2008 Acura TL Owners Manual

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

272

for

Even though your vehicle is equipped with TPMS, we recommend that you visually check your tires every day. If you think a tire might be low, check it immediately with a tire gauge.

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

Remember to check the spare tire at the same time you check all the other tires.

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

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

Tires

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

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

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Tires

RecommendedTirePressuresfor NormalDriving The following chart shows the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving conditions and speed.

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

33 psi (230 kPa , 2.3 kgf/cm ) 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

35 psi (240 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm ) 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

AllModelsexceptTypeS

Tire Size

P235/45R17 93W

Rear:

TypeS

Tire Size

P235/45R17 93W 235/45R17 93W

Rear:

308

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

RecommendedTirePressuresfor HighSpeedDriving We strongly recommend that you not drive faster than posted speed limits and conditions allow. If you ever drive in a sanctioned competitive event at sustained high speeds (over 118 mph or 190 km/h), be sure to adjust the cold tire pressures as shown below. If you do not adjust the tire pressure, excessive heat can build up and cause sudden tire failure.

When you return to normal speed driving, be sure to readjust the tire pressure for normal driving. You should wait until the tires are cold before adjusting the tire pressure.

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

For additional technical information, see page

346

AllModels Tire Size

P235/45R17 93W 235/45R17 93W

Rear:

Cold Tire Pressure for High Speed Driving Front:

39 psi (270 kPa , 2.7 kgf/cm ) 35 psi (240 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm )

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

You should look for:

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

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

Excessive tread wear.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR

Your tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down, you will see a band 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide band across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. A tire this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see three or more tread wear indicators.

Tires

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

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

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Tires

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

on page

348

).

310

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

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

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

Tire Rotation

Front

Front

(For Non-directional Tires and Wheels)

(For Directional Tires and Wheels)

To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, rotate the tires according to the maintenance messages displayed on the multi-information display. Move the tires to the positions shown in the illustration each time they are rotated. If you purchase directional tires, rotate only front-to-back.

When the tires are rotated, make sure the air pressures are checked.

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Replacing Tires and Wheels Replace your tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall).

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

Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the ABS and vehicle stability assist system (VSA) to work inconsistently.

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

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

Replacement wheels are available at your Acura dealer.

Tires

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

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

Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheels:

17 x 8.0 JJ

Tires:

P235/45R17 93W (All season tire)

235/45R17 93W (Summer tire)

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Tires

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

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

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

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

346

for DOT tire quality

See page grading information, and page for tire size information. 348

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

＋

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

Summer Tires If your vehicle is equipped with summer tires, be aware that these tires are not designed for winter driving conditions. For more information, consult your dealer.

312

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

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

Tires

313

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Checking the Battery

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

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

Battery posts,

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

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

) cable first, and

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

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

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

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

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

Fill the fuel tank.

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

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

Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in reverse (manual) or Park (automatic).

Block the rear wheels.

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

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

Disconnect the battery.

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

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

Vehicle Storage

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

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

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more common problems that motorists experience with their vehicles. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your vehicle towed.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If the Engine Won’t Start Jump Starting If the Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp Brake System Indicator Fuses Fuse Locations Emergency Towing If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

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

. 318
. 319
. 324
. 326
. 328
. 330
. 330
. 331
. 332
. 333
. 335
. 337
. 338

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Compact Spare Tire

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

Check the inflation pressure of the compact spare tire every time you check the other tires. It should be inflated to: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

Follow these precautions:

Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).

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

318

Do not mount snow chains on the compact spare tire.

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

On models with manual transmission, do not drive for a long period with the compact spare tire mounted on a front wheel; it will damage the limited slip differential.

After the flat tire is replaced with the spare tire, the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator stays on. After several miles (kilometers) driving with the spare, this indicator begins to flash, then stays on again. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page

275

).

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR (The Type S compact spare is shown.)

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

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If you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area that is far away from the traffic lanes.

The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the vehicle when it is supported only by the jack.

1.

2.

Park the vehicle on firm, level, and non-slippery ground. Put the transmission in Park (automatic) or reverse (manual). Apply the parking brake.

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

Changing a Flat Tire

TOOL CASE

TRUNK FLOOR

SPARE TIRE

JACK

3.

Open the trunk. Raise the trunk floor by lifting up on the back edge.

4.

Take the tool case out of the spare tire.

5.

Unscrew the wing bolt and take the spare tire out of its well.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

6.

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

7.

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

EXTENSION

8.

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

Locate the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. It is 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 in the jack notch.

320

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Changing a Flat Tire

BRAKE HUB

9.

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

10.

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

11.

Put on the spare tire. Put the wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel nut wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten the wheel nuts fully.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

WING BOLT

SPACER CONE

BOLT EXTENSION

14.

Place the flat tire face down in the spare tire well.

15.

Remove the spacer cone from the wing bolt, turn it over, and put it back on the bolt. Attach the wing bolt to the bolt extension over the spacer cone.

16.

Secure the flat tire by screwing the wing bolt back into its hole.

12.

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

13.

Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)

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Changing a Flat Tire

17.

