Honda Accord Wagon 1996 Owner's Manual
1996 Accord Wagon Online Reference Owner's Manual
Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference.
For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.
Owner's Identification Form
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i
A Few Words About Safety................................................................................................................. ii
Driver and Passenger Safety .............................................................................................................. 3
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls................................................................................................................. 27
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................. 59
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 81
What gasoline to use, how to break -in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 93
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance..................................................................................................................................... 107
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take you r vehicle to the dealer.
Appearance Care.............................................................................................................................. 149
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs.
Taking Care of the Unexpected...................................................................................................... 155
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, an d how to handle them.
Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 175
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................ 187
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 191
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index...................................................................................................................................................... I
Gas Station Information
Information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
Contents
Introduction
Congratulations! Your selection of a 1996 Honda Accord Wagon was a wise investment. It will give you years of
driving pleasure.
One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Honda is to read this manual. In it, you will learn
about your vehicle's many safety features, and how to operate its driving controls and convenience items.
Afterwards, keep this owner's manual in your vehicle so you can refer to it at any time.
Several warranties protect your new Honda. Read the warranty booklet thoroughly so you understand the
coverages and are aware of your rights and responsibilities.
Maintaining your vehicle according to the schedules given in this manual helps to keep your driving
trouble-free while it preserves your investment. When your vehicle needs maintenance, keep in mind that your
Honda dealer's staff is specially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Honda. Your Honda
dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer any questions and concerns.
Preface
Safety Messages
Your safety and the safety of others is very important. We have provided
many important safety messages in this manual and on the vehicle. Please
read these messages carefully.
A safety message alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or
others. Each safety message is preceded by a safety alert symbol and one
of three words, DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION. These mean:
You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT
if you don't follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT
if you don't follow instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don't follow
instructions.
Each safety message tells you what the hazard is, what can happen, and what
you can do to avoid or reduce injury.
Preface
You will also see another
important symbol:
NOTICE
Your Honda or other
property can be damaged if
you don't follow instructions.
The purpose of these
messages is to help prevent
damage to your vehicle,
other property, or the
environment.
Driver and Passenger Safety
This section gives you important
information about occupant
protection. It shows how to use
seat belts properly. It explains the
Supplemental Restraint System.
And it gives useful information
about how to protect infants and
children in your car.
Your Occupant Protection
System .................. 4
The Seat Belt System
and How It Works ......... 5
Why Wear Seat Belts ...... 5
Important Safety Reminders 5
Seat Belt System
Components ............ 5
Lap/Shoulder Belt ........ 6
Lap Belt ................ 6
Wearing Seat Belts Properly 7
Wearing a Lap/
Shoulder Belt .......... 7
Wearing the Lap Belt ...... 9
Advice for Pregnant Women 10
Seat Belt Maintenance .... 10
Supplemental Restraint
System ................. 11
SRS Components ........ 11
What Happens in a Crash . 11
Important Facts About
Airbags .............. 12
How the Driver's
Airbag Works .......... 13
How the Passenger's
Airbag Works .......... 14
How the
Indicator Light Works ... 15
System Service ......... 15
System Service Precautions 15
Additional Safety Information 16
Seat-Back Position ....... 16
Head Restraint Position ... 16
Door Locks ............ 17
Storing Cargo Safely ..... 17
Driving With Pets ....... 17
Child Safety .............. 18
Where Should Children Sit? 18
Important Safety
Reminders ............ 19
SRS
General Guidelines for
Restraining Children
Under 40 Ib (18 kg) ..... 19
Restraining an Infant
Who Weighs Less Than
20 Ib (9 kg) ........... 20
Restraining a Child Who
Weighs Between 20 and
40 Ib (9 and 18 kg)...... 20
Restrainin g a Child Who
Weighs Over 40 Ib
(18 kg) .............. 21
Securin g a Child Seat
With a Lap/Shoulder Belt . 22
Using Child Restraints
With Tethers ...........
Storin g a Child Seat ...... 23
Alcohol and Drugs ......... 23
Carbon Monoxide Hazard ... 24
Safety Labels ............. 25
22
Driver and Passenger Safety
Your Occupant Protection System
Your Honda is equipped with
seat belts and other features that
work together to protect you and
your passengers during a crash.
