill the engine with the recom- it in a sealed container and take it
mended oil. to a recycling center. Do not
Engine oil capacity discard it in a trash bin or dump it
(including filter): on the ground.
3.3 (3.5 US q t , 2.9 Imp qt)
Maintenance

Cooling System
Checking the Coolant Level Always use Genuine Honda Adding Radiator Coolant
Antifreeze/Coolant. The cooling If the reserve tank is completely
RESERVE TANK system contains many aluminum empty, you should also check the
components which can corrode if coolant level in the radiator.
an improper antifreeze is used.
Some antifreeze, even though
labeled as safe for aluminum parts,
may not provide adequate Removing the radiator cap
protection. while the engine is hot can
MAX cause the coolant to spray out,
seriously scalding you.
MIN
Always let the engine and
radiator cool down before
Check the level of the engine removing the radiator cap.
coolant by looking at the radiator
reserve tank next to the air filter
element box. If the level is at or 1. Make sure the engine and
below the MIN line, add coolant to radiator are cool.
bring it up to the MAX line. This
coolant should always be a mixture
of 50% antifreeze and 50% water.
Never add straight antifreeze or
plain water.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

Cooling System
RADIATOR CAP Do not add any rust inhibitors or

RESERVE TANK other additives to your car's
cooling system. They may not be
compatible with the coolant or
engine components.
Replacing Coolant
The cooling system should be
completely drained and refilled
with new coolant according to the
time and mileage recommendations
in the maintenance schedule. Only
use recommended antifreeze.
2. Turn the radiator cap counter- 4. The coolant level should be up to
clockwise, without pressing the base of the filler neck. Add Draining the coolant requires
down on it, until it stops. This coolant if it is low. access to the underside of the car.
relieves any pressure remaining Unless you have the tools and
in the cooling system. 5. Put the radiator cap back on. knowledge, you should have this
Tighten it fully. maintenance done by a skilled
3. Remove the radiator cap by mechanic.
pushing down and turning 6. Pour coolant into the reserve
counterclockwise. tank. Fill it to halfway between
the MAX and MIN marks. Put
the cap back on the reserve tank.
Maintenance

Cooling System
DRAIN RESERVE TANK RESERVE

PLUG TANK CAP
DRAIN
BOLT HOLDER
1. Start the engine. Slide the heater 3. Loosen the drain plug on the 4. Remove the reserve tank from
temperature control lever to bottom of the radiator. T h e its holder by pulling it straight up.
maximum heat and turn off the coolant w i l l drain through the Drain the coolant, then put the
engine. Open the hood. Make splash guard. Remove the drain tank back in its holder.
sure the engine and radiator are bolt f r o m the engine block.
cool to the touch. 5. When the coolant stops draining,
tighten the drain plug in the
2. Remove the radiator cap. bottom of the radiator. Apply
non-hardening sealant to the
drain bolt threads and reinstall
the bolt in the engine block.
Tighten it securely.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

Cooling System
FILLER NECK BLEEDER BOLT

RESERVE TANK
Fill up to here
6. Mix the recommended antifreeze 7. Pour coolant into the radiator up radiator cooling fan comes on at
with an equal amount of purified to the base of the filler neck. least twice).
or distilled water in a clean
container. The cooling system 8. Loosen the bleeder bolt on top of 10. Turn off the engine. Check the
capacity is: the engine. Tighten it again level in the radiator, add coolant
when coolant comes out in a if needed. Install the radiator cap,
With 5-speed transmission: steady stream with no bubbles. tighten it fully.
3.6 (0.95 US gal, 0.79 Imp gal)
With automatic transmission: 9. Refill the radiator to the base of 11. Fill the reserve tank to the MAX
(US: DX, LX, Canada: L X , EX) the filler neck. Put the cap on the mark. Install the reserve tank
3.5 (0.92 US gal, 0.77 Imp gal) radiator, only tighten it to the cap.
(US: EX, Canada: EX-V) first stop. Start the engine and
3.8 (1.00 US gal, 0.84 Imp gal) let it run until it warms up (the
Maintenance

Windshield Washers
Check the level in the windshield WINDSHIELD Antifreeze can damage your car's
washer reservoir at least monthly WASHER paint, while a vinegar/water
during normal usage. In bad RESERVOIR solution can damage the windshield
weather, when you use the washers washer pump.
often, check the level every time
you stop for gas. Use only commercially-available
windshield washer fluid.
The windshield washer reservoir is
located behind the left headlight.
Check the reservoir's fluid level by
removing the cap and looking
inside.
Fill the reservoir with a good- NOTICE

quality windshield washer fluid.
This increases the cleaning Do not use engine antifreeze or a
capability and prevents freezing in vinegar/water solution in the
cold weather. windshield washer reservoir.
Maintenance

Transmission Oil
Automatic Transmission 5. If the level is below the lower

mark, add fluid into the tube to
DIPSTICK bring it to the upper mark. Use
Honda Premium Formula
Automatic Transmission Fluid or
an equivalent DEXRON II
Automatic Transmission Fluid
(ATF) only.
6. Insert the dipstick back in the

transmission.
UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK The transmission should be drained
and refilled with new fluid every 24
Check the fluid level with the 3. Insert the dipstick into the months or 48,000 km (30,000 miles),
engine at normal operating tempe- transmission. whichever comes first.
rature.
4. Remove the dipstick and check
1. Park the car on level ground. the fluid level. It should be
Shut off the engine. between the upper and lower
marks.
2. Remove the dipstick (yellow
loop) from the transmission and
wipe it with a clean cloth.
Maintenance

Transmission Oil
5-Speed Transmission Only use an SF or SG grade motor

oil with a weight of 10W-30 or
10W-40.
FILLER BOLT The transmission should be drained

and refilled with new oil every 24
months or 48,000 km (30,000 miles),
whichever comes first.
Correct
level
Check the oil level a couple of mi-

nutes after shutting off the engine.
Make sure the car is on level
ground. Remove the transmission
filler bolt. The oil level should be
up to the edge of the bolt hole. Feel
inside the bolt hole with your finger.
If you do not feel any oil, slowly
add oil until it starts to run out of
the hole. Reinstall the filler bolt
and tighten it securely.
Maintenance

Brake and Clutch Fluid
Brake and Clutch Fluid Brake System If you add brake fluid to bring it up
Check the fluid level in the reser- to the M A X mark, use Genuine
voirs monthly. There are up to MAX Honda Brake Fluid or an equiva-
three reservoirs, depending on lent that is marked DOT3 or DOT4
model. They are: only. Brake fluid marked DOT5 is
not compatible with your car's
Brake fluid reservoir (all models) braking system.
Clutch fluid reservoir
(5-speed transmission only)
ABS reservoir
(EX model in U.S. and EX-V
model in Canada)
MIN
The brake fluid of the brake and
Anti-lock brake systems should be The fluid should be between the
replaced every 2 years or 48,000 km M I N and MAX marks on the side
(30,000 miles). of the reservoir. If the level is at or
below the MIN mark, it is an
indication that your brake system
needs attention. Have the brake
system inspected for leaks or worn
brake pads.
Maintenance

Brake and Clutch Fluid
Anti-lock Brake System If the fluid level is half an inch or Clutch System
more above the M A X mark, it may
indicate a problem in the ABS. MAX
Have your dealer inspect the
system as soon as posible.
If you add brake fluid to bring it up

to the M A X mark, use the same
DOT3 or DOT4 brake fluid speci-
fied for the brake system.
MIN
The fluid should be between the

The fluid should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side
M I N and M A X marks on the side of the reservoir. If it is not, add
of the reservoir. If it is at or below brake fluid to bring it up to that
the M I N mark, it may indicate a level. Use the same DOT3 or DOT4
problem in the braking system. brake fluid specified for the brake
Have the dealer inspect your car. system.
Low fluid level can indicate a leak

in the clutch system. Have this
system inspected as soon as
possible.
Maintenance

Power Steering
NOTICE
Using automatic transmission fluid
or another brand of power steering
UPPER fluid will damage the system. Use
LEVEL only genuine Honda power steering
fluid.
LOWER
A low power steering fluid level
LEVEL can indicate a leak in the system.
Check the fluid level frequently
and have the system inspected as
You should check the fluid level in soon as possible.
the power steering reservoir
monthly. Check the level when the
engine is cold. Look at the side of
the reservoir. The fluid should be
between the UPPER LEVEL and
LOWER LEVEL. If it is below the
LOWER LEVEL, add power
steering fluid to the UPPER
LEVEL.
Maintenance

Air Filter
The air filter element should be

replaced every 2 years or 48,000 km
(30,000 miles), whichever comes
first. Under severe driving condi-
tions, it should be replaced every 12
months or 24,000 km (15,000 miles),
Follow the replacement procedure

for removal and reinstallation.
BOLTS FILTER ELEMENT
The air filter element is inside the 3. Place the new air cleaner ele-
box on the passenger's side of the ment in the housing.
engine compartment.
To replace it: 4. Reinstall the housing cover,
tighten the four bolts.
1. Loosen the four bolts and remove
the filter housing cover.
2. Remove the old air filter element.

Clean the inside of the filter
housing with a damp rag.
Maintenance

Fuel Filter, Spark Plugs
Fuel Filter Spark Plugs Replacement

The fuel filter should be replaced The original spark plugs in your
SPARK PLUG CAP
every 4 years or 96,000 km (60,000 car need to be replaced every 2
miles), whichever comes first. years or 48,000 km (30,000 miles),
Have a qualified technician change
the fuel filter. Since the fuel system
is under pressure, gasoline can
spray out and create a hazard if all
fuel line connections are not han-
dled correctly.
The filter may require replacement

sooner if you happen to buy one or
more tankfuls of contaminated 1. Clean up any dirt and oil that
gasoline. Have the filter tested or have collected around the spark
replaced if you suspect it has been plug caps.
clogged by contaminants.
2. Remove the spark plug cap by
pulling it straight out.
3. Remove the spark plug, using a

12 mm (5/8 inch) spark plug
socket.
Maintenance

Spark Plugs
NOTICE
Tighten the spark plugs carefully.
A spark plug that is too loose can
overheat and damage the engine.
Overtightening can cause damage
to the threads in the cylinder head.
7. Install the spark plug cap.
8. Repeat this procedure for the

other three spark plugs.
4. Set the gap on the new spark 6. Torque the spark plug. (If you do
plug with a wire-type spark plug not have a torque wrench, tight-
gapping tool. Do not use a blade- en the spark plug one-quarter
type feeler gauge. turn after it contacts the cylinder
Plug gap should be: head.)
1.1 mm (0.04 in) Tightening torque:
18 N.m(1.8 kg-m, 13 Ib-ft)
5. Put the new spark plug into the
socket, then thread it into the
hole. Screw it in by hand so you
do not crossthread it.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

