HONDA Element 2003 Owner's Manual

2003 Element 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

Important Handling Information.....................................................................................................iii

Your Vehicle at a Glance.....................................................................................................................2

Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................5

Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.

Instruments and Controls.................................................................................................................63

Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.

Comfort and Convenience Features ..............................................................................................117

How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.

Before Driving..................................................................................................................................157

What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.

Driving ..............................................................................................................................................171

The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.

Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................207

The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.

Appearance Care..............................................................................................................................267

Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs.

Taking Care of the Unexpected......................................................................................................275

This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.

Technical Information.....................................................................................................................303

ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.

Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................319

A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.

Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................323

How to order manuals and other technical literature.

Index...................................................................................................................................................... I

Service Information Summary

A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

Contents

Owner’s Identification

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OWNER

ADDRESS

STREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/

V. I. N.

DELIVERY DATE

(Date sold to original retail purchaser)

DEALER NAME DEALER NO.

ADDRESS

STREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/

OWNER’S SIGNATURE

DEALER’S SIGNATURE

POSTAL CODE

This Owner’s Manual should be considered a permanent part of the vehicle, and should remain with the vehicle when it is sold.

This Owner’s Manual covers all models of the Element. Y ou may find descriptions of equipment and features that are not on your particular model.

The inf ormation and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change specif ications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation whatsoever.

Introduction

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Congratulations! Your selection of a 2003 Honda Element 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 how to operate its driving controls and convenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner’s manual in your vehicle so youcanrefertoitatanytime.

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.

California Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING:

California to cause cancer and birth def ects or other reproductive harm.

This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of

As you read this manual, you will find inf ormation that is preceded by a symbol. This information is intended to help you avoid damage to your Honda, other property, or the environment.

AFewWordsAboutSafety

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Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And operating this vehicle safely is an important responsibility.

To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others.

Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or maintaining your vehicle. You must use your own good judgement.

You will f ind this important safety information in a variety of forms, including:

Safety Labels Safety Messages

three signal words: , , or . These signal words mean:

Safety Headings

Safety Precautions.

Safety Section Instructions

This entire book is filled with important safety information please read it carefully.

−

on the vehicle.

−

preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of

DANGER WARNING CAUTION

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.

−

such as Important Safety Reminders or Important

−

such as Driver and Passenger Safety.

−

how to use this vehicle correctly and safely.

−

Important Handling Information

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Your Element has higher ground clearance than a passenger vehicle designed for use only on pavement. Higher ground clearance has many advantages for off-highway driving. It allows you to travel over bumps, obstacles, and rough terrain. It also provides good visibility so you can anticipate problems earlier.

These advantages come at some cost. Because your vehicle is taller and rides higher of f the ground, it has a high center of gravity. This means your vehicle can tip or roll over if you make abrupt turns. Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles. In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt. As a reminder, make sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts.

For information on how to reduce the risk of rollover, read ‘‘Driving Guidelines’’ on page of this manual and the

Off-Highway Guidelines

accident.

section on page . Failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or an

200

172

iii

Your Vehicle at a Glance

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POWER DOOR LOCK SWITCH

(P.87)

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES

(P.103)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.160)

A/T model is shown.

MIRROR CONTROLS (P.106)

INDICATORS (P.65) GAUGES

(P.72)

AUDIO SYSTEM (P.126, 137)

HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS (P.118)

PARKING BRAKE (P.111)

Your Vehicle at a Glance

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HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS (P.76, 77)

CRUISE CONTROL (P.153)

A/T model is shown.

＊＊To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.:

TILT ADJUSTMENT (P.82)

HORN

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS (P.78, 79)

SHIFT LEVER (P.176, 179)

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER (P.81)

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS (P.81)

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Driver and Passenger Safety

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This section gives you important information about how to protect yourself and your passengers. It shows you how to use seat belts properly. It explains your Supplemental Restraint System. And it tells you how to properly restrain infants and children in your vehicle.

.......................................Seat Belts . 8

.........................................Airbags . 10

.....................Seats & Seat-Backs . 11

..........................Head Restraints . 11

..................................Door Locks . 11

............................Protecting Adults . 13

.........Important Safety Precautions . 6

.......Your Vehicle’s Safety Features . 7

........Pre-Drive Safety Checklist . 12

.....1. Close and Lock the Doors . 13

...........2. Adjust the Front Seats . 13

............3. Adjust the Seat-Backs . 15

5. Fasten and Position the Seat

.....................................Belts . 17

....6. Adjust the Steering Wheel . 20

7. Maintain a Proper Sitting

................................Position . 20

.....Advice for Pregnant Women . 21

........................Protecting Children . 24

All Children Must Be

...............................Restrained . 24

Children Should Sit in the Back

...........................................Seat . 25

The Passenger’s Front Airbag

Poses Serious Risks to

..............................Children . 25

If You Must Drive with Several

...................................Children . 28

If a Child Requires Close

..................................Attention . 28

General Guidelines for Using

...............................Child Seats . 29

.......................Protecting Infants . 34

...4. Adjust the Head Restraints . 16

...Additional Safety Precautions . 22

...Additional Safety Precautions . 29

.........Protecting Small Children . 38

.......Protecting Larger Children . 42

Using Child Seats with

.....................................Tethers . 46

.............................Using LATCH . 47

Additional Information About Your

.................................Seat Belts . 50

..Seat Belt System Components . 50

......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 50

Automatic Seat Belt

...............................Tensioners . 52

...............Seat Belt Maintenance . 53

Additional Information About Your

.....................................Airbags . 54

........................SRS Components . 54

How Your Front Airbags

.........................................Work . 54

...How Your Side Airbags Work . 56

How the SRS Indicator Light

.......................................Works . 57

How the Side Airbag Cutoff

...........Indicator Light Works . 58

.............................Airbag Service . 59

...Additional Safety Precautions . 59

.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 60

...................................Safety Labels . 61

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Important Safety Precautions

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You’ll find many safety recommendations throughout this section, and throughout this manual. Therecommendationsonthispage are the ones we consider to be the most important.

Always Wear Your Seat Belt

A seat belt is your best protection in all types of collisions. Airbags supplement seat belts, but airbags are designed to inflate only in a moderate to severe frontal collision. So even though your vehicle is equipped with airbags, make sure you and your passengers always wear your seat belts, and wear them properly. (See page .)

Restrain All Children

Children are safest when they are properly restrained in the back seat, notthefrontseat.Achildwhoistoo smallforaseatbeltmustbeproperly restrained in a child safety seat. (See page .)

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Be Aware of Airbag Hazards Control Your Speed

While airbags can save lives, they can cause serious or fatal injuries to occupants who sit too close to them, or are not properly restrained. Infants, young children, and short adults are at the greatest risk. Be sure to f ollow all instructions and warnings in this manual. (See page

Excessive speed is a major factor in crash injuries and deaths. Generally, the higher the speed the greater the risk, but serious accidents can also occur at lower speeds. Never drive faster than is safe for current conditions, regardless of the maximum speed posted.

Keep Your Vehicle in Safe

Don’t Drink and Drive

Alcohol and driving don’t mix. Even one drink can reduce your ability to respond to changing conditions, and your reaction time gets worse with every additional drink. So don’t drink and drive, and don’t let your f riends drink and drive, either.

Condition

Having a tire blowout or a mechanical f ailure can be extremely hazardous. To reduce the possibility of such problems, check your tire pressures and condition frequently, and perform all regularly scheduled maintenance. (See page .)

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Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

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(7)

(5)

(10)

(3)

(4)

(2)

(6)

(9)

(8)

(1) Safety Cage (2) Crush Zones (3) Seats & Seat-Backs (4) Head Restraints (5) Collapsible Steering Column (6) Seat Belts (7) Front Airbags (8) Side Airbags (EX model) (9) Front Seat Belt Tensioners (10) Door Locks

(1)

(2)

Your vehicle is equipped with many features that work together to protect you and your passengers during a crash.

Some safety features do not require anyactiononyourpart.These include a strong steel framework that forms a safety cage around the passenger compartment; front and rear crush zones that are designed to crumple and absorb energy during a crash; a collapsible steering column; and seat belt tensioners that automatically tighten the front seat belts in the event of a crash.

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Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

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These safety features are designed to reduce the severity of injuries in a crash. However, you and your passengers can’t take full advantage of these safety features unless you remain sitting in a proper position

always wear your seat belts

and

properly.

In fact, some safety features can contribute to injuries if they are not used properly.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Seat Belts

Foryoursafety,andthesafetyof your passengers, your vehicle is equipped with seat belts in all seating positions.

Your seat belt system also

includes a light on the instrument panel to remind you and your passengers to fasten your seat belts.

Why Wear Seat Belts

Seat belts are the single most effective safety device for adults and larger children. (Infants and smaller children must be properly restrained in child seats.)

Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even though your vehicle has airbags.

In addition, most states and all Canadian provinces require you to wear seat belts.

Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

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Not wearing a seat belt properly 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.

When properly worn, seat belts:

Keep you connected to the vehicle so you can take advantage of the vehicle’s built-in safety features.

Help protect you in almost every type of crash, including side and rear impacts and rollovers. In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.

Help keep you from being thrown against the inside of the vehicle and against other occupants.

Keep you from being thrown out of the vehicle.