Seat belts are the most important
part of your occupant protection
system. When worn properly,
seat belts can reduce the chance
of serious injury or death in a
crash.
For added protection during a
severe frontal collision, your
Accord has a Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS) with a
driver's airbag and a front
passenger's airbag.
Two indicator lights are also part
of your safety system. One
reminds you to make sure you
and your passengers wear your
seat belts. The other alerts you
to a possible problem with your
supplemental restraint system
(see page 14).
The seats, head restraints, and
door locks also play a role in
occupant safety. For example,
reclining the seat-back can
decrease the effectiveness of
your seat belt. Head restraints
can help protect your neck and
head, especially during rear-end
impacts. Door locks help keep
your doors from being
accidentally opened during
a crash.
To get the maximum protection
from your occupant protection
system, check the following
before you drive away:
Everyone in the car is wearing
a seat belt properly (see
page 7).
Infants or small children are
properly secured in a child
safety seat (see page 18).
All doors and the tailgate are
closed and locked (see page 16).
Seat-backs are upright and
head restraints are properly
adjusted (see pages 16 and 48).
There are no loose items that
could be thrown around and
hurt someone during a crash
or sudden stop (see page 16).
By following these guidelines,
you can reduce injuries to
yourself and your passengers in
many crash situations.
Remember, however, that no
safety system can prevent all
injuries or deaths that can occur
in severe crashes.
Driver and Passenger Safety
The Seat Belt System and How It Works
Why Wear Seat Belts
Wearing seat belts and wearing
them properly is fundamental to
your safety and the safety of
your passengers.
During a crash or emergency
stop, seat belts can help keep
you from being thrown against
the inside of the car, against
other occupants, or out of the
car.
Of course, seat belts cannot
completely protect you in every
crash. But, in most cases, seat
belts reduce your chance of
serious injury. They can even
save your life. That is why many
states require you to wear seat
belts.
Not wearing a seat belt
increases the chance of being
killed or seriously hurt in a
crash.
Be sure you and your
passengers always wear seat
belts and wear them properly.
Important Safety Reminders
Seat belts are designed for adults
and larger children. All infants
and small children must be
properly restrained in child
safety seats (see page 18).
A pregnant woman needs to wear
a seat belt to protect herself and
her unborn child (see page 9).
Two people should never use the
same seat belt. If they do, they
could be very seriously injured in
a crash.
Do not place the shoulder
portion of a lap/shoulder belt
under your arm or behind your
back. This could increase the
chance of serious injuries in a
crash.
Do not put shoulder belt pads or
other accessories on seat belts.
They can reduce the
effectiveness of the belts and
increase the chance of injury.
Seat Belt System Components
Your Honda has seat belts in all
five seating positions. The front
seats and the outside positions
of the rear seat have lap/shoulder
belts. The center position of the
rear seat has a lap belt.
continued
Driver and Passenger Safety
The Seat Belt System and How It Works
Your seat belt system also
includes a light on the
instrument panel to remind you
to fasten your seat belt and to
make sure your passengers
fasten theirs. This light comes on
when you turn on the ignition if
you have not fastened your seat
belt. A beeper also sounds for
several seconds (see page 30).
The following pages cover more
about the seat belt components
and how they work.
Lap/Shoulder Belt
This style of seat belt has a
single belt that goes over your
shoulder, across your chest and
across your hips.
Each lap/shoulder belt has an
emergency locking retractor. In
normal driving, the retractor lets
you move freely in your seat
while it keeps some tension on
the belt. During a collision or
sudden stop, the retractor
automatically locks the belt to
help restrain your body.
UPPER SEAT
BELT ANCHOR
SHOULDER
PORTION
LATCH PLATE
BUCKLE
To retractor.
LAP
PORTION
The lap/shoulder belt retractor
in each passenger seating
position has an additional
locking mechanism that is
intended to secure a child seat
(see page 21). If the shoulder
part of the belt is pulled all the
way out, this mechanism will
engage. The belt will retract, but
it will not allow the passenger to
move freely. If the belt feels too
tight, unlatch it, let it retract
fully, then pull it out as far as
needed.
Lap Belt
The lap belt has one manually
adjusted belt that fits across the
hips. It is similar to safety belts
used in airplanes.
