This is sometimes referred to as ‘‘stompandsteer.’’
You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and you may hear some noise. This is normal; it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes.
The Braking System
Brake System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels.
Front
184
Driving
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The Braking System
Activation varies with the amount of traction your tires have. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before you activate the ABS. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.
ImportantSafetyReminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the car; only helps with steering control during braking. You should always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.
it
A vehicle with ABS may require a longer distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, than a vehicle without anti- lock. Slow down and allow a greater distance between vehicles under those conditions.
ABS will not prevent a skid that results from changing direction abruptly, such as trying to take a corner too fast or making a sudden lane change. Always drive at a safe, prudent speed for the road and weather conditions.
ABS cannot prevent a loss of stability. Always steer moderately when you are braking hard. Severe or sharp steering wheel movement can still cause your car to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road.
CONTINUED
Driving 185
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The Braking System
ABSIndicator
ABS INDICATOR
65
U.S.EXandCanadianSi-G The ABS is self-checking. If anything goes wrong, the ABS indicator on the instrument panel comes on (see page ). This means the anti-lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system without anti- lock, providing normal stopping ability. You should have the dealer inspect your car as soon as possible.
186
Driving
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Driving in Bad Weather
−
Always drive
Driving Technique slower than you would in dry weather. It takes your car longer to react, even in conditions that may seem just barely damp. Apply smooth, even pressure to all the controls. Abrupt steering wheel movements or sudden, hard appli- cation of the brakes can cause loss of control in wet weather. Be extra cautious for the first few miles (kilometers) of driving while you adjust to the change in driving conditions. This is especially true in snow. A person can forget some snow-driving techniques during the summer months. Practice is needed to relearn those skills.
−
Being able to see
Visibility clearly in all directions and being visible to other drivers are important in all weather conditions. This is more difficult in bad weather. To be seen more clearly during daylight hours, turn on your headlights.
Inspect your windshield wipers and washers frequently. Keep the wind- shield washer reservoir full of the proper fluid. Have the windshield wiper blades replaced if they start to streak the windshield or leave parts unwiped. Use the defrosters and air conditioning to keep the windows from fogging up on the inside (see page
115
).
Exercise extra caution when driving in rain after a long dry spell. After months of dry weather, the first rains bring oil to the surface of the roadway, making it slippery.
CONTINUED
Driving 187
Rain, fog, and snow conditions require a different driving technique because of reduced traction and visibility. Keep your car well- maintained and exercise greater caution when you need to drive in bad weather. The cruise control should not be used in these conditions.
Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing a Trailer Your vehicle is not designed to tow a trailer. Attempting to do so can void your warranties.
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Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer
Traction − Check your tires frequently for wear and proper pressure. Both are important in preventing ‘‘hydroplaning’’ (loss of traction on a wet surface). In the winter, mount snow tires on all four wheels for the best handling.
Watch road conditions carefully, they can change from moment to moment. Wet leaves can be as slip- pery as ice. ‘‘Clear’’ roads can have patches of ice. Driving conditions can be very hazardous when the outside temperature is near freezing. The road surface can become covered with areas of water puddles mixed with areas of ice, so your traction can change without warning.
Be careful when downshifting. If traction is low, you can lock up the drive wheels for a moment and cause a skid.
188
Driving
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.
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Maintenance
This section explains why it is important to keep your car well maintained and how to follow basic maintenance safety precautions.
This section also includes Maintenance Schedules for normal driving and severe driving conditions, a Maintenance Record, and instruc- tions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself.
If you have the skills and tools to per- form more complex maintenance tasks on your Honda, you may want to purchase the Service Manual. See page for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your Honda dealer.
303
Maintenance Safety
......................
. 190
Important Safety Precautions . 191
Maintenance Schedule
.................
. 192
Required Maintenance Record . 199
...
. 201
Owner Maintenance Checks
.......
..............................
Fluid Locations
. 202
. 203
......................................
Engine Oil
. 203
..................................
. 203
....................
. 204
..............................
....................................
. 204
. 205
.....
. 207
.............................
. 207
............
. 209
.......
....................
. 213
. 214
.......................