Help keep you in a good position should the airbags ever deploy. A good position reduces the risk of injury from an inflating airbag, and allows you to get the best advantage from the airbag.

Of course, seat belts cannot completely protect you in every crash.Butinmostcases,seatbelts can reduce your risk of serious injury.

What you should do:

Always wear your seat belt, and make sure you wear it properly.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

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Airbags

Your vehicle has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with front airbags to help protect the heads and chests of the driver and a front seat passenger during a moderate to severe f rontal collision.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Only on models equipped with side airbags

Your vehicle also has side airbags to help protect the upper torso of the driver or a front seat passenger during a moderate to severe side impact.

The most important things you need to know about your airbags are:

Airbags do not replace seat belts.

They are designed to supplement the seat belts.

Airbags of f er no protection in rear impacts, rollovers, or minor frontal or side collisions.

Airbags can pose serious hazards.

To do their job, airbags must inflate with tremendous force and speed. So while airbags help save lives, they can cause minor injuries, or more serious or even fatal injuries if occupants are not properly restrained or sitting properly.

What you should do:

Always wear your seat belt properly, and sit upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel or dashboard.

Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

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Seats & Seat-Backs

Your vehicle’s seats are designed to keep you in a comfortable, upright position so you can take full advantage of the protection offered by seat belts and the energy absorbing materials in the seats.

How you adjust your seats and seatbacks can also affect your safety. For example, sitting too close to the steering wheel or dashboard increases the risk of you or your passenger being injured by striking theinsideofthevehicle,orbyan inflating airbag.

Reclining a seat-back too f ar reduces the seat belt’s effectiveness and increases the chance that the seat’s occupant will slide under the seat belt in a crash and be seriously injured.

What you should do:

Move the front seats as far back as possible, and keep adjustable seat-backs in an upright position whenever the vehicle is moving.

Head Restraints

Head restraints can help protect you from whiplash and other injuries. For maximum protection, the back of your head should rest against the center of the head restraint.

Door Locks

Keeping your doors locked reduces thechanceofbeingthrownoutof the vehicle during a crash. It also helps prevent occupants from accidentally opening a door and falling out, and outsiders from unexpectedly opening your doors.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

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Pre-Drive Saf ety Checklist

To make sure you and your passengers get the maximum protection from your vehicle’s safety features, check the following each time before you drive away:

All adults, and children who have outgrown child safety seats, are wearing their seat belts and wearingthemproperly(seepage

Any infant or small child is properly restrained in a child seat inthebackseat(seepage ).

Frontseatoccupantsaresitting upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel and dashboard (see page ).

Seat-backs are upright (see page

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Head restraints are properly adjusted (see page ).

Alldoorsandthetailgateare closed and locked (see page ).

All cargo is properly stored or secured (see page ).

167

The rest of this section gives more detailed inf ormation about how you can maximize your safety.

Remember, however, that no safety system can prevent all injuries or deaths that can occur in severe crashes, even when seat belts are properly worn and the airbags deploy.

Protecting Adults

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Introduction

The f ollowing pages provide instructions on how to properly protect the driver and other adult occupants.

These instructions also apply to children who have outgrown child seats and are large enough to wear lap/shoulder belts. (See page for important additional guidelines on how to properly protect larger children.)

Close and Lock the Doors

After everyone has entered the vehicle, be sure the doors and tailgate (including the hatch glass) are closed.

Your vehicle has a door

monitor light on the instrument panel to indicate when any door is not tightly closed.

Your vehicle also has a

tailgate and hatch open indicator light on the instrument panel to indicate when the tailgate or the hatch is not tightly closed.

For safety, locking the doors reduces the chance that a passenger, especially a child, will open a door while the vehicle is moving and accidentally fall out. It also reduces the chance of someone being thrown out of the vehicle during a crash.

For security, locked doors can prevent an outsider from unexpectedly opening a door when you come to a stop.

See page for how to lock the

doors.

Adjust the Front Seats

Any driver who sits too close to the steering wheel is at risk of being seriously injured or killed by striking the steering wheel or from being struck by an inflating front airbag during a crash.

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Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Protecting Adults

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To reduce the chance of injury, wear your seat belt properly, sit upright with your back against the seat, and movetheseatawayfromthe steering wheel to the farthest distance that allows you to maintain full control of the vehicle.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that drivers adjust the seat so the center of the chest is at least 10 inches (25 cm) away from the center of the steering wheel.Alsomakesureyourfront seat passenger moves the seat as far to the rear as possible.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Sitting too close to a front airbag can result in serious injury or death if the front airbags inflate.

Always sit as far back from the front airbags as possible.

Most shorter drivers can get f ar enough away from the steering wheel and still reach the pedals. However, if you are concerned about sitting too close, we recommend that you investigate whether some type of adaptive equipment may help.

Once your seat is adjusted correctly, rock it back and forth to make sure the seat is locked in position.

See page for how to adjust the

front seats.

Protecting Adults

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Adjust the Seat-Backs3.

Adjust the driver’s seat-back to a comfortable, upright position, leaving ample space between your chest and the airbag cover in the center of the steering wheel. If you sit too close to the steering wheel, you could be injured if the front airbag inflates.

A front passenger should also adjust the seat-back to an upright position, but as far from the dashboard as possible. A passenger who sits too close to the dashboard could be injured if the front airbag inf lates.

Reclining a seat-back so that the shoulder part of the belt no longer rests against the occupant’s chest reduces the protective capability of the belt. It also increases the chance of sliding under the belt in a crash and being seriously injured. The farther a seat-back is reclined, the greater the risk of injury.

Reclining the seat-back too far can result in seriousinjury or death in a crash.

Adjust the seat-back to an upright position and sit well back in the seat.

See page for how to adjust seat-

backs.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Protecting Adults

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Adjust the Head Restraints4.

Before driving, make sure everyone with an adjustable head restraint has properly positioned the head restraint. The restraint should be positioned so the back of the occupant’s head rests against the center of the restraint. A taller person should adjust the restraint as high as possible.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Improperly positioning head restraints reduces their effectiveness and you can be seriously injured in a crash.

Make sure head restraints are in place and positioned properly before driving.

Properly adjusted head restraints will help protect occupants from whiplash and other crash injuries.

See page for how to adjust the

head restraints.

Fasten and Position the Seat

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5. Belts

Insert the latch plate into the buckle, then tug on the belt to make sure the belt is securely latched. Also check that the belt is not twisted, because a twisted belt can cause serious injuries in a crash.

Position the lap part of the belt as low as possible across your hips, then pull up on the shoulder part of the belt so the lap part fits snugly. This lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash and reduces the chance of internal injuries.

Protecting Adults

If necessary, pull up on the shoulder belt again to remove any slack from the shoulder belt, then check that the belt rests across the center of your chest and over your shoulder. This spreads the forces of a crash over the strongest bones in your upper body.

Improperly positioning the seat belts can cause serious injury or death in a crash.

Make sure all seat belts are properly positioned before driving.

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Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Protecting Adults

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If the seat belt touches or crosses your neck, or if it crosses your arm instead of your shoulder, you need to adjust the seat belt anchor height.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

RELEASE BUTTONS

To adjust the height of a front seat belt anchor, squeeze the two release buttons and slide the anchor up or down as needed (it has four positions).

Never place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back.

This could cause

very serious injuries in a crash.

Protecting Adults

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If a seat belt does not seem to work as it should, it may not protect the occupant in a crash.

sit in a seat with an inoperative seat belt.

Anyone using a seat belt that is

No one should

not working properly can be seriously injured or killed. Have your Honda dealer check the belt as soon as possible.

See page for additional

information about your seat belt system and how to take care of your belts.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Protecting Adults

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Adjust the Steering Wheel Maintain a Proper Sitting

6. 7. Position

After all occupants have adjusted their seats and put on seat belts, it is very important that they continue to sit upright, well back in their seats, with their feet on the floor, until the vehicle is parked and the engine is off.

Sitting improperly can increase the chance of injury during a crash. For example, if an occupant slouches,

lies down, turns sideways, sits Adjust the steering wheel, if needed, so that the wheel points toward your chest, not toward your face.

Pointing the steering wheel toward your chest provides optimal protection from the airbag.

forward, leans forward or sideways,

or puts one or both feet up, the

chance of injury during a crash is

greatly increased.

In addition, an occupant who is out of position in the front seat can be seriously or f atally injured by striking interior parts of the vehicle, or by being struck by an inflating front airbag. Being struck by an inflating side airbag can result in possibly serious injuries.

Sitting improperly or out of position can result in serious injury or death in a crash.

Always sit upright, well back in the seat, with your feet on the floor.

See page for how to adjust the

steering wheel.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Protecting Adults

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Remember, to get the best protection from your vehicle’s airbags and other safety features, you must sit properly and wear your seat belt properly.

Advice for Pregnant Women

Because protecting the mother is the

best way to protect her unborn child,

a pregnant woman should always

wear a seat belt whenever she drives

or rides in a vehicle.

Remember to keep the lap portion of

the belt as low as possible across

your hips.

Pregnant women should also sit upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel or dashboard. This will reduce the risk of injuries to both the mother and her unborn child that can be caused by a crash or an inflating airbag.

Each time you have a check-up, ask your doctor if it’s okay for you to drive.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Protecting Adults

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Additional Safety Precautions

Never let passengers ride in the cargo area or on top of a foldeddown back seat.

must sit in locked, upright seats andbeproperlyrestrainedbyseat belts.