BUCKLE
LATCH
PLATE
Driver and Passenger Safety
The Seat Belt System and How It Works
Wearing Seat Belts Properly
You can increase the effective-
ness of your seat belts if you take
a little time to read the following
pages and make sure you know
how to wear seat belts properly.
Not wearing a seat belt properly
increases the chance of serious
injury or death in a crash.
Be sure you and your
passengers always wear seat
belts and wear them properly.
Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt
Before putting on the seat belt,
move the driver's seat back as
far as is practical while still
allowing you to maintain full
control of the vehicle. Make sure
the seat-back is upright (see
page 16). The front seat
passenger should move the seat
as far back as possible.
1. Pull the latch plate across
your body, and insert it into
the buckle. Tug on the belt to
make sure the latch is securely
locked.
2. Check to see that the belt is
not twisted.
3. Position the lap portion of
the belt as low as possible
across your hips, not across
your stomach. This lets your
strong pelvic bones take the
force of a crash.
continued
Driver and Passenger Safety
The Seat Belt System and How It Works
4. Pull up on the shoulder part
of the belt to remove any
slack. Make sure the belt goes
over your collarbone and
across your chest.
5. If the shoulder belt crosses
your neck, you need to adjust
the belt anchor height or
your seating position.
Front seats: Adjust the belt
anchor by squeezing the two
buttons and sliding the
anchor downward (it has four
positions).
Rear seats: Move toward the
center of the seat until the
belt fits over your collarbone.
To unlatch the seat belt, push the
red PRESS button on the buckle.
Guide the belt across your body
to the door pillar. After you exit
the vehicle, make sure the seat
belt is out of the way and will not
get closed in the door.
Driver and Passenger Safety
The Seat Belt System and How It Works
Wearing the Lap Belt
1. Pull the latch plate across
your hips, and insert it into
the buckle marked CENTER.
If the belt is too short, hold
the latch plate at a right
angle, and pull to extend the
belt. Insert the latch plate
into the buckle.
2. Position the belt so it fits as
low as possible across your
hips and pelvic bones, not
across your stomach. Pull the
loose end of the belt to adjust
for a snug but comfortable fit.
To unlatch the belt, push the red
PRESS button on the buckle.
Advice for Pregnant Women
Protecting the mother is the best
way to protect her unborn child.
Therefore, a pregnant woman
should wear a properly
positioned seat belt whenever
she drives or rides in a car.
continued
Driver and Passenger Safety
The Seat Belt System and How It Works, Supplemental Restraint System
If possible, use the lap/shoulder
seat belt, remembering to keep
the lap portion as low as possible
(see page 7).
Each time you have a check-up,
ask your doctor if it's okay for
you to drive and how you should
position a lap/shoulder seat belt.
Seat Belt Maintenance
For safety, you should check the
condition of your seat belts
regularly.
Pull out each belt fully and look
for frays, cuts, burns, and wear.
Check to see that the latches
work smoothly and the
lap/shoulder belts retract easily.
Any belt not in good condition or
not working properly should be
replaced.
If a seat belt is worn during a
crash, have your dealer replace
the belt and check the anchors
for damage.
For information on how to clean
your seat belts, see page 152.
Supplemental Restraint System
Your Accord is equipped with a
Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS) to help protect the head
and chest of the driver and a
front seat passenger during a
severe frontal collision.
This system does not replace your
seat belts. It supplements, or
adds to, the protection offered
by seat belts and other occupant
protection features.
Not wearing seat belts
increases the chance of serious
injury or death in a crash, even
if you have airbags.
Be sure you and your
passengers always wear seat
belts and wear them properly.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Supplemental Restraint System
SRS Components
Your supplement restraint
system includes:
One airbag in the steering
wheel for the driver and
another in the dashboard for
the passenger.
Sensors that can detect a
severe frontal collision.
A sophisticated electronic
system that continually
monitors the sensors, control
unit, airbag activators, and all
related wiring when the
ignition is ON (II).
An indicator light on the
instrument panel to alert you
to a possible problem with the
system.
Emergency backup power in
case your car's electrical
system is disconnected in a
crash.
What Happens in a Crash
If you ever have a severe frontal
collision, the sensors will detect
rapid deceleration and signal the
control unit to instantly inflate
the airbags.
During a crash, your seat belts
will help to restrain your lower
body and torso. The airbags will
provide a cushion to absorb
crash energy and help keep the
head and chest of the driver and
front passenger from striking the
interior of the car.