Spark Plugs, Battery
Specifications: Battery
Check the condition of your car's
(US: DX, L X , Canada: LX, EX) battery monthly. You should check The battery contains sulfuric
Normal driving conditions for proper electrolyte level and acid (electrolyte) which is
NGK: ZFR5F-11 corrosion on the terminals. highly corrosive and poisonous.
Nippondenso: KJ16CR-L11
Getting electrolyte in your
Hot climates, or continuous high eyes or on your skin can cause
speed driving The battery gives off explo- serious burns. Wear protective
NGK: ZFR6F-11 sive hydrogen gas during nor- clothing and eye protection
Nippondenso: KJ20CR-L11 mal operation. A spark or open when working near the battery.
flame can cause the battery to
(US: EX, Canada: EX-V) explode with enough force to Swallowing electrolyte can
Normal driving conditions kill or seriously hurt you. cause fatal poisoning if immedi-
NGK: ZFR5J-11 ate action is not taken.
Nippondenso: KJ16CR-L11 Wear protective clothing and a
face shield, or have a skilled KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF
Hot climates, or continuous high mechanic do the battery main- CHILDREN
speed driving tenance.
NGK: ZFR6J-11
Nippondenso: KJ20CR-L11
Maintenance

Battery
Emergency Procedures TEST INDICATOR WINDOW Check the battery terminals for
corrosion (a white or yellowish
Eyes Flush with water from a powder). To remove it, cover the
cup or other container for at least terminals with a solution of baking
fifteen minutes. (Water under soda and water. It will bubble up
pressure can damage the eye.) and turn brown. When this stops,
Immediately call a physician or 911. wash it off with plain water. Dry
off the battery with a cloth or paper
Skin Remove contaminated towel. Coat the terminals with
clothing. Flush the skin with large grease to help prevent future
quantities of water. Call a physi- corrosion.
cian immediately.
Swallowing Drink water or Check the battery condition by

milk. Call your local Poison Control looking at the test indicator
Center or a physician immediately. window on the battery:
Blue Good condition
Red Add distilled water
White Charging necessary
CONTINUED
Maintenance

Battery
If the terminals are severely cor- NOTICE

roded, clean them with baking soda
and water. Then use a wrench to Charging the battery with the
loosen and remove the cables from cables connected can seriously
the terminals. Always disconnect damage your car's electronic
the negative () cable first and controls. Detach the battery cables
reconnect it last. Clean the battery before connecting the battery to a
terminals with a terminal cleaning charger.
tool or wire brush. Reconnect and
tighten the cables, then coat the
terminals with grease.
If you need to connect the battery

to a charger, disconnect both cables
to prevent damage to the car's
electrical system.
Maintenance

Windshield Wipers
Check the condition of the wind- WIPER ARMS

shield wiper blades at least every
six months. Look for signs of crack-
ing in the rubber, or areas that are
getting hard. Replace the blades if
you find these signs, or they leave
streaks and unwiped areas when
used.
LOCK TAB
To replace: 2. Disconnect the blade assembly

from the wiper arm by pushing in
1. Raise the wiper arm off the the lock tab. Hold it in while you
windshield. push the blade assembly toward
the base of the arm.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

Windshield Wipers
5. Slide the new wiper blade into

BLADE BLADE the holder until the tabs lock.
6. Slide the blade assembly onto the

wiper arm. Make sure it locks in
place.
7. Lower the wiper arm down

against the windshield.
REINFORCEMENT
3. Remove the blade from its holder 4. Examine the new wiper blades. If
by grasping the tabbed end of the they have no plastic or metal rein-
blade. Pull firmly until the tabs forcement along the back edge,
come out of the holder. remove the metal reinforcement
strips from the old wiper blade
and install them in the slots along
the edge of the new blade.
Maintenance

Air Conditioner (Optional)
Your car's air conditioner is a light spray from a hose or a soft If the air conditioner does not get
sealed system. Any major mainte- brush to remove them. as cold as before, it is probably
nance, such as recharging, should because some of the refrigerant has
be done by a qualified technician. NOTICE leaked from the system. Have your
There are a couple of things you dealer check the system for leaks
can do to make sure the air condi- The condenser and radiator fins and recharge the system with
tioner works efficiently. bend easily. Only use a low- Refrigerant 12 (R-12).
pressure spray or soft-bristle brush Charging quantity:
AIR CONDITIONING to clean them. 600-650 g (21.2-23.0 oz)
CONDENSER
NOTICE
Run the air conditioner at least
once a week during the cold Whenever you have the air
weather months. Run it for at least conditioning system serviced, make
ten minutes while you are driving sure the service facility uses a
at a steady speed with the engine at refrigerant recycling system. This
normal operating temperature. system captures the refrigerant for
This circulates the lubricating oil reuse. Releasing refrigerant into
contained in the refrigerant. the atmosphere can damage the
environment.
Periodically check the engine's
radiator and air conditioning
condenser for leaves, insects, and
dirt stuck to the front surface.
These block the air flow and
reduce cooling efficiency. Use a
Maintenance

Engine Belts, Tires
Engine Belts If you see signs of wear or loose- Tires

ness, have your dealer adjust or Check the inflation and condition
ALTERNATOR BELT replace the belts. Your dealer will of your car's tires at least once a
check these belts as part of the month.
normal scheduled maintenance.
Inflation
Check the pressure in the tires
when they are cold. This means the
car has been parked for at least
three hours. If you have to drive
the car before checking the tire
pressure, the tires can still be
POWER STEERING BELT considered "cold" if you drive less
than one mile.
Check the condition of the two
engine belts. Examine the edges of If you check the pressure when the
each belt for cracks or fraying. tires are hot (the car has be,en
Check the tension of each belt by driven several miles), you will see
pushing on it with your thumb readings 28 to 41 kPa (0.3 to 0.4
midway between the pulleys. kg/cm 2 , 4 to 6 psi) higher than the
The belts should have the following cold reading. This is normal. Do not
"play" or deflection. let air out to match the specified
Alternator belt: cold pressure. The tire will be
7.0 10.5 mm (0.28 0.41 in) underinflated.
Power steering belt:
8.0 12.0 mm (0.31 0.47 in)
Maintenance

Tires
The correct cold tire pressures are: You should get your own tire Inspection
(US: DX, L X , Canada: LX, EX) pressure gauge and use it at all Every time you check inflation, you
220 kPa (2.2 kg/cm 2 , 32 psi) times. That makes it easier for you should also examine the tires for
(US: EX, Canada: EX-V) to tell if a pressure loss is caused by damage, foreign objects, and wear.
200 kPa (2.0 kg/cm 2 , 29 psi) a tire problem and not a variation
Compact spare: between gauges. You should look for:
415 kPa (4.15 kg/cm 2 , 60 psi)
Keeping the tires properly inflated Bumps or bulges in the tread or
provides you with the best combi- side of the tire. Replace the tire if
nation of riding comfort, handling you find either of these condi-
and tread life. Underinflated tires tions.
wear unevenly, reduce you car's
handling, and are more likely to fail Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side
because of higher temperatures. of the tire. Replace the tire if you
Overinflated tires make your car can see fabric or cord.
ride more harshly, are more prone
to damage from road hazards, and Excessive tread wear.
wear unevenly.
TIRE INFORMATION LABEL
These pressures are also given on

the tire information label in the
glove box. Remember to check the
pressure in the spare tire at the
same time.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

Tires
INDICATOR Maintenance Tire Rotation

LOCATION In addition to proper inflation,
MARKS correct wheel alignment helps to Front
decrease tire wear. You should get
your car's wheel alignment check-
ed every 12 months or 24,000 km
(15,000 miles).
The tires were properly balanced

by the factory. They may need to
be rebalanced at some time before
TREAD WEAR
INDICATORS they are worn out. Have your
dealer check the tires if you feel a
Your car's tires have wear indica- consistent vibration while driving.
tors molded into the tread. When A tire should always be rebalanced To help increase tire life and
the tread wears down to that point, if it is removed from the wheel. distribute wear more evenly, you
you will see a 12.7 mm (1/2 inch) Make sure the installer balances should have the tires rotated every
wide band running across the tread. the wheels when you have new 12,000 km (7,500 miles). Move the
This shows there is less than 1.6 tires installed. This increases riding tires to the positions shown in the
mm (1/16 inch) of tread left on the comfort and tire life. chart each time they are rotated.
tire. A tire that is this worn gives
very little traction on wet roads.
You should replace the tire if you
can see the tread wear indicator in
three or more places around the
tire.
Maintenance

Tires
Replacing Tires Wheels and Tires Treadwear

The tires that came with your The treadwear grade is a compara-
Honda were selected to match the Wheel: tive rating based on the wear rate
performance capabilities of the car (US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) of the tire when tested under con-
and provide the best combination of 13x5J trolled conditions on a specified
handling, ride comfort, and long life. (US: EX, Canada: EX-V) government test course. For exam-
You should replace them with 14x5J ple, a tire graded 150 would wear
radial tires of the same size, load one and one half (1-1/2) times as
range, and speed rating. Mixing Tire: well on the government course as a
radial and bias-ply or bias-belted (US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) tire graded 100. The relative per-
tires on your car can reduce its P175/70R13 formance of tires depends upon the
braking ability, traction, and (US: EX, Canada: EX-V) actual conditions of their use, how-
steering accuracy. P175/65R14 ever, and may depart significantly
It is best to replace all four tires at from the norm due to variations in
the same time. If that is not possi- DOT Tire Quality Grading driving habits, service practices
ble or necessary, then replace the (US Cars) and differences in road character-
two front tires or the two rear tires The tires on your car meet all U.S. istics and climate.
as a pair. Replacing just one tire Federal Safety Requirements. All
can seriously affect your car's han- tires are also graded for treadwear,
dling. traction, and temperature perform-
If you ever need to replace a wheel, ance according to Department of
make sure you use the same wheel Transportation (DOT) standards.
that originally came on your Honda. The following explains these
Replacement wheels are available gradings.
at your Honda dealer.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

Tires
Traction Temperature Warning: The temperature grade

The traction grades, from highest The temperature grades are A (the for this tire is established for a tire
to lowest, are A, B, and C, and they highest), B, and C, representing the that is properly inflated and not
represent the tire's ability to stop tire's resistance to the generation overloaded. Excessive speed,
on wet pavement as measured of heat and its ability to dissipate under inflation, or excessive loading,
under controlled conditions on heat when tested under controlled either separately or in combination,
specified government test surfaces conditions on a specified indoor can cause heat build-up and
of asphalt and concrete. A tire laboratory test wheel. Sustained possible tire failure.
marked C may have poor traction high temperature can cause the
performance. material of the tire to degenerate
and reduce tire life, and excessive
Warning: The traction grade as- temperature can lead to sudden tire
signed to this tire is based on brak- failure. The grade C corresponds to
ing (straight ahead) traction tests a level of performance which all
and does not include cornering passenger car tires must meet
(turning) traction. under the Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B
and A represent higher levels of
performance on the laboratory test
wheel than the minimum required
by law.
Maintenance

Tires
Winter Driving Snow Tires When installing chains, follow the

Tires that are marked "M+S" or If you mount snow tires on your manufacturers instructions and
"All Season" on the sidewall have Honda, make sure they are radial mount them as tightly as you can.
an all-weather tread design. They tires of the same size and load Drive slowly with chains installed.
should be suitable for most winter range as the original tires. Mount If you hear the chains contacting
driving conditions. Tires without snow tires on all four wheels to the body or chassis, stop and
these markings are designed for balance your car's handling in all tighten them. If they still make
optimum traction in dry conditions. weather conditions. Keep in mind contact, slow down until it stops.
They may not provide adequate the traction provided by snow tires Remove the chains as soon as you
performance in winter driving. on dry roads may not be as high as begin driving on cleared roads.
For the best performance in snowy your car's original-equipment tires.
or icy conditions, you should install You should drive cautiously even NOTICE
snow tires or tire chains. They may when the roads are clear. Check
be required by local laws under with the tire dealer for maximum Chains of the wrong size or that are
certain conditions. speed recommendations. improperly installed can damage
your car's brake lines, suspension,
Tire Chains body, and wheels. Stop driving if
Mount snow chains on your car you hear the chains hitting any part
when warranted by driving condi- of the car.
tions or required by local laws.
Make sure the chains are the cor-
rect size for your tires. Install them
only on the front tires. If metal
chains are used, they must be SAE
class"S". Cable type traction de-
vices can also be used.
Maintenance

Lights
Check the operation of your car's Replacing a Headlight Bulb BULB

exterior lights at least once a Your car has halogen headlight
month. A burned out bulb can bulbs, one on each side. When
create an unsafe condition by replacing a bulb, handle it by its
reducing your car's visibility and steel base and protect the glass
the ability to signal your intentions from contact with your skin or
to other drivers. hard objects. If you touch the glass,
Check the following: clean it with denatured alcohol and
clean cloth.
Headlights (low and high beam)
Parking lights NOTICE
Taillights COVER
Brake lights Halogen headlight bulbs get very
Turn signals hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a 1. Open the hood.
Back-up lights scratch on the glass can cause the If you need to change the
Hazard light function bulb to overheat and shatter. headlight bulb on the passenger's
License plate light side, remove the air intake tube
Side marker lights by pulling it straight up.
If you find any bulbs are burned 2. Remove the electrical connector
out, replace them as soon as from the bulb by squeezing the
possible. Refer to the chart on page connector to unlock the tab on
177 to determine what type of each side. Pull the connector
replacement bulb is needed. straight back.
Maintenance

Lights
3. Remove the rubber weather seal Replacing the Front Side

by pulling on the tab. Marker/Turn Signal and
Parking Light Bulb
4. Unclip the end of the hold-down
wire from its slot. Pivot it out of SCREW
the way and remove the bulb.
5. Insert the new bulb into the hole,

making sure the tabs are in their
slots. Pivot the hold-down wire
back in place and clip the end
into the slot.
6. Push the rubber weather seal

over the bulb. Make sure the tab
is on the top.
1. Use a phillips head screwdriver 2. Move the side marker light
7. Push the electrical connector to remove the screw from the top assembly forward until it slides
onto the tabs of the new bulb. of the fender. out of the body.
Turn on the headlights to test
the new bulb. 3. Turn the socket one-quarter turn
counterclockwise to remove it
8. (Passenger's side) from the lens.
Reinstall the air intake tube.
CONTINUED
Maintenance

Lights
4. Remove the bulb by pushing it in Replacing Rear Bulbs (in 4. To remove either the tail/
slightly and turning it counter- Fenders) stoplight bulb or the turn signal
clockwise. bulb, push it in slightly and turn
it counterclockwise. To remove
5. Install the new bulb in the socket. the side marker bulb, pull it
Turn it clockwise to lock it in straight out of the socket.
place. LOCK TABS
5. Install the new bulb in the socket.
6. Insert the socket back into the Insert the socket back in the
lens. Turn it clockwise to lock it taillight assembly and turn it
in place. clockwise to lock it in place.
7. Turn on the parking lights to 6. Test the new bulb. Reinstall the
make sure the new bulb works. COVER cover over the taillight assembly.
8. To reinstall the light assembly in 1. Open the trunk.

the fender, line up the guide on
the assembly with the metal tab 2. Remove the cover from the
next to the headlight and line up inside of the taillight assembly by
the fingers on the light assembly pushing on the tab.
with the holes in the fender.
Push the light assembly straight 3. Determine which of the three
back. bulbs is burned out: tail/stoplight,
turn signal, or side marker.
9. Install the mounting screw and Remove the socket for that bulb
tighten it securely. by turning it counterclockwise.
Maintenance

Lights
Replacing Rear Bulbs (in 3. Use a phillips head screwdriver High-mount Brake Light
Trunk Lid) to remove the two screws from
the bulb holder. Remove the
holder from the taillight assem-
bly.
4. Try the taillights and back-up

lights to verify which bulb needs
replacing. Remove that bulb
from the socket by pushing it in
slightly and turning it counter-
clockwise.
5. Install the new bulb in the socket.

Test it to make sure it works. 1. Open the trunk and remove the
1. Open the trunk. socket from the light assembly
6. Reinstall the bulb holder assem- by turning it one-quarter turn
2. Remove the electrical connector bly. Install the two screws and counterclockwise.
from its hold-down clip by sliding tighten them securely.
it sideways toward the center of 2. Remove the bulb by turning it
the car. one-quarter turn counterclock-
wise.
3. Install the new bulb and reinstall

the socket. Make sure the new
bulb is working.
Maintenance

Lights
Replacing a Rear License 3. Turn on the parking lights and Replacing Interior and Trunk
Bulb check that the new bulb is Light Bulbs
working.
INTERIOR LIGHT
4. Reinstall the lens. Reinstall the
two screws and tighten them
securely.
1. Remove the two screws and 1. Remove the lens by carefully

remove the lens. prying on the edge of the lens in
the middle with a fingernail file
2. Pull the bulb straight out of its or a small flat-tip screwdriver.
socket. Push the new bulb in Do not pry on the edge of the
until it bottoms in the socket. housing around the lens.
Maintenance

Lights
TRUNK LIGHT
2. Remove the bulb by pulling it

straight out of its metal tabs.
3. Push the new bulb into the metal

tabs. Snap the lens back in place.
Maintenance

Storing Your Car
If you need to park your car for an Block the rear wheels. If you store your car for 12 months
extended period (more than 1 or longer, have your Honda dealer
month), there are several things If the car is to be stored for a perform the inspections called for
you should do to prepare it for longer period, it should be in the 24 months/48,000 km (30,000
storage. Proper preparation helps supported on jackstands so the miles) maintenance schedule as
prevent deterioration and makes it tires are off the ground. soon as you take it out of storage
easier to get your car back on the (see page 103). The replacements
road. It is best to store your car Leave one window open slightly called for in the maintenance
indoors if at all possible. (if the car is being stored indoors). schedule are not needed unless the
car has actually reached that time
Fill the gas tank. Disconnect the battery. or mileage.
Change the engine oil and filter Cover the car with a
(see page 111). "breathable" car cover, one made
from a porous material such as
Wash and dry the exterior cotton. Nonporous materials,
completely. such as plastic sheeting, trap
moisture which can damage the
Clean the interior. Make sure the paint.
carpeting, floor mats, etc. are
completely dry. If possible, run the engine for a
while periodically (preferably
Leave the parking brake off. Put once a month).
the transmission in Reverse (5-
speed) or Park (automatic).
Maintenance

Main Menu
Appearance Care
Regular cleaning and polishing of

your Honda helps to keep it "new"
looking. This section gives you
hints on how to clean and preserve
your car's appearance: the paint,
brightwork, wheels and interior.
Also included are several things
you can do to help prevent
corrosion.
Exterior Care................................ 146

Washing..................................... 146
Waxing....................................... 147
Paint Touch-up......................... 147
Interior Care.................................. 149
Carpeting................................... 149
Fabric......................................... 149
Vinyl........................................... 149
Seat Belts................................... 149
Windows..................................... 150
Air Fresheners.......................... 150
Corrosion Protection................... 150
Body Repairs................................. 151
Appearance Care

Exterior Care
Washing Rinse the car thoroughly with When you have washed and
Frequent washing helps preserve cool water to remove loose dirt. rinsed the whole exterior, dry it
your car's beauty. Dirt and grit can with a chamois or soft towel.
scratch the paint, while tree sap Fill a bucket with cool water. Letting it air-dry will cause
and bird droppings can perma- Mix in a mild detergent, such as dulling and water spots.
nently ruin the finish. dishwashing liquid or a product
made especially for car washing. As you dry the car, inspect it for
Wash your car in a shady area, not chips and scratches that could
in direct sunlight. If the car is Wash the car, using the water allow corrosion to start. Repair
parked in the sun, move it into the and detergent solution and a soft- them with touch-up paint (see page
shade and let the exterior cool bristle brush, sponge or soft cloth. 147).
down before you start. Start at the top and work your
way down. Rinse frequently.
NOTICE
Check the body for road tar, tree
Chemical solvents and strong sap, etc. Remove these stains
cleaners can damage the paint, with tar remover or turpentine.
metal and plastic on your car. Only Rinse it off immediately so it
use the solvents and cleaners does not harm the finish. Remem-
recommended in this Owner's ber to re-wax these areas, even if
Manual. the rest of the car does not need
waxing.
Appearance Care

Exterior Care
Waxing Polishes Polishes and cleaner/ Paint Touch-up

Always wash and dry the whole car waxes can restore the shine to Your dealer has touch-up paint to
before waxing it. You should wax paint that has oxidized and lost match your car's color. The color
your car, including the metal trim, some of its shine. They normally code is printed on a sticker on the
whenever water sits on the surface contain mild abrasives and solvents driver's door jamb. Take this code
in large patches. It should form into that remove the top layer of the to your dealer so you are sure to
beads or droplets after waxing. finish. You should use a polish on get the correct color.
your Honda if the finish does not
You should use a quality liquid or have its original shine after using a
paste wax. Apply it according to wax.
the instructions on the container. In
general, there are two types of Cleaning tar, insects, etc. with
products: removers also takes off the wax.
Remember to re-wax those areas,
Waxes A wax coats the finish even if the rest of the car does not
and protects it from damage by need waxing.
exposure to sunlight, air pollution,
etc. You should use a wax on your
Honda when it is new.
Appearance Care

Exterior Care
Examine the chip or scratch closely

before repairing it. If it does not go
down to bare metal, clean it with
soap and water and apply the
touch-up paint. If it does go to the
metal, apply a coat of primer first.
After this dries, apply the touch-up
paint. Build up the paint in the
damaged area to the level of the
surrounding paint. Several thin
TOUCH-UP coats of paint are better than one
PAINT thick coat.
Inspect your car for chipped or

scratched paint every time you
wash it. Repair it as soon as
possible to prevent corrosion. Use
the touch-up paint on small chips
and scratches. More extensive
damage should be repaired by a
professional.
Appearance Care

Interior Care
Carpeting Vinyl
Vacuum the carpeting frequently Remove dirt and dust with a
to remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will vacuum cleaner. Wipe the vinyl
make the carpet wear out faster. with a soft cloth dampened in a
Periodically shampoo the carpet to solution of mild soap and water.
keep it looking new. Use one of the Use the same solution with a soft-
foam-type carpet cleaners on the bristle brush on more difficult spots.
market. Follow the instructions You can also use commercially-
that come with the cleaner, apply- available spray or foam-type vinyl
ing it with a sponge or soft brush. cleaners.
Keep the carpeting as dry as possi-
ble by not adding water to the foam. Seat Belts METAL LOOP
If your seat belts get dirty, you can
Fabric use a soft brush to clean them with Dirt build-up in the metal loops of
Vacuum dirt and dust out of the a mixture of mild soap and warm the seat belt anchors can cause the
material frequently. For general water. Do not use bleach, dye, or belts to retract slowly. Wipe the
cleaning, use a solution of mild soap cleaning solvents. They can inside of the loops with a clean
and lukewarm water, letting it air weaken the belt material. Let the cloth dampened in isopropyl alcohol.
dry. To clean off stubborn spots, belts air-dry before you use the car.
use a commercially-available fabric
cleaner. Test it on a hidden area of
the fabric first, to make sure it does
not bleach or stain the fabric.
Follow the instructions that come
with the cleaner.
Appearance Care

Interior Care, Corrosion Protection
Windows Air Fresheners Corrosion Protection

Clean the windows, inside and out, If you want to use an air freshener/ Two factors normally contribute to
with a commercially-available glass deodorizer in the interior of your causing corrosion in your car:
cleaner. You can also use a mixture Civic, it is best to use a solid type.
of one part white vinegar to ten Some liquid air fresheners contain 1. Moisture trapped in body cavi-
parts water. This will remove the chemicals that may cause parts of ties. Dirt and road salt that col-
haze that builds up on the inside of the interior trim and fabric to crack lects in hollows on the underside
the windows. Use a soft cloth or or discolor. of the car stays damp, promoting
paper towels to clean all glass and corrosion in that area.
clear plastic surfaces. If you use a liquid air freshener,
make sure you fasten it securely so 2. Removal of paint and protective
NOTICE it does not spill as you drive. coatings from the exterior and
underside of the car.
The rear window defogger wires
are bonded to the inside of the glass. Many corrosion-preventive mea-
Wiping vigorously up-and-down sures are built into your Honda.
can dislodge and break the defog- You can help keep your car from
ger wires. When cleaning the rear corroding by performing some
window, use gentle pressure and simple periodic maintenance:
wipe side-to-side.
Repair chips and scratches in the
paint as soon as you discover
them.
Appearance Care

Corrosion Protection, Body Repairs
Inspect and clean out the drain Body Repairs When reporting your collision to
holes in the bottom of the doors Body repairs affect your car's the insurance company, tell them
and body. resistance to corrosion. If your car you want genuine Honda parts
needs repairs after a collision, pay used in the repair. Although most
Check the floor coverings for close attention to the parts used in insurers recognize the higher
dampness. Carpeting and floor the repair and the quality of the quality of original parts, some may
mats may remain damp for a long work. try to specify that the repairs be
time, especially in winter. This done with the "lowest cost" parts
dampness can eventually cause Make sure the repair facility uses available. You should investigate
the floor panels to corrode. genuine Honda replacement body this before any repairs are begun.
parts. Some companies make
Use a high-pressure spray to sheetmetal pieces that seem to Take your car to your authorized
clean the underside of your car. duplicate the original Honda body Honda dealer for inspection after
This is especially important in parts, but are actually inferior in fit, the repairs are completed. He can
areas that use road salt in winter. finish, and quality. Once installed, make sure that quality materials
It is also a good idea in humid they do not give the same high- were used, and that corrosion-
climates and areas subject to salt quality appearance and level of preventive coatings were applied to
air. Cars equipped with ABS corrosion resistance. all repaired and replaced parts.
have a sensor and wiring at each
wheel. Be careful not to damage
them.
Have the corrosion-preventive

coatings on the underside of your
car inspected and repaired
periodically.
Appearance Care

Main Menu
Taking Care of the Unexpected
This section covers the more- Compact Spare Tire..................... 154

common problems that motorists Changing a Flat Tire................... 155
experience with their cars. It gives If Your Engine Won't Start........ 160
you information about how to Nothing Happens...................... 160
safely evaluate the problem and The Starter Operates
what to do to correct it. If the Normally................................ 161
problem has stranded you on the Jump Starting................................ 161
side of the road, you may be able to If Your Engine Overheats.......... 163
get going again. If not, you will also Low Oil Pressure.......................... 165
find instructions on getting your Charging System Indication ...... 166
car towed. Check Engine Light..................... 167
Closing the Moonroof.................. 168
Fuses............................................... 169
Checking and Replacing......... 170
Towing........................................... 172

Compact Spare Tire
Your car has a compact spare tire Follow these precautions whenever INDICATOR
that takes up less space. Use this you are using the compact spare LOCATION
spare tire as a temporary replace- tire: MARK
ment only. Get your regular tire
repaired or replaced and put back Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h)
on your car as soon as you can. under any circumstances.
Check the inflation of the compact This tire gives a harsher ride and
spare tire every time you check the less traction on some road sur-
other tires. It should be inflated to: faces than the regular tire. Use
415 kPa (4.15 kg/cm 2 , 60 psi) greater caution while driving on TREAD WEAR
this tire. INDICATOR
BAR
Do not mount snow chains on the The compact spare tire has a
compact spare. shorter tread life than a regular
tire. Replace it when you can see
The wheel of the compact spare the tread wear indicator bars. The
tire is designed especially to fit replacement should be the same
your car. Do not use your spare size and design tire, mounted on
tire on another car unless it is the the same wheel. The compact spare
same make and model. tire is not designed to be mounted
on a regular wheel, and the com-
pact wheel is not designed for
mounting a regular tire.

Changing a Flat Tire
If you have a flat tire while driving, SPARE TIRE TRUNK FLOOR 5. Unscrew the wing bolt and take
stop in a safe place to change it. the spare tire out of the trunk.
Stopping in traffic or on the shoul-
der of a busy road is dangerous.
Drive slowly along the shoulder
until you get to an exit or an area to TOOL
stop that is far away from the traf- KIT
fic lanes.
The car can easily roll off the JACK

jack, seriously injuring anyone
underneath. 2. Put the transmission in Park
(automatic) or Reverse (5-speed).
Follow the directions for chang- Set the parking brake.
ing a tire exactly, and never
get under the car when it is 3. Open the trunk. Raise the trunk
supported only by the jack. floor by lifting up on the back
edge.
1. Park the car on firm, level 4. Take the tool kit out of the trunk.
ground away from traffic. Turn
on the hazard warning lights and
turn the ignition to LOCK (0).
CONTINUED

JACK
JACKING
POINT
6. Turn the jack's end bracket 7. Loosen the four wheel nuts 1/2 8. Locate the jacking point nearest
counterclockwise to loosen it, turn with the wheel wrench. the tire you need to change. It is
then remove the jack. pointed to by an arrow molded
into the underside of the body.
Place the jack under the jacking
point. Turn the end bracket
clockwise until the top of the
jack contacts the jacking point.
Make sure the jacking point tab
is resting on the jack notch.

EXTENSION
BRAKE HUB
WHEEL WRENCH
9. Use the extension and wheel 10.Remove the wheel nuts and flat 11.Before mounting the spare tire,
wrench as shown to raise the car tire. Temporarily place the flat wipe any dirt off the mounting
until the flat tire is off the tire on the ground. surface of the wheel and hub
ground. with a cloth.
CONTINUED

12.Put on the spare tire. Put the 13.Lower the car to the ground and 14.Tighten the wheel nuts securely
wheel nuts back on finger-tight, remove the jack. in the same crisscross pattern.
then tighten them in a crisscross Have the wheel nut torque check-
pattern with the wheel wrench ed at the nearest automotive
until the wheel is firmly against service facility.
the hub. Do not try to tighten Tighten the wheel nuts to:
them fully. 110 N.m(11 kg-m, 80 Ib-ft)

WING BOLT 18.Store the jack in the trunk with

the end bracket on the left side.
SPACER Turn the jack's end bracket to
CONE
lock it in place. Store the tool kit.
19.Store the wheel cover or center

cap in the trunk.
15.Remove the wheel cover or

center cap.
Place the flat tire face down in
the trunk well.
16.Remove the spacer cone from

the wing bolt, turn it over, and
put it back on the bolt.
17.Secure the flat tire by screwing

the wing bolt back into its hole.

If Your Engine Won't Start
Diagnosing why your engine won't Nothing Happens or the Turn the ignition switch to
start falls into two areas, depending Starter Motor Operates Very START (III). If the headlights do
on what you hear when you turn Slowly not dim, check the condition of
the key to START (III): When you turn the ignition switch the fuses. If the fuses are OK,
to START (III), you do not hear the there is probably something
You hear nothing, or almost normal noise of the engine trying to wrong with the electrical circuit
nothing. The engine's starter start. You may hear a clicking for the ignition switch or starter
motor does not operate at all, or sound or series of clicks, or nothing motor. You will need a qualified
operates very slowly. at all. technician to determine the
Check these things: problem. (See Towing on page
You can hear the starter motor 172.)
operating normally, but the Check the transmission interlock.
engine does not start up and run. If you have a 5-speed, the clutch If the headlights dim noticeably
pedal must be pushed all the way or go out when you try to start
to the floor or the starter will not the engine, either the battery is
operate. With an automatic discharged or the connections
transmission, it must be in Park are corroded. Check the condi-
or Neutral. tion of the battery and terminal
connections (see page 126). You
Turn the ignition switch to ON can then try jump starting the
(II). Turn on the headlights and car from a booster battery (see
check their brightness. If the page 161).
headlights are very dim or don't
light at all, the battery is dis-
charged. See Jump Starting on
page 161.

If Your Engine Won't Start, Jump Starting
The Starter Operates Jump Starting To jump start your car:

Normally If your car's battery has run down,
In this case, the starter motor you may be able to start the engine 1. Open the hood and check the
sounds normal when you turn the by using a booster battery. physical condition of the battery
ignition switch to START (III), but Although this seems like a simple (see page 126 ). In very cold
the engine does not run. procedure, there are several precau- weather, check the condition of
tions you should take. Follow the the electrolyte. If it seems slushy
Are you using the proper starting directions closely. or like ice, do not try jump
procedure? Refer to Starting starting until it thaws.
the Engine on page 89.
NOTICE
Do you have gas? Turn the A battery can explode if you
ignition switch to ON (II) for a do not follow the correct If a battery sits in extreme cold, the
minute and watch the fuel gauge. procedure, seriously injuring electrolyte inside can freeze.
anyone nearby. Attempting to jump start with a
There may be an electrical frozen battery can cause it to
problem, such as no power to the Keep all sparks, open flames, rupture or explode.
fuel pump. Check all the fuses and smoking materials away
(see page 169). from the battery. 2. Turn off all the electrical acces-
sories: heater, A/C, stereo system,
If you find nothing wrong, you will lights, etc.
need a qualified technician to find You cannot start a Honda with an Put the transmission in Neutral
the problem. See Towing on page automatic transmision by pushing or Park and set the parking
172. or pulling it. brake.
CONTINUED

Jump Starting
BOOSTER BATTERY
3. Connect one jumper cable to the 4. Connect the second jumper cable 6. Start your car. If the starter
positive (+) terminal on the to the negative () terminal on motor still operates slowly, check
booster battery. Connect the the booster battery. Connect the the jumper cable connections to
other end to the positive (+) other end to the grounding strap make sure they have good metal-
terminal on your Honda's battery. as shown. Do not connect this to-metal contact.
jumper cable to any other part of
the engine. 7. Once your car is running,
disconnect the negative cable
5. If the booster battery is in from your car, then from the
another car, have an assistant booster battery. Disconnect the
start that car and run it at a fast positive cable from your car,
idle. then the booster battery.