Passengers should not stand up or change seats while the vehicle is moving.

A passenger who is not wearing a seat belt during a crash or emergency stop can be thrown against the inside of the vehicle, against other occupants, or out of the vehicle.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

All passengers

Two people should never use the same seat belt.

If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash.

Do not put any accessories on seat belts.

Devices intended to improve occupant comf ort or reposition the shoulder part of a seat belt can severely compromise the protective capability of the seat belt and increase the chance of serious injury in a crash.

Do not place hard or sharp objects between yourself and a f ront airbag.

Carrying hard or sharp objects on your lap, or driving with a pipe or other sharp objects in your mouth, can result in injuries if your front airbag inflates.

Do not attach or place objects on the f ront airbag covers.

Any object attached to or placed on the covers marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG’’ in the center of the steering wheel and on top of the dashboard could interfere with the proper operation of the airbags. Or, if the airbags inflate, the objects could be propelled inside the vehicle and hurt someone.

On models with side airbags, do

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not attach hard objects on or near a front door.

If a side airbag inflates,acupholderorotherhard object attached on or near the door could be propelled inside the vehicle and hurt someone.

Keep your hands and arms away from the airbag covers.

If your hands or arms are close to the airbag cover in the center of the steering wheel or on top of the dashboard, they could be injured if the front airbag inflates.

Protecting Adults

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Protecting Children

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All Children Must Be Restrained

Each year, many children are injured

Children who are unrestrained or improperly restrained can be seriously injured or killed in a crash.

Any child too small for a seat belt should be properly restrained in a child seat. A larger child should be properly restrained with a seat belt.

Children depend on adults to protect them. However, despite their best intentions, many parents and other adults may not know how to

properly

protect young passengers. (See page

So if you have children, or if you ever need to drive with a grandchild or other children in your vehicle, be sure to read this section.

or killed in vehicle crashes because they are either unrestrained or not properly restrained. In fact, vehicle accidents are the number one cause of death of children ages 12 and under.

To reduce the number of child deaths and injuries, every state and Canadian province requires that infants and children be restrained whenever they ride in a vehicle.

Anychildwhoistoosmalltoweara seat belt should be properly restrained in a child seat.

A larger child should always be restrained with a seat belt, and use a booster, if needed.

(See page .)2942

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Protecting Children

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Additional Precautions to Parents

Neverholdaninfantorchildon your lap.

If you are not wearing a seat belt in a crash, you could be thrown forward into the dashboard and crush the child.

Ifyouarewearingaseatbelt,the child can be torn from your arms during a crash. For example, if your vehicle crashes into a parked vehicleat30mph(48km/h),a 20-lb (9 kg) infant will become a 600-lb (275 kg) force, and you will not be able to hold on.

Never put a seat belt over yourself and an infant or child.

crash, the belt could press deep into the child and cause very serious injuries.

During a

Children Should Sit in the Back Seat

According to accident statistics, children of all ages and sizes are safer when they are restrained in the back seat, not the front seat. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that all children ages 12 and under be properly restrained in the back seat.

In the back seat, children are less likely to be injured by striking hard interior parts during a collision or hard braking. Also, children cannot be injured by an inflating airbag when they ride in the back.

The Passenger’s Front Airbag Poses Serious Risks to Children

Front airbags have been designed to help protect adults in a moderate to severe f rontal collision. To do this, the passenger’s front airbag is quite large, and it inf lates with tremendous speed.

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Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Protecting Children

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Infants Never put a rear-f acing child seat in the front seat of a vehicle equipped with a passenger’s front airbag.

the airbag inflates, it can hit the back of the child seat with enough force to kill or very seriously injure an infant.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Small Children Larger Children Placing a f orward-facing child seat in the front seat of a vehicle equipped

with a passenger’s front airbag can be hazardous.

If the vehicle seat is too far forward, or the child’s head is thrown f orward during a collision, an inflating front airbag can strike the child with enough force to kill or

Children who have outgrown child seats are also at risk of being injured or killed by an inflating passenger’s front airbag.

Whenever possible, larger children should sit in the back seat, in a booster seat if needed, and be properly restrained with a seat belt.

very seriously injure a small child.

U.S. Models Canadian Models

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To remind you of the passenger’s front airbag hazards, and that children must be properly restrained in the back seat, your vehicle has warninglabelsonthedashboardand on the driver’s and front passenger’s

To remind you of the front airbag hazards, your vehicle has warning labels on the driver’s and front passenger’s visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these

labels. visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these labels.

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Protecting Children

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If You Must Drive with Several Children

Your vehicle has two seating positions in the back seat where children can be properly restrained.

If you ever have to carry more than two children in your vehicle:

Place the largest child in the front seat, provided the child is large enough to wear a seat belt properly (see page ).

Move the vehicle seat as far to the rear as possible (see page ).

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Have the child sit upright and well backintheseat(seepage ).

Make sure the seat belt is properly positioned and secured (see page

If a Child Requires Close Attention

Many parents say they prefer to put an infant or small child in the front passenger seat so they can watch the child, or because the child requires attention.

Placing a child in the front seat exposes the child to hazards from the passenger’s front airbag, and paying close attention to a child distracts the driver f rom the important tasks of driving, placing both of you at risk.

If a child requires physical attention or frequent visual contact, we strongly recommend that another adult ride with the child in the back seat. The back seat is far safer for a child than the front.

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Additional Safety Precautions

vehicle.

Leaving children without adult supervision is illegal in most states and Canadian provinces, and can be very hazardous. For example, infants and small childrenleftinavehicleonahot day can die from heatstroke. And children left alone with the key in the ignition can accidentally set the vehicle in motion, possibly injuring themselves or others.

Lock all doors and the hatch when your vehicle is not in use.Do not leave children alone in your

Children who play in vehicles can accidentally get trapped inside the vehicle. Teach your children not to play in or around vehicles.

Keep vehicle keys out of t he reach of children.

Even very young children learn how to unlock vehicle doors, turn on the ignition, and open the tailgate or hatch, which can lead to accidental injury or death.

General Guidelines f or Using Child Seats

The f ollowing pages give general guidelines for selecting and installing child seats for infants and small children.

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Selecting a Child Seat

To provide proper protection, a child seat should meet three requirements:

The child seat should meet safety

1. standards.

meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS 213) or Canadian Motor Vehicle Saf ety Standard 213 (CMVSS 213). Look for the manufacturer’s statement of compliance on the box and seat.

The child seat should be of the

2. proper type and size to fit the child.

The child seat should

Infants: Small Children:

year old should be restrained in a rear-f acing, reclining child seat. Only a rear-facing seat provides the proper support to protect an infant’s head, neck, and back. See page

Childrenuptoaboutone

for additional information on

large for a rear-facing child seat, and who can sit up without support, should be restrained in a forwardfacing child seat. See page for additional inf ormation on protecting small children.34

protecting infants.

A child who is too

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The child seat should fit the

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3. vehicle seating position (or positions) where it will be used.

Due to variations in the design of child seats, vehicle seats, and seat belts, all child seats will not fit all vehicle seating positions.

However, Honda is confident that one or more child seat models can f it andbeproperlyinstalledinall recommended seating positions in your vehicle.

Before purchasing a child seat, we recommend that parents test the child seat in the specific vehicle seating position (or positions) where they intend to use the seat. If a previously purchased child seat does not fit, you may need to buy a different one that will fit.

Protecting Children

Your vehicle has lower anchors installed f or use with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) - compatible child seats. For more inf ormation, see page .48

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Placing a Child Seat Front Passenger’s Seat

This page briefly summarizes Honda’s recommendations on where to place rear-facing and forwardfacing child seats in your vehicle.

Airbags Pose Serious

Risks to Children

The passenger’s front airbag inflates with enough force to kill or seriously injure an infant in a rear-facing child seat.

A small child in a forward-f acing child seat is also at risk. If the vehicle seat is too far forward, or the child’s head is thrown forward during a collision, an inflating front airbag can kill or seriously injure the child.

If a small child must ride in the front, follow the instructions provided in this section.

Infants:

Never in the front seat, due

to the front airbag hazard.

Small children:

Not recommended, due to the front airbag hazard. If a small child must ride in f ront, move the vehicle seat to the rearmost position and secure a forward-facingchild seat with the seat belt (see page ).

Back Seats Infants:

Recommended positions. Properlysecurearear-facingchild seat (see page ).

Small children:

Recommended positions. Properly secure a forward-facingchild seat (see page ).

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Installing a Child Seat Secure the child in the child seat.

After selecting a proper child seat, and a good position to install the seat, there are three main steps in installing the seat:

To provide security during normal driving maneuvers as well as during a collision, we recommend that parents secure a child seat as f irmly as possible.

Make sure the child is properly strappedinthechildseat according to the child seat maker’s instructions. A child who is not properly secured in a child seat

Properly secure the child seat to

1. the vehicle.

All child seats are designed to be secured to the vehicle with the lap part of a lap/ shoulder belt. Some child seats can be secured to the vehicle’s LATCH anchorage system instead. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the vehicle can be endangered in a crash. See pages

, and for instructions on

483935

howtoproperlysecurechildseats in this vehicle.