After inflating, the airbags will
immediately deflate. The entire
process, from detection to
deflation, takes a fraction of a
second. This process occurs so
quickly that you may not hear
the loud noise created by the
airbag inflators or realize what
has happened.
After the crash, you may see
what looks like smoke. This is
actually powder from the
airbag's surface. People with
respiratory problems may
experience some temporary
discomfort from the chemicals
used by the airbag's activators.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Supplemental Restraint System
Important Facts
About Airbags
Airbags inflate only when
needed; in a severe frontal
collision. A severe collision
would be similar to a crash into a
parked car at 25 mph. Airbags
will not inflate in a moderate
frontal collision, or during a rear
impact, side impact, or rollover even if the impact is severe.
FRONTAL COLLISION RANGE
Airbags inflate and deflate only
once. They cannot protect you
during any additional impacts
that occur during a crash
sequence.
Injuries, including fatal injuries,
can occur in a severe collision,
even if seat belts are worn
properly and the airbags inflate.
No safety system can provide
complete protection in a severe
crash.
Just from viewing the vehicle
damage after a crash, it is very
difficult to accurately determine
if the airbags should or should
not have inflated. In some cases
where the airbag did not inflate,
extensive visible damage
indicated that the car absorbed
much of the crash energy, and
the airbags were not needed. In
other cases, a severe jolt, such as
an impact to the undercarriage,
may not cause extensive body
damage but may cause the
airbags to inflate.
How the Driver's
Airbag Works
If you ever have a severe frontal
collision, your airbag will
instantly inflate to help protect
your head and chest.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Supplemental Restraint System
To do its job, the airbag inflates
with considerable force. So,
while it can reduce serious
injuries and even save your life,
the airbag might cause some
facial abrasions or other injuries.
To reduce the possibility of
injury, you should always sit as
far from the steering wheel as
practical while still maintaining
full vehicle control.
After the bag completely inflates,
it immediately starts deflating so
it won't interfere with your
visibility, ability to steer, or
ability to operate other controls.
The total time for inflating and
deflating is a fraction of a
second. You may not even be
aware that the airbag has been
fully inflated.
The airbag is stored in the center
of the steering wheel. For safety,
do not attach any items to the
steering wheel. They could
interfere with the proper
operation of the airbag. Or, if the
airbag inflates, the items could
be propelled inside the car and
hurt someone.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Supplemental Restraint System
How the Passenger's
Airbag Works
If you have a severe frontal
collision, the passenger's airbag
will inflate at the same time as
the driver's airbag.
This airbag is quite large and
inflates with considerable force.
It can seriously hurt a front seat
passenger who is not in the
proper position and wearing the
seat belt properly.
Front seat passengers should
move the seat as far back as
practical and sit well back in the
seat.
We strongly recommend that you
do not put an infant seat in the
front passenger's seat. If the
airbag inflates, it can hit the
infant seat with great force. The
infant seat can be dislodged or
struck with enough force to cause
serious injury to the infant.
If a toddler seat is used in the
front passenger's seat, the
vehicle seat should be moved as
far back as possible. If the
passenger bag inflates, it could
seriously hurt a toddler who is
not in the proper position or
properly restrained.
The passenger's airbag is stored
near the top of the dashboard,
under a lid marked SRS. Do not
place any objects on top of this
lid. If the airbag inflates, those
objects can be propelled inside
the car and possibly hurt
someone.
S R S
The purpose of the SRS light
on your instrument panel is
to alert you to a potential
problem with your supplemental
restraint system.
Have the system checked if:
How the SRS Indicator
Light Works
The light does not come on
when you turn the ignition
ON (II).
The light stays on after the
engine starts.
The light comes on or flashes
while you are driving.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Supplemental Restraint System
If you see any of these
indications, the airbag may not
work when needed in an
accident. Take the car to your
dealer promptly for diagnosis
and service.
System Service
Your supplemental restraint
system is virtually maintenancefree. There are no parts you can
safely service. You must have the
system serviced by an
authorized Honda dealer:
If your airbags ever inflate. The
airbags and control unit must
be replaced. Do not try to
remove or discard the airbags
by yourself. This must be done
by a Honda dealer.
If the SRS indicator light alerts
you of a problem. Have the
supplemental restraint system
checked as soon as possible.
