2003 Honda Civic Coupe Owners Manual

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TURN SIGNAL/SIDE MARKER LIGHT

HEADLIGHT

Lights

Check the operation of your car’s exterior lights at least once a month. A burned out bulb can create an unsafe condition by reducing your car’s visibility and the ability to signal your intentions to other drivers.

PARKING LIGHT

CONTINUED

Maintenance 239

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Lights

SIDE MARKER LIGHT

TURN SIGNAL LIGHT

HIGH-MOUNT BRAKE LIGHT

BRAKE/TAILLIGHT

BACK-UP LIGHT

LICENSE PLATE LIGHTS

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Maintenance

Check the following:

Headlights (low and high beam) Parking lights Taillights Brake lights High-mount brake light Turn signals Back-up lights Hazard light function License plate light Side marker lights Daytime running lights (Canadian models)

If you find any bulbs are burned out, replace them as soon as possible. Refer to the chart on page to determine what type of replacement bulb is needed.

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Lights

Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your car was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the trunk, readjustment may be required. Adjustment of the headlights should be performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb Your car has halogen headlight bulbs, one on each side. When replacing a bulb, handle it by its steel base and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overheat and shatter.

HOLDER

1.

Open the hood. If you need to change the head- light bulb on the driver’s side, remove the power steering reservoir tank by pulling it out of its holder.

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Maintenance 241

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Lights

WEATHER SEAL

BULB

CONNECTOR

HOLD-DOWN WIRE

2.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by squeezing the connector on both sides to unlock the tab. Pull the connector straight off.

3.

Remove the rubber weather seal by pulling on the tab.

4.

Unclip the end of the hold-down wire from its slot. Pivot it out of the way and remove the bulb.

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Maintenance

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

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

5.

6.

7.

Insert the new bulb into the hole, making sure the tabs are in their slots. Pivot the hold-down wire back in place and clip the end into the slot.

Install the rubber seal over the back of the headlight assembly. Make sure it is right side up; it is marked ‘‘TOP.’’

Push the electrical connector onto the tabs of the new bulb. Make sure it locks in place. Turn on the headlights to test the new bulb.

8.

(Driver’s side) Reinstall the power steering reservoir.

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HOLDING CLIP

BULBS

Lights

6.

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

7.

Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

SOCKETS

8.

Put the inner fender cover in place. Install the holding clip. Lock it in place by pushing on the center.

2.

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

3.

Pull the inner fender cover back.

4.

5.

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

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

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Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs (in Fenders)

FASTENER

1.

Open the trunk.

Remove the screw in the center of the fastener on the side of the trunk lining. Pull the lining back.

2.

Determine which of the two bulbs is burned out: brake/taillight/side marker light or turn signal light.

3.

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

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Maintenance

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.

Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working.

7.

8.

Reinstall the trunk lining. Make sure it is installed under the edge of the trunk seal.

Put the fastener into the hole on the side of the trunk lining. Reinstall the screw.

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Replacing a High-mount Brake Light Bulb

3.

Reinstall the socket. Turn it clockwise until it locks. Make sure the new bulb is working.

Replacing a Rear License Plate Bulb

Lights

BULB

SOCKET

1.

2.

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

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

BULB

SOCKET

1.

2.

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.

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Maintenance 245

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Lights

3.

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

4.

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

Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb

1.

Remove the trunk light assembly by using a small flat-tipped screwdriver to pry carefully on the left edge of the assembly.

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, right side first. Push on the left side until it snaps into place.

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Maintenance

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Lights

Replacing Bulbs in the Interior Lights

CEILING LIGHT

FRONT CEILING LIGHT

SPOTLIGHTS

SOCKETS

BULBS

BULB

SOCKETS

BULBS

U.S.: EX, Canada: Si

LX

OnLXmodels Spotlights: Pry on the edge between the lenses.

2.

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

3.

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

Although the ceiling light and spotlights come apart the same way, they do not use the same type of bulbs.

1.

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

Maintenance 247

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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

205

).

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

Cleantheinterior.Makesurethe carpeting, floor mats, etc. are completely dry.

Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in Reverse (5-speed 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 vehiclebodywaxtothepainted surfaces that mate with the door and trunk seals.

Coverthecarwitha‘‘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 amonth).

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 ). 194
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 hints 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 Paint Touch-up

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Interior Care Carpeting Floor Mats Fabric Vinyl 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 recommendedinthisOwner’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

251

).

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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.

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 Ifequipped

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 genuine Honda driver’s floor mat was designed to hook over the floor mat anchors. This keeps the floor mat from sliding forward and possibly interfering with the pedals.

If you remove the 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 genuine 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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Seat Belts 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.

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

LOOP

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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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.

Interior Care

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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Appearance Care

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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. Cars equipped with ABS have a sensor and wiring at each wheel. Be careful not to damage them.

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

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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 genuine 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 genuine 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 investi- gate 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 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 car towed.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If Your Engine Won’t Start

...................... .................... .......... Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates 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 vehicle unless it is the same make and model.