However, a child seat does not need to be ‘‘rock solid.’’ In some vehicles or seating positions, it may be diff icult to install a child seat so that it does not move at all. Some side-toside or back-and-forth movement can be expected and should not reduce the child seat’s effectiveness.

If the child seat is not secure, try installing it in a different seating position, or use a dif ferent style of child seat that can be firmly secured

canbethrownoutof theseatina crash and be seriously injured.

Storing a Child Seat

When you are not using a child seat, either remove it and store it in a safe place, or make sure it is properly secured. An unsecured child seat can be thrown around the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop and injure someone.

in the desired seating position.

Make sure the child seat is firmly

2. secured.

After installing a child seat, push and pull the seat forward and from side to side to verify that it is secure.

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Protecting Infants

Child Seat Type

Only a rear-facing child seat provides proper support f or a baby’s head, neck, and back.

Two types of seats may be used: a seat designed exclusively for infants, or a convertible seat used in the rearfacing, reclining mode.

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Placing a rear-facing child seat in the front seat can result in serious injury or death if the passenger’s front airbag inflates.

Always place a rear-facing child seat in the back seat, not the front.

We recommend that an infant be restrained in a rear-f acing child seat until the infant is at least one year old, reaches the seat maker’s weight or height limit, and is able to sit up without support.

Rear-Facing Child Seat Placement

In this vehicle, a rear-facing child seatcanbeplacedinanyseating position in the back, but not in the front seat.

Never put a rear-f acing child seat in the front seat.

If the passenger’s front airbag inflates, it can hit the back of the child seat with enough force to kill or seriously injure an infant. If an infant must be closely watched, we recommend that another adult sit in the back seat with the baby.

Do not put a rear-f acing child seat in a forward-facing position.

If placed facing forward, an infant could be very seriously injured during a frontal collision.

Rear-Facing Child Seat Installation

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The lap/shoulder belts in the back seats have a locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat.

The f ollowing pages provide instructions and tips on how to secure a rear-facing child seat with this type of seat belt.

If you have a child seat designed to attach to the vehicle’s LATCH anchorage system, follow the instructions on page .48

With the child seat in the desired

1. back seating position, route the belt through the child seat according to the seat maker’s instructions, then insert the latch plate into the buckle.

Protecting Children

To activate the lockable retractor,

2. slowly pull the shoulder part of the belt all the way out until it stops, then let the belt feed back into the retractor (you might hear a clicking noise as the belt retracts).

After the belt has retracted, tug on

3. it. If the belt is locked, you will not be able to pull it out. If you can pull the belt out, it is not locked and you will need to repeat these steps.

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To deactivate the locking mechanism and remove a child seat, unlatch the buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let the belt f ully retract.

After confirming that the belt is locked, grab the shoulder part of the belt near the buckle and pull up to remove any slack from the lap part of the belt. Remember, if the lap part of the belt is not tight, the child seat will not be secure. To remove slack, it may help to putweightonthechildseat,or push on the back of the seat, while pulling up on the belt.

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Push and pull the child seat

5.4. forward and from side to side to verify that it is secure enough to stay upright during normal driving maneuvers. If the child seat is not secure, unlatch the belt, allow it to retract fully, then repeat these steps.

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Rear-Facing Child Seat Installation Tips

Forproperprotection,aninfantmust ride in a reclined, or semi-reclined position. To determine the proper reclining angle, check with the baby’s doctor or f ollow the seat maker’s recommendations.

To achieve the desired reclining angle, it may help to put a rolled up towel under the toe of the child seat, as shown.

When properly installed, a rearfacing child seat may prevent the driver or a front-seat passenger from moving the seat as far back as recommended (see page ). Or it

may prevent them from locking the seat-back in the desired upright position (see page ).

In either case, we recommend that you place the child seat directly behind the front passenger seat, move the front seat as far forward as needed, and leave it unoccupied. Or you may wish to get a smaller child seat that allows you to safely carry a front passenger.

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Protecting Small Children

Child Seat Type

A child at least one year old who can sit up without support, and who fits within the child seat maker’s weight and height limits, should be restrained in a forward-facing, upright child seat.

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Of the different seats available, we recommend those that have a fivepoint harness system as shown.

We also recommend that a small child stay in the child seat as long as possible, until the child reaches the weight or height limit for the seat.

Child Seat Placement

In this vehicle, the best place to install a forward-f acing child seat is in one of the seating positions in the back seat.

Placing a f orward-facing child seat in the front seat of a vehicle equipped with a passenger’s front airbag can be hazardous.

If the vehicle seat is too far forward, or the child’s head is thrown f orward during a collision, an inflating front airbag can strike the child with enough force to cause very serious or fatal injuries. If a small child must be closely watched, we recommend that another adult sit in the back seat with the child.

Improperly placing a forward-

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facing child seat in the front seat can result in serious injury or death if the front airbags inflate.

Ifyoumustplaceaforwardfacing child seat in front, move the vehicle seat as far back as possible and properly restrain the child.

If it is necessary to put a forwardfacing child seat in the front, move the vehicle seat as far to the rear as possible, be sure the child seat is firmly secured to the vehicle, and that the child is properly strapped in the seat.

Child Seat Installation

The lap/shoulder belts in the back and front passenger seating positions have a locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat.

The f ollowing pages provide instructions on how to secure a forward-facing child seat with this type of seat belt.

If you have a child seat designed to attach to the vehicle’s LATCH anchorage system, follow the instructions on page .48

Protecting Children

With the child seat in the desired

seating position, route the belt through the child seat according to the seat maker’s instructions, then insert the latch plate into the buckle.

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After the belt has retracted, tug on

3. it. If the belt is locked, you will not be able to pull it out. If you can pull the belt out, it is not locked and you will need to repeat these steps.

To activate the lockable retractor,

2. slowly pull the shoulder part of the belt all the way out until it stops, then let the belt feed back into the retractor (you might hear a clicking noise as the belt retracts).

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After confirming that the belt is

4. locked, grab the shoulder part of the belt near the buckle and pull up to remove any slack from the lap part of the belt. Remember, if the lap part of the belt is not tight, the child seat will not be secure. It mayhelptoputweightonthe child seat, or push on the back of the seat, while pulling up on the belt.

Push and pull the child seat

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5. forward and from side to side to verify that it is secure enough to stay upright during normal driving maneuvers. If the child seat is not secure, unlatch the belt, allow it to retract fully, then repeat these steps.

Protecting Children

To deactivate the locking mechanism in order to remove a child seat, unlatch the buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let the belt fully retract.

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Protecting Larger Children

When a child reaches the recommended weight or height limit for a forward-facing child seat, the child should sit in the back seat on a booster and wear a lap/shoulder belt.

We recommend that the child use a booster seat until the child is tall enough to use the seat belt without a booster.

The f ollowing pages give instructions on how to check proper seat belt fit, what kind of booster seat to use if one is needed, and important precautions for a child who must sit in the front seat.

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Allowing a larger child to sit improperly in the front seat can result in injury or death if the passenger’s front airbag inflates.

If a larger child must sit in front, make sure the child movesthe seat as far back as possible, uses a booster seat if needed, and wears the seat belt properly.

Checking Seat Belt Fit

To determine if a lap/shoulder belt properly fits a child, have the child sit in the rear seat, all the way back against the seat, and put on the seat belt. Follow the instructions on page

. Then check how the belt fits.

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If the shoulder part of the belt rests over the child’s collarbone and against the center of the chest, and the lap belt rests over the child’s hipbones and touches the tops of their thighs as shown, the child is probably big enough to wear the seat belt.

However, if the shoulder belt touchesorcrossesthechild’sneck, or if the lap belt crosses the child’s stomach, the child needs to use a booster seat.

across the neck or over the stomach.

This could result in serious neck and internal injuries during a crash.

Do not let a child put the shoulder part of a seat belt behind the back or under the arm.

This could cause very serious injuries during a crash. It also increases the chance that the child will slide under the belt in a crash and be injured.

Do not put any accessories on a seat belt.

Devices intended to improve occupant comf ort or reposition the shoulder part of a seat belt, severely compromise the protective capability of the seat belt and increase the chance of serious injury in a crash.

Two children should never use the same seat belt.

If they do, they could

be very seriously injured in a crash.

Using a Booster SeatDo not let a child wear a seat belt

If a child needs a booster seat, we recommend choosing a high or lowback style that allows the child to be directly secured with the lap/ shoulder belt.

Whichever style you select, f ollow the booster seat maker’s instructions.

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If a child who uses a booster must ride in front, move the vehicle seat as far to the rear as possible, and be sure the child is wearing the seat belt properly.

When Can a Larger Child Sit in Front

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that all children ages 12 and under be properly restrained in the back seat.

A child may continue using a booster seat until the tops of the ears are even with the top of the seat-back. A

The back seat is the safest place for a child of any age or size.

child of this height should be tall enough to use the lap/shoulder belt without a booster.

In addition, the passenger’s front airbag poses serious risks to children. If the seat is too far f orward, or the

Even then, the child may still need to use a booster seat. Note that some states now require children to use boosters until they reach a certain ageand/orweight.Besuretocheck

child’s head is thrown forward during a collision, or the child is unrestrained or out of position, an inflating front airbag can kill or seriously injure the child.

current laws in the state or states where you intend to drive. On models with side airbags, the

side airbag also poses risks. If any part of a larger child’s body is in the path of a deploying airbag, the child could receive possibly serious injuries.