Otherwise, your airbags might
not inflate when you need
them.
When the car is 10 years old.
Have the dealer inspect the
system. The production date
is on the driver's doorjamb for
your convenience.
System Service Precautions
Do not modify your steering
wheel or any other part of the
supplemental restraint system.
Modifications could make the
system ineffective.
Do not tamper with the system's
components or wiring. This
could cause the airbags to inflate
inadvertently, possibly injuring
someone very seriously.
Tell anyone who works on your
car that you have a supplemental
restraint system. Failure to follow
the procedures and precautions
in the official Honda service
manual could result in personal
injury or damage to the system.
Scrapping an entire car that has
uninflated airbags can be
dangerous. Get assistance from a
Honda dealer if your car must
be scrapped.
If you sell your car, please be
sure to tell the new owner that
the car has a supplemental
restraint system. Alert them to
the information and precautions
in this part of the Owner's
Manual.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Additional Safety Information
The seat belts and airbags are
obviously important parts of
your occupant protection
system.
In addition, you should know
that sitting upright, adjusting the
head restraint properly, locking
the doors, and stowing things
properly can also increase your
safety and possibly even save
your life.
Seat-Back Position
The seat-backs should be in an
upright position for you and your
passengers to get the most
protection from the seat belts.
If you recline a seat-back, you
reduce the protective capability
of your seat belt. The farther a
seat-back is reclined, the greater
the risk that you will slide under
the belt in a severe crash and be
very seriously injured.
For information on how to adjust
the seat-back, see page 48.
Head Restraint Position
Head restraints can help protect
you from whiplash and other
injuries. For the best protection,
adjust the top of the restraint so
it is even with the tops of your
ears, or as high as possible. For
instructions on adjusting the
head restraints, see page 49.
Door Locks
It is not safe to leave your car
doors unlocked. A passenger,
especially a child, could open a
door and accidentally fall out.
Also, there is a greater chance of
being thrown out of the car
during a crash when the doors
are not locked.
Storing Cargo Safely
Before you drive, make sure you
first securely store or tie down
any items that could be thrown
around the car and hurt
someone or interfere with your
ability to operate the controls.
Do not put any items on top of
the tonneau cover. They can
block your view, and they could
be thrown about the car in a
crash.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Additional Safety Information, Child Safety
Be sure to keep compartment
doors closed when the car is
moving. If a front passenger hits
the door of an open glove box,
for example, he could injure his
knees.
For information on loading cargo,
see page 88.
Driving With Pets
Loose pets can be a hazard while
you are driving. An unrestrained
pet can interfere with your ability
to drive the car. In a crash or
sudden stop, loose pets or cages
can be thrown around inside the
car and hurt you or your
passengers. It is also for their
safety that pets should be
properly restrained in your car.
The recommended way to
restrain a medium-sized or larger
dog is with a special traveling
harness. This harness can be
secured to the rear seat with a
seat belt. Travel harnesses are
available at pet stores.
A small dog, cat, or other small
animal will be safest in a pet
carrier with rigid sides. Choose a
style that allows you to secure it
to the car's seat by routing a seat
belt through the carrier's handle.
For further information, contact
your veterinarian or local animal
protection society.
Child Safety
Children depend on adults to
protect them. To help make sure
we do, every state has laws
requiring infants and young
children to be properly
restrained whenever they ride in
a car.
n infant or child who is not
A
properly restrained can be killed
or seriously injured in a crash.
Be sure any child too small for
seat belts is properly secured in
a child restraint.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Child Safety
Where Should Children Sit?
According to accident statistics,
children of all sizes and ages are
safer when they are properly
restrained in the rear seat rather
than the front seat.
We recommend that, whenever
possible, you secure your child's
infant or toddler seat in the
center position of the rear seat
with the lap belt.
We strongly recommend that you
do not put an infant seat in the
front passenger's seat. If the
airbag inflates, it can hit the
infant seat with great force. The
infant seat can be dislodged or
struck with enough force to
cause very serious injury to the
infant.
If a toddler seat is used in the
front passenger's seat, the
vehicle seat should be moved as
far back as possible. If the
passenger bag inflates, it could
seriously hurt a toddler who is
not in the proper position or
properly restrained.
We also recommend that any
child who is too large to use an
infant or toddler seat ride in one
of the outside positions of the
rear seat. The child should then
wear the lap/shoulder belt
properly for protection.
If a child is not large enough to
wear the lap/shoulder belt
properly, you should use a
booster seat.
Important Safety Reminders
Never hold a baby or child on
your lap when riding in a car. If
you are wearing your seat belt,
the violent forces created during
a crash will tear the child from
your arms. The child could be
seriously hurt or killed.
If you are holding a child and not
wearing a seat belt in a crash,
you could crush the child against
the car's interior.
Never put your seat belt over
yourself and a child. During a
crash, the belt could press deep
into the child causing serious
internal injuries.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Child Safety
Two children should never use
the same seat belt. If they do,
they could be very seriously
injured in a crash.
If your are driving with small
children in the car, you should
use the childproof door locks to
prevent them from opening the
rear doors (see page 46).
For their safety, do not leave
children alone in your car
without adult supervision.
General Guidelines for
Restraining Children Under
40 Ib (18kg)
Use an approved child seat. The
seat must meet Federal Motor
Vehicle Safety Standard 213
(FMVSS-213). Look for the
manufacturer's statement of
compliance on the box and seat.
Use a seat of the right size. Make
sure the seat fits your child.
Check the seat's instructions and
labels for height and weight
limits.
Secure the child seat to the car. All
approved child seats are
designed to be secured in the car
seat by the lap belt or the lap
belt portion of a lap/shoulder
belt. A child whose seat is not
properly secured to the car can
be endangered in a crash.
To properly route a seat belt
through a child seat, follow the
seat-maker's instructions. If you
use a lap/shoulder belt, follow
the instructions on page 21.
Secure the child in the child seat.
Make sure the infant or child is
firmly secured to the child seat.
Use the straps provided, and
carefully follow the
manufacturer's instructions.
Restraining an Infant
Who Weighs Less Than
20 Ib (9 kg)
An infant up to about 20 Ib (9 kg)
must be restrained in an infant
seat or a convertible seat
designed for a baby. Because
infants must ride in a reclining
position, be sure the infant seat
always faces the REAR of the car
as shown.
continued
Driver and Passenger Safety
Child Safety
We recommend that, whenever
possible, you put the infant seat
in the center position of the rear
seat and secure it to the car with
the lap belt.
If you decide to put an infant seat
in any other seating position, be
sure to follow the instructions on
page 21.
We strongly recommend that you
do not put an infant seat in the
front passenger's seat. If the
airbag inflates, it can hit the
infant with great force. The infant
seat can be dislodged or struck
with enough force to cause
serious injury to the infant.
Restraining a Child Who
Weighs Between 20 and
40 Ib (9 and 18 kg)
Toddler seats are designed for
children who weigh between 20
and 40 Ib (9 and 18 kg).
The preferred place to put a
toddler seat is in the center
position of the rear seat. Use the
car's lap belt to secure the seat
to the car.
If you decide to put a toddler
seat in any other seating
position, be sure to follow the
instructions on page 21.
If you are using a toddler seat in
the front passenger's seat, move
the passenger's seat as far back
as possible before installing the
child seat. If the passenger bag
inflates, it could seriously hurt a
toddler who is not in the proper
position or properly restrained.
Restraining a Child Who
Weighs Over 40 Ib (18 kg)
We recommend that, whenever
possible, a child who has
outgrown a toddler seat ride in
one of the outside positions of
the rear seat and use a
lap/shoulder belt.
Put the lap/shoulder belt on your
child and check its fit. The
Driver and Passenger Safety
Child Safety
shoulder belt should fit over the
collarbone and across the chest.
The lap belt should sit low on
your child's hips, not across the
stomach.
If the shoulder belt crosses the
neck, have your child move
toward the center of the rear seat
until the belt fits properly. If the
belt still crosses the child's neck,
you should use a booster seat.
Several styles of booster seats
are available. We recommend a
design that allows the child to
use the car's lap/shoulder belt.
Whichever style you select,
follow the booster seat
manufacturer's instructions.
Securing a Child Seat With a
Lap/Shoulder Belt
The lap/shoulder belt retractors
in the passenger seating
positions have a built-in locking
mechanism intended to secure a
child seat. When you are placing
a child seat in one of these
outside seating positions, do the
following:
1. Place the child restraint in
the desired seating position.
