2003 Honda Accord Coupe Owners Manual

Push the electrical connector back 5. onto the bulb. Make sure it is on all the way.

3.

4.

Remove the bulb by turning it approximately one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Insert the new bulb into the hole and turn it one-quarter turn clock- wise to lock it in place.

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Maintenance 343

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Lights

6.

Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

7.

(Passenger’s side) Reinstall the air intake cover. Reinstall the two fasteners and secure them by pushing on the heads until they lock.

LowBeamHeadlight

HOLDING CLIPS

2.

Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to remove the two holding clips from the inner fender.

3.

Pull the inner fender cover away from the fender and bumper.

1.

If you are changing the bulb on the passenger’s side, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left, and turn off the engine. If you are changing the bulb on the driver’s side, turn the steering wheel to the right.

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AIR INTAKE DUCT

EX-V6 with M/T

4.

OnEX-V6modelwithmanual transmission If you need to change the low beam headlight bulb on the driver’s side, remove the air intake duct. You can reach the air intake duct from the back side of the inner fender.

5.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by squeezing the connector to unlock the tab, then slide the connector off the bulb.

6.

Remove the bulb by turning it approximately one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Lights

7.

8.

Insert the new bulb into the hole and turn it one-quarter turn clock- wise to lock it in place.

Push the electrical connector back onto the bulb. Make sure it is on all the way.

9.

Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

10.

OnEX-V6modelwithmanual transmission Reinstall the air intake duct securely.

11.

Put the inner fender cover in place. Install the two holding clips. Lock each one in place by pushing on the center.

Maintenance

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Lights

Replacing a Front Turn Signal/ Parking/Side Marker Light Bulb 1.

If you are changing the bulb on the passenger’s side, start the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left, and turn off the engine. If you are changing the bulb on the driver’s side, turn the steering wheel to the right.

HOLDING CLIPS

2.

Use a flat-tipped screwdriver to remove the two holding clips from the inner fender.

3.

Pull the inner fender cover away from the fender and bumper.

4.

Remove the socket from the headlight assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

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Maintenance

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5.

Remove the burned out bulb from the socket by pushing it in and turning the bulb counterclockwise until it unlocks.

6.

Install the new bulb in the socket. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

7.

Insert the socket back into the headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.

8.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

9.

Put the inner fender cover in place. Install the holding clips. Lock each one in place by pushing on the center.

Lights

Maintenance 347

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Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs

COVER

1.

Open the trunk.

Remove the light assembly cover by pulling its outside edge.

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Maintenance

2.

Determine which of the three bulbs is burned out: stop/taillight/ side marker, back-up or turn signal.

3.

Remove the socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

4.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms.

5.

Reinstall the socket into the light assembly by turning it clockwise until it locks.

6.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

7.

Install the light assembly cover. Make sure it snaps into place.

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Replacing a Rear License Plate Bulb

TRIM CLIPS

1.

Open the trunk.

2.

6-cylindermodels Remove the six trim clips from the trunk lid trim by carefully prying them using a small, flat-tipped screwdriver.

Carefully bend back the corner of the trunk lid trim to expose the bulbs.

3.

4.

Remove the socket from the light assembly by squeezing the tabs on both sides of the socket.

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket. Push the new bulb in until it bottoms in the socket.

Lights

5.

Turn on the parking lights and check that the new bulb is working.

6.

Reinstall the socket back in place by pushing it in until it latches.

7.

8.

6-cylindermodels Reinstall the trunk lid trim. Make sure it is installed under the edge of the trunk lid seal.

Put each trim clip in the hole on the trunk lid trim and push on the center until it locks (the center is flush with the head).

Maintenance

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Lights

Replacing a High-mount Brake Light Bulb

3.

Reinstall the socket. Turn it clock- wise until it locks.

4.

Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

BULB

SOCKET

1.

Open the trunk and remove the socket from the light assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counter- clockwise.

2.

Remove the burned-out bulb by pulling it straight out of the socket. Install the new bulb in the socket.

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Maintenance

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Replacing Bulbs in the Interior Lights The ceiling light, spotlight, door light and vanity mirror light come apart the same way, but they do not use the same type of bulb.

1.

Remove the lens by carefully prying on the edge of the lens with a fingernail file or a small flat-tip screwdriver. Do not pry on the edge of the housing around the lens.