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Of course, children vary widely. And while age may be one indicator of when a child can safely ride in the front, there are other important factors you should consider.

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Physical Size

Physically, a child must be large enough for the lap/shoulder belt to properly fit over the hips, chest, and shoulder (see pages and ). If

17 42

the seat belt does not f it properly, the child should not sit in the front.

Maturity

To safely ride in front, a child must be able to f ollow the rules, including sitting properly and wearing the seat belt properly throughout a ride.

If you decide that a child can safely ride up front, be sure to:

Carefully read the owner’s manual and make sure you understand all seat belt instructions and all safety information.

Move the vehicle seat to the rearmost position.

Have the child sit up straight, back against the seat, and feet on or near the floor.

Check that the child’s seat belt is properly positioned and secured.

On models with side airbags, remind the child not to lean toward the door because of the side airbag.

Supervise the child. Even mature children sometimes need to be reminded to fasten the seat belts or sit properly.

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Using Child Seats with Tethers

COVERS

Your vehicle has two tether anchorage points on the ceiling near the hatch opening for securing a tether-style child seat to the vehicle.

Since a tether can provide additional security, we recommend using a tether whenever one is required or available. (Tethers are required in Canada.)

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TETHER ANCHORAGE POINT

The tether anchorage points are located under plastic covers. Select

Remove the head restraint where

you want to place the child seat. the anchorage point you want to use, and slide the cover to open it. You can remove the head restraint

by pressing the release button.

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Make sure the removed head restraints are secured in the cargo area. Reinstall the head restraints when the child seat is removed.

Attach the attaching clip to the tether anchorage point as shown in the illustration, then tighten the strap according to the child seat maker’s instructions. Make sure the strap is not twisted.

Using LATCH

MARKS

LOWER ANCHORS

Your vehicle is equipped with

LATCH (Lower Anchors and

Tethers for Children) at the rear

seats. The lower anchors are located

between the seat-back and seat

bottom and are to be used only with

a child seat designed f or use with

LATCH.

The exact location of each lower

anchorage is marked with a small

button above the lower anchorage

point.

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To install a LATCH-compatible child seat:

Remove the plastic cover by pulling it forward.

Make sure there are no foreign

2. objects around the anchors. Foreign objects could get in the way of a secure connection between the child seat and the anchors.

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Rigid type

Put the child seat in the rear left

3. 4. or right vehicle seat and attach the child seat to the lower anchors according to the child seat maker’s instructions.

Flexible type

Follow the child seat maker’s instructions for any additional advice on adjusting or tightening the fit.1.

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Lower Universal Anchorage System Symbol

Remove the head restraint (see

5. 6. page ).

Make sure the removed head restraints are secured in the cargo area. Reinstall the head restraints when the child seat is removed.

Attach the attaching clip to the tether anchor fitting and tighten the strap according to the child seat maker’s instructions. Make sure the strap is not twisted.

Push and pull the child seat

7. forward and from side to side to verify that it is secure enough to stay upright during normal driving maneuvers.

Canadian model only

This symbol on rear or forward facing child seats or booster cushions indicates the presence of LATCH compatible hardware.

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Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

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Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt

Your seat belt system includes lap/ shoulder belts in all f our seating positions. The front seat belts are also equipped with automatic seat belt tensioners.

The seat belt system also

includes a light on the instrument panel to remind you and your passengers to fasten your belts. If the driver’s seat belt is not fastened before the ignition is turned ON (II), the light will come on and a beeper will also sound. The beeper will stop after a few seconds, but the light will stay on until the driver’s

The lap/shoulder belt goes over your shoulder, across your chest, and across your hips.

seat belt is fastened.

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To fasten the belt, insert the latch plate into the buckle, then tug on the belt to make sure the buckle is latched.

To unlock the belt, push the red PRESSbuttononthebuckle. Guide the belt across your body to the door pillar. After exiting the vehicle, be sure the belt is out of the way and will not get closed in the door.

All seat belts have 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.

The seat belts in all seating positions

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except the driver’s have an additional locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat. (See pages and f or instructions on

how to secure child seats with this type of seat belt.)

If the shoulder part of the belt is pulled all the way out, the locking mechanism will activate. The belt will retract, but it will not allow the passenger to move freely.

To deactivate the locking mechanism, unlatch the buckle and let the seat belt fully retract. To refasten the belt, pull it out only as far as needed.

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

See page for instructions on how

to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly.

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Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

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Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners

For added protection, the front seat belts are equipped with automatic seat belt tensioners. When activated, the tensioners immediately tighten the belts to help hold the driver and a front passenger in place.

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The tensioners are designed to activate primarily in f rontal collisions. The tensioners are independent of the airbag system, so they can be activated during a collision that might not cause the airbags to deploy. In this case, the airbags would not be needed but the additional seat belt tension can be helpful.

The tensioners will be activated in a collision severe enough to cause the front airbags to inflate.

When the tensioners are activated, the seat belts will remain tight until they are unbuckled in the normal way.

The SRS indicator light will

come on if there is a problem with your automatic seat belt tensioners (see page ).57

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

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Seat Belt Maintenance

For safety, you should check the condition of your seat belts regularly.

Pull each belt out fully and look for frays, cuts, burns, and wear. Check that the latches work smoothly and that the lap/shoulder belts retract easily. Any belt not in good condition or not working properly will not provide good protection and should be replaced as soon as possible.

U.S. Models

Honda provides a lif etime warranty on seat belts. Honda will repair or replace any seat belt component that fails to function properly during normal use. Please see your

Warranty Information

booklet for

details.

Honda

Not checking or maintaining seat belts can result in serious injury or death if the seat belts do not work properly when needed.

Check your seat belts regularly and have any problem corrected as soon as possible.

If a seat belt is worn during a crash, it must be replaced by the dealer. A belt that has been worn during a crash may not provide the same level of protection in a subsequent crash. The dealer should also inspect the anchors for damage and replace them if needed.

Automatic seat belt tensioners that deployed during a crash must be replaced.

For information on how to clean your seat belts, see page .

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

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SRS Components How Your Front Airbags Work

Your Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) includes:

An indicator light on the instrument panel that alerts you to a possible problem with the system (see page ).

Two front airbags. The driver’s airbag is stored in the center of the steering wheel; the front passenger’sairbagisstoredinthe

Emergency backup power in case your vehicle’s electrical system is

disconnected in a crash. dashboard. Both are marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG.’’

Automatic seat belt tensioners (see page ).

Sensors that can detect a moderate to severe frontal collision.

Your vehicle is equipped with dualstage, dual-threshold airbags to help reduce the chance of airbag-caused

injuries. A sophisticated electronic system that continually monitors and records information about the sensors, the control unit, the airbag activators, and driver and passenger seat belt use when the ignition is ON (II).

If you ever have a moderate to

severe f rontal collision, the sensors

will detect the vehicle’s rapid

deceleration If the rate of

deceleration is high enough, the

control unit will instantly inflate the

front airbags and activate the

automatic seat belt tensioners.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

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During a frontal crash, your seat belts help restrain your lower body and torso. Your airbag provides a cushion to help restrain and protect your head and chest.

Since both airbags use the same sensors, both airbags normally inflate at the same time. However, it is possible for only one airbag to inflate.

This can occur when the severity of a collision is at the margin, or threshold, that determines whether or not the airbags will deploy. In such cases, the seat belt will provide sufficient protection, and the supplemental protection offered by the airbag would be minimal.

After inflating, the front airbags immediately deflate, so they won’t interfere with the driver’s visibility, or the ability to steer or operate other controls.

The total time for inflation and deflation is approximately one-tenth of a second, so fast that most occupants are not aware that the airbags deployed until they see them lying in their laps.

After a crash, you may see what

looks like smoke. This is actually

powder from the airbag’s surface.

Although the powder is not harmful,

people with respiratory problems

mayexperiencesometemporary

discomfort. If this occurs, get out of

the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do

so.

U.S. Owners

For additional information on how

your airbags work, see the booklet

SRS: What You Need to Know

titled

About Airbags

that came with your

owner’s manual.

Canadian Owners

For additional information on how

your airbags work, ask your dealer

for a copy of the booklet titled

What You Need to Know About Airbags

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SRS:

Additional Information About Your Airbags

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How Your Side Airbags Work

Optional on EX model

Your vehicle is equipped with side airbags for the driver and a front seat passenger. The airbags are stored in the outer edges of the front seat-backs, and both are marked ‘‘SIDE AIRBAG.’’

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If you ever have a moderate to severe side impact, the sensors will detect rapid deceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate either the driver’s or the passenger’s side airbag.

Only one airbag will deploy during a side impact. If the impact is on the passenger’s side, the passenger’s side airbag will deploy even if there is no passenger.

To get the best protection from the

side airbags, front seat occupants

should wear their seat belts and sit

upright and well back in their seats.

Additional Information About Your Airbags

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How the SRS Indicator Light Works

The SRS indicator light

alerts you to a potential problem with your front airbags and automatic seat belt tensioners.

On models with side airbags, this light will also alert you to a potential problem with your side airbags or passenger’s side airbag automatic cutoff system (see page ).

When you turn the ignition ON (II), this indicator will light briefly then go out. This tells you that the system is working properly.