Route the lap/shoulder belt
through the seat according to
the seat manufacturer's
instructions.
2. Insert the latch plate into the
buckle. Make sure it is fully
latched.
3. Slowly pull the shoulder
portion of the belt out of the
retractor until it stops.
4. Allow the belt to slowly feed
back into the retractor. You
should hear a clicking noise
that indicates the locking
mechanism has engaged.
5. After the belt has retracted
fully, pull up on the shoulder
portion to remove any slack.
continued
Driver and Passenger Safety
Child Safety
6. Push and pull on the child
seat to verify that is is held
firmly in place. If not, unlatch
the seat belt, allow it to
retract fully, and repeat these
steps.
To unlatch the seat belt, push the
red PRESS button on the buckle.
Guide the belt across to the door
pillar. If the belt doesn't retract
easily, pull it out and check for
twists or kinks.
Using Child Restraints
With Tethers
Your Honda has three
attachment points for
tether-style child seats. Two are
on the floor behind each rear
seat. A third attachment point is
at the headliner at the tailgate
opening. To access, remove the
plug cap.
R
TETHE
ATTACHMENT
POINTS
If you are not sure how to install
the bracket, have it installed by
your authorized Honda dealer.
If you need an anchor plate and
mounting hardware, you can
obtain them by writing to:
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Consumer Affairs
1919 Torrance Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90501-2746
Storing a Child Seat
When you are not using an infant
seat or other child restraint,
either remove it or make sure it
is properly secured so it cannot
be thrown around the car during
a crash.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Alcohol and Drugs
Driving a car requires your full
attention and alertness. Traffic
conditions change rapidly. You
must be able to react just as
rapidly. Alcohol or drugs directly
affect your alertness and ability
to react. Even prescription and
non-prescription medicines can
have this effect.
There are laws that deal with
drunken driving. These laws
define how much alcohol it takes
in your system to be legally
"drunk." However, your
judgement and reaction time get
worse with every drink - even
the first one.
The safest thing you can do is
never drink and drive. This can
be done if you plan ahead. If you
know you are going to be
drinking, make plans to ride with
a friend who will not be drinking.
What if you find that you've been
drinking and cannot get a ride
from a friend? Find alternative
transportation. Call a taxi. Take a
bus. Many communities have
transportation services devoted
to shuttling people who have
been drinking.
If you have no choice but to
drive, stop drinking and give
yourself lots of time to sober up.
Time is the only thing that can
make you sober. Things like
coffee or a cold shower don't
speed up the process.
If you see friends trying to get
behind the wheel after drinking,
stop them. Drive them yourself
or arrange other transportation.
If you think you are interfering,
remember that your interference
will keep them from sharing the
road with you.
Driver and Passenger Safety
Carbon Monoxide Hazard
Your car's exhaust contains
carbon monoxide gas. You
should have no problem with
carbon monoxide entering the
car in normal driving if you
maintain your car properly.
Have the exhaust system
inspected for leaks whenever:
The car is raised for an oil
change.
You notice a change in the
sound of the exhaust.
The car was in an accident
that may have damaged the
underside.
Carbon monoxide gas is toxic.
Breathing it can cause
unconsciousness and can even
kill you.
Avoid any enclosed areas or
activities that expose you to
carbon monoxide.
High levels of carbon monoxide
can collect rapidly in enclosed
areas, such as a garage. Do not
run the engine with the garage
door closed. Even with the door
open, run the engine only long
enough to move the car out of
the garage.
With the tailgate open, air flow
can pull exhaust gas into your
car's interior and create a
hazardous condition. If you must
drive with the tailgate open,
open all the windows and set the
heating and cooling system as
shown below.
If you must sit in your parked car,
even in an unconfined area, with
the engine running, adjust the
heating and cooling system as
follows:
1. Push the button.
2. Select the mode.
3. Turn the fan on high speed.
4. Set the temperature control
to a comfortable setting.
Driver and Passenger Safety
These labels are in the locations
shown. They warn you of
potential hazards that could
cause serious injury. Read these
labels carefully, and don't
remove them.
If a label comes off or becomes
hard to read, contact your Honda
dealer for a replacement.