Door light:

Pry on the top left or right of the lens.

Ceiling light:

Pry on the front edge of the lens near both sides.

Spotlights:

Pry on the inner edge of both spotlights.

Lights

CEILING LIGHT

BULB

OnLXandLX-V6models

SPOTLIGHTS

BULBS

2.

Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its metal tabs.

3.

Push the new bulb into the metal tabs. Carefully snap the lens back in place.

OnEXandEX-V6models

SPOTLIGHTS

BULBS

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Lights

DOOR COURTESY LIGHT

VANITY MIRROR LIGHTS

BULB

BULBS

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Maintenance

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Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb

TRUNK LIGHT

BULB

2.

3.

Pull the bulb straight out of the holder. Push the new bulb straight into the holder until it bottoms.

Put the light assembly back into the hole, left side first. Push on the right side until it snaps into place.

1.

Open the trunk. Put a cloth on the right side edge of the trunk light assembly. Remove the trunk light assembly by using a small flat-tipped screwdriver to pry carefully on the right edge of the assembly.

Lights

Maintenance

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Storing Your Car

If you need to park your car for an extended period (more than one 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 car back on the road. If possible, store your car indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter (see page

296

).

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).

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Maintenance

Block the rear wheels.

If the car 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 car 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 car body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and trunk seals.

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

If possible, run the engine for a while periodically (preferably once a month).

If you store your car for 12 months or longer, have your Honda dealer perform the inspections called for in the 24 months maintenance schedule (Normal Conditions) as soon as you take it out of storage (see page ). 274
The replacements called for in the maintenance schedule are not needed unless the car has actually reached that time or mileage.

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Appearance Care

Regular cleaning and polishing of your Honda helps to keep it ‘‘new’’ looking. This section gives you information on how to clean your car and preserve its appearance: the paint, brightwork, wheels and interior. Also included are several things you can do to help prevent corrosion.

Exterior Care

Washing Waxing Aluminum Wheels Paint Touch-up

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Interior Care Carpeting Floor Mats Fabric Vinyl Leather Seat Belts Windows Air Fresheners

Corrosion Protection Body Repairs

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Exterior Care

Washing Frequent washing helps preserve your car’s beauty. Dirt and grit can scratch the paint, while tree sap and bird droppings can permanently ruin the finish.

Wash your car in a shady area, not in direct sunlight. If the car is parked in the sun, move it into the shade and let the exterior cool down before you start.

Only use the solvents and cleaners recommended in this Owner’s Manual.

Chemical solvents and strong cleaners can damage the paint, metal, and plastic on your car.

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Appearance Care

Rinse the car thoroughly with cool water to remove loose dirt.

Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix in a mild detergent, such as dishwashing liquid or a product made especially for car washing.

Wash the car using the water and detergent solution and a soft- bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth. Start at the top and work your way down. Rinse frequently.

Check the body for road tar, tree sap, etc. Remove these stains with tar remover or turpentine. Rinse it off immediately so it does not harm the finish. Remember to re- wax these areas, even if the rest of the car does not need waxing.

When you have washed and rinsed the whole exterior, dry it with a chamois or soft towel. Letting it air-dry will cause dulling and water spots.

As you dry the car, inspect it for chips and scratches that could allow corrosion to start. Repair them with touch-up paint (see page

357

).

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Waxing Always wash and dry the whole car before waxing it. You should wax your car, including the metal trim, whenever water sits on the surface in large patches. It should form into beads or droplets after waxing.

You should use a quality liquid or paste wax. Apply it according to the instructions on the container. In general, there are two types of products:

−

Waxes A wax coats the finish and protects it from damage by exposure to sunlight, air pollution, etc. You should use a wax on your Honda when it is new.

−

Polishes and cleaner/

Polishes waxes can restore the shine to paint that has oxidized and lost some of its shine. They normally contain mild abrasives and solvents that remove the top layer of the finish. You

should use a polish on your Honda if the finish does not have its original shine after using a wax.

Cleaning tar, insects, etc. with removers also takes off the wax. Remember to re-wax those areas, even if the rest of the car does not need waxing.