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.

1.

2.

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.

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.

Changing a Flat Tire

SPARE TIRE

TRUNK FLOOR

TOOL KIT

JACK

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.

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Changing a Flat Tire

JACK

JACKING POINTS

6.

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

WHEEL WRENCH

7.

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

8.

Find the jacking point nearest the wheel you are removing. 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.

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Changing a Flat Tire

WHEEL NUTS

EXTENSION

WHEEL WRENCH Use the extension and wheel 9. wrench as shown to raise the car until the flat tire is off the ground.

WHEEL NUTS WHEEL COVER

10.

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

11.

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.

CONTINUED

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Changing a Flat Tire

BRAKE HUB

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.

14.

Lower the car to the ground and remove the jack.

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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.

OnHXandEXmodelsintheU.S.,Si modelinCanada Remove the center cap before storing the flat tire in the trunk well.

Changing a Flat Tire

WING BOLT

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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Changing a Flat Tire

20.

Store the jack in the trunk with the end bracket on the left side. Turn the jack’s end bracket to lock it in place. Store the tool kit.

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.

21.

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

22.

Lower the trunk floor, then close the trunk lid.

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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

267

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

283

.)

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

224

267

).

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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.

Ifyoufindnothingwrong,youwill need a qualified technician to find the problem. See Towing on page

Emergency 283

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

279

).

Your car has the Immobilizer System. You should use a properly-coded master or valet key to start the engine (see page ). 81
A key that is not properly coded will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the dash panel to blink rapidly.

Are you using the proper starting Starting the procedure? Refer to Engine 171

on page

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To jump start your car, follow these directions closely:

1.

224

). 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 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

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, stereo system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in Neutral or Park, and set the parking brake.

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Jump Starting

3.

＋

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

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.

BOOSTER BATTERY

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

5.

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

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6.

7.

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.

Once your car is running, discon- 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 car until all are disconnected. Otherwise, you may cause an electrical short.

Jump Starting, If Your Engine Overheats

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.

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.

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

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

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

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6.

7.

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.

Once your car is running, discon- 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 car until all are disconnected. Otherwise, you may cause an electrical short.

Jump Starting, If Your Engine Overheats

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.

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.

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

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

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

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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.

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

6.

7.

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 ). 283

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 161
MIN mark, add coolant to halfway between the MIN and MAX marks.

If Your Engine Overheats

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 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.

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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.

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. 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.

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

283

.)

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

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

U.S.: HX, LX, EX Canada : LX, Si 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.

272

Taking Care of the Unexpected

DX models

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.

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

2.

3.

4.

160

). 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

203

).

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 .) 283

Emergency

on page

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CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

Charging System Indicator

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.

U.S.: HX, LX, EX Canada : LX, Si 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.

DX models Immediately turn off all electrical accessories: radio, heater, A/C, 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.

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Malfunction Indicator Lamp

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

DX models 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.

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP U.S.: HX, LX, EX Canada : LX, Si 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.

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

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.

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.

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Malfunction Indicator Lamp, Brake System Indicator

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.

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

297

Brake System Indicator

BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

＊

U.S.: HX, LX, EX Canada : LX, Si 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.

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275

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Malfunction Indicator Lamp, Brake System Indicator

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.

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

297

Brake System Indicator

BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

＊

U.S.: HX, LX, EX Canada : LX, Si 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.

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Brake System Indicator

BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

＊

DX models U.S. indicator shown ＊

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

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.

217

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.

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 .) 283

on page

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

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OnEXmodelintheU.S.,andSimodel inCanada 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.

279

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.

ROUND PLUG

Closing the Moonroof

SOCKET

4.

Use a screwdriver or coin to remove the round plug in the center of the headliner.

5.

Insert the moonroof wrench into the socket behind this plug. Turn the wrench until the moonroof is fully closed.

6.

Remove the wrench. Reinstall the round plug.

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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.

UNDER-HOOD

INTERIOR

TAB

The under-hood fuse box is located in the engine compartment on the passenger’s side. To open it, push the tabs as shown.

The interior fuse box is underneath the steering column. To open it, turn the knobs as shown.

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282

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 281
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.

FUSE

FUSE PULLER

Fuses

BLOWN

3.

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

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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Fuses

BLOWN

5.

Look for a burned wire inside the fuse. If it is burned, replace it with oneofthesparefusesofthesame rating or lower.

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).

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Taking Care of the Unexpected

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.

StandardforHX,LXandEXmodelsin theU.S.,andLXandSimodelsin Canada If the radio fuse is removed, the audio system will disable itself. The nexttimeyouturnontheradioyou will see ‘‘ ’’ in the frequency display. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code (see page 149

).

Onallmodels When the audio system is disabled, the clock setting in the audio system will be canceled. You will need to reset the clock according to the instructions in the audio system section on this owner’s manual.

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UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX

No.

Amps.

Circuits Protected

Fuses

10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
−

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