If the light comes on at any other time, or does not come on at all, you should have the system checked by your dealer. For example:

If the SRS indicator light does not come on after you turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

If the light stays on after the engine starts.

If the light comes on or flashes on andoffwhileyoudrive.

If you see any of these indications, your front or side airbags may not deploy, your passenger’s side airbag automatic cutoff system may not work properly, or your seat belt tensioners may not work when you need them. See your Honda dealer as soon as possible.

Ignoring the SRS indicator light can result in seriousinjury or death if the airbags, cutoff system, or tensioners do not work properly.

Have your vehicle checked by a dealer as soon as possible if the SRS light alerts you to a potential problem.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

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How the Side Airbag Cutoff Indicator Light Works

Only on models equipped with side airbags

This light alerts you that

the passenger’s side airbag has been automatically shut off.

It does not mean there is a problem with your side airbags. It means that thesideairbagcutoffsystemhas activated to prevent the side airbag from deploying.

To reduce the risk of injury from an inflating side airbag, your vehicle has an automatic cutoff system for the passenger’s side airbag.

Although Honda does not encourage children to ride in the front, this system is designed to shut off the side airbag if a child leans sideways and the child’s head is in the side airbag deployment path.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

If a small-statured adult leans sideways, or larger adult slouches and leans sideways into the deployment path of the side airbag, the system may also shut off the side airbag.

If the side airbag cutoff indicator light comes on, you should have the passenger sit upright. Once the passenger is out of the deployment path of the side airbag, the system will turn the airbag back on and the light will go out.

A front seat passenger should not use a cushion or other object as a backrest. It may prevent the cutoff system f rom working properly.

When you turn the ignition switch to ON (II), the indicator should light briefly and go out (see page ). If it

doesn’t light, stays on, or comes on while driving without a passenger in the front seat, have the system checked.

Additional Information About Your Airbags

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Airbag Service Additional Safety Precautions

Your front and side airbag systems (if equipped) are virtually maintenance-free, and there are no parts you can safely service.

Donotattempttodeactivateyour airbags.

Together, airbags and seat belts provide the best protection.

However, you must have your vehicle serviced if:

Your airbags ever inflate.

Any airbag that has deployed must be replaced along with the control

Do not tamper with airbag components or wiring for any reason.

Tampering could cause the airbags to deploy, possibly causing very serious injury.

unit, automatic seat belt tensioners, and other related parts. Do not try to remove or replace anyairbagbyyourself.Thismust be done by a Honda dealer or a knowledgeable body shop.

The SRS indicator light alert s you to a problem.

Take your vehicle to

Do not expose the f ront seat-backs to water.

If rain or spilled water soaks into a seat-back, it can prevent the side airbag system from working properly.

an authorized Honda dealer as soon as possible. If you ignore this indication, the airbags might not inflate when you need them.

Do not cover or replace front seatback covers without consulting a Honda dealer.

Improperly replacing or covering front seatback covers can prevent your side airbags from inflating during a collision.

See page for further inf ormation

166

and precautions relating to your airbags.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

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Your vehicle’s exhaust contains carbon monoxide gas. You should have no problem with carbon monoxide entering the vehicle in normal driving if you maintain your vehicle properly.

Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks whenever:

The vehicle is raised f or an oil change. You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust. The vehicle was in an accident that may have damaged the underside.

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. Breathing it can cause unconsciousness and 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 vehicle out of the garage.

With the tailgate/hatch open, air flow can pull exhaust gas into your vehicle’s interior and create a hazardous condition. If you must drive with the tailgate/hatch open, openallthewindowsandsetthe heating and cooling system as shown below.

If you must sit in your parked vehicle, even in an unconf ined area, with the engine running, adjust the heating and cooling system as follows:

Select the Fresh Air mode.

Select the mode.

Turn the fan on high speed.

Set the temperature control to a

comfortable setting.

Safety Labels

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These labels are in the locations shown. They warn you of potential hazards that could cause serious injury. Read these labels carefully.

If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer for a replacement.

DASHBOARD

U.S. models only

SUN VISOR

U.S. models

Canadian models

U.S. models only

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

CONTINUED

Safety Labels

Main Menu

Table of Contents

HOOD

On models without side airbags

On models with side airbags

RADIATOR CAP

Driver and Passenger Saf ety

Instruments and Controls

Main Menu

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 . 64

...............................Indicator Lights . 65

.............................................Gauges . 72

...............................Speedometer . 72

.................................Tachometer . 72

..................................Fuel Gauge . 73

...................Temperature Gauge . 74

Controls Near the Steering

.......................................Wheel . 75

...................................Headlights . 76

................................Turn Signals . 77

.....................Windshield Wipers . 78

..................Windshield Washers . 79

Rear Window Wiper and

.....................................Washer . 80

..........................Hazard Warning . 81

...............................Keys and Locks . 83

..............................................Keys . 83

....................Immobilizer System . 84

............................Ignition Switch . 85

......................Power Door Locks . 87

..................................Rear Doors . 88

............................................Hatch . 89

........................................Tailgate . 90

....................................Glove Box . 91

..............Odometer/Trip Meter . 73

............Daytime Running Lights . 77

....Instrument Panel Brightness . 77

.............Rear Window Defogger . 81

......Steering Wheel Adjustment . 82

.................................................Seats . 92

.............Front Seat Adjustments . 92

Driver’s Seat Height

..............................Adjustment . 93

................Driver’s Seat Armrest . 93

..........................Head Restraints . 94

........................Rear Seat Access . 95

..........Reclining the Front Seats . 97

...............Folding the Rear Seats . 99

........Removing the Rear Seats . 101

............................Power Windows . 103

...............................Rear Windows . 105

...........................................Mirrors . 106

..........................................Skylight . 107

.........................Beverage Holders . 110

...............................Parking Brake . 111

...............................Ceiling Pocket . 112

.......................................Coin Tray . 112

............Accessory Power Sockets . 113

...............................Interior Lights . 114

..............................Ceiling Light . 114

...................................Spotlights . 114

......................Cargo Area Light . 115

................Ignition Switch Light . 115

Instruments and Controls

.......Rear Seat-back Adjustment . 96

..Adjusting the Power Mirrors . 106

Control Locations

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POWER DOOR LOCK SWITCH MIRROR CONTROLS AUDIO SYSTEM (P.87)

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.103)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.160)

A/T model is shown.

Instruments and Controls

(P.106)

(P.126, 137)

HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS (P.118)

PARKING BRAKE (P.111)

Indicator Lights

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MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (P.66, 292)

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR (P.66, 290)

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR (P.66, 294)

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR (P.70)

＊

The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian models are noted in the text.

＊

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR (P.66, 291)

REMINDER LIGHT (P.67)

IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM INDICATOR (P.68)

HIGH BEAM INDICATORSEAT BELT (P.69)

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR (P.69)

LOW FUEL INDICATOR (P.69)

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR (P.67)

TAILGATE AND HATCH OPEN INDICATOR (P.70)

SIDE AIRBAG CUTOFF INDICATOR (P.67)

DOOR-OPEN INDICATOR (P.70)

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR (P.68)

Instruments and Controls

Indicator Lights

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The instrument panel has many indicators to give you important information about your vehicle.

Instruments and Controls

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

See page .

292

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

The engine can be severely damaged if this light flashes or stays on when the engine is running. For complete information, see page .

290

Charging System Indicator

If this light comes on when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged. For complete information, see page .

291

U.S. Canada

Parking Brake and Brake System Indicator

This light has two functions:

This indicator comes on when you

1. turn the ignition switch ON (II). It is a reminder to check the parking brake. Driving with the parking brake not fully released can damage the brakes and tires.

If the indicator remains lit after

2. you have f ully released the parking brake while the engine is running, or if it comes on while driving, it can indicate a problem in the brake system. For complete information, see page .

294

Indicator Lights

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Seat Belt Reminder Light

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). It is a reminder to you and your passengers to protect yourselves by f astening 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.

Supplemental Restraint System Indicator

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, it indicates a potential problem with your front airbags or automatic seat belt tensioners. On models equipped with side airbags, this light will also alert you to a potential problem with your side airbags or passenger’s side airbag automatic cutoff system. For complete information, see page .

Side Airbag Cutoff Indicator

Only on models equipped with side airbags

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, it indicates that the passenger’s side airbag has automatically shut off. For complete information, see page

Instruments and Controls

Indicator Lights

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Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Indicator

Only on models equipped with ABS (see page )

186

This light normally comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II), and when the ignition switch is turned to START (III). If this light comes on at any other time, there is a problem in theABS.Ifthishappens,takethe vehicle to your dealer to have it checked. With the light on, your vehicle still has normal braking ability but no anti-lock. For complete information, see page .188

Instruments and Controls

Immobilizer System Indicator

This indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). It will then go off if you have inserted a properly-coded ignition key. If it is not a properlycoded key, the indicator will blink and the engine will not start (see page ).

84 259

This indicator also blinks several times when you turn the ignition switch from ON (II) to ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0).

Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Indicators

The lef t or right turn signal light blinks when you signal a lane change or turn. If the light does not blink or blinks rapidly, it usually means one of the turn signal bulbs is burned out (see page ). Replace the bulb as soon as possible, since other drivers cannot see that you are signaling.