Aluminum Wheels EXandEX-V6models Clean your Honda’s aluminum alloy wheels as you do the rest of the exterior. Wash them with the same solution, and rinse them thoroughly.

The wheels have a protective clear- coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing. Using harsh chemicals, including some commercial wheel cleaners or stiff brushes, can damage this clear-coat. Only use a mild detergent and soft brush or sponge to clean the wheels.

Exterior Care

Paint Touch-up Your dealer has touch-up paint to match your car’s color. The color code is printed on a sticker on the driver’s doorjamb. Take this code to your dealer so you are sure to get the correct color.

Inspect your car frequently for chips or scratches in the paint. Repair them right away to prevent corrosion of the metal underneath. Use the touch-up paint only on small chips and scratches. More extensive paint damage should be repaired by a professional.

Appearance Care

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Floor Mats

Interior Care

Carpeting Vacuum the carpeting frequently to remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make the carpet wear out faster. Periodically shampoo the carpet to keep it looking new. Use one of the foam-type carpet cleaners on the market. Follow the instructions that come with the cleaner, applying it with a sponge or soft brush. Keep the carpeting as dry as possible by not adding water to the foam.

The Honda driver’s floor mat that came with your car was designed to be hooked over the floor mat anchors. This keeps the floor mat from sliding forward and possibly interfering with the pedals.

If you remove the driver’s floor mat, make sure to re-anchor it when you put it back in your car.

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Appearance Care

If you replace it, use a Honda floor mat that is designed to be used with the floor mat anchors in your car.

If you use a non-Honda floor mat in the driver’s footwell, make sure it fits properly and that it can be used with the floor mat anchor.

Do not put additional floor mats on top of the anchored mat, otherwise the additional mats may slide forward and interfere with the pedals.

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Leather OnEXwithleatherinteriorandEX-V6
models Vacuum dirt and dust from the leather frequently. Pay particular attention to the pleats and seams. Clean the leather with a soft cloth dampened with clear water, then buff it with a clean, dry cloth. If further cleaning is needed, use a soap specifically for leather, such as saddle soap. Apply this soap with a damp, soft cloth. Wipe down and buff as described above.

Fabric Vacuum dirt and dust out of the material frequently. For general cleaning, use a solution of mild soap and lukewarm water, letting it air dry. To clean off stubborn spots, 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.

Vinyl Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft cloth dampened in a solution of mild soap and water. Use the same solution with a soft-bristle brush on more difficult spots. You can also use commercially-available spray or foam-type vinyl cleaners.

Interior Care

Seat Belts

LOOP

If your seat belts get dirty, you can use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean them. Do not use bleach, dye, or cleaning solvents. They can weaken the belt material. Let the belts air- dry before you use the car.

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Interior Care

Dirt build-up in the loops of the seat belt anchors can cause the belts to retract slowly. Wipe the insides of the loops with a clean cloth dampened in mild soap and warm water or isopropyl alcohol.

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Appearance Care

Air Fresheners If you want to use an air freshener/ deodorizer in the interior of your car, it is best to use a solid type. Some liquid air fresheners contain chemi- cals that may cause parts of the interior trim and fabric to crack or discolor.

If you use a liquid air freshener, make sure you fasten it securely so it does not spill as you drive.

Windows Clean the windows, inside and out, with a commercially-available glass cleaner. You can also use a mixture of one part white vinegar to ten parts water. This will remove the haze that builds up on the inside of the windows. Use a soft cloth or paper towels to clean all glass and clear plastic surfaces.

The rear window def ogger and antenna wires are bonded to the inside of the glass. Wiping vigorously up-and- down can dislodge and break these wires. When cleaning the rear window, use gentle pressure and wipe side-to- side.

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Two factors normally contribute to causing corrosion in your car:

1.

Moisture trapped in body cavities. Dirt and road salt that collects in hollows on the underside of the car stays damp, promoting corrosion in that area.

Many corrosion-preventive measures are built into your Honda. You can help keep your car from corroding by performing some simple periodic maintenance:

Repair chips and scratches in the paint as soon as you discover them.

2.

Removal of paint and protective coatings from the exterior and underside of the car.

Inspect and clean out the drain holes in the bottom of the doors and body.

Check the floor coverings for dampness. Carpeting and floor mats may remain damp for a long time, especially in winter. This dampness can eventually cause the floor panels to corrode.

Corrosion Protection

Use a high-pressure spray to clean the underside of your car. This is especially important in areas that use road salt in winter. It is also a good idea in humid climates and areas subject to salt air. Be careful not to damage the ABS wheel sensors and wiring at each wheel.

Have the corrosion-preventive coatings on the underside of your car inspected and repaired periodically.

Appearance Care

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Body Repairs

Body repairs can affect your car’s resistance to corrosion. If your car needs repairs after a collision, pay close attention to the parts used in the repair and the quality of the work.

Make sure the repair facility uses Honda replacement body parts. Some companies make sheet metal pieces that seem to duplicate the original Honda body parts, but are actually inferior in fit, finish, and corrosion resistance. Once installed, they do not give the same high- quality appearance.

When reporting your collision to the insurance company, tell them you want Honda parts used in the repair. Although most insurers recognize the quality of original parts, some may try to specify that the repairs be done with other available parts. You should investigate this before any repairs have begun.

Take your car to your authorized Honda dealer for inspection after the repairs are completed. Your dealer can make sure that quality materials were used, and that corrosion- preventive coatings were applied to all repaired and replaced parts.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more- common problems that motorists experience with their cars. 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 car towed.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If Your Engine Won’t Start Nothing Happens or the

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

Starter Motor Operates

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Very Slowly

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The Starter Operates

Normally Jump Starting If Your Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp

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Brake System Indicator Closing the Moonroof Fuses

Checking and Replacing

Emergency Towing

Readiness Codes

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Compact Spare Tire

Your car has a compact spare tire that takes up less space. Use this spare tire as a temporary replace- ment only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced and put it back on your car 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 )

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

Follow these precautions whenever you are using the compact spare tire:

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any circumstances.

This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road sur- faces than the regular tire. Use greater caution while driving on this tire.

Do not mount snow chains on the compact spare.

The wheel of the compact spare tire is designed especially to fit your car. Do not use your spare tire on another car unless it is the same make and model.

OnallV6models Turn off the Traction Control System (see page ). Driving with the compact spare tire may activate the TCS.

259

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

The compact spare tire has a shorter tread life than a regular tire. Replace it 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 compact spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the compact 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. Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder of a busy road is dangerous. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area to stop that is far away from the traffic lanes.

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

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

TRUNK FLOOR

Changing a Flat Tire

3.

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

4.

Take the tool kit out of the trunk.

5.

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

TOOL KIT

SPARE TIRE

JACK

1.

Park the car on firm, level, and non-slippery ground away from traffic. Put the transmission in Park (automatic) or Reverse (manual). Apply the parking brake. If you are towing a trailer, unhitch the trailer.

2.

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

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Changing a Flat Tire

WHEEL NUT

6.

The jack is behind a cover in the right fender. Remove the cover by turning the handle counterclock- wise, then pulling on the cover.

JACK

WHEEL WRENCH

7.

Turn the jack’s end bracket counterclockwise to loosen it, then remove the jack.

8.

Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2
turn with the wheel wrench.

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Changing a Flat Tire

JACKING POINT Locate the jacking point nearest 9. the tire you need to change. 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.

WHEEL WRENCH

EXTENSION

10.

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

11.

Remove the wheel nuts, then remove the flat tire. Temporarily place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface of the wheel facing up. You could scratch the wheel if you put it face down.

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Changing a Flat Tire

WHEEL COVER

WHEEL NUTS

HUB

OnLXandLX-V6models Do not attempt to forcibly pry the wheel cover off with a screwdriver or other tool. The wheel cover cannot be removed without first removing the wheel nuts.

12.

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.

13.

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

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Changing a Flat Tire

14.

Lower the car to the ground and remove the jack.

15.

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)

16.

EXandEX-V6models Remove the center cap before storing the flat tire in the trunk well.

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20.

Store the jack in its holder. Turn the jack’s end bracket to lock it in place. Replace the cover. Store the tools.

21.

Store the wheel cover or center cap in the trunk. Make sure it does not get scratched or damaged.

22.

Lower the trunk floor, then close the trunk lid.

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.

Changing a Flat Tire

WING BOLT

For spare tire

For normal tire

SPACER CONE

17.

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

18.

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

19.

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

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If Your Engine Won’t Start

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

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 START (III), you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound or series of clicks, or nothing at all. Check these things:

Check the transmission interlock. 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, it must be in Park or Neutral.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Turn on the headlights and check their brightness. If the headlights are very dim or don’t light at all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting

on page

373

Turn the ignition switch to START (III). If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses. If the fuses are OK, there is proba- bly 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

391

.)

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

). You can

324

373

).

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If Your Engine Won’t Start

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 START (III), but the engine does not run.

Do you have fuel? Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) for a minute and watch the fuel gauge. The low fuel level warning light may not be working, so you were not reminded to fill the tank.

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

Emergency 391

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

386

).

Are you using the proper starting Starting the procedure? Refer to Engine 241

on page

Your car has the Immobilizer System. You should use a properly-coded master or valet key to start the engine (see page ). 83
A key that is not properly coded will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the dash panel to blink rapidly.

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If your car’s battery has run down, you may be able to start the engine by using a booster battery. 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 Honda with an automatic transmission by pushing or pulling it.

Jump Starting

To jump start your car, follow these directions closely:

1.

324

). In very cold

Open the hood and check the physical condition of the battery (see page 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 acces- sories: heater, A/C, climate control, stereo system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in Neutral or Park, and set the parking brake.

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Jump Starting

4-cylinder models Connect one jumper cable to the 3. ) terminal on your positive ( Honda’s battery. Connect the other end to the positive ( ＋ terminal on the booster battery.

＋

6-cylinder models

4-cylinder models Connect the second jumper cable 4. 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.

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Jump Starting

6-cylinder models

BOOSTER BATTERY 4-cylinder models The numbers in the illustrations show you the order to connect the jumper cables.

5.

6.

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

Start your car. If the starter motor still operates slowly, check the jumper cable connections to make sure they have good metal-to- metal contact.

BOOSTER BATTERY

6-cylinder models Once your car is running, discon- 7. nect the negative cable from your car, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your car, then the booster battery.

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

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Your car can overheat for several reasons, such as lack of coolant or a mechanical problem. 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. In either case, you should take immediate action.

1.

Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in Neutral or Park and set the parking brake. Turn off the heating and cooling/ climate control system and all other accessories. Turn on the hazard warning indicators.

2.

If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn off the engine.

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

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

If Your Engine Overheats

The pointer of your car’s tempera- ture gauge should stay in the mid- range under most conditions. It may go higher if you are driving up a long steep hill on a very hot day. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason.

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

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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 (climbing a long, steep hill on a hot day with the A/C running, for example), the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the tempera- ture gauge comes down to the mid- point, then continue driving.

4.

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

5.

6.

7.

Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood.

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 ). 391

on page

If you don’t find an obvious leak, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank (see page ). If the level is below the 230
MIN mark, add coolant to halfway between the MIN and MAX marks.

If Your Engine Overheats

8.

If there was no coolant in the reserve tank, you may also have 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.

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If Your Engine Overheats

9.

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

10.

Start the engine and set the temperature control dial to maximum (climate control to AUTO at 90°F/32°C). 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.

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11.

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

Emergency

on page

391

.)

12.

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

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

4.

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 car stopped.

1.

2.

3.

This indicator should light when the ignition switch is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. It should never come on when the engine is running. If it starts flashing, it indicates that the oil pressure dropped very low for a moment, then recovered. If the indicator stays on with the engine running, it shows that the engine has lost oil pressure and serious engine damage is possible. In either case, you should take immediate action.

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

228

). Although oil level

Let the car sit for a minute. Open the hood and check the oil level (see page and oil pressure are not directly connected, an engine that is very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.

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

294

).

Start the engine and watch the oil pressure indicator. If the light does not go out within ten seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving. (See Towing .) 391

Emergency

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Charging System Indicator

Immediately turn off all electrical accessories: radio, heater, A/C, climate control, rear defogger, cruise control, etc. Try not to use other electrically-operated controls such as the power windows. Keep the engine running and take extra care not to stall it. Starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly.

By eliminating as much of the electrical load as possible, you can drive several miles (kilometers) before the battery is too discharged to keep the engine running. Drive to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

This indicator should come on when the ignition switch is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. If it comes on brightly when the engine is running, it indicates that the charging system has stopped charging the battery.