Store the jack and tools in the tool case. Place the tool case in the center of the flat tire.

Loose items can fly around the interior in a crash and could seriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack, and tools securely before driving.

18.

Lower the trunk floor, and close the trunk lid.

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If the Engine Won’t Start

Diagnosing why the engine won’t start falls into two areas, depending on what you hear when you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position:

You hear nothing, or almost nothing. The engine’s starter motor does not operate at all, or operates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motor operating normally, or the starter motor sounds like it is spinning faster than normal, but the engine does not start up and run.

Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly When you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position, you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound, a series of clicks, or nothing at all.

Check these things:

Check the transmission interlock. If you have a manual transmission, the clutch pedal must be pushed all the way to the floor or the starter will not operate. With an automatic transmission, the shift lever must be in Park or neutral.

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

on page

326

324

Turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position. If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses. If the fuses are OK, there is probably something wrong with the electrical circuit for the ignition switch or starter motor. You will need a qualified technician to determine the problem. See Emergency Towing

on page

337

If the headlights dim noticeably or go out when you try to start the engine, either the battery is discharged or the connections are corroded. Check the condition of the battery and terminal connec- tions (see page then try jump starting the vehicle from a booster battery (see page 326

). You can

314

).

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If the Engine Won’t Start

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

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

333

).

The Starter Operates Normally In this case, the starter motor’s speed sounds normal, or even faster than normal, when you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position, but the engine does not run.

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

63

Are you using the proper starting Starting the procedure? Refer to Engine 253

on page

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

Emergency 337

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Jump Starting

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

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

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

You cannot start a vehicle with an automatic transmission by pushing or pulling it.

326

ToJumpStartYourVehicle: 1.

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

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

2.

Turn off all the electrical accessories: climate control, audio system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in neutral (manual) or Park (automatic), and set the parking brake.

3.

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

＋

) terminal on your

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

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Jump Starting

6.

7.

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

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

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

4.

−

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

5.

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

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If the Engine Overheats

The pointer of the vehicle’s temperature gauge should stay in the midrange. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason (hot day, driving up a steep hill, etc.).

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

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

328

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

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

1.

Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in neutral (manual) or Park (automatic), and set the parking brake. Turn off all accessories, and turn on the hazard warning indicators.

2.

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

3.

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

4.

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

5.

Look for any obvious coolant leaks, such as a split radiator hose. Everything is still extremely hot, so use caution. If you find a leak, it must be repaired before you Emergency continue driving (see Towing ). 337

on page

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6.

7.

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

Adding Engine Coolant 290

).

If there was no coolant in the reserve tank, you may need to add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the pointer reaches the middle of the tempera- ture gauge, or lower, before check- ing the radiator.

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

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

8.

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

If the Engine Overheats

9.

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

10.

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

Emergency 337

).

11.

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

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Low Oil Pressure Indicator, Charging System Indicator

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

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

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

1.

2.

3.

4.

330

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

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

240

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

287

).

Start the engine, and watch the oil pressure indicator. If it does not go out within 10 seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving (see 337

Emergency Towing ).

on page

Charging System Indicator

If the charging system indicator comes on brightly

when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged.

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

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

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If this indicator comes on while driving, it means one

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

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

238

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

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

If the battery in your vehicle has been disconnected or gone dead, these codes may be erased. It takes several days of driving under various conditions to set the codes again.

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

for 355

).

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

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

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Brake System Indicator

U.S.

Canada

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

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

295

).

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

332

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

If the ABS indicator and the VSA system indicator come on with the brake system indicator, have your vehicle inspected by your dealer immediately.

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

on page

337

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

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INTERIOR

UNDER-HOOD

FUSE

Fuses

The vehicle’s fuses are contained in two fuse boxes. The interior fuse box is on the driver’s lower left side. To remove the fuse box lid, put your finger in the notch on the lid, pull it toward you, and take it out of its hinges.

The under-hood fuse box is on the driver’s side next to the air cleaner housing.

Checking and Replacing Fuses If something electrical in your vehicle stops working, check for a blown fuse first. Determine from the chart on pages , or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuses control that device. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that a blown fuse is the cause. Replace any blown fuses, and check if the device works.

and

336

335

BLOWN

1.

2.

3.

Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position. Make sure the headlights and all other accessories are off. Remove the cover from the fuse box. Check each of the large fuses in the under-hood fuse box by looking through the top at the wire inside. Remove the screws with a Phillips-head screwdriver.

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Fuses

BLOWN

4.

Check the smaller fuses in the under-hood fuse box and all the fuses in the interior fuse box by pulling out each one with the fuse puller provided in the under-hood fuse box.

5.

Look for a blown wire inside the fuse. If it is blown, replace it with one of the spare fuses of the same rating or lower.

334

If you cannot drive the vehicle without fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits. Make sure you can do without that circuit temporarily (such as the accessory power socket or radio).

If you replace the blown fuse 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.

6.

If the replacement fuse of the same rating blows in a short time, there is probably a serious electrical problem with your vehicle. Leave the blown fuse in that circuit, and have your vehicle checked by a qualified technician.