If Your Engine Overheats
The pointer of your car's tempera- Your car can overheat for several 1. Safely pull to the side of the road.
ture gauge should stay in the mid- reasons, such as lack of coolant or a Put the transmission in neutral
range under most conditions. It mechanical problem. The only or Park and set the parking
may go higher if you are driving up indication may be the temperature brake. Turn off the climate
a long steep hill on a very hot day. gauge climbing to or above the red control and all other accessories.
If it climbs to the red mark, you mark. Or you may see steam or Turn on the hazard warning
should determine the reason. spray coming from under the hood. indicators.
In either case, you should take
NOTICE immediate action. 2. If you see steam and/or spray
coming from under the hood,
Driving with the temperature turn off the engine.
gauge pointer at the red mark can
cause serious damage to your Steam and spray from an over- 3. If you do not see steam or spray,
engine. heated engine cart seriously leave the engine running and
scald you. watch the temperature gauge. If
the high heat is due to overload-
Do not open the hood if steam ing (climbing a long, steep hill on
is coming out. a hot day with the A/C running,
for example), the engine should
start to cool down almost immedi-
ately. If it does, wait until the
temperature gauge comes down
to the midpoint then continue
driving.
CONTINUED

If Your Engine Overheats
4. If the temperature gauge stays at Let the engine cool down until 10.Start the engine and set the
the red mark, turn off the engine. the pointer reaches the middle of heater control lever to maximum.
the temperature gauge, or lower, Add coolant to the radiator up to
5. Wait until you see no more signs before checking the radiator. the base of the filler neck. If you
of steam or spray, then open the do not have the proper coolant
hood. mixture available, you can add
plain water. Remember to have
6. Look for any obvious coolant Removing the radiator cap the cooling system drained and
leaks, such as a split radiator while the engine is hot can refilled with the proper mixture
hose. Everything is still extreme- cause the coolant to spray out, as soon as you can.
ly hot, so use caution. If you find seriously scalding you.
a leak, it must be repaired before 11. Put the radiator cap back on
you continue driving (see Always let the engine and tightly. Run the engine and
T o w i n g on page 172). radiator cool down before watch the temperature gauge. If
removing the radiator cap. it goes back to the red mark, the
7. If you don't find an obvious leak, engine needs repair. (See
check the coolant level in the Towing on page 172.)
radiator reserve tank (see page 9. Using gloves or a large heavy
113 ). If the level is below the cloth, turn the radiator cap 12.If the temperature stays normal,
M I N mark, add coolant to half- counterclockwise, without check the coolant level in the
way between the MIN and MAX pushing down, to the first stop. radiator reserve tank. If it has
marks. This releases any remaining gone down, add coolant to the
pressure in the cooling system. MAX mark. Put the cap back on
8. If there was no coolant in the After the pressure releases, push tightly.
reserve tank, you may also have down on the cap and turn it until
to add coolant to the radiator. it comes off.

Low Oil Pressure
1. Safely pull off the road and shut 4. Start the engine and watch the
LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT
off the engine. oil pressure light. If the light
does not go out within ten
2. Let the car sit for a minute. Open seconds, turn off the engine.
the hood and check the oil level There is a mechanical problem
(see page 109 ). Although oil level that needs to be repaired before
and oil pressure are not directly you can continue driving. (See
connected, an engine that is very T o w i n g on page 172.)
low on oil can lose pressure
during cornering and other
driving maneuvers.
3. If necessary, add oil to bring the

The low oil pressure light should level back to the full mark on the
never come on when the engine is dipstick (see page 109).
running. If this light comes on with
the engine running, take immediate
action.
NOTICE
Running the engine with low oil
pressure can cause serious mechani-
cal damage almost immediately.
Turn off the engine as soon as you
can safely get the car stopped.

Charging System Indication
Immediately turn off all electrical By eliminating as much of the

accessories: radio, heater, A/C, rear electrical load as possible, you can
CHARGING SYSTEM LIGHT defogger, cruise control, etc. Try drive several miles before the
not to use other electrically- battery is too discharged to keep
operated controls such as the the engine running. Drive to a
power windows. Keep the engine service station or garage where you
running and take extra care not to can get technical assistance.
stall it. Starting the engine will
discharge the battery rapidly.
The charging system light should

go out after the engine starts. If it
comes on brightly with the engine
running, the alternator is no longer
charging the battery.

Check Engine Light
If this light comes on, safely pull NOTICE

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT off the road and turn off the engine.
Restart the engine and watch the If you keep driving with the check
check engine light. If it stays on, engine light on, you can damage
have your car checked by the your car's emission controls and
dealer as soon as possible. You engine. Those repairs are not
should also have the dealer inspect covered by your car's warranties.
your car if the light comes on
frequently, even though it goes off
when you do the above procedure.
If the check engine light comes on

while driving, there is a problem
with your engine or its emission
control systems. Even though you
may feel no difference in your car's
performance, it can reduce your
fuel economy and cause your car to
put out excessive emissions.
Continued operation may cause
serious engine damage.

Closing the Moonroof
If the electric motor will not close

ROUND PLUG
the moonroof, do the following:
SOCKET
1. Check the fuse for the moonroof
motor (see page 169 ). If the fuse
is blown, replace it with one of
the same or lower rating.
2. Try closing the moonroof. If the

new fuse blows immediately or
the moonroof motor still does not
operate, you can close the
moonroof manually.
4. Use a screwdriver or coin to 5. Insert the moonroof wrench into
3. Get the tool kit out of the trunk. remove the round plug in the the socket behind this plug. Turn
center of the headliner. the wrench until the moonroof is
fully closed.
6. Remove the wrench. Replace the

round plug.

Fuses
All the electrical circuits in your UNDER- TAB

car have fuses to protect them HOOD
from a short circuit or overload.
These fuses are located in two fuse
boxes.
The underhood fuse box is located Cars equipped with ABS have a
in the engine compartment next to third fuse box for the ABS. It is in
the battery. To open, push the tab the front of the engine compart-
as shown. ment on the passenger's side.
CONTINUED

Fuses
INTERIOR Checking and Replacing

Fuses
If something electrical in your car
stops working, the first thing you
should check for is a blown fuse.
Determine from the chart on the
fuse box cover or inside the fuse
box which fuse or fuses control
that component. Check those fuses
first, but check all the fuses before
deciding that is not the cause. BLOWN
Replace any blown fuses and check
the component's operation.
The interior fuse box is underneath 3. Check each of the large fuses in
the dashboard on the driver's side. 1. Turn the ignition switch to the underhood fuse box by
Remove the fuse box lid by swing- LOCK (0). Make sure the head- looking through the top at the
ing the lid down and pulling it lights and all other accessories wire inside. Removing these
straight out of its hinges. are off. fuses requires a phillips head
screwdriver.
2. Remove the cover from the fuse
box.

Fuses
If you replace the burned out fuse

FUSE PULLER BLOWN with a spare fuse that has a lower
rating, it might blow out again.
This does not indicate anything
wrong. Replace the fuse with one
of the correct rating as soon as you
can.
NOTICE
Replacing a fuse with one that has
a higher rating greatly increases
the chances of damaging the
4. Check the smaller fuses in the 5. Look for a burned wire inside the electrical system. If you do not
underhood fuse box and all the fuse. If it is burned out, replace it have a replacement fuse with the
fuses in the interior fuse box by with one of the spare fuses of the proper rating for the circuit, install
pulling out each fuse with the same rating or lower. one with a lower rating.
fuse puller provided in the
interior fuse box. If you cannot drive the car without
fixing the problem, and you do not 6. If the replacement fuse of the
have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating burns out in a short
same rating or a lower rating from time, there is probably a serious
one of the other circuits. Make sure electrical problem in your car.
you can do without that circuit Leave the burned out fuse in that
temporarily (such as the rear circuit and have your car check-
window defogger, or radio). ed by a qualified technician.

Towing
If your car needs to be towed, call a Sling-type Equipment The tow NOTICE
professional towing service or, if truck uses metal cables with hooks
you belong to one, an organization on the ends. These hooks go around Improper towing preparation will
that provides roadside assistance. parts of the frame or suspension damage the transmission. Follow
Never tow your car behind another and the cables lift that end of the the above procedure exactly. If you
car with just a rope or chain. It is car off the ground. Your car's sus- cannot shift the transmission or
very dangerous. pension and body can be seriously start the engine (automatic trans-
damaged if this method of towing mission), your car must be trans-
Emergency Towing is attempted. ported on a flat-bed.
There are three popular methods of
towing a car: If your Honda cannot be trans- It is best to tow the car no far-
ported by flat-bed, it should be ther than 80 km (50 miles), and
Flat-bed Equipment The towed with the front wheels off the keep the speed below 35 mph (55
operator loads your car on the back ground. If due to damage, your car km/h).
of a truck. This is the best way must be towed with the front
of transporting your Honda. wheels on the ground, do the NOTICE
following:
Wheel Lift Equipment The tow Trying to lift or tow your car by
truck uses two pivoting arms that 5-Speed Transmission the bumpers will cause serious
go under the tires (front or rear) Release the parking brake. damage. The bumpers are not
and lift them off the ground. The Shift the transmission to Neutral. designed to support the car's wight.
other two wheels remain on the Automatic Transmission
ground. Release the parking brake.
Start the engine.
Shift to D4, then to N.
Turn off the engine.

Main Menu
Technical Information
The diagrams in this section give Identification Numbers............... 174

you the dimensions and capacities Specifications................................ 176
of your Honda, and the locations of Anti-lock Brake System.............. 178
the identification numbers. The Supplemental Restraint
explanations of several electronic System........................................ 179
and mechanical systems on your Emission Controls........................ 180
Honda are for the more technically- The Clean Air Act.................... 180
oriented owner. Crankcase Emission Control
System.................................... 180
Evaporative Emission Control
System.................................... 180
Exhaust Emission Controls.... 181
PGM-FI System.................... 181
Ignition Timing Control
System................................ 181
Catalytic Converter............. 181
Replacement Parts................... 181
Catalytic Converter..................... 182

Identification Numbers
Your car has several identifying

numbers located in various places.
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
The Vehicle Identification Number
(VIN) is the 17-digit number your
Honda dealer uses to register your
car for warranty purposes. It is also
necessary for licensing and insur-
ing your car. The easiest place to
find the VIN is on a plate fastened
to the top of the dashboard. You
can see it by looking through the
windshield on the driver's side. It is
also on the Certification label at-
tached to the driver's door jamb,
and is stamped on the engine com-
partment bulkhead. The V I N is
also provided in bar code on the
Certification label.
CERTIFICATION LABEL

Identification Numbers
The Engine Number is stamped TRANSMISSION NUMBER

into the engine block.
The Transmission Number is on a

label on top of the transmission.
ENGINE NUMBER

Specifications
page 126.
* 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine.
Reserve tank capacity:
1 : US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX
* 2 : US: EX, Canada: EX-V 0.4 (0.11 US gal, 0.09 Imp gal)
*
* 23 :: US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX
* US: EX, Canada: EX-V
* 4 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.

Specifications
* 1 : US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX

* 2 : US: EX, Canada: EX-V

Anti-lock Brake System
The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Each wheel has a wheel speed unit de-energizes the solenoid. This
is standard equipment on the Civic sensor assembly. As the wheel builds hydraulic pressure on the
EX sold in the U.S. and EX-V sold rotates, the sensor sends electrical modulator valve. The pressure in-
in Canada. It is not available on any pulses to the ABS control unit. The creases in the hydraulic line to the
other models. pulse frequency varies with the wheel.
wheel speed.
The ABS works by measuring and For the system to react quickly, the
comparing how fast the wheels are The electrical output of the ABS modulator/solenoid unit must have
turning during braking and control unit is connected to the brake fluid under high pressure.
comparing their speed. If any wheel modulator/solenoid unit. During This is supplied by an accumulator
is rotating much slower than the braking, the ABS control unit that is pressurized by an electric
others (on the verge of locking up monitors the pulse frequencies pump. A pressure-sensing switch
and skidding), the system reduces from the four wheels. When the on the accumulator controls this
hydraulic pressure to that wheel's control unit detects a wheel locking pump.
brake caliper. When that wheel's up, it energizes the appropriate
speed matches the other wheels, solenoid in the modulator/solenoid The control unit also contains error
the system applies normal unit. There are three solenoids: one detection circuitry. It monitors the
hydraulic pressure. This can take for each front wheel, and one for operation of the wheel sensors,
place several times per second at the rear wheels. The energized solenoids, pump, and electronics. If
each wheel. You feel the ABS solenoid reduces hydraulic pres- the control unit detects any faults,
working as rapid pulsations in the sure to one side of a modulator it shuts off power to the pump
brake pedal. valve. This, in turn, reduces hydrau- motor and solenoids. The light on
lic pressure in the brake line going the instrument panel comes on.
to the affected wheel. When that The brakes then work like a
wheel speeds up because of the re- conventional system without anti-
duced braking effort, the control lock capabilities.

The Honda Supplemental Restraint The electrical charge sent to the To ensure long-term reliability, the
System (SRS) is standard on all airbag assembly ignites its propel- SRS uses gold-plated electrical
Civics sold in the U.S. and the lant, which burns instantaneously. connections throughout. Exposed
Canadian EX-V model. The gas produced by the burning components are sealed with epoxy.
The SRS includes the steering propellant inflates the airbag in The control unit monitors the SRS
wheel airbag assembly, sensors in about 40 milliseconds (1/25 of a circuitry whenever the ignition is
the dashboard, and a control unit second). ON (II). If the control unit senses
with sensors behind the center any faults, it turns on the SRS
console. The airbag is vented so it stays indicator light on the instrument
inflated for only an instant and panel. Take the car to your Honda
The sensors are decelerometers, does not block the driver's vision. dealer to diagnose and repair the
set to trigger in a frontal impact Smoke from the burned propellant system as soon as possible.
that generates more force than a 10 comes out of the airbag and into
mile per hour barrier crash. For the the car's interior. This is normal The SRS needs no regular mainte-
SRS to activate, at least two sen- and does not mean there is a fire. nance other than an inspection by
sors must trigger. This duplication The airbag collapses onto the your Honda dealer ten years after
is to prevent accidental activation. driver's lap. manufacture.
When the control unit receives The airbag unit can inflate only one
trigger signals from at least two time. After use, your Honda dealer
sensors, it sends voltage to the must check the complete Supple-
airbag. The control unit stores this mental Restraint System and re-
charge in capacitors to insure place the airbag assembly.
reliability even if a severe impact
damages the car's battery or
electrical connections.

Emission Controls
The burning of gasoline in your The Clean Air Act Crankcase Emission Control
car's engine produces several by- The Clean Air Act* sets standards System
products. Some of these are carbon for automobile emissions. It also Your car has a Positive Crankcase
monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen requires that automobile manufac- Ventilation (PCV) System. This
(NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). turers explain to owners how their keeps gasses that build up in the
Gasoline evaporating from the tank emission controls work and what to engine's Crankcase from going into
also produces hydrocarbons. Con- do to maintain them. This section the atmosphere. The PCV valve
trolling the production of NOx, CO, summarizes how the emission con- routes them from the crankcase
and HC is important to the environ- trols work. Scheduled maintenance back to the intake manifold. They
ment. Under certain conditions of is on page 103. are then drawn into the engine and
sunlight and climate, NOx and HC burned.
react to form photochemical "smog." * In Canada, Honda vehicles
Carbon monoxide does not contri- comply with the Canadian Motor Evaporative Emission
bute to smog creation, but it is a Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) Control System
poisonous gas. on Emissions valid at the time they As gasoline evaporates in the fuel
are manufactured. tank, a canister filled with charcoal
adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in
this canister while the engine is off.
After the engine is started and
warmed up, the vapor is drawn into
the engine and burned during
driving.

Emission Controls
Exhaust Emission Controls Ignition Timing Control System Replacement Parts

The exhaust emission controls This system constantly adjusts the The emission control systems are
include three systems: PGM-FI, ignition timing, reducing the designed and certified to work to-
Ignition Timing Control and amount of HC, CO and NOx gether in reducing emissions to
Catalytic Converter. These four produced. levels that comply with the Clean
systems work together to control Air Act. To make sure the emis-
the engine's combustion and Catalytic Converter sions remain low, you should use
minimize the amount of HC, CO, The catalytic converter is in the only new genuine Honda replace-
and NOx that comes out the exhaust system. Through chemical ment parts or their equivalent for
tailpipe. The exhaust emission reactions, it converts HC, CO, and repairs. Using lower quality parts
control systems are separate from NOx in the engine's exhaust to may increase the emissions from
the crankcase and evaporative carbon dioxide (CO2), dinitrogen your car.
emission control systems. (N2), and water vapor.
The emissions control systems are
PGM-FI System covered by warranties separate
The PGM-FI System on your car from the rest of your car. Read
has three sub systems: Air Intake, your warranty manual for more
Electronic Control, and Fuel information.
Control. The Electronic Control
Unit (ECU) uses various sensors to
determine how much air is going
into the engine. It then controls
how much fuel to inject under all
operating conditions.

Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter contains Keep the engine tuned-up.

platinum and rhodium. These
metals serve as catalysts, pro- Have your car diagnosed and
moting chemical reactions to con- repaired if it is misfiring, back-
vert the exhaust gasses without firing, continuing to run after
affecting the metals. The catalytic you turn off the engine, stalling,
converter is referred to as a three- or otherwise not running proper-
way catalyst, since it acts on HC, ly.
CO, and NOx. A replacement unit
must be an original Honda part or
its equivalent.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
The catalytic converter must ope-
rate at a high temperature for the A defective catalytic converter
chemical reactions to take place. It contributes to air pollution, and can
can set on fire any combustible impair your engine's performance.
materials that come near it. Park Follow these guidelines to protect
your car away from high grass, dry your car's catalytic converter.
leaves, or other flammables.
Always use unleaded gasoline.
Even a small amount of leaded
gasoline can contaminate the
catalyst metals, making the
converter ineffective.

Main Menu
Warranty and Customer Relations
Warranty Coverages.................... 184

Customer Relations
Information................................ 185
U.S. Zone Office Map.................. 186
Canada Zone Office Map............ 187
Authorized Manuals.................... 189

Warranty Coverages
U.S. Cars Seat Belt Limited Warranty A Replacement Battery Limited

Your new Honda is covered by seat belt that fails to function Warranty provides coverage for
these warranties: properly is covered for the useful up to 36 months, with 100% cover-
life of the car. age for the first 12 months.
New Car Limited Warranty
provides coverage for defects in Rust Perforation Limited Replacement Muffler Lifetime
materials and warkmanship for 3 Warranty body panels that rust Limited Warranty provides
years or 36,000 miles. through from the inside will be coverage for as long as the pur-
repaired or replaced for up to 36 chaser of the muffler owns the car.
Emission Control Systems De- months. There is no mileage limit.
fects Warranty and Emissions There are restrictions and exclu-
Performance Warranty these Accessory Limited Warranty sions which apply to all these war-
two warranties cover your car's Genuine Honda Accessories are ranties. Please read the 1992 Honda
emission control systems. Time, covered under this warranty. Time Warranties booklet that came with
mileage, and coverage are condi- and mileage limits depend on the your car for precise information on
tional. Please read the warranty type of accessory and other factors. warranty coverages. Your Honda's
manual for exact information. Please read your warranty manual original tires are covered by their
for details. manufacturer. Tire warranty infor-
Original Equipment Battery mation is in a separate booklet.
Limited Warranty provides Replacement Parts Limited
coverage for 36 months, with 100% Warranty provides coverage for Canada Cars
coverage for the first 24 months. defects in materials and workman- Please refer to the 1992 Warranty
ship for 12 months or 12,000 miles. and Maintenance Guide that came
with your car.

Customer Relations Information
Honda dealership personnel are If you are dissatisfied with the When you call or write, please give
trained professionals. They should decision made by the dealership's us this information:
be able to answer all your questions. management, contact your Honda
If you encounter a problem that Customer Relations Zone Office. Vehicle Identification Number
your dealership does not solve to Refer to the U.S. and Canadian (see page 174)
your satisfaction, please discuss it Zone Office maps on the following Name and address of the dealer
with the dealership's management. pages. who services your car
The Service Manager or General Date of purchase
Manager can help. Almost all Mileage on your car
problems are solved in this way. Your name, address, and tele-
phone number
A detailed description of the
problem
Name of the dealer who sold the
car to you

U.S. Zone Office Map
Western Zone Mid-Atlantic Zone

P.O. Box 2260 902 Wind River Ln., Suite 200
700 Van Ness Avenue Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878
Torrance, California (301) 990-2020
90509-2260
(213)781-4565 Southeastern Zone
1500 Morrison Parkway
Northwestern Zone Alpharetta, Georgia 30201
P.O. Box 20186 (404) 442-2045
12439 N.E. Airport Way
Portland, Oregon 97220 North Central Zone
(503) 256-0943 601 Campus Drive, Suite A-9
(also includes Alaska and Hawaii) Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004
(708) 870-5600
South Central Zone
4529 Royal Lane New England Zone
Irving, Texas 75063 555 Old County Road
(214)929-5481 Windsor Locks, Connecticut 06096
(203) 623-3310
Central Zone See Zone 5 for:
101 South Stanfield Road NYC Metro area and
Troy, Ohio 45373 Fairfield County, CT area
(513) 332-6250
West Central Zone
Northeastern Zone 1600 South Abilene Street, Suite D
P.O. Box 337 Aurora, Colorado 80012
Eastgate Industrial Park (303) 696-3935
115 Gaither Drive
Moorestown, New Jersey 08057 Puerto Rico and U.S. V.I.
The addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannot reach (609) 235-5533 Bella International
your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the current information. Includes: NYC Metro area and P.O. Box 816
Fairfield County, CT area Hato Rey, PR 00919
(809) 765-8070
Customer Relations

Canada Zone Office Map
Western Zone Quebec Zone

Honda Canada Inc. Honda Canada Inc.
13240 Worster Court 1401 rue Ampere
Richmond, B.C. Boucherville, Quebec
V6B 2B8 J4B 6C5
(604) 278-7121 (514) 655-6161
Prairie Zone Atlantic Zone

Honda Canada Inc. Honda Canada Inc.
1839 Inkster Blvd. 800 Windmill Road
Winnipeg, Manitoba Dartmouth, N.S.
R2X 1R3 B3B 1L1
(204) 632-8650 (902) 468-4416
Central Zone
Honda Canada Inc.
305 Milner Avenue
Suite 105
Scarborough, Ontario
M1B 3V4
(416) 299-3400
Customer Relations

Authorized Manuals
A Factory-Authorized Manual is Available for (Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners
Your Vehicle. should contact their authorized Honda dealer.)
The following publications covering the operation and
servicing of your vehicle can be obtained from Helm
Incorporated, either by filling out the form or, for credit
card holders, calling toll free. For manuals prior to the
year shown below, contact Helm Incorporated, P.O.
Box 07280, Detroit, Michigan 48207, or call (313) 883-
1430. By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can pay by check or
money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to Helm, Incorporated at the address
shown below.
61SR300
61SR300EL
61SR330
31SR4600
HON-R

Authorized Manuals
Service Manual:
This manual covers maintenance and recommended
procedures for repair to engine and chassis components.
It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is
simple enough for most mechanically-inclined owners
to understand.
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:

This manual complements the Service Manual by
providing in-depth troubleshooting information for
each electrical circuit in your car.
Body Repair Manual:

This manual describes the procedures involved in the
replacement of damaged body parts.
P O BOX 07280 DETROIT. MICHIGAN 48207 (313) 883-1430

Main Menu
Index
Steering Wheel........................... 41 Shift Lock Release..................... 95

Airbag (SRS).................................... 11
Accessories Air Conditioning............................. 66
Installation................................... 85 Maintenance.............................. 131
ACCESSORY Usage............................................ 66 Battery
(Ignition Key Position).............. 46 Air Filter........................................ 123 Charging System Light............. 31
Adding Air Outlets (Vents)......................... 64 Jump Starting............................ 161
Automatic Transmission Air Pressure, Tires ...................... 132 Maintenance.............................. 126
Fluid........................................ 118 Alcohol and Drugs.......................... 23 Specifications............................ 177
Brake Fluid................................ 120 Alcohol in Gasoline........................ 76 Before Driving................................ 77
Clutch Fluid............................... 121 Antifreeze...................................... 113 Belts, Seat....................................... 4
Engine Oil.................................. 109 Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Body Repair................................... 151
Manual Transmission Fluid... 119 Description................................ 178 Brakes
Power Steering Fluid .............. 122 Indicator Light..................... 32, 98 Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 97
Radiator Coolant...................... 113 Operation..................................... 98 Break-in, New Linings.............. 78
Windshield Washer fluid......... 117 Anti-theft Steering Column Fluid............................................ 120
Additional Safety Information..... 15 Lock........................................... 46 Light, Burned-out.................... 138
Seat-back Position..................... 15 Appearance Care.......................... 145 Parking........................................ 57
Door Locks.................................. 16 Ashtrays........................................... 60 System Light............................... 31
Storing Cargo Safely ................. 16 Audio System.................................. 71 Wear Indicators.......................... 96
Driving with Pets....................... 16 Automatic Speed Control............. 42 Brakes, ABS
Additives, Engine Oil................... 110 Automatic Transmission.............. 92 Description................................ 178
Adjustments Capacity, Fluid......................... 176 Operation..................................... 98
Head Restraints.......................... 51 Checking Fluid Level.............. 118 System Indicator.................. 32, 98
Mirrors......................................... 55 Shifting......................................... 92 Braking System.............................. 96
Seats.............................................. 50 Shift Lever Positions................. 92 CONTINUED

Main Menu
Index
Break-in, New Car ......................... 78 Catalytic Converter..................... 182 Cleaner, Air................................... 123
Brightness Control, CAUTION, Explanation of............ ii Cleaning
Instruments................................. 38 Certification Label....................... 174 Exterior...................................... 146
Brights, Headlights........................ 37 Chains............................................. 137 Interior....................................... 149
Bulb Replacement Change Oil Seat Belts................................... 149
Back-up Lights......................... 141 How to......................................... 111 Vinyl........................................... 149
Brake Lights .....................140, 141 When to...................................... 103 CLEAN Light................................ 76
Front Parking Lights .............. 139 Changing a Flat Tire................... 155 Clock, Setting the.......................... 58
Front Side Marker Lights...... 139 Changing Engine Coolant........... 114 Clutch Fluid................................... 121
Headlights................................. 138 Charging System Light........ 31, 166 CO in the Exhaust........................ 180
High-mount Brake Light........ 141 Check Engine Light.............. 32, 167 Cold Weather, Starting in............. 90
License Plate Lights................ 142 Checking Compact Spare.............................. 154
Rear Side Marker Lights........ 140 Automatic Transmission Console Compartment................... 59
Specifications............................ 177 Fluid........................................ 118 Consumer Information................ 185
Turn Signal Lights................... 139 Battery Condition..................... 126 Controls, Instruments and............ 27
Bulbs, Halogen.............................. 138 Brake Fluid................................ 120 Coolant
Clutch Fluid............................... 121 Adding........................................ 113
Engine Belts.............................. 132 Checking.................................... 113
Engine Oil.................................. 109 Proper Solution......................... 113
Cables, Jump Starting With ....... 162 Fuses........................................... 169 Temperature Gauge.................. 35
Capacities Chart........................... 176 Manual Transmission Fluid... 119 Corrosion Protection................... 150
Carbon Monoxide Hazard ............ 24 Power Steering Fluid .............. 122 Crankcase Emission Control
Cargo, Loading............................... 86 Radiator Coolant...................... 113 System........................................ 180
Cassette Player Checklist, Before Driving............. 88 Cruise Control Operation.............. 42
Care............................................... 76 Child Safety..................................... 17 Cup Holder....................................... 59
Operation..................................... 75 Cigarette Lighter........................... 60 Customer Relations Office......... 185

Main Menu
Index
Driving............................................. 87 Specifications............................ 176

Economy...................................... 84 Ethanol in Gasoline........................ 78
DANGER, Explanation of.............. ii In Bad Weather........................... 98 Evaporative Emission
Dashboard...................................... 28 In Foreign Countries................. 79 Controls...................................... 180
Daytime Running Lights.............. 37 Exhaust Fumes............................... 24
Dead Battery, What to Do........... 161 Expectant Mothers, Use of
Defects, Reporting Safety............ 25 Seat Belts by................................ 10
Defogger, Rear Window ............... 40 Economy, Fuel................................ 84 Exterior, Cleaning the................. 146
Defrosting the Windows............... 70 Emergencies on the Road........... 153
DEXRON II Automatic Battery, Jump Starting............ 161
Transmission Fluid.................. 118 Changing a Flat Tire............... 155
Dimensions.................................... 176 Charging System Light........... 166 Fabric, Cleaning........................... 149
Dimming the Headlights .............. 37 Check Engine Light................. 167 Fan, Interior.................................... 66
Dipstick Checking the Fuses................. 170 Fan, Radiator.................................. 26
Automatic Transmission........ 118 Low Oil Pressure Light........... 165 Features, Comfort
Engine Oil.................................. 109 Manually Closing Moonroof .. 168 and Convenience........................ 63
Directional Signals......................... 38 Overheated Engine.................. 163 Filling the Gas Tank ..................... 80
Disabled, Towing Your Car If ... 172 Emergency Brake.......................... 57 Filters
Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 96 Emergency Flashers...................... 40 Air............................................... 123
Disposal of Used Oil..................... 112 Emission Controls........................ 180 Fuel........................................... 124
Doors Engine Oil................................................. 111
Locking and Unlocking ............ 47 Check Light....................... 32, 167 First Gear, Shifting........................ 91
Power Door Locks ..................... 47 Coolant Temperature Gauge.. 35 5-Speed Transmission
DOT Tire Quality Grading......... 135 Oil Pressure Light..............31, 165 Checking Fluid Level.............. 119
Downshifting, Oil, What Kind to Use.............. 110
5-speed Transmission................ 91 Overheating............................... 164 CONTINUED

Main Menu
Index
5-Speed Transmission, High Beams, Turning on.......... 37

Shifting the.................................. 91 Low Beams, Turning on........... 37
Flashers, Hazard Warning........... 40 Gas Mileage, Improving ............... 84 Reminder Chime........................ 37
Flat Tire, Changing a.................. 155 Gasohol............................................. 78 Replacing Halogen Bulbs ....... 138
Fluids Gasoline............................................ 78 Turning on................................... 37
Automatic Transmission........ 118 Filter......................................... 124 Heating and Cooling...................... 64
Brake.......................................... 120 Gauge............................................ 35 High Altitude, Starting at............ 90
Clutch......................................... 121 Octane Requirement................. 78 High-Low Beam Switch ............... 37
Manual Transmission.............. 119 Tank, Filling the ........................ 80 Hood, Opening the.......................... 81
Power Steering......................... 122 Gas Station Procedures................. 80 Horn.................................................. 45
Windshield Washer.................. 117 Gauges Hot Coolant, Warning about...... 113
FM Stereo Radio Engine Coolant Temperature.. 35 Hydraulic Clutch.......................... 121
Reception..................................... 71 Fuel............................................. 35 Hydroplaning ................................. 99
Folding Rear Seat........................... 51 Gearshift Lever Positions
Foreign Countries, Driving in...... 79 Automatic Transmission.......... 92
Four-way Flashers......................... 40 5-speed Transmission................ 91
Front End, Towing by Emergency Glass Cleaning.............................. 150 Identification Number,
Wrecker...................................... 172 Glove Box........................................ 57 Vehicle....................................... 174
Fuel................................................... 78 If Your Car Has to be Towed..... 172
Filler Door and Cap.................... 80 Ignition
Filter........................................... 124 Keys............................................. 45
Gauge............................................ 28 Halogen Headlight Bulbs............ 138 Switch........................................... 46
Octane Requirement................. 78 Hazard Warning Flashers............ 40 Timing Control System........... 181
Oxygenated................................. 78 Headlights Indicator Lights, Instrument
Tank, Filling the ........................ 80 Daytime Running Lights.......... 37 Panel............................................ 29
Fuses, Checking the .................... 169 High Beam Indicator................. 33 Infant Restraint.............................. 19

Main Menu
Index
Inflation, Proper Tire.................. 133 Lighter, Cigarette.......................... 60 Schedule............................. 103-104

Inside Mirror................................... 55 Lights Manual Transmission.................... 91
Inspection, Tire............................. 132 Bulb Replacement.................... 138 Manual Transmission Fluid....... 119
Instrument Panel............................ 28 Indicator..................................... 29 Maximum Shift Speeds................. 92
Instrument Panel Brightness....... 38 Parking......................................... 37 Meters, Gauges............................... 34
Interior Cleaning.......................... 149 Turn Signal................................. 38 Methanol in Gasoline..................... 79
Interior Lights................................ 61 Loading Cargo................................ 86 Mirrors, Adjusting......................... 55
Introduction........................................ i LOCK (Ignition Key Position)..... 46 Moonroof......................................... 54
Locks Closing Manually..................... 168
Anti-theft Steering Column..... 46 Operation..................................... 54
Fuel Filler Door.......................... 80
Jacking up the Car....................... 156 Glove Box.................................... 57
Jack, Tire....................................... 155 Power Door.................................. 47
Jump Starting................................ 161 Locks Neutral Gear Position ................... 94
Trunk...........................................48 New Vehicle Break-in................... 78
Low Coolant Level....................... 113 Normal Shift Speeds...................... 91
Lower Gear, Downshifting to a... 91 NOTICE, Explanation of................ ii
Keys.................................................. 45 Low Oil Pressure Light.........31, 165 Numbers, Identification.............. 174
Lubricant Specifications Chart. 176
Luggage........................................... 86
Label, Certification...................... 174 Occupant Protection System......... 4

Lane Change, Signaling................ 38 Octane Requirement, Gasoline.... 78
Lap/Shoulder Belts.......................... 6 Maintenance.................................. 101 Odometer......................................... 34
Lap Belt.............................................. 6 Periodic Items........................... 107
Leaking of Exhaust into Car ....... 24 Record................................. 105-106 CONTINUED

Main Menu
Index
Odometer, Trip............................... 34 Power Fuses........................................... 169

Oil Door Locks.................................. 47 Light Bulbs................................ 138
Change, How to......................... 111 Mirrors......................................... 55 Schedule..................................... 103
Change, When to...................... 103 Steering...................................... 122 Spark Plugs............................... 124
Checking Engine...................... 109 Windows....................................... 53 Tires............................................ 135
Pressure Light............................ 31 Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts........ 10 Wiper Blades............................. 129
Selecting Proper Viscosity Proper Seat Belt Usage................... 7 Replacing Seat Belts
Chart....................................... 110 After a Crash............................... 10
ON (Ignition Key Position)........... 46 Reserve Tank, Coolant................ 113
Opening the Hood........................... 81 Restraint, Child............................... 17
Opening the Trunk ........................ 48 Radiator Overheating.................. 163 Reverse Gear Position................... 94
Operation in Foreign Countries .. 79 Radio/Cassette Sound System..... 71 Rotation, Tire................................ 134
Outside Mirrors.............................. 55 Rear End Towing......................... 172
Overheating, Engine.................... 163 Rear Lights, Bulb
Replacement............................. 140
Rear Seat, Folding.......................... 51 Safety Belts....................................... 5
Rear View Mirror .......................... 55 Safety Defects, Reporting ........... 25
Panel Brightness Control.............. 38 Rear Window Defogger................ 40 Safety Labels, Location of............ 26
Park Gear Position......................... 93 Reclining the Seat Backs.............. 50 Safety Messages............................... ii
Parking Brake................................. 57 Recommended Shift Speeds......... 91 Seat Belts........................................... 5
Parking Lights................................ 37 Reminder Lights............................ 29 Advice for Pregnant Women... 10
Parking Over Things that Replacement Information Child Seat Anchor Plate ........... 20
Burn............................................ 182 Air Filter.................................... 123 Cleaning..................................... 149
PGM-FI System............................ 181 Coolant....................................... 114 Frayed or Torn........................... 10
Polishing and Waxing.................. 147 Engine Oil and Filter ............... 111 Maintenance................................ 10
Fuel Filter.................................. 124 Reminder Light and Beeper..... 30

Main Menu
Index
Replacement................................ 10 Specifications............................ 177

System Components.................... 6 Spark Plugs, Replacing............... 124
Tether Attachment Points....... 20 Specifications Charts................... 176 Tachometer................................... 34
Use During Pregnancy.............. 10 Speed Control................................. 42 Taillights, Changing Bulbs in.... 140
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt.... 7 Speedometer.................................... 34 Taking Care of the
Wearing the Lap Belt.................. 9 SRS Indicator............................13, 31 Unexpected................................ 153
Seats, Adjusting the....................... 50 START (Ignition Key Position).. 46 Tape Player..................................... 75
Serial Number............................... 174 Starting the Engine........................ 89 Technical Descriptions
Service Intervals.......................... 103 In Cold Weather Anti-lock Brake System ......... 178
Service Manual............................. 189 at High Altitude .................... 90 Catalytic Converter................. 182
Service Station Procedures.......... 80 With a Dead Battery................ 161 Emission Control Systems...... 180
Setting the Clock............................ 58 Steam Coming from Engine....... 163 Supplemental Restraint
Shifting Steering Wheel System.................................... 179
The Automatic Transmission Adjustment................................ 41 Temperature Gauge...................... 35
................................................. 92 Anti-theft Column Lock.......... 46 Tether Attachment Points........... 20
The 5-Speed Transmission....... 91 Stereo Sound System.................... 71 Time, Setting the ........................... 58
Shift Lever Position Storing Your Car.......................... 144 Tire Chains.................................... 137
Indicator............................... 33, 92 Supplemental Restraint System Tire, How to Change a Flat........ 155
Side Marker Lights, Bulb Service Precautions................... 14 Tires................................................ 132
Replacement in......................... 139 Servicing...................................... 14 Air Pressure.............................. 132
Signaling Turns.............................. 38 SRS Indicator........................13, 31 Checking Wear......................... 133
Snow Tires..................................... 137 System Components................... 11 Compact Spare.......................... 154
Solvent-type Cleaners................. 146 Technical Description............. 179 DOT Tire Quality Grading..... 135
Sound System.................................. 71 Inflation...................................... 132
Spare Tire
Inflating...................................... 154 CONTINUED

Main Menu
Index
Inspection................................... 133 Seat Belts..................................... 30

Replacing................................... 135 WARNING, Explanation of........... ii
Rotating..................................... 134 Underside, Cleaning.................... 146 Warning Labels, Location of........ 26
Snow........................................... 137 Unexpected, Taking Care Warranty Coverages.................... 184
Specifications............................ 177 of the........................................... 153 Washer, Windshield
Tools, Tire Changing................... 155 Uniform Tire Quality Grading.. 135 Checking the Fluid Level....... 117
Torn Seat Belts............................... 10 Unleaded Gasoline......................... 78 Operation..................................... 39
Towing Upholstery Cleaning.................... 149 Washing.......................................... 146
A Trailer.................................... 100 Used Oil, How to Dispose of....... 112 Waxing and Polishing.................. 147
Emergency Wrecher................ 172 Wheels
Transmission Adjusting the Steering.............. 41
Checking Fluid Level, Alignment and Balance........... 134
Automatic.............................. 118 Vanity Mirror................................. 60 Compact Spare.......................... 154
Checking Fluid Level, Vehicle Capacity Load.................. 86 Wrench....................................... 155
5-speed.................................... 119 Vehicle Dimensions..................... 176 Windows
Fluid Selection.......................... 118 Vehicle Identification Number.. 174 Cleaning..................................... 150
Identification Number............ 174 Vehicle Storage............................ 144 Operating the Power ................. 53
Shifting the Automatic............. 92 Ventilation....................................... 67 Rear, Defogger........................... 40
Shifting the 5-speed................... 91 VIN................................................ 174 Windshield
Treadwear..................................... 135 Vinyl Cleaning.............................. 149 Cleaning....................................... 39
Trip Meter....................................... 34 Viscosity, Oil................................. 110 Defroster...................................... 70
Trunk............................................... 48 Wipers, Windshield
Opening the................................. 48 Changing Blades....................... 129
Open Monitor Light................... 32 Operation..................................... 39
Turn Signals.................................... 38 Warning Beepers Worn Tires..................................... 133
Key in Ignition............................ 46 Wrecker, Emergency Towing ... 172

Main Menu
Gas Station Information
Gasoline: Tire Pressure (measured cold): 5 Speed Transmission Oil:

UNLEADED gasoline (US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity
Pump octane of 86 or higher 220 kPa (2.2 k g / c m 2 , 32 psi) API SF or SG grade recommended
Gas Tank Capacity: 200 kPa (2.0 k g / c m 2 , 29 psi) Capacity:
45 l (11.9 US gal, 9.9 Imp gal) 1.8 l (1.9 USqt, 1.6 Impqt)
Spare Tire Pressure:
Recommended Engine Oil: 415 kPa(4.15 kg/cm 2 , 60 psi) Automatic Transmission Fluid:
API SG grade Honda Premium Formula Automatic
"Energy Conserving II" oil Tire Size (Front and Rear): Transmission Fluid or an equivalent
SAE 5W-30 viscosity (US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX) DEXRON II type Automatic Trans-
P175/70R13 mission Fluid (ATF)
Engine Oil Capacity: (US: EX, Canada: EX-V)
including filter P175/65R14 Capacity:
3.3 l (3.5 US q t , 2.9 Imp qt) 2.8 l (3.0 US q t , 2.5 Imp qt)
without filter Spare Tire:
3.0 l (3.2 US q t , 2.6 Imp qt) (US: DX, LX, Canada: LX, EX)
T105/80D13
T135/70D15
Other Tire Information:

See label in the glove box.

1992 Honda Civic Sedan Owners Manual (DX, EX, LX)

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1992 Honda Civic Sedan Owners Manual (DX, EX, LX)

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1992 Civic Sedan Online Reference Owner's Manual

OWNER This Owner's Manual should be considered

The information and specifications included

DEALER NAME DEALER NO.

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/

Best wishes and happy motoring.

You WILL be KILLED or

You CAN be KILLED or

You CAN be HURT if you don't

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

Your Occupant Protection System

Driver and Passenger Safety

The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Why Wear Seat Belts Important Safety Reminders

Driver and Passenger Safety

The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt Lap Belt

Your seat belt system also includes

Driver and Passenger Safety

The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Wearing Seat Belts Properly Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt

Not wearing a seat belt pro-

Driver and Passenger Safety

The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Driver and Passenger Safety

The Seat Belt System and How It Works

Wearing the Lap Belt

Driver and Passenger Safety

The Seat Belt System and How It Works

If a seat belt is worn during a crash,

Driver and Passenger Safety

Supplemental Restraint System

Frontal collision range INDICATOR CONTROL AIRBAG

Be sure you and your passen-

Driver and Passenger Safety

Supplemental Restraint System

Airbags only inflate in severe

An airbag inflates and deflates

Driver and Passenger Safety

Supplemental Restraint System

The airbag is stored in the center How the SRS

The light does not come on when

The light stays on after the

After the bag completely inflates, it The light comes on or flashes

Driver and Passenger Safety

Supplemental Restraint System

When the car is ten years old, get

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Safety Information

For information on how to adjust

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Safety Information

Driver and Passenger Safety

Where Should Children Sit?

Be sure any child too small for We recommend that, whenever

Children depend on adults to We also recommend that any child

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

Restraining an Infant Who We recommend that, whenever

If you decide to put an infant seat

Restraining a Child Who

Driver and Passenger Safety