BATTERY
Safety Labels
RADIATOR CAP
Driver and Passenger Safety
Instruments and Controls
This section gives information
about the controls and displays
that contribute to the daily
operation of your Honda. All the
essential controls are within easy
reach.
Control Locations ........... 28
Indicato r Lights ............. 29
Gauges ....................
Speedometer .............
Tachometer ..............
Odometer ...............
Tri p Meter ............... 33
Fuel Gauge ............... 34
Temperature Gauge ....... 34
Maintenance Required
Indicator ............... 34
Controls Near the
Steering Wheel ............ 35
Headlights ............... 36
Instrument Panel
Brightness .............. 37
33
33
33
33
Turn Signals
Windshiel d Wipers ....... 37
Rear Window
Wiper/Washer ..........
Windshiel d Washers ...... 38
Hazard Warning
Rear Window Defogger .... 39
Steering Wheel Adjustment 40
Steering Wheel Controls ..... 40
Cruise Control
Keys and Locks
Keys ................... 43
Ignition Switch
Power Door Locks ........ 45
Door Locks
Remote Transmitter ...... 45
Childproof Door Locks .... 46
Glove Box ............... 47
Tailgat e ................. 47
.............
.......... 39
........... 40
:............ 43
........... 44
.............. 45
37
38
Sea t Adjustments ........... 48
Front Seat Adjustments ... 48
Driver's Seat Power
Height Adjustment ...... 49
Driver's Lumbar Support .. 49
Head Restraints .......... 49
Folding Rear Seat .......... 50
Rear Seat Armrest ........ 50
Power Windows ............ 50
Moonroof .................. 52
Mirrors .................... 53
Adjustin g the Power Mirrors 53
Parkin g Brake
Digita l Clock................ 54
Beverage Holder
Console Compartment....... 56
Coin Box
Cigarette Lighter
Ashtray s
Interior Light
Courtesy Lights
.............. 54
............ 55
.................. 56
.......... 56
.................. 57
.............. 57
............ 58
Instruments and Controls
Control Locations
HOOD RELEASE HANDLE
DOOR
LOCK
MIRROR
CONTROLS
POWER
WINDOW
SWITCHES
FUEL FILL
DOOR
RELEASE
Instruments and Controls
DIGITAL CLOCK
HORN
AUDIO SYSTEM
HEATING/COOLING
CONTROL
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM INDICATOR
PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE
SYSTEM INDICATOR
CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR
LOW OIL
PRESSURE
INDICATOR
HIGH BEAM INDICATOR
SEAT BELT REMINDER
LIGHT
CRUISE CONTROL
INDICATOR
Indicator Lights
The instrument panel has many
indicators to give you important
information about your car.
Lamp Check
Many of the indicator lights
come on when you turn the
ignition switch ON (II), allowing
you to see that they are working.
If an indicator does not light
during this test, it cannot alert
you if that system develops a
problem. Have the dealer check
your car for burned-out bulbs or
other problems.
DOOR AND BRAKE
LAMP MONITOR
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP
LOW FUEL
INDICATOR
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE
SYSTEM INDICATOR
Instruments and Controls
Indicator Lights
Seat Belt Reminder
Light
This indicator lights when you
turn the ignition ON (II). It is a
reminder to you and your
passengers to protect yourselves
by fastening the seat belts. A
beeper also sounds if you have
not fastened your seat belt.
If you do not fasten your seat
belt, the beeper will stop after a
few seconds but the light stays
on until you do. Both the light
and the beeper stay off if you
fasten your seat belt before
turning on the ignition.
Charging
System Indicator
If this light comes on when the
engine is running, the battery is
not being charged. For complete
information, see page 166.
Low Oil
Pressure Indicator
The engine can be severely
damaged if this light comes on
when the engine is running. For
complete information, see page
165.
Parking Brake and
BRAKE
Brake System
Indicator Light
This light has two functions:
1. It lights as a reminder that
you have set the parking
brake. Driving with the
parking brake set can damage
the brakes and tires, and
cause the anti-lock brake
system to turn off on cars
equipped with ABS.
2. It can indicate the brake fluid
level is low if it remains lit
after you release the parking
brake or comes on while
driving. This is normally due
to worn brake pads. Have
your dealer check the braking
system for worn pads or fluid
leaks.
Supplemental
S R S
Restraint System
Indicator
See page 14.
Instruments and Controls
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