Adding Oil Recommended Oil Synthetic Oil Additives Changing the Oil and Filter
Adding Engine Coolant Replacing Engine Coolant
Windshield Washers Transmission Fluid
Cooling System
.........................
. 214
Automatic
Transmission 5-speed Manual Transmission
Brake and Clutch Fluid
Brake System Clutch System
Power Steering Air Cleaner Element
......................... ................ ............................ ........................... .............................. .....................
. 216
. 217
. 217
. 217
. 218
. 219
Hood Latch Spark Plugs
Replacement Specifications
.................................... .................................... .............................. ............................ ........................................... ................................. .............. .................. ..................................... .................................... ............................................... ......................................
Battery Wiper Blades Air Conditioning System Dust and Pollen Filter Drive Belts Timing Belt Tires
Inflation
. 220
. 221
. 221
. 223
. 224
. 226
. 228
. 229
. 231
. 231
. 232
. 232
Recommended Tire Pressures
for Normal Driving
Inspection Maintenance Tire Rotation Replacing Tires and Wheels Wheels and Tires Winter Driving
........... .................................. .............................. ............................. ... ...................... .......................... ............................. ................... ............................................. ..................... ........................ ...........................
Headlight Aiming Replacing Bulbs
Snow Tires Traction Devices
. 233
. 234
. 234
. 235
. 236
. 237
. 237
. 237
. 238
. 239
. 241
. 241
. 248
Storing Your Car
Lights
Maintenance
189
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Maintenance Safety
Regularly maintaining your car is the best way to protect your investment. Proper maintenance is essential to your safety and the safety of your passengers. It will also reward you with more economical, trouble-free driving and help reduce air pollution.
This section includes instructions for simple maintenance tasks, such as checking and adding oil. Any service items not detailed in this section should be performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.
Some of the most important safety precautions are given here. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task.
Improperly maintaining this car or failing to correct a problem before driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owner’s manual.
190
Maintenance
Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner’s manual.
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Maintenance Safety
Important Safety Precautions Before you begin any maintenance, make sure your car is parked on level ground and that the parking brake is set. Also, be sure the engine is off. This will help to eliminate several potential hazards:
Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.
Burns from hot parts. Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching any parts.
Injury from moving parts. not run the engine unless in- structed to do so.
Do
Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.
To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline or batteries. Use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.
You should wear eye protection and protective clothing when working near the battery or when using compressed air.
Maintenance
191
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Maintenance Schedule
The Maintenance Schedule specifies how often you should have your car serviced and what things need attention. It is essential that you have your car serviced as scheduled to retain its high level of safety, dependability, and emissions control performance.
192
Maintenance
The services and time or distance intervals shown in the maintenance schedule assume you will use your car as normal transportation for passengers and their possessions. You should also follow these recommendations:
Avoidexceedingyourcar’sload limit.Thisputsexcessstresson the engine, brakes, and many other parts of your car. The load limit is shown on the label on the driver’s doorjamb.
Operate your car on reasonable roads within the legal speed limit.
Drive your car regularly over a distance of several miles (kilometers).
Always use unleaded gasoline with
the proper octane rating (see page
156
).
Which Schedule to Follow: Service your car according to the time and mileage periods on one of the Maintenance Schedules on the following pages.
−
Follow the
U.S. Owners Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions if you drive your car MAINLY under one or more of the following conditions.
Driving less than 5 miles (8 km)
per trip or, in freezing
temperatures, driving less than 10
miles (16 km) per trip.
Driving in extremely hot [over 90°F (32°C)] conditions.
Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving, such as a taxi or a commercial delivery vehicle.
Driving with a roof rack, or driving in mountainous conditions.
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more information.
We recommend the use of genuine Honda parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done. These are manufactured to the same high- quality standards as the original components, so you can be confident of their performance and durability.
U.S. Vehicles: Maintenance, replacement or repair of emissions control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA standards.
Driving on muddy, dusty, or de- iced roads.
NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLY or NEVER, drive under a ‘‘severe’’ condition, you should follow the Maintenance Schedule for Normal Conditions.
Canadian Owners Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.