WhenyouturnontheHazard Warning switch, both turn signal lights blink. All turn signals on the outside of the vehicle should f lash.

Indicator Lights

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‘‘Daytime Running

High Beam Indicator

Lights’’ Indicator

Canadian models only Canadian models only

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II) with the headlight switch off and the parking brake set. It should go off if youturnontheheadlightsorrelease the parking brake. If it comes on at any other time, it means there is a problem with the DRL. There may

This light comes on with the high beam headlights. See page for

information on the headlight controls.

On Canadian models, this indicator comes on with reduced brightness when the Daytime Running Lights (DRL) are on (see page ).

This light comes on when the washer fluid level is low. Add washer fluid when you see this light come on (see page ).

also be a problem with the high beam headlights.

Cruise Control Indicator

This light comes on as a reminder

Low Fuel Indicator

that you must refuel soon.

On EX model

This lights when you set the cruise control. See page for information

153

on operating the cruise control.

Washer Level Indicator

230

Instruments and Controls

Indicator Lights

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Tailgate and Hatch Open Indicator

This light comes on if the tailgate or the hatch is not closed tightly.

Door-open Indicator

This light comes on if any door is not closed tightly.

Instruments and Controls

Maintenance Required Indicator

This indicator reminds you that it is time to take your vehicle in for scheduled maintenance. Refer to the Maintenance Schedules for Normal and Severe Driving Conditions on pages .

−

212 216

For the first 8,000 miles (12,800 km) after the Maintenance Required Indicator is reset, it will come on for two seconds when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

Between 8,000 miles (12,800 km) and 10,000 miles (16,000 km), this indicator will light for two seconds when you first turn the ignition switch to ON (II), and then flash for ten seconds.

If you exceed 10,000 miles (16,000 km) without having the scheduled maintenance performed, this indicator will remain on as a constant reminder.

Your dealer will reset this indicator

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after completing the scheduled maintenance. If this maintenance is done by someone other than your Honda dealer, reset the indicator as follows.

Turn of f the engine.

Press and hold the select/reset

button in the instrument panel, then turn the ignition switch ON (II).

Hold the button until the indicator

resets (approximately ten seconds).

Indicator Lights

Instruments and Controls

Gauges

Main Menu

Table of Contents

TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE

TEMPERATURE GAUGE

SELECT/RESET BUTTONODOMETER/TRIP METER

Speedometer

U.S. Models

This shows your speed in miles per hour (mph). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in kilometers per hour (km/h).

Canadian Models

This shows your speed in kilometers per hour (km/h). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in miles per hour (mph).

Tachometer

The tachometer shows the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm). To protect the engine from damage, never drive with the tachometer needle in the red zone.

Instruments and Controls

Gauges

Main Menu

Table of Contents

Odometer/Trip Meter Fuel Gauge

The odometer shows the total distance your vehicle has been driven. It measures miles in U.S. models and

To reset a trip meter, display it, and then press and hold the Select/Reset button until the number resets to ‘‘0.0’’.

kilometers in Canadian models. It is illegal under U.S. federal law and Canadian provincial regulations to disconnect, reset, or alter the odometer with the intent to change the number of miles or kilometers indicated.

The trip meter shows the number of miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada) driven since you last reset it. There are two trip meters: Trip A and Trip B. Switch between these displays and the odometer by pressing the Select/Reset button repeatedly. Each trip meter works independently, so you can keep track of two diff erent distances.

This shows how much fuel you have. It is most accurate when the vehicle is on level ground. It may show slightly more or less than the actual amount when you are driving on curvy or hilly roads.

The needle returns to the bottom after you turn off the ignition. The gauge shows the fuel level reading immediately after you turn the ignition switch back ON (II).

Avoid driving with an extremely low fuel level. Running out of fuel could cause the engine to misfire, damaging the catalytic converter.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Gauges

Main Menu

Table of Contents

Temperature Gauge

This shows the temperature of the engine’s coolant. During normal operation, the pointer should rise from the bottom white mark to about the middle of the gauge. In severe driving conditions, such as very hot weather or a long period of uphill driving, the pointer may rise to the upper white zone. If it reaches the red (Hot) mark, pull safely to the side of the road. Turn to page f or instructions and precautions on checking the engine’s cooling system.

288

Instruments and Controls

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

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Thetwoleversonthesteering column contain controls for driving features you use most often. The left lever controls the turn signals, headlights, and high beams. The right lever controls the windshield washers and wipers.

The hazard warning lights switch is on the dashboard beside the shift lever.

The control under the lef t air vent is for the cruise control.

The tilt adjustment lever on the underside of the steering column allows you to tilt the steering wheel.

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS (P.76, 77)

CRUISE CONTROL (P.153)

TILT ADJUSTMENT (P.82)

A/T model is shown.

＊

To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/ WASHERS (P.78, 79)

＊

HORN

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS (P.81)

Instruments and Controls

SHIFT LEVER (A/T) (P.179)

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER (P.81)

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

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Headlights

The rotating switch on the left lever controls the lights. Turning this switch to the ‘‘ ’’ position turns on the parking lights, taillights, instrument panel lights, side-marker lights, and rear license plate light. Turning the switch to the ‘‘ ’’ position turns on the headlights.

Instruments and Controls

If you leave the lights on, you will hear a reminder tone when you open the driver’s door.

To change from low beams to high beams, push the turn signal lever forward until you hear a click. The blue high beam indicator will light (see page ). To return to low

beams, pull the turn signal lever back.

To flash the high beams, pull the turn signal lever back lightly, then release it. The high beams will come on and go off. The high beams will stay on f or as long as you hold the lever back, no matter what position the headlight switch is in.

Canadian models only

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With the headlight switch off, the high beam headlights come on with reduced brightness when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II) and release the parking brake. They remain on until you turn the ignition off, even if you set the parking brake.

The headlights revert to normal operation when you turn them on with the switch.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instrument Panel BrightnessDaytime Running Lights Turn Signals

TURN SIGNAL LEVER

Push the knob in the speedometer repeatedly to adjust the brightness of the instrument panel lights. There are six brightness levels. A segment display shows the current brightness level.

Signal a turn or lane change with this lever. Push down on the lever to signal a left turn, and up to signal a right turn. If you push it up or down all the way, the turn signal continues to blink even when you release the lever. It shuts off automatically as you complete the turn.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

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To signal a lane change, push lightly on the turn signal lever in the proper direction and hold it. The lever will return to the center position as soon as you release it.

Instruments and Controls

Windshield Wipers

This lever controls the windshield wipers and washers. It has five positions:

MIST: mist OFF: off INT: intermittent LO: low speed HI: high speed

To select a position, push the lever up or down.

In intermittent, the wipers operate every few seconds. In low speed and high speed, the wipers run continuously.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

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To operate the wipers in mist mode, push the control lever up from the OFF position. The wipers run at high speed until you release the lever. This gives you a quick way to clear the windshield.

Windshield Washers

To clean the windshield, pull back on the wiper control lever. The washers spray until you release the lever.

The wipers run at low speed while you’re pulling the lever, then complete one more sweep of the windshield after you release it.

Instruments and Controls

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

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Rear Window Wiper and Washer

Therotatingswitchontheright lever controls the rear window wiper and washer.

Instruments and Controls

To activate the rear windshield wiper, rotate the switch to ‘‘ON’’. The wiper operates every seven seconds after completing two sweeps. When you turn the wiper switch to the ‘‘OFF’’ position or turn off the ignition switch, the wiper will return to its parked position.

To use the wiper and washer, rotate and hold the switch one position up from ‘‘ON’’. The wiper opreates while you are holding the switch, then completes two more sweeps after you release it. To use the washer only, rotate and hold the switch one position down from ‘‘OFF’’.

Therearwindowwasherusesthe same fluid reservoir as the windshield washer.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

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Hazard Warning Rear Window Defogger

Push the button next to the shift levertoturnonthehazardwarning lights (four-way f lashers). This causes all four outside turn signals and both indicators in the instrument panel to flash. Use the hazard

The rear window defogger will clear fog, frost, and thin ice from the window. Push the defogger button to turn it on and off. The light in the button lights to show the def ogger is on.

warning lights if you need to park in a dangerous area near heavy traffic, or if your vehicle is disabled.

Make sure the rear window is clear and you have good visibility before starting to drive.

Thedefoggerwiresontheinsideof the rear window can be accidentally damaged. When cleaning the glass, always wipe side to side.

Instruments and Controls

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Main Menu

Table of Contents

Steering Wheel Adjustment

See page for important safety information about how to properly position the steering wheel.

Make any steering wheel adjustment before you start driving.

Adjusting the steering wheel position while driving may cause you to lose control of the vehicle and be seriously injured inacrash.

Adjust the steering wheel only when the vehicle is stopped.

Instruments and Controls

To adjust the steering wheel upward or downward:

Push the lever under the left side

of the steering column all the way down.

Move the steering wheel to the

desired position, making sure the wheel points toward your chest, not toward your face. Make sure you can see the instrument panel gauges and the indicator lights.

Push the lever up to lock the

3. steering wheel in that position.

Make sure you have securely

4. locked the steering wheel in place by trying to move it up and down.