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MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

This indicator should light when the ignition switch is ON (II), and go out after the engine starts. If it comes on at any other time, it indicates one of the engine’s emissions control systems may have a problem. 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 damage.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

You should also have the dealer inspect your car if this indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may turn off as you continue driving.

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

This indicator may also come on along with the ‘‘D’’ indicator.

If you have recently refueled your car, the cause of this indicator coming on could be a loose or missing fuel fill cap. Check the cap and tighten it until it clicks several times. Replace the fuel fill cap if it is missing. Tightening the cap will not make the indicator turn off immediately; it takes one driving trip.

If the indicator remains on past one driving trip, or the fuel cap was not loose or missing, have the car checked by the dealer as soon as possible. Drive moderately until the dealer has inspected the problem. Avoid full-throttle acceleration and driving at high speed.

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If possible, do not take your car for a state emissions test until the readiness codes are set. Refer to State Emissions Testing for more information. (See page

407

.)

To check if they are set, turn the ignition ON (II), but do not start 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 5 times, the readiness codes are not set.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Readiness Codes Your car 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.

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

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BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

＊

U.S. indicator shown ＊

The Brake System Indicator normally comes on when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). It is a reminder to check the parking brake. It comes on and stays lit if you do not fully release the parking brake.

If it comes on at any other time, it indicates a problem with the car’s brake system. In most cases, the problem is a low fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir. 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 ). If the fluid level is low, take the car to your dealer and have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

313

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

Brake System Indicator

Slow down by shifting to a lower gear, and pull to the side of the road when it is safe. Because of the longer distance needed to stop, it is hazardous to drive the car. You should have it towed, and repaired as Emergency soon as possible. (See Towing .) 391

on page

If you must drive the car a short distance in this condition, drive slowly and cautiously.

If the ABS indicator comes on with this indicator, have the car inspected by your Honda dealer immediately.

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Closing the Moonroof

OnEXandEX-V6models If the electric motor will not close the moonroof, do the following:

1.

2.

Check the fuse for the moonroof motor (see page ). If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same or lower rating.

390

Try closing the moonroof. If the new fuse blows immediately or the moonroof motor still does not operate, you can close the moonroof manually.

3.

Get the moonroof wrench out of the tool kit in the trunk.

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NOTCH

TAB

SOCKET

ROUND PLUG

4.

To remove the round plug in the center of the headliner, turn the plug by using a screwdriver or coin, then pry it out. Make sure to align the tabs on the round plug to the notches on the ceilling as shown in the illustration.

5.

Insert the moonroof wrench securely into the socket behind this plug. Hold the longer handle as shown and turn the wrench slowly until the moonroof is fully closed.

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Closing the Moonroof

6.

Remove the wrench. Reinstall the round plug.

If you need to close the moonroof manually, it means your car’s moonroof opening/closing function is developing a problem. Have your car checked by a Honda dealer.

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Fuses

All the electrical circuits in your car have fuses to protect them from a short circuit or overload. These fuses are located in two fuse boxes.

INTERIOR

NOTCH

UNDER-HOOD

TAB

The under-hood fuse box is located near the back of the engine compart- ment on the driver’s side. To open it, push the tabs as shown.

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, and pull it upward slightly, then pull it toward you and take it out of its hinges.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

390

and

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 pages , or the diagram on the 389
fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that component. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that a blown fuse is not the cause. Replace any blown fuses and check the component’s operation.

1.

Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Make sure the headlights and all other accessories are off.

2.

Remove the cover from the fuse box.

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BLOWN

BLOWN

FUSE PULLER

Fuses

3.

Check each of the large fuses in the under-hood fuse box by looking through the side window at the wire inside. Removing these fuses requires a Phillips-head screwdriver.

4.

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

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If you cannot drive the car 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.

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 replace- ment f use with the proper rating f or the circuit, install one with a lower rating.

6.

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

Fuses

BLOWN

5.

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

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UNDER-HOOD FUSE/RELAY BOX

No.

Amps.

Circuits Protected

Fuses

No.

Amps.

Circuits Protected

No.

Amps.

Circuits Protected

10 A (30A) 10 A 15 A 10 A

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

10

10 A 7.5 A 15 A 20 A −