If the radio fuse is removed, the audio system will disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio you will see ‘‘CODE’’ in the frequency display. Use the preset buttons to enter the five-digit code (see page 184

).

Replacing a f use with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chances of damaging the electrical system. If you do not have a replacement f use with the proper rating f or the circuit, install one with a lower rating.

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UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX

No.

Amps.

Circuits Protected

15 A 30 A 7.5 A 10 A 7.5 A

Left Headlight Low Beam Rear Defroster Coil Left Headlight High Beam Small Light Right Headlight High Beam

No.

Amps.

Circuits Protected

10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23

15 A 7.5 A 15 A 30 A 10 A 30 A 7.5 A 20 A 40 A 40 A 15 A 30 A 40 A 40 A 40 A 40 A 120 A 50 A

Right Headlight Low Beam Back Up FI ECU Condenser Fan Fog Light Radiator Fan Motor MG Clutch Relay Horn, Stop Rear Defroster Back UP, ACC Hazard Warning VSA Pump Motor Relay VSA Fail Safe Relay FI ECU (ECM/PCM) Power Seat Heater Motor Battery IGI Main

Fuse Locations

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Fuse Locations

INTERIOR FUSE BOX

No.

Amps.

Circuits Protected

15 A 15 A 15 A 15 A 20 A 7.5 A 7.5 A 20 A 15 A

336

DBW IG1 Coil Daytime Running Light LAF Radio Interior Lights Back Up Door Lock Accessory Socket

No.

Amps.

Circuits Protected

10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33

7.5 A 30 A 7.5 A 20 A 20 A 20 A 20 A 20 A 15 A 15 A 15 A 7.5 A 10 A 7.5 A 20 A 20 A 30 A 30 A 20 A 7.5 A 7.5 A 7.5 A 7.5 A 7.5 A

IG1 OPDS IG1 Wiper TPMS Passenger’s Power Seat (Recline) Driver’s Power Seat (Slide) Seat Heater Driver’s Power Seat (Recline) Passenger’s Power Seat (Slide) IG1 ACG IG1 Fuel Pump Washer Meter SRS IGP Rear Left Power Window Rear Right Power Window Front Right Power Window Front Left Power Window Moonroof VBSOL HAC OP2
ACC HAC OP

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If your vehicle needs to be towed, call a professional towing service or organization. Never tow your vehicle with just a rope or chain. It is very dangerous. There are two ways to tow your vehicle:

−

Flat-bedEquipment loads your vehicle on the back of a truck. transport your vehicle.

This is the best way to

The operator

−

The tow

Wheel-liftEquipment truck uses two pivoting arms that go under the front tires and lift them off the ground. The rear tires remain on the ground. way to tow your vehicle.

This is an acceptable

If, due to damage, your vehicle must be towed with the front wheels on the ground, do this:

Manualtransmission:

Release the parking brake. Shift the transmission to neutral. Leave the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I) position so the steering wheel does not lock.

Automatictransmission:

Release the parking brake. Start the engine. Shift to D, then to N. Turn off the engine. Leave the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I) position so the steering wheel does not lock.

Improper towing preparation will damage the transmission. Follow the above procedure exactly. If you cannot shif t the transmission or start the engine (automatic transmission), your vehicle must be transported with the f ront wheels of f the ground.

Emergency Towing

With the front wheels on the ground, it is best to tow the vehicle no farther than 50 miles (80 km), and keep the speed below 35 mph (55 km/h).

If your vehicle is equipped with a front spoiler, remove it before towing so it is not damaged.

Trying to lif t or tow your vehicle by the bumpers will cause serious damage. The bumpers are not designed to support the vehicle’s weight.

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Emergency Towing, If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

If you decide to tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, make sure you use a properly- designed and attached tow bar. Prepare the vehicle for towing as described above, and leave the ignition switched in the ACCESSORY (I) position so the steering wheel does not lock. Make sure the radio and any items plugged into the accessory power socket are turned off so they do not run down the battery.

The steering system can be damaged if the steering wheel is locked. Leave the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I) position, and make sure the steering wheel turns f reely bef ore you begin towing.

338

If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

If your vehicle gets stuck in sand, mud, or snow, call a towing service to pull it out (see page

337

).

For very short distances, such as freeing the vehicle, you can use the detachable towing hook that mounts on the anchor in the front bumper.

To use the towing hook: 1.

Remove the cover from the

bumper by pushing the lower part of the cover with your finger.

Remove the towing hook, hook extension, and wheel nut wrench from the tool case in the spare tire.

Using the wheel nut wrench, fasten the extension into the bolt hole.

2.

3.

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If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

4.

Screw the towing hook into the hook extension, and tighten it securely by hand.

To avoid damage to your vehicle, use the towing hook f or straight, f lat ground towing only. Do not tow at an angle. The tow hook should not be used to tow the vehicle onto a f lat bed. Do not use it as a tie down.

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Technical Information

The diagrams in this section give you the dimensions and capacities of your vehicle and the locations of the identification numbers. It also includes information you should