−
Your authorized Honda dealer knows your car best and can provide competent, efficient service. However, service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in this type of automotive service. Keep all the receipts as proof of completion, and have the person who does the work fill out the Maintenance Record. Check your warranty booklet for
Maintenance Schedule
#
According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with will not void your emissions warranties. However, Honda recommends that all maintenance services be performed at the recommended time or mileage period to ensure long-term reliability.
Maintenance
193
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Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first.
−
Replace engine oil Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month) Replace engine oil filter Check engine oil and coolant Inspect front and rear brakes Check parking brake adjustment Visually inspect the following items:
Tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots, Suspension components Driveshaft boots, Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system, Fuel lines and connections #
#
miles x 1,000
km x 1,000
months
10
16
20
32
12
30
48
40
64
50
80
60
96
70
112
80
128
90
144
100
160
110
176
120
192
24
36
48
60
72
Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop
Inspect and adjust drive belts Replace dust and pollen filter * Replace transmission fluid
M/T A/T CVT
Service the following items at the recommended intervals.
*
Replace air cleaner element Replace spark plugs Inspect valve clearance Replace timing belt, inspect auto-tensioner, and water pump Inspect idle speed Replace engine coolant
Replace brake fluid
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km)
Inspect every 110,000 miles (176,000 km), otherwise adjust only if noisy
Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km) or 7 years
At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years,
then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years
Every 3 years (independent of mileage)
1: * 2: * #
See dust and pollen filter on page Replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 5 years. See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page
for replacement information under special driving conditions.
229
193
194
Maintenance
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Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. U.S. Owners Canadian Owners
Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.
to determine which schedule to use.
Refer to page
192
−
−
10,000 mi/16,000 km/1 yr 20,000 mi/32,000 km/1 yr 30,000 mi/48,000 km 30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs 40,000 mi/64,000 km/2 yrs 3yrs 50,000 mi/80,000 km/3 yrs 60,000 mi/96,000 km 60,000 mi/96,000 km/3 yrs
70,000 mi/112,000 km/4 yrs 80,000 mi/128,000 km/4 yrs 90,000 mi/144,000 km 90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs 100,000 mi/160,000 km/5 yrs
110,000 mi/176,000 km
6yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km/6 yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km/7 yrs
120,000 mi/192,000 km 120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs
120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs
Replace transmission fluid (CVT).
Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)
Do items in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in D. Do items in A, C. Do items in A, B. □ Do items in A. Do item in D. DoitemsinA,B,C. □ Do items in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in D. Do items in A, C. Do items in A, B. □ □ □ □ Do items in A. □ and water pump. □ Do item in D. □ DoitemsinA,B,C. □ 60,000 mi/96,000 km/5 yrs.
Inspect idle speed.
Replace transmission fluid (CVT). Inspect valve clearance, cold engine. Replace spark plugs. Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)
Replace timing belt, inspect auto-tensioner,
Replace transmission fluid (M/T, A/T ).
*
Replace engine coolant, then replace every
□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □
Replace engine oil.
Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 235 ).
Replace engine oil filter.
Inspect front and rear brakes.
Check parking brake adjustment.
Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots.
Inspect suspension components.
Inspect driveshaft boots.
Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS).
Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check
for leaks.
Inspect exhaust system.
□
#
Inspect fuel lines and connections.
□
#
Inspect and adjust drive belts.
□
Replace dust and pollen filter .
□
*
Replace air cleaner element every 30,000 mi/48,000
□
km (independent of time).
*
*
1:
2:
#
229
for replacement information
See dust and pollen filter on page
under special driving conditions.
Replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every 90,000
miles (144,000 km) or 5 years.
: See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last
column, page
193
NOTE:
Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop. Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.
Maintenance 195
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Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first.
−
Replace engine oil Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month) Replace engine oil filter Inspect front and rear brakes Lubricate all hinges, locks and latches Visually inspect the following items:
Tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots, Suspension components Driveshaft boots
miles x 1,000
km x 1,000
months
10
16
20
32
12
30
48
40
64
24
50
80
60
96
70
112
80
128
90
144
100
160
110
176
120
192
36
48
60
72
Replace every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months
Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop
Check engine oil and coolant Visually inspect the following items:
Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system, Fuel lines and connections # Lights and controls, Vehicle underbody Check parking brake adjustment
#
Inspect and adjust drive belts Replace dust and pollen filter * Replace transmission fluid
M/T A/T
CVT
At 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3 years, then every 30,000 miles
(48,000 km) or 2 years
Servicethefollowingitemsattherecommendedintervals.
Replace air cleaner element
Replace spark plugs Inspect valve clearance , inspect auto-tensioner, and water pump Replace timing belt * # Inspect idle speed Replace engine coolant
Replace brake fluid
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) in dusty conditions,
otherwise use normal schedule Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km)
Inspect every 110,000 miles (176,000 km), otherwise adjust only if noisy
Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km) or 7 years
At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years,
then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years
Every 3 years (independent of mileage)
1 :
*
2 :
*
#
196
See dust and pollen filter on page See timing belt on page See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page
for replacement information under special driving conditions.
for replacement information under special driving conditions.
231
193
229
Maintenance
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Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. U.S. Owners Canadian Owners
Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.
to determine which schedule to use.
Refer to page
192
−
−
5,000 mi/8,000 km/6 mos 10,000 mi/16,000 km/1 yr 15,000 mi/24,000 km 15,000 mi/24,000 km/1-½ yrs 20,000 mi/32,000 km/1 yr 25,000 mi/40,000 km/2 yrs 30,000 mi/48,000 km 30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs 35,000 mi/56,000 km/2-½ yrs 40,000 mi/64,000 km/2 yrs 3yrs 45,000 mi/72,000 km 45,000 mi/72,000 km/3 yrs 50,000 mi/80,000 km/3 yrs 55,000 mi/88,000 km/3-½ yrs 60,000 mi/96,000 km 60,000 mi/96,000 km/3 yrs
65,000 mi/104,000 km/4 yrs 70,000 mi/112,000 km/4 yrs 75,000 mi/120,000 km 75,000 mi/120,000 km/4-½ yrs 80,000 mi/128,000 km/4 yrs 85,000 mi/136,000 km/5 yrs 90,000 mi/144,000 km 90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs
95,000 mi/152,000 km/5-½ yrs 100,000 mi/160,000 km/5 yrs
Do item in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in E. Do item in A. DoitemsinA,B,C. Do item in A. Do item in E. DoitemsinA,B,D. Do item in A. DoitemsinA,B,C. □ Do item in E. Do item in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in A. Do item in E. □ DoitemsinA,B,C,D. Do item in A. Do items in A, B. Do item in E. Do item in A. DoitemsinA,B,C. Do item in A. Do item in E. □ DoitemsinA,B,D. Do item in A. DoitemsinA,B,C. □
Replace transmission fluid (A/T).
Replace transmission fluid (CVT).
Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)
Replace transmission fluid (M/T, A/T, CVT).
□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □
Replace engine oil.
Replace engine oil filter.
Inspect front and rear brakes.
Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 235 ).
Lubricate all hinges, locks, and latches.
Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots.
Inspect suspension components.
Inspect driveshaft boots.
Check parking brake adjustment.
Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS).
Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check
for leaks.
Inspect exhaust system.
□
#
Inspect fuel lines and connections.
□
#
Check all lights.
□
Inspect the underbody.
□
Inspect and adjust drive belts.
□
Replace dust and pollen filter .
□
*
Replace air cleaner element.Every 15,000mi/24,000
□
km (independent of time) under dusty conditions,
otherwise use Normal Conditions schedule.
*
1 :
*
2 :
#
229
for replacement information
See dust and pollen filter on page under special driving conditions. See timing belt on page special driving conditions. See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page
for replacement information under
193
231
NOTE:
Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop. Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 197
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Replace brake fluid (indepeudent of mileage)
Replace spark plugs. Inspect valva clearance, cold engine.
, inspect auto-tensioner, Replace timing belt * #
□ Do item in E. Do item in A. □ □ Do items in A, B. □ and water pump. □ Do item in A. Do item in E. □ Do items in A, B, C, D. □ □ 60,000 mi/96,000 km/5 yrs.
Inspect idle speed.
Replace transmission fluid (M/T).
Replace transmission fluid (A/T). Replace engine coolant then replace every
*
1 :
*
2 :
#
229
for replacement information
See dust and pollen filter on page
under special driving conditions.
231
See timing belt on page
special driving conditions.
See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last
column, page
for replacement information under
193
NOTE:
Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop. Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.
6 yrs 105,000 mi/168,000 km 105,000 mi/168,000 km/6 yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km 110,000 mi/176,000 km 110,000 mi/176,000 km/6 yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km/7 yrs
115,000 mi/184,000 km/6-½ yrs 120,000 mi/192,000 km 120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs
120,000 mi/192,000 km/7 yrs 120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs
198
Maintenance
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Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)
You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page conditions (page
). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.
196
194
) or severe
Signature or dealer stamp
5,000 mi 8,000 km
10,000 mi 16,000 km
15,000 mi 24,000 km
20,000 mi 32,000 km (or 1 year)
25,000 mi 40,000 km
30,000 mi 48,000 km
Signature or dealer stamp
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
35,000 mi 56,000 km
40,000 mi 64,000 km (or 2 years)
45,000 mi 72,000 km
50,000 mi 80,000 km
55,000 mi 88,000 km
60,000 mi 96,000 km (or 3 years)
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
CONTINUED
Maintenance 199
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Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)
Signature or dealer stamp
65,000 mi 104,000 km
70,000 mi 112,000 km
75,000 mi 120,000 km
80,000 mi 128,000 km (or 4 years)
85,000 mi 136,000 km
90,000 mi 144,000 km
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
95,000 mi 152,000 km
100,000 mi 160,000 km (or 5 years)
105,000 mi 168,000 km
110,000 mi 176,000 km
115,000 mi 184,000 km
120,000 mi 192,000 km (or 6 years)
200
Maintenance
Signature or dealer stamp
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
mi/km
Date
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Owner Maintenance Checks
Youshouldcheckthefollowing items at the specified intervals. If you are unsure of how to perform any check, turn to the page given.
Engine oil level Check every time you fill the fuel tank. See page
160
−
Engine coolant level Check the radiator reserve tank every time you fill the fuel tank. See page
−
161
−
Windshield washer fluid Check the level in the reservoir monthly. If weather conditions cause you to use the washers frequently, check the reservoir each time you stop for fuel. See page
213
Automatic transmission
Check
the fluid level monthly. See page
214
−
Brakes monthly. See page
−
Check the fluid level
217
−
Tires
Check the tire pressure
monthly. Examine the tread for
wear and foreign objects. See page
232
−
Check the operation of
Lights the headlights, parking lights, taillights, high-mount brake light, turn signals, brake lights, and license plate lights monthly. See page
239
Maintenance 201
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Fluid Locations
ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop)
ENGINE OIL FILL CAP
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop)
ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR
RADIATOR CAP
202
Maintenance
BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap)
CLUTCH FLUID (Gray cap)
WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)
POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap)
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (CVT) (Yellow loop)
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Recommended Oil
Oil is a major contributor to your
engine’s performance and longevity.
Always use a premium-grade 5W-20
detergent oil displaying the API
Certification Seal. This seal indicates
the oil is energy conserving, and that
it meets the American Petroleum
Institute’s latest requirements.
Honda Motor Oil is the preferred 5W-20 lubricant for your car. It is highly recommended that you use Honda Motor Oil in your car for optimum engine protection.
Adding Oil
ENGINE OIL FILL CAP
To add oil, unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on top of the valve cover. Pour in the oil, and install the engine oil fill cap. Tighten it securely. Wait a few minutes and recheck the oil level. Do not fill above the upper mark; you could damage the engine. Pour the oil slowly and carefully so you do not spill. Clean up any spills immediately. Spilled oil could damage components in the engine compartment.
Engine Oil
Make sure the API Certification Seal says ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’
API CERTIFICATION SEAL
CONTINUED
Maintenance 203
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Engine Oil
The SAE number tells you the oil’s viscosity or weight. Select the oil for your vehicle according to this chart.
5W-20 oil is formulated for year- round protection of your Honda, to improve cold weather starting, and to help your engine use less fuel.
Ambient Temperature
204
Maintenance
Synthetic Oil You may use a synthetic motor oil if it meets the same requirements given for a conventional motor oil: it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight as shown on the chart. When using synthetic oil, you must follow the oil and filter change intervals given in the maintenance schedule.
Additives Your Honda does not require any oil additives. Additives may adversely affect your engine’s or transmission’s performance and durability.
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Changing the Oil and Filter Always change the oil and filter according to the time and distance (miles/kilometers) recommenda- tions in the maintenance schedule. The oil and filter collect contami- nants that can damage 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 hydraulic lift for this service. Unless you have the knowledge and proper equipment, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.
DRAIN BOLT
WASHER
OIL FILTER
Engine Oil
1.
2.
Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then shut it off.
Open the hood and remove the engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.
3.
Remove the oil filter and let the remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your Honda dealer) is required to remove the filter.
4.
Install a new oil filter according to instructions that come with it.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 205
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7.
8.
9.
Replace the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator light should go out within five seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine and reinspect your work.
Let the engine run for several minutes, then check the drain bolt and oil filter for leaks.
Turn off the engine, let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level. If necessary, add oil to bring the level to the upper mark on the dipstick.
Improper disposal of engine oil can be harmf ul to the environment. If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed container and take it to a recycling center. Do not discard it in a trash bin or dump it on the ground.
Engine Oil
5.
Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten it to:
(U.S.: DX, LX, Canada: DX, LX) 33 lbf·ft (44 N·m , 4.5 kgf·m)
(U.S.: EX, HX, Canada: Si) 29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)
6.
Refill the engine with the recom- mended oil. Engine oil change capacity (including filter):
(U.S.: DX, LX, Canada: DX, LX) 3.4 US qt (3.2 )
(U.S.: EX, HX, Canada: Si) 3.7 US qt (3.5 )
206
Maintenance
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Cooling System
Always use Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. It does not require any additional mixing.
If it is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement. Make sure it is a high-quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. However, continued use of any non- Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/ coolant as soon as possible.
If the reserve tank is completely empty, you should also check the coolant level in 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.
1.
Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.
Adding Engine Coolant
RESERVE TANK
If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. Inspect the cooling system for leaks. The coolant you add should always be a mixture of 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 207
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Cooling System
RADIATOR CAP
RESERVE TANK
6.
Pour coolant into the reserve tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back on the reserve tank.
Do not add any rust inhibitors or other additives to your car’s cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine compo- nents.
2.
Turn the radiator cap counter- clockwise, without pressing down on it, until it stops. This relieves any pressure remaining in the cooling system.
3.
Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.
4.
The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low. Pour the coolant slowly and carefully so you do not spill. Clean up any spills immediately. Spilled coolant could damage components in the engine compartment.
5.
Put the radiator cap back on. Tighten it fully.
208
Maintenance
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Replacing Engine Coolant The cooling system should be completely drained and refilled with new coolant according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule. Only use Honda All Season Antifreeze/ Coolant Type 2.
Draining the coolant requires access to the underside of the car. Unless you have the tools and knowledge, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.
Cooling System
DRAIN PLUG
1.
Turn the ignition ON (II). Turn the temperature control dial to maximum heat. Turn off the ignition. Open the hood. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool to the touch.
2.
Remove the radiator cap.
DRAIN BOLT Loosen the drain plug on the 3. bottom of the radiator. The coolant will drain through the splash guard. Remove the drain bolt and washer from the engine block. Drain the coolant into an appropriate container.
CONTINUED
Maintenance 209
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Cooling System
NUT
BOLT
BOLT
TAB
9.
Reconnect the battery cables to the terminals. Connect the positive ( ) cable first, then the negative + ()cable. −
Battery posts,
WARNING: terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after handling.
StandardforHX,LXandEXmodelsin
theU.S.,andLXandSimodelsin
Canada
The audio system disables itself
when you disconnect the battery.
Whenyouturnontheradioyouwill
see ‘‘
display. Use the Preset buttons to
enter the five-digit code (see page
149
’’ in the frequency
).
4.
Disconnect the battery cables from the terminals. Disconnect the negative ( ) cable first, then the positive ( ) cable.
− +
5.
Remove the bolt and nut, then remove the battery case.