Keys and Locks

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Keys

KEY NUMBER TAG

MASTER KEYS (Black)

Your vehicle comes with two master keys and a valet key. The master key fits all the locks on your vehicle:

• Ignition

• Doors

•GloveBox

•Hatch

VALET KEY (Gray)

The valet key works only in the ignition and the door locks. You can keep the glove box and hatch locked when you leave your vehicle and the valet key at a parking facility.

Youshouldhavereceivedakey number tag with your set of keys. You will need this number if you ever have to get a lost key replaced. Keep the tag stored in a safe place. When replacing keys, use only

When replacing keys, use only Honda-approved key blanks.

Honda-approved key blanks.

These keys contain electronic circuits that are activated by the Immobilizer System. They will not work to start the engine if the circuits are damaged.

Protect the keys from direct sunlight, high temperature, and high humidity.

Donotdropthekeysorsetheavy objects on them.

Keep the keys away from liquids. If they get wet, dry them immediately with a soft cloth.

The keys do not contain batteries. Do not try to take them apart.

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks

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Table of Contents

Immobilizer System

The Immobilizer System protects your vehicle f rom thef t. A properlycoded master or valet key must be used in the ignition switch for the engine to start. If an improperlycoded key (or other device) is used, the engine’s fuel system is disabled.

When you turn the ignition switch to ON (II), the Immobilizer System indicator should come on for a few seconds, then go out. If the indicator starts to blink, it means the system does not recognize the coding of the key. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), remove the key, reinsert it, and turn the switch to ON (II) again.

Instruments and Controls

The system may not recognize your key’s coding if another immobilizer key or other metal object is near the ignition switch when you insert the key. To make sure the system recognizes the key code:

Do not keep other immobilizer keys on the same key ring.

Use a plastic or leather key fob, not metal.

Keep other keys away from your vehicle’s key and the ignition switch while trying to start the engine.

If the system repeatedly does not recognize the coding of your key, contact your Honda dealer.

The Immobilizer System indicator will also blink several times when you turn the ignition switch from ON (II) to ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0).

Do not attempt to alter this system or add other devices to it. Electrical problems could result that may make your vehicle undriveable.

If you have lost your key and you cannot start the engine, contact your Honda dealer.

Keys and Locks

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As required by the FCC: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmf ul interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with Industry Canada Standard RSS-210. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Ignition Switch LOCK (0)

remove the key only in this position. To switch from ACCESSORY to LOCK, you must push the key in slightly as you turn it. If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, the shift lever must also be in Park. The anti-theft lock will lock the steering column when you remove the key.

The ignition switch is on the right side of the steering column. It has four positions:

•LOCK(0)

• ACCESSORY (I)

• ON (II)

• START (III)

Instruments and Controls

−

You can insert or

CONTINUED

Keys and Locks

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Table of Contents

If the front wheels are turned, the anti-theft lock may sometimes make it difficult to turn the key from LOCK to ACCESSORY. Firmly turn the steering wheel to the left or to the right as you turn the key.

Removing the key from the ignition switch while driving locks the steering. This can cause you to lose control.

Remove the key from the ignition switch only when parked.

In this position, you can operate the audio system and the accessory power sockets.

−

ON (II)

This is the normal key position when driving. All features and accessories on the vehicle are usable. Several of the lights on the instrument panel come on as a test when you turn the ignition switch from ACCESSORY to ON.

−−

START (III)ACCESSORY (I)

Use this position only to start the engine. The switch returns to ON (II) when you let go of the key.

The engine will not start if the Immobilizer System does not recognize the key’s coding (see page

You will hear a reminder beeper if you leave the key in the ignition switch in the LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I) position and open the driver’s door. Remove the key to turn off the beeper.

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks

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Power Door Locks

MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH

The master door lock switch on the driver’s door locks and unlocks all of the doors and the hatch. Push the switch down to lock all of the doors and the hatch, and up to unlock them.

Each front door has a lock tab at the top of the door. When you push down the lock tab on the driver’s door, all doors and the hatch lock. Pulling up the lock tab on the driver’s door unlocks only that door. The locktabonthefrontpassenger’s door only locks and unlocks that door.

To lock the front passenger’s door when getting out the vehicle, push the lock tab down and close the door. To lock the driver’s door, remove the key from the ignition switch, pull the outside door handle and push the locktabdownorpushthemaster switch down. Release the handle, then close the door.

The f ront doors can be locked and unlocked from the outside with the key.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks

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All doors and the hatch lock when youpushdownthelocktabonthe driver’s door, or lock the driver’s door from the outside with the key. Only the driver’s door unlocks when you use the key or the lock tab. To unlock the f ront passenger’s door, use the master door lock switch or the lock tab on the front passenger’s door.

Instruments and Controls

Rear Doors

The Element has no center pillars between front and rear seats, and the rear doors pivot at the rear.

The rear door handle is located in the rear door edge. The rear door canbeopenedonlywhenthefront door is open. Pull the handle to open the rear door.

To close the doors when both front and rear doors are open, close the rear door first, then the front door. The f ront door cannot be latched without first closing the rear door. Closing the rear door on the f ront door will damage both doors.

Keys and Locks

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Hatch

You can lock or unlock the hatch in any of these ways:

Useyourmasterkeytolockand unlock the hatch. Turnthekeyclockwisetolockthe hatch, and counterclockwise to unlock it.

Lock the hatch by pushing down the lock tab on the driver’s door (see page ), or by using the

master key in the driver’s door lock.

Lock or unlock the hatch with the master door lock switch.

With the hatch unlocked, open it by pulling the handle and lifting up. To close the hatch, lower it, then press down on the back edge.

When both the hatch and tailgate are open, the hatch cannot be latched without first closing the tailgate.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks

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See page for information on cargo loading. Keep the hatch closed at all times while driving to avoid damaging the hatch, and to prevent exhaust gas from getting into the interior. See

Hazard

Carbon Monoxide

on page .

Instruments and Controls

Tailgate

Youcanopenthetailgateonlywhen the hatch is open. To open the tailgate, slide the lock lever to the left and swing down the tailgate. To close the tailgate, lift it up and push it firmly until it latches.

Before closing the tailgate, make sure the hatch is raised. Closing the tailgate on the lowered hatch can damage the hatch and the tailgate.

See page for information on

167167

cargo loading. Keep the tailgate and the hatch closed at all times while driving to avoid damaging them, and to prevent exhaust gas from getting into the interior. See

Monoxide Hazard

Carbon

on page .60 60

Glove Box

Main Menu

Table of Contents

Open the glove box by pulling the bottom of the handle. Close it with a firm push. Lock or unlock the glove box with the master key.

Keys and Locks

An open glove box can cause serious injury to your passenger inacrash,evenifthe passenger is wearing the seat belt.

Always keep the glove box closed while driving.

Instruments and Controls

Seats

Main Menu

Table of Contents

FrontSeatAdjustments

−See pages f or important safety

13 15

information and warnings about how to properly position seats and seat-backs.

Make all seat adjustments before you start driving.

Instruments and Controls

To adjust the seat forward and backward, pull up on the bar under the seat cushion’s front edge. Move the seat to the desired position and releasethebar.Trytomovetheseat to make sure it is locked in position.

To change the angle of the seat-back, pull up on the lever on the outside of the seat bottom. Move the seat-back to the desired position and release the lever. Let the seat-back latch into the new position.

Driver’s Seat Height Adjustment Driver’s Seat Armrest

Main Menu

Table of Contents

Seats

To adjust the height of the driver’s seat, turn the dial on the outside of the seat bottom.

On EX models

The driver’s seat has an armrest on thesideoftheseat-back.Touseit, pivotitdown.

Instruments and Controls

Seats

Main Menu

Table of Contents

Head Restraints

See page for important safety information and a warning about how to properly position the head restraints.

Your vehicle is equipped with head restraints in all seating positions.

The head restraints help protect you and your passengers from whiplash and other injuries. They are most effective when you adjust them so the back of the occupant’s head rests against the center of the restraint. A taller person should adjust the restraint as high as possible.

Instruments and Controls

To remove a head restraint for cleaning or repair, pull it up as f ar as it will go. Push the release button, then pull the restraint out of the seatback.

RELEASE BUTTON

The head restraints adjust for height. You need both hands to adjust the restraint. Do not attempt to adjust it while driving. To raise it, pull upward. To lower the restraint, push the release button sideways, and push the restraint down.

Seats

Main Menu

Table of Contents

Rear Seat Access

RELEASE LEVER

Although your vehicle has rear doors, the rear seat passengers can get out of the vehicle from the open f ront passenger’s door. Push down on the release lever at the base of the front passenger’s seat-back, and push the seat-back forward. The seat-back will tilt f orward and the entire seat will move forward to allow easier exit through the front door.

After you return the seat cushion to the desired position, pull the seatback upright until it latches. Make sure the seat is fully latched before sitting in it.

Instruments and Controls

Seats

Main Menu

Table of Contents

Rear Seat-back Adjustment

−See pages f or important safety

13 15

information and warnings about how to properly position seats and seat-backs.

Make all seat adjustments before you start driving.

Instruments and Controls

SEAT-BACK ADJUSTMENT STRAP

The seat-back angle of each rear seat can be adjusted separately.

To change the seat-back angle, pull the strap at the inside edge of the seat cushion, and move the seat-back to the desired position, then release the strap. Make sure the seat-back latches in the new position.

HONDA Element 2003 Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual