HONDA Jazz User Manual

Introduction

2009 Fit

Main Menu

Congratulations! Your selection of a 2009 Honda Fit was a wise investment. It
will give you years of driving pleasure.

One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new vehicle 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
you can refer to it at any time.

Several warranties protect your new vehicle. Read the warranty booklet
thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights
and responsibilities.

Maintaining your vehicle according to the maintenance minder shown in the
instrument panel helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves
your investment. When your vehicle needs maintenance, keep in mind that
your dealer's staff is specially trained in servicing the many systems unique
to your vehicle. Your dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be
pleased to answer any questions and concerns.

As you read this manual, you will find
information that is preceded by a

symbol. This information is
intended to help you avoid damage to
your vehicle, other property, or the
environment.

i

Introduction

2009 Fit

Main Menu

California Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING: This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm.

Event Data Recorders

This vehicle is equipped with one or more devices commonly referred to as event data recorders. These
devices record front seat belt use, front passenger seat occupancy, airbag deployment data, and the failure of
any airbag system component. This data belongs to the vehicle owner and may not be accessed by anyone else

except as legally required or with the permission of the vehicle owner.

Service Diagnostic Recorders
This vehicle is equipped with service-related devices that record information about powertrain performance. The data
can be used to verify emissions law requirements and/or help technicians diagnose and solve service problems. It
may also be combined with data from other sources for research purposes, but it remains confidential and is never
linked to the vehicle owner.

ii

A Few Words About Safety

2009 Fit

Main Menu

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 find this important safety information in a variety of forms, including:

●

Safety Labels － on the vehicle.

●

Safety Messages － preceded by a safety alert symbol

and one of

three signal words: DANGER, WARNING,orCAUTION.

These signal words mean:

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don't follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don't follow
instructions.

●

Safety Headings － such as Important Safety Reminders or Important
Safety Precautions.

●

Safety Section － such as Driver and Passenger Safety.

●

Instructions － how to use this vehicle correctly and safely.

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

iii

2009 Fit Online Reference Owner's Manual

Owner's Identification Form

Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................... i

A Few Words About Safety .............................................................................................................................. iii

Your Vehicle at a Glance (main controls) .................................................................................................... 3

Driver and Passenger Safety (seat belts, SRS, and child protection) .................................................... 5

Instruments and Controls

Features (heating and cooling, audio, steering wheel, security, and cruise control) ................................. 109

Before Driving (fuel, vehicle break-in, and cargo loading) ...................................................................... 197

Driving (engine and transmission operation) ................................................................................................ 213

Maintenance (minder, fluid checking, minor services, and vehicle storage)........................................... 243

Taking Care of the Unexpected (flat tire, dead battery, overheating, and fuses) .............................. 283

Technical Information (vehicle specifications, tires, and emissions controls) ....................................... 315

Warranty and Customer Relations (U. S. and Canada only) (warranty and contact information) ... 331

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

(indicators, gauges, dashboard, steering wheel, and other convenience items)

Contents

............. 57

Service Information Summary ( fluid capacities and tire pressures)

00X31-TK6-6003

1

Overview of Contents

2009 Fit

Main Menu

Contents

A convenient reference to the
sections in this manual.

Your Vehicle at a Glance

A quick reference to the main
controls in your vehicle.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Important information about the
proper use and care of your vehicle's
seat belts, an overview of the
supplemental restraint system, and
valuable information on how to
protect children with child restraints.

Instruments and Controls

Explains the purpose of each
instrument panel indicator and
gauge, and how to use the controls
on the dashboard and steering
column.

Features

How to operate the heating and air
conditioning system, the audio
system, and other convenience
features.

Before Driving

What gasoline to use, how to break­in your new vehicle, and how to load
luggage and other cargo.

Driving

The proper way to start the engine,
shift the transmission, and park.

Maintenance

The maintenance minder shows you
when you need to take your vehicle
to the dealer for maintenance
service. There is also a list of things
to check and instructions on how to
check them.

Taking Care of the Unexpected

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

Technical Information

ID numbers, dimensions, capacities,
and technical information.

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

A summary of the warranties
covering your new vehicle, and how
to contact us for any reason. Refer to
your warranty manual for detailed
information.

Index
Service Information Summary

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

2

Your Vehicle at a Glance

2009 Fit

Main Menu

DRIVER'S FRONT AIRBAG
(P. 9, 25)

MIRROR CONTROLS
(P. 101)

DOOR LOCK TAB
(P. 81)

POWER DOOR LOCK
MASTER SWITCH

ꭧ

(P. 81)

POWER WINDOW
SWITCHES
(P. 100)

HOOD RELEASE
HANDLE
(P. 200)

PARKING BRAKE
(P. 102)

Vehicle with navigation system is shown.

ꭧ: If equipped

INSTRUMENT PANEL
INDICATOR (P. 60)
GAUGES (P. 68)

AUDIO SYSTEM
(P. 115, 143)

NAVIGATION SYSTEM

PASSENGER'S FRONT
AIRBAG
(P. 9, 25)

USB ADAPTER CABLE
(P. 130, 137, 171, 178)

HEATING/COOLING
CONTROLS
(P. 110)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (P. 219)
MANUAL TRANSMISSION (P. 217)

ꭧ

ꭧ

CONTINUED

Your Vehicle at a Glance

ꭧ

3

Your Vehicle at a Glance

2009 Fit

Main Menu

PADDLE SHIFTER
(DOWNSHIFT)

ꭧ2

(P. 224)

HORN

ꭧ1

INSTRUMENT PANEL
BRIGHTNESS (P. 76 )

PADDLE SHIFTER
(UPSHIFT)

ꭧ2

(P. 224)

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS
(P. 73)

HEADLIGHTS/
TURN SIGNAL/
FOG LIGHTS

ꭧ2

(P. 74)

REMOTE AUDIO
CONTROL
BUTTONS

ꭧ2

(P. 189)

NAVIGATION
SYSTEM VOICE
CONTROL
BUTTONS

ꭧ3

VEHICLE STABILITY
ASSIST (VSA)
SYSTEM OFF
SWITCH
(P. 234)

ꭧ2

STEERING WHEEL ADJUSTMENTS
(P. 77)

CRUISE CONTROL BUTTONS
(P. 194)

ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET
(P. 106)

ꭧ2

HAZARD WARNING
BUTTON
(P. 76)

PASSENGER
AIRBAG OFF
INDICATOR
(P. 31)

REAR WINDOW
DEFOGGER/
HEATED MIRROR
BUTTON
(P. 76/102)

AUXILIARY INPUT JACK
(P. 190)

Vehicle with navigation system is shown.

ꭧ1: To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.
ꭧ2: If equipped.
ꭧ3: Only on vehicles equipped with navigation system. Refer to the navigation system manual.

ꭧ2

4

Driver and Passenger Safety

2009 Fit

Main Menu

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

Important Safety Precautions
Your Vehicle's Safety Features

Seat Belts
Airbags

Protecting Adults and Teens

1. Close and Lock the Doors

2. Adjust the Front Seats

3. Adjust the Seat-Backs

4. Adjust the Head Restraints

5. Fasten and Position the Seat

6. Maintain a Proper Sitting

Advice for Pregnant Women
Additional Safety Precautions

Additional Information About Your

Seat Belts

Seat Belt System Components

.................................... 8

........................................ 9

.................................. 14

Belts

Position

............................. 15

............................... 18

........... 6

......... 7

.......... 11

...... 11

............ 11

............. 12

..... 13

...... 16

..... 17

.... 18

Lap/Shoulder Belt
Automatic Seat Belt

Tensioners

Seat Belt Maintenance

Additional Information About Your

Airbags
Airbag System Components
How Your Front Airbags Work
How Your Side Airbags Work
How Your Side Curtain Airbags

Work
How the SRS Indicator Works
How the Side Airbag Off

Indicator Works
How the Passenger Airbag Off

Indicator Works
Airbag Service
Additional Safety Precautions

Protecting Children － General

Guidelines
All Children Must Be

Restrained
All Children Should Sit in a Back

Seat
The Passenger's Front Airbag

Can Pose Serious Risks

.................................. 22

..................................... 30

....................................... 35

..................... 19

............................ 20

............... 20

....... 22

.... 28

.... 30

..................... 31

..................... 31

........................... 32

..... 33

............................. 34

............................. 34

.......... 35

... 25

If You Must Drive with Several

Children

If a Child Requires Close

Attention

Additional Safety Precautions

Protecting Infants and Small

Children
Protecting Infants
Protecting Small Children

Selecting a Child Seat
Installing a Child Seat

Installing a Child Seat with

LATCH
Installing a Child Seat with a

Lap/Shoulder Belt
Installing a Child Seat with a

Tether

Protecting Larger Children

Checking Seat Belt Fit
Using a Booster Seat
When Can a Larger Child Sit in

Front
Additional Safety Precautions

Carbon Monoxide Hazard
Safety Labels

................................ 37

............................... 37

................................ 39

...................... 39

.................... 41

.................... 42

.................................. 43

................. 45

................................... 47

............... 49

.................. 50

..................................... 51

.............. 53

................................. 54

..... 38

Driver and Passenger Safety

.......... 40

............ 49

..... 52

5

Important Safety Precautions

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

You'll find many safety
recommendations throughout this
section, and throughout this manual.
The recommendations on this page
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 are
designed to supplement seat belts,
not replace them. 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 14).

Restrain All Children

Children age 12 and under should
ride properly restrained in a back
seat, not the front seat. Infants and
small children should be restrained
in a child seat. Larger children
should use a booster seat and a lap/
shoulder belt until they can use the
belt properly without a booster seat
(see pages 34 － 52).

Be Aware of Airbag Hazards

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 follow all instructions and
warnings in this manual.

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 friends
drink and drive, either.

Control Your Speed

Excessive speed is a major factor in
crash injuries and deaths. Generally,
the higher the speed, the greater the
risk, but serious injuries 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 Condition

Having a tire blowout or a mechanical
failure 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 245).

6

(5)

2009 Fit

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(7)

(1)

(11)

(4)

Your Vehicle's Safety Features

Your vehicle is equipped with many

(9)(3)

features that work together to protect
you and your passengers during a
crash.

Some features do not require any
action on your part. These include a
strong steel framework that forms a
safety cage around the passenger
compartment, front and rear crush
zones, a collapsible steering column,
and tensioners that tighten the front
seat belts in a crash.

Driver and Passenger Safety

(8)

(2)

(6)

(10)

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

(2)

However, you and your passengers
can't take full advantage of these
features unless you remain sitting in
a proper position and

your seat belts.

features can contribute to injuries if
they are not used properly.

The following pages explain how you
can take an active role in protecting
yourself and your passengers.

always wear

In fact, some safety

7

Your Vehicle's Safety Features

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Seat Belts

Your vehicle is equipped with seat
belts in all seating positions.

Your seat belt system also includes
an indicator on the instrument panel
and a beeper 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.

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

－ frontal impacts
－ side impacts
－ rear impacts
－ rollovers

●

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. But in most cases, seat belts
can reduce your risk of serious
injury.

What You Should Do:

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

8

Airbags

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Your Vehicle's Safety Features

Driver and Passenger Safety

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 frontal collision (see page 25
for more information on how your
front airbags work).

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 (see page 28 for more
information on how your side airbags
work).

In addition, your vehicle has side
curtain airbags to help protect the
heads of the driver, front passenger,
and passengers in the outer rear
seating positions during a moderate
to severe side or front impact (see
page 30 for more information on how
your side curtain airbags work).

CONTINUED

9

Your Vehicle's Safety Features

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

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 offer no protection in rear
impacts, or minor frontal or side
collisions.

●

Airbags can pose serious hazards.

To do their job, airbags must
inflate with tremendous force. 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 from the
steering wheel as possible while
allowing full control of the vehicle. A
front passenger should move their
seat as far back from the dashboard
as possible.

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

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

10

Protecting Adults and Teens

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Introduction

The following pages provide
instructions on how to properly
protect the driver, adult passengers,
and teenage children who are large
enough and mature enough to drive
or ride in the front.

See pages 34 － 38 for important
guidelines on how to properly protect
infants, small children, and larger
children who ride in your vehicle.

1. Close and Lock the Doors

After everyone has entered the
vehicle, be sure the doors and the
tailgate are closed and locked.

Your vehicle has a door and

tailgate open indicator on
the instrument panel to indicate
when any door or the tailgate is not
tightly closed.

Locking the doors reduces the
chance of someone being thrown out
of the vehicle during a crash, and it
helps prevent passengers from
accidentally opening a door and
falling out.

Locking the doors and the tailgate
also helps prevent an outsider from
unexpectedly opening a door or the
tailgate when you come to a stop.

See page 81 for how to lock the
doors, and page 62 for how the door
and tailgate open indicator works.

Some models have the auto door
locking/unlocking feature. For more
information, see page 83.

2. Adjust the Front Seats

Driver and Passenger Safety

Adjust the driver's seat as far to the
rear as possible while allowing you to
maintain full control of the vehicle.
Have a front passenger adjust their
seat as far to the rear as possible.

CONTINUED

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Protecting Adults and Teens

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If you sit too close to the steering
wheel or dashboard, you can be
seriously injured by an inflating front
airbag, or by striking the steering
wheel or dashboard.

The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration and Transport
Canada recommend that drivers
allow at least 10 inches (25 cm)
between the center of the steering
wheel and the chest. In addition to
adjusting the seat, you can adjust the
steering wheel up and down, and in
and out (see page 77).

If you cannot get far enough away
from the steering wheel and still
reach the controls, we recommend
that you investigate whether some
type of adaptive equipment may help.

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.

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

See page 93 for how to adjust the
front seats.

3. Adjust the Seat-Backs

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.

Passengers with adjustable seat­backs should also adjust their seat­back to a comfortable, upright
position.

12

Protecting Adults and Teens

2009 Fit

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Main Menu

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

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

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.

See page 93 for how to adjust the
seat-backs.

4. Adjust the Head Restraints

Adjust the driver's head restraint so
the center of the back of your head
rests against the center of the
restraint.

Have passengers adjust their head
restraints properly as well. Taller
persons should adjust their restraint
as high as possible.

When a passenger is seated in the
rear center seating position, make
sure the center head restraint is
properly positioned.

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 94 for how to adjust the
head restraints and how the driver's
and front passenger's active head
restraints work.

Driver and Passenger Safety

13

Protecting Adults and Teens

2009 Fit

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5. Fasten and Position the Seat
Belts

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

The seat belt in the center position of
the back seat can be unlatched and
retracted to allow the back seat to be
folded up or down. This seat belt
should be latched whenever the seat­back is in an upright position. See
page 99 for how to unlatch and
relatch the seat belt.

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.

If necessary, pull up on the belt again to
remove any slack, 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.

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.

14

Protecting Adults and Teens

2009 Fit

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RELEASE BUTTONS

The front seats have adjustable seat
belt anchors. To adjust the height of
an 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.

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

No one should sit in a seat with an
inoperative seat belt.

Using a seat
belt that is not working properly can
result in serious injury or death.
Have your dealer check the belt as
soon as possible.

See page 18 for additional
information about your seat belts and
how to take care of them.

6. Maintain a Proper Sitting
Position

After all occupants have adjusted
their seats and head restraints, and
put on their 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 forward,
leans forward or sideways, or puts
one or both feet up, the chance of
injury during a crash is greatly
increased.

Driver and Passenger Safety

CONTINUED

15

Protecting Adults and Teens

2009 Fit

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In addition, an occupant who is out of
position in the front seat can be
seriously or fatally injured in a crash
by striking interior parts of the
vehicle or being struck by an
inflating front airbag.

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.

Advice for Pregnant Women

If you are pregnant, the best way to
protect yourself and your unborn
child when driving or riding in a
vehicle is to always wear a seat belt,
and keep the lap part of the belt as
low as possible across the hips.

When driving, remember to sit
upright and adjust the seat as far
back as possible while allowing full
control of the vehicle. When riding
as a front passenger, adjust the seat
as far back as possible.

This will reduce the risk of injuries to
both you and your unborn child that
can be caused by a crash or an
inflating front airbag.

Each time you have a checkup, ask
your doctor if it's okay for you to
drive.

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Additional Safety Precautions

●

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

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

●

Never let passengers ride in the
area in front of a folded-up rear
seat or on top of a folded-down rear
seat.

If they do, they could be very

seriously injured in a crash.

●

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.

●

Two people should never use the
same seat belt.

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

●

Do no t put any accessories on seat
belts.

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

●

Do no t place hard or sharp objects
between yourself and a front
airbag.

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

●

Keep your hands and arms away
from the airbag covers.

If your
hands or arms are close to an
airbag cover, they could be injured
if the airbag inflates.

●

Do not attach or place objects on
the front airbag covers.

Objects on
the covers marked ‘‘ SRS
AIRBAG ’’ could interfere with the
proper operation of the airbags or
be propelled inside the vehicle and
hurt someone if the airbags inflate.

●

Do not attach hard objects on or
near a door.

If a side airbag or a
side curtain airbag inflates, a cup
holder or other hard object
attached on or near the door could
be propelled inside the vehicle and
hurt someone.

Driver and Passenger Safety

17

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Seat Belt System Components

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

This system uses the same sensors as
the front airbags to monitor whether
the front seat belts are latched or
unlatched, and how much weight is on
the front passenger's seat (see page

27 ).

The seat belt system includes

an indicator on the instrument
panel and a beeper to remind you and
your passengers to fasten your seat
belts.

This system monitors the front seat
belts. If you turn the ignition switch to
the ON (II) position before your seat
belt is fastened, the beeper will sound
and the indicator will flash. If your seat
belt is not fastened before the beeper
stops, the indicator will stop flashing
but remain on.

If a front passenger does not fasten
their seat belt, the indicator will
come on about 6 seconds after the
ignition switch is turned to the ON
(II) position.

If either the driver or a front
passenger does not fasten their seat
belt while driving, the beeper will
sound and the indicator will flash
again at regular intervals.

When no one is sitting in the front
passenger's seat, or a child or small
adult is riding there, the indicator
should not come on and the beeper
should not sound.

If the indicator comes on or the
beeper sounds when the driver's seat
belt is latched and there is no front
seat passenger and no items on the
front seat, something may be
interfering with the monitoring
system. Look for and remove:

●

Any items under the front
passenger's seat.

●

Any object(s) hanging on the seat
or in the seat-back pocket.

●

Any object(s) touching the rear of
the seat-back.

If no obstructions are found, have
your vehicle checked by a dealer.

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Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

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Lap/Shoulder Belt

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

To fasten the belt, insert the latch
plate into the buckle, then tug on the
belt to make sure the buckle is
latched (see page 14 for how to
properly position the belt).

To unlock the belt, press the red
PRESS button on the buckle. Guide
the belt across your body so that it
retracts completely. 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 positions except
the driver's have a lockable retractor
that must be activated to secure a
child seat (see page 45).

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

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

DETACHABLE
ANCHOR

The lap/shoulder belt in the center
seating position on the rear seat is
equipped with a detachable seat belt
that has two parts: a small latch plate
and an anchor buckle.

The detachable seat belt should
normally be latched whenever the
seat-backs are in an upright position.
For more information about the
detachable seat belt, see page 99.

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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 position.

The tensioners are designed to
activate in any collision severe
enough to cause the front airbags to
deploy.

If a side curtain airbag deploys
during a side impact, the tensioner
on that side of the vehicle will also
deploy.

The tensioners can also be activated
during a collision in which the front
airbags

do not deploy.

In this case, the
airbags would not be needed, but the
additional restraint could be helpful.

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

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
the belts retract easily. If a belt does
not retract easily, cleaning the belt
may correct the problem (see page

267). Any belt that is not in good

condition or working properly will
not provide good protection and
should be replaced as soon as
possible.

Honda provides a limited warranty
on seat belts. See your

Warranty Information

Honda

booklet for

details.

20

If a seat belt is worn during a crash,

2009 Fit

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Main Menu

it must be replaced by your 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. If the automatic seat
belt tensioners activate during a
crash, they must be replaced.

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

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.

Driver and Passenger Safety

21

Additional Information About Your Airbags

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Airbag System Components

(8)

(12)

(1)

(3)

(1) Driver's Front Airbag
(2) Passenger's Front Airbag
(3) Control Unit
(4) Front Seat Belt Tensioners
(5) Side Airbags
(6) Driver's Seat Position Sensor
(7) Front Passenger's Weight Sensors
(8) Front Impact Sensors
(9) Passenger Airbag Off Indicator
(10) Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) Sensors
(11) Front Passenger's Weight Sensors/OPDS Sensors Control Unit
(12) Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Indicator

(6)

(9)

(4) (5)

(2)

(10)

(11)

(5)

(4)

(7)

22

(14)

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Main Menu

(15)

(13) Side Curtain Airbags
(14) Side Impact Sensors (First)
(15) Side Impact Sensors (Second)

(13)

(14)

Additional Information About Your Airbags

Your airbag system includes:

●

Two SRS (supplemental restraint
system) front airbags. The driver's
airbag is stored in the center of the
steering wheel; the front
passenger's airbag is stored in the
dashboard. Both are marked ‘‘SRS
AIRBAG’’ (see page 25).

●

Two side airbags, one for the
driver and one for a front
passenger. The airbags are stored
in the outer edges of the seat­backs. Both are marked ‘‘SIDE
AIRBAG’’ (see page 28).

●

Two side curtain airbags, one for
each side of the vehicle. The
airbags are stored in the ceiling,

(15)

above the side windows. The front
and rear pillars are marked ‘‘SIDE
CURTAIN AIRBAG’’ (see page 30).

Driver and Passenger Safety

CONTINUED

23

Additional Information About Your Airbags

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Main Menu

●

Automatic front seat belt
tensioners (see page 20).

●

Sensors that can detect a moderate
to severe front impact or side
impact.

●

Sensors that can detect whether a
child is in the passenger's side
airbag path and signal the control
unit to turn the airbag off (see
page 29).

●

Sensors that can detect whether
the driver's seat belt and the front
passenger's seat belt are latched or
unlatched (see page 18).

●

A driver's seat position sensor that
monitors the distance of the seat
from the front airbag. If the seat is
too far forward, the airbag will
inflate with less force (see page

27).

●

Weight sensors that monitor the
weight on the front passenger's
seat. If the weight is about 65 lbs
(29 kg) or less (the weight of an
infant or small child), the
passenger's front airbag will be
turned off (see page 27).

●

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

●

An indicator on the instrument
panel that alerts you to a possible
problem with your airbags,
sensors, or seat belt tensioners
(see page 30).

●

An indicator on the instrument
panel that alerts you that the
passenger's side airbag has been
turned off (see page 31).

●

An indicator on the dashboard that
alerts you that the passenger's
front airbag has been turned off
(see page 31).

●

Emergency backup power in case
your vehicle's electrical system is
disconnected in a crash.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

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How Your Front Airbags Work

If you ever have a moderate to severe
frontal collision, sensors will detect
the vehicle's rapid deceleration.

If the rate of deceleration is high
enough, the control unit will instantly
inflate the driver's and front
passenger's airbags, at the time and
with the force needed.

During a frontal crash, your seat belt
restrains your lower body and torso,
and the front airbag helps protect
your head and chest.

Although both airbags normally
inflate within a split second of each
other, it is possible for only one
airbag to deploy.

This can happen if 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.

Only the driver's airbag can deploy if
there is no passenger in the front
seat, or if the advanced airbag
system has turned the passenger's
airbag off (see page 27).

Driver and Passenger Safety

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 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.

CONTINUED

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

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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
may experience some temporary
discomfort. If this occurs, get out of
the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do
so.

Dual-Stage Airbags

Your front airbags are dual-stage
airbags. This means they have two
inflation stages that can be ignited
sequentially or simultaneously,
depending on crash severity.

more severe

In a

crash, both stages
will ignite simultaneously to provide
the quickest and greatest protection.

less severe

In a

crash, one stage will
ignite first, then the second stage will
ignite a split second later. This
provides longer airbag inflation time
with a little less force.

Dual-Threshold Airbags

Your front airbags are also dual­threshold airbags. Airbags with this
feature have two deployment
thresholds that depend on whether
sensors detect the occupant is
wearing a seat belt or not.

If the occupant's belt is

not latched,

the airbag will deploy at a slightly
lower threshold, because the
occupant would need extra
protection.

If the occupant's belt is

latched,

the
airbag will deploy at a slightly higher
threshold, when the airbag would be
needed to supplement the protection
provided by the seat belt.

26

Advanced Airbags

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Your front airbags are also advanced
airbags. The main purpose of this
feature is to help prevent airbag­caused injuries to short drivers and
children who ride in front.

For both advanced airbags to work
properly:

●

Occupants must sit upright and
wear their seat belts properly.

●

Do not spill any liquids on or
under the seats, cover the sensors,
or put any objects or metal items
under the front seats.

●

Back-seat passengers should not
put their feet under the front seats.

Failure to follow these instructions
could damage the sensors or prevent
them from working properly.

Additional Information About Your Airbags

DRIVER'S
SEAT
POSITION
SENSOR

The driver's advanced front airbag
system includes a seat position
sensor under the seat. If the seat is
too far forward, the airbag will inflate
with less force, regardless of the
severity of the impact.

If there is a problem with the sensor,
the SRS indicator will come on, and
the airbag will inflate in the normal
manner regardless of the driver's
seating position.

Driver and Passenger Safety

PASSENGER'S
SEAT WEIGHT
SENSORS

The passenger's advanced front
airbag system has weight sensors
under the seat. Although Honda does
not encourage carrying an infant or
small child in front, if the sensors
detect the weight of an infant or
small child (up to about 65 lbs or 29
kg), the system will automatically
turn the passenger's front airbag off.

Be aware that objects placed on the
passenger's seat can also cause the
airbag to be turned off.

CONTINUED

27

Additional Information About Your Airbags

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When the airbag is turned off, a
‘‘passenger airbag off’’ indicator in
the center of the dashboard comes
on (see page 31).

If the weight sensors detect there is
no passenger in the front seat, the
airbag will be off. However, the
passenger airbag off indicator will
not come on.

To ensure that the passenger's
advanced front airbag system will
work properly,

do not do anything
that w ould increase or decrease the
weight on the front passenger's seat.

This includes:

●

A rear passenger pushing or
pulling on the back of the front
passenger's seat.

●

Moving the front seat forcibly back
against cargo on the seat or floor
behind it.

●

Hanging heavy items on the front
passenger seat, or placing heavy
items in the seat-back pocket.

●

Moving the front seat or seat-back
forcibly back against the folded
rear seat.

If your vehicle has optional floor
mats, make sure the mat behind the
driver's seat is hooked to the floor
mat anchor (see page 267). If it is
not, the mat may interfere with the
proper operation of the sensors and
operation of the seat.

How Your Side Airbags Work

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

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

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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.

Side Airbag Cutoff System

Your vehicle has a side airbag cutoff
system designed primarily to protect
a child riding in the front passenger's
seat.

Although Honda does not encourage
children to ride in front, if the
position sensors detect a child has
leaned into the side airbag's
deployment path, the airbag will shut
off.

The side airbag may also shut off if a
short adult leans sideways, or a
larger adult slouches and leans
sideways into the airbag's
deployment path.

Objects placed on the front
passenger seat can also cause the
side airbag to be shut off.

If the side airbag off indicator comes
on (see page 31), have the passenger
sit upright. Once the passenger is
out of the airbag's deployment path,
the system will turn the airbag back
on, and the indicator will go out.

There will be some delay between
the moment the passenger moves
into or out of the airbag deployment
path and when the indicator comes
on or goes off.

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

29

Additional Information About Your Airbags

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How Your Side Curtain Airbags
Work

SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG

In a moderate to severe side impact,
sensors will detect rapid acceleration
and signal the control unit to
instantly inflate the side curtain
airbag and activate the seat belt
tensioner on the driver's or the
passenger's side of the vehicle.

If the impact is on the passenger's
side, the passenger's side curtain
airbag will inflate even if there are no
occupants on that side of the vehicle.

One or both side curtain airbags may
inflate in a moderate to severe frontal
collision which causes the front
airbags to deploy.

To get the best protection from the
side curtain airbags, occupants
should wear their seat belts and sit
upright and well back in their seats.

How the SRS Indicator Works

The SRS indicator alerts

you to a potential problem
with your airbags or seat belt
tensioners.

When you turn the ignition switch to
the ON (II) position, this indicator
comes on briefly then goes off. This
tells you the system is working
properly.

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

●

If the indicator stays on after the
engine starts.

●

If the indicator comes on or flashes
on and off while you drive.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

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If you see any of these indications,
the airbags and seat belt tensioners
may not work properly when you
need them.

Ignoring the SRS indicator can
result in serious injury or death
if the airbag systems or
tensioners do not work
properly.

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

How the Side Airbag Off Indicator
Works

U.S. Canada

This indicator

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.

When you turn the ignition switch to
the ON (II) position, the indicator
should come on briefly and then go
off (see page 61). If it doesn't come
on, stays on, or comes on while
driving without a passenger in the
front seat, have the system checked.

How the Passenger Airbag Off
Indicator Works

PASSENGER AIRBAG
OFF INDICATOR

On vehicle with navigation system

U.S.

This indicator alerts you that the
passenger's front airbag has been
shut off because weight sensors
detect about 65 lbs (29 kg) or less
(the weight of an infant or small
child) on the front passenger's seat.
It does

not mean

there is a problem

with the airbag.

Driver and Passenger Safety

CONTINUED

31

Additional Information About Your Airbags

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PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF INDICATOR

U.S. Canada

On vehicle without navigation system

Be aware that objects placed on the
front seat can cause the indicator to
come on.

If the weight sensors detect there is
no passenger in the front seat, the
airbag will be off. However, the
passenger airbag off indicator will
not come on.

The passenger airbag off indicator
may come on and off repeatedly if the
total weight on the seat is near the
airbag cutoff threshold.

If an adult or teenage passenger is
riding in front, move the seat as far to
the rear as possible, and have the
passenger sit upright and wear the
seat belt properly.

If the indicator comes on with no
front seat passenger and no objects
on the seat, or with an adult riding
there, something may be interfering
with the weight sensors. Look for
and remove:

●

Any items under the front
passenger's seat.

●

Any object hanging on the seat or
in the seat-back pocket.

●

Any object(s), such as a folded­down back seat, that are touching
the rear of the seat-back.

If no obstructions are found, have
your vehicle checked by a dealer as
soon as possible.

Airbag Service

Your airbag systems are virtually
maintenance free, and there are no
parts you can safely service.
However, you must have your
vehicle serviced if:

●

An airbag ever inflates.

Any airbag
that has deployed must be
replaced along with the control
unit and other related parts. Any
seat belt tensioner that activates
must also be replaced.

Do not try to remove or replace
any airbag by yourself. This must
be done by an authorized dealer or
a knowledgeable body shop.

●

The SRS indicator alerts you to a
problem.

Take your vehicle to an
authorized dealer as soon as
possible. If you ignore this
indication, your airbags may not
operate properly.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

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●

If your vehicle has a moderate to
severe impact.

Even if your airbags
do not inflate, your dealer should
inspect the driver's seat position
sensor, the front passenger's
weight sensors, the front seat belt
tensioners, and all seat belts worn
during a crash to make sure they
are operating properly.

Additional Safety Precautions

●

Do no t attempt to deactivate your
airbags.

Together, airbags and
seat belts provide the best
protection.

●

Do no t tamper with airbag
components or wiring for any
reason.

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

●

Do no t expose the front
passenger's seat-back to liquid.

water or another liquid soaks into
a seat-back, it can prevent the side
airbag cutoff system from working
properly.

●

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

or covering front seat-back covers
can prevent your side airbags from

Improperly replacing

Driver and Passenger Safety

inflating during a side impact.

●

Do not remove or modify a front
seat without consulting your
dealer.

This could make the
driver's seat position sensor or the
front passenger's weight sensors

If

ineffective. If it is necessary to
remove or modify a front seat to
accommodate a person with
disabilities, first contact Honda
Automobile Customer Service at
[phone].

33

Protecting Children － General Guidelines

2009 Fit

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Main Menu

All Children Must Be Restrained

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

To reduce the number of child
deaths and injuries, every state and
Canadian province requires that

Children depend on adults to protect
them. However, despite their best
intentions, many adults do not know
how to

properly

protect child

passengers.

If you have children, or ever need to
drive with a child in your vehicle, be
sure to read this section. It begins
with important general guidelines,
then presents special information for
infants, small children, and larger
children.

infants and children be properly
restrained when they ride in a
vehicle.

Infants and small children must be
restrained in an approved child seat
that is properly secured to the vehicle

(see pages 39 － 48).

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 and
use a booster seat if necessary.

Larger children must be restrained
with a lap/shoulder belt and ride on a
booster seat until the seat belt fits
them properly

(see pages 49 － 52).

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Protecting Children － General Guidelines

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All Children Should Sit in a Back
Seat

According to accident statistics,
children of all ages and sizes are
safer when they are restrained in a
back seat.

The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration and Transport
Canada recommend that all children
aged 12 and under be properly
restrained in a back seat. Some
states have laws restricting where
children may ride.

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

The Passenger's Front Airbag Can
Pose Serious Risks

Front airbags have been designed to
help protect adults in a moderate to
severe frontal collision. To do this,
the passenger's front airbag is quite
large, and it can inflate with enough
force to cause very serious injuries.

Even though your vehicle has an
advanced front airbag system that
automatically turns the passenger's
front airbag off (see page 31), please
follow these guidelines:

Infants
Never put a rear-facing child seat in

the front seat of a vehicle equipped
with a passenger's front airbag.

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

Small Children
Placing a forward-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 forward during a collision, an
inflating front airbag can strike the
child with enough force to kill or
very seriously injure a small child.

Larger Children
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, on a booster seat if needed, and
be properly restrained with a seat
belt (see page 49 for important
information about protecting larger
children).

Driver and Passenger Safety

CONTINUED

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Protecting Children － General Guidelines

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To remind you of the passenger's
front airbag hazards, and that
children must be properly restrained
in a back seat, your vehicle has
warning labels on the dashboard
(U.S. models) and on the front visors.
Please read and follow the
instructions on these labels.

U.S. Models

SUN VISORS

Canadian Models

SUN VISORS

DASHBOARD

36

Protecting Children － General Guidelines

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If You Must Drive with Several
Children

Your vehicle has a back seat where
children can be properly restrained.
If you ever have to carry a group of
children, and a child must ride in
front:

●

Place the largest child in the front
seat, provided the child is large
enough to wear the lap/shoulder
belt properly (see page 49).

●

Move the vehicle seat as far to the
rear as possible (see page 93).

●

Have the child sit upright and well
back in the seat (see page 15).

●

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

14).

If a Child Requires Close
Attention

Many parents say they prefer to put
an infant or a 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 in a
frontal collision, and paying close
attention to a child distracts the
driver from the important tasks of
driving, placing both of you at risk.

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

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Protecting Children － General Guidelines

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Additional Safety Precautions

●

Never hold an infant or child on
your lap.

If you are not wearing a
seat belt in a crash, you could be
thrown forward and crush the
child against the dashboard or a
seat-back. If you are wearing a seat
belt, the child can be torn from
your arms and be seriously hurt or
killed.

●

Never put a seat belt over yourself
and a child.

During a crash, the
belt could press deep into the child
and cause serious or fatal injuries.

●

Never let two children use the
same seat belt.

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

●

Make sure any unused seat belt
that a child can reach is buckled,
the lockable retractor is activated,
and the belt is fully retracted and
locked.

If a child wraps a loose
seat belt around their neck, they
can be seriously or fatally injured.
(See pages 45 and 46 for how to
activate and deactivate the
lockable retractor.)

●

Use the childproof door locks to
prevent children from opening the
rear do ors.

This can prevent
children from accidentally falling
out (see page 82).

●

Do no t leave children alone in a
vehicle.

Leaving children without
adult supervision is illegal in most
states and Canadian provinces, and
can be very hazardous.

For example, infants and small
children left in a vehicle on a hot
day can die from heatstroke. A
child left alone with the key in the
ignition switch can accidentally set
the vehicle in motion, possibly
injuring themselves or others.

●

Lock all doors and the tailgate
when your vehicle is not in use.

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

●

Keep vehicle keys/remote
transmitters out of the reach of
children.

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

38

Protecting Infants and Small Children

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Protecting Infants

Child Seat Type

An infant must be properly restrained
in a rear-facing, reclining child seat
until the child reaches the seat
maker's weight or height limit for the
seat, and the child is at least one year
old.

Only a rear-facing child seat provides
proper support for 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.

Do not put a rear-facing child seat in
a forwa rd-facing position.

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

Rear-facing Child Seat Placement

A rear-facing child seat can be placed
in any seating position in the back
seat, but not in the front.

rear-facing child seat in the front seat.

Never put a

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.

When properly installed, a rear­facing child seat may prevent the
driver or a front passenger from
moving their seat as far back as
recommended, or from locking their
seat-back in the desired position.

It could also interfere with proper
operation of the passenger's
advanced front airbag system.

Driver and Passenger Safety

CONTINUED

39

Protecting Infants and Small Children

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

In any of these situations, we
strongly recommend that you install
the child seat directly behind the
front passenger's seat, move the seat
as far forward as needed, and leave it
unoccupied. Or, you may wish to get
a smaller rear-facing child seat.

Placing a rear-facing child seat
in the front seat can result in
serious injury or death during a
collision.

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

Protecting Small Children

Child Sea t Type

A child who is at least one year old,
and who fits within the child seat
maker's weight and height limits,
should be restrained in a forward­facing, upright child seat.

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

We also recommend that a small
child use the child seat until the child
reaches the weight or height limit for
the seat.

Child Sea t Placement

We strongly recommend placing a
forward-facing child seat in a back
seat, not the front.

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

If the vehicle seat is too
far forward, or the child's head is
thrown forward during a collision, an
inflating airbag can strike the child
with enough force to cause very
serious or fatal injuries.

40

Protecting Infants and Small Children, Selecting a Child Seat

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Even with advanced front airbags
that automatically turn the
passenger's front airbag off (see page

31), a back seat is the safest place for

a small 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, and be sure the child seat is
firmly secured to the vehicle and the
child is properly strapped in the seat.

Placing a forward-facing child
seat in the front seat can result
in serious injury or death if the
front airbag inflates.

If you must place a forward­facing child seat in front, move
the vehicle seat as far back as
possible, and properly restrain
the child.

Selecting a Child Seat

When buying a child seat, you need
to choose either a conventional child
seat, or one designed for use with
the lower anchors and tethers for
children (LATCH) system.

Conventional child seats must be
secured to a vehicle with a seat belt,
whereas LATCH-compatible seats
are secured by attaching the seat to
hardware built into the two outer
seating positions in the back seat.

Since LATCH-compatible child seats
are easier to install and reduce the
possibility of improper installation,
we recommend selecting this style.

In seating positions and vehicles not
equipped with LATCH, a LATCH­compatible child seat can be installed
using a seat belt.

Whatever type of seat you choose, to
provide proper protection, a child
seat should meet three
requirements:

The child seat should meet U.S. or

1.

Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard 213.

Look for FMVSS

213 or CMVSS 213 on the box.

The child seat should be of the

2.

proper type and size to fit the child.

Rear-facing for infants, forward­facing for small children.

3.

The child seat should fit the vehicle
seating position (or positions)
where it will be used.

Before purchasing a conventional
child seat, or using a previously
purchased one, we recommend that
you test the seat in the specific
vehicle seating position or positions
where the seat will be used.

Driver and Passenger Safety

41

Installing a Child Seat

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

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

Properly secure the child seat to

1.

the vehicle.

All child seats must be
secured to the vehicle with the lap
part of a lap/shoulder belt or with
the LATCH (lower anchors and
tethers for children) system. A
child whose seat is not properly
secured to the vehicle can be
endangered in a crash.

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.

A child seat secured with a seat
belt should be installed as firmly
as possible. However, it does not
need to be ‘‘ rock solid. ’’ Some
side-to-side 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 different style of
child seat that can be firmly
secured.

Secure the child in the child seat.

3.
Make sure the child is properly
strapped in the child seat
according to the child seat maker's
instructions. A child who is not
properly secured in a child seat
can be seriously injured in a crash.

The following pages provide
guidelines on how to properly install
a child seat. A forward-facing child
seat is used in all examples, but the
instructions are the same for rear­facing child seats.

42

Installing a Child Seat

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Installing a Child Seat with
LATCH

Your vehicle is equipped with
LATCH (lower anchors and tethers
for children) at the outer 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 for use with
LATCH.

The location of each lower anchor is
indicated by a small button above the
anchor point.

You can find lower anchors in the
slits in the seat-backs.

BUTTON

LOWER ANCHORS

To install a LATCH-compatible child
seat:

1. Move the seat belt buckle or
tongue away from the lower
anchors.

2. Make sure there are no objects
near the anchors that could
prevent a secure connection
between the child seat and the
anchors.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Rigid type

3. Place the child seat on the vehicle
seat, then attach the seat to the
lower anchors according to the
child seat maker's instructions.

Some LATCH-compatible seats
have a rigid-type connector as
shown above.

CONTINUED

43

Installing a Child Seat

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

ANCHOR

4. Whatever type you have, follow the

44

Flexible type

Other LATCH-compatible seats
have a flexible-type connector as
shown above.

child seat maker's instructions for
adjusting or tightening the fit.

5. Lift the head restraint (see page

94), then route the tether strap

through the legs of the head
restraint and over the seat-back,
making sure the strap is not
twisted.

TETHER STRAP HOOK

6. Attach the tether strap hook to the
anchor, then tighten the strap as
instructed by the child seat maker.

7. Push and pull the child seat
forward and from side-to-side to
verify that it is secure.

Installing a Child Seat with a Lap/

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Shoulder Belt

When not using the LATCH system,
all child seats must be secured to the
vehicle with the lap part of a lap/
shoulder belt.

In addition, the lap/shoulder belts in
all seating positions except the
driver's have a lockable retractor that
must be activated to secure a child
seat.

Installing a Child Seat

Driver and Passenger Safety

If you intend to install a child seat in
the center seating position of the rear
seat, make sure to push down the
head restraint to the lowest position,
and make sure the detachable seat
belt is securely latched (see page

99).

1. 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.

2. To activate the lockable retractor,
slowly pull the shoulder part of the
belt all the way out until it stops,
then let the belt feed back into the
retractor.

3. After the belt has retracted, tug on
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.

CONTINUED

45

Installing a Child Seat

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

To deactivate the lockable retractor
and remove a child seat, unlatch the
buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let
the belt fully retract.

4. After confirming that the belt is

46

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 put
weight on the child seat, or push
on the back of the seat while
pulling up on the belt.

5. Push and pull the child seat
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.

Installing a Child Seat

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Installing a Child Seat with a
Tether

A child seat with a tether can be
installed in any seating position in
the back seat.

Each rear outside seating position
has an anchorage point on the seat­back, and the center seating position
has an anchorage point in the ceiling
near the tailgate.

Since a tether can provide additional
security to the lap/shoulder belt
installation, we recommend using a
tether whenever one is required or
available.

Using an Outer Anchor

ANCHOR

1. After properly securing the child
seat (see page 45), lift the head
restraint, then route the tether
strap over the seat-back and
through the head restraint legs.

ANCHOR

Driver and Passenger Safety

TETHER STRAP HOOK

2. Attach the tether strap hook to the
anchor, making sure the tether
strap is not twisted.

3. Tighten the strap according to the
seat maker's instructions.

CONTINUED

47

Installing a Child Seat

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Using the Center Anchor

ANCHOR

COVER

1. Lower the head restraint to its
lowest position.

2. After properly securing the child
seat (see page 45), open the
anchor cover.

ANCHOR

TETHER STRAP HOOK

3. Route the tether strap over the
head restraint, then attach the
tether strap hook to the anchor,
making sure the tether strap is not
twisted.

4. Tighten the strap according to the
seat maker's instructions.

48

Protecting Larger Children

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

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

The following 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 front.

Allowing a child age 12 or under
to sit in front can result in injury
or death if the passenger's front
airbag inflates.

If a child must ride in front,
move the vehicle seat as far
back as possible, use a booster
seat if needed, have the child
sit up properly and wear the
seat belt properly.

Checking Seat Belt Fit

Driver and Passenger Safety

To determine if a lap/shoulder belt
properly fits a child, have the child
put on the seat belt, then ask
yourself:

1. Does the child sit all the way back
against the seat?

2. Do the child's knees bend
comfortably over the edge of the
seat?

CONTINUED

49

Protecting Larger Children

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

3. Does the shoulder belt cross
between the child's neck and arm?

4. Is the lap part of the belt as low as
possible, touching the child's
thighs?

5. Will the child be able to stay
seated like this for the whole trip?

If you answer yes to all these
questions, the child is ready to wear
the lap/shoulder belt correctly. If
you answer no to any question, the
child needs to ride on a booster seat.

Using a Booster Seat

A child who has outgrown a forward­facing child seat should ride in a
back seat and use a booster seat until
the lap/shoulder belt fits them
properly without the booster.

Some states and Canadian provinces
also require children to use a booster
seat until they reach a given age or
weight (e.g., 6 years or 60 lbs). Be
sure to check current laws in the
states or provinces where you intend
to drive.

Booster seats can be high-back or
low-back. Whichever style you select,
make sure the booster seat meets
federal safety standards (see page

35) and that you follow the booster

seat maker's instructions.

50

Protecting Larger Children

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

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

A child may continue using a booster
seat until the tops of their ears are
even with the top of the vehicle's or
booster's seat-back. A child of this
height should be tall enough to use
the lap/shoulder belt without a
booster seat.

When Can a Larger Child Sit in
Front

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

If the passenger's front airbag
inflates in a moderate to severe
frontal collision, the airbag can cause
serious injuries to a child who is
unrestrained, improperly restrained,
sitting too close to the airbag, or out
of position.

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

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

Physical Size

Physically, a child must be large
enough for the lap/shoulder belt to
properly fit (see pages 14 and 49). If
the seat belt does not fit properly,
with or without the child sitting on a
booster seat, the child should not sit
in front.

Maturity

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

CONTINUED

51

Protecting Larger Children

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

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 and securely positioned.

●

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

Additional Safety Precautions

●

Do no t let a child wear a seat belt
across the neck.

This could result
in serious neck injuries during a
crash.

●

Do no t 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.

●

Two children 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 a
seat belt.

Devices intended to
improve a child's comfort or
reposition the shoulder part of a
seat belt can make the belt less
effective and increase the chance
of serious injury in a crash.

52

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Your vehicle's exhaust contains
carbon monoxide gas. Carbon
monoxide should not enter the
vehicle in normal driving if you
maintain your vehicle properly and
follow the information on this page.

Have the exhaust system inspected
for leaks whenever:

●

The vehicle is raised for 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.

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 open, airflow can
pull exhaust gas into your vehicle's
interior and create a hazardous
condition. If you must drive with the
tailgate open, open all the windows
and set the heating and cooling
system as shown below.

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

1. Select the fresh air mode.

2. Select the

mode.

3. Turn the fan on high speed.

4. Set the temperature control to a
comfortable setting.

Driver and Passenger Safety

53

Safety Labels

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

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

If a label comes off or becomes hard to read (except for the U.S. dashboard label which may be removed by the owner),
contact your dealer for a replacement.

SUN VISORS

U.S. models

DASHBOARD

U.S. models only

Canadian models

54

Safety Labels

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

HOOD

U.S. models

Canadian models

RADIATOR CAP

DOORJAMBS

U.S. models

Canadian models

Driver and Passenger Safety

CONTINUED

55

56

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Instruments and Controls

2009 Fit

Main Menu

This section gives information about
the controls and displays that
contribute to the daily operation of
your vehicle. All the essential
controls are within easy reach.

Control Locations
Instrument Panel
Instrument Panel Indicators
Gauges

Controls Near the Steering

Windshield Wipers and

Turn Signal and Headlights
Headlights
Instrument Panel Brightness
Hazard Warning Button
Rear Window Defogger
Steering Wheel Adjustment
Keys and Locks

.......................................... 68

Trip Meter
Current Fuel Mileage
Average Fuel Mileage
Odometer
Fuel Gauge
Check Fuel Cap Indicator
Maintenance Minder

Wheel

Windshield Wipers
Rear Window Wiper and

....................................... 72

Washers

Washer

.......................... 58

.......................... 59

................................ 69

................ 70

............... 70

.................................. 70

............................... 70

................ 71

................................ 73

................... 73

................................. 73

.................................... 75

................ 76

................. 76

............................. 78

.......... 60

......... 70

.......... 74

........ 76

.......... 77

Immobilizer System
Ignition Switch
Door Locks

Power Door Locks
Childproof Door Locks
Auto Door Locking/

Unlocking
Auto Door Locking
Auto Door Unlocking

Tailgate
Remote Transmitter

............................................. 93

Seats
Power Windows
Mirrors
Parking Brake
Interior Convenience Items

Lower Glove Box
Upper Glove Box
Beverage Holders
Seat Under Box
Accessory Power Socket
Sun Visor

Interior Lights

................................... 81

......................................... 88

....................................... 101

................................ 106

...................... 79

.............................. 80

.................... 81

.............. 82

............................. 83

................... 83

................ 85

...................... 90

.......................... 100

............................. 102

.................... 105

..................... 105

................... 106

....................... 106

............................. 107

Instruments and Controls

......... 104

......... 106

57

Control Locations

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

GAUGES (P. 68)

MIRROR CONTROLS
(P. 101)

DOOR LOCK TAB
(P. 81)

POWER DOOR
LOCK MASTER SWITCH

ꭧ

(P. 81)

POWER WINDOW
SWITCHES
(P. 100)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE
(P. 200)

Vehicle with navigation system is shown.

ꭧ: If equipped

AUDIO SYSTEM (P. 115, 143)INSTRUMENT PANEL INDICATORS (P. 60)
NAVIGATION SYSTEM

PARKING BRAKE (P. 102)

ꭧ

USB ADAPTER CABLE
(P. 130, 137, 171, 178)

HEATING/COOLING
CONTROLS

ꭧ

(P. 110)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
(P. 219)
MANUAL TRANSMISSION
(P. 217)

ꭧ

58

Instrument Panel

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS INDICATOR (P. 65)
HIGH BEAM INDICATOR (P. 65)

SECURITY SYSTEM INDICATORꭧ(P. 66, 193)

ꭧ

ꭧ

(P. 67)

ꭧ

(P. 64)

FOG LIGHT INDICATOR

VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST (VSA)
SYSTEM INDICATOR

VSA OFF INDICATOR
(P. 67)

ELECTRIC POWER
STEERING (EPS)
INDICATOR (P. 62)

MAINTENANCE MINDER
INDICATOR (P. 66)

HIGH TEMPERATURE
INDICATOR (P. 63)

MALFUNCTION
INDICATOR LAMP (P. 304)

CHARGING SYSTEM
INDICATOR (P. 60, 303)

LOW OIL PRESSURE
INDICATOR (P. 60, 303)

LOW TEMPERATURE INDICATOR (P. 63)

ꭧ: If equipped

CRUISE CONTROL
INDICATOR

ꭧ

(P. 65)

IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
INDICATOR (P. 66)

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM INDICATOR (P. 30, 61)

LIGHTS ON INDICATOR (P. 64)

ꭧ

CRUISE MAIN INDICATOR

(P. 65)

SIDE AIRBAG OFF INDICATOR (P. 31, 61)

ꭧ

LOW TIRE PRESSURE INDICATOR

TPMS INDICATOR

(P. 64)

ꭧ

(P. 64)

DOOR AND TAILGATE OPEN
INDICATOR (P. 62)

SEAT BELT REMINDER
INDICATOR (P. 60)

WASHER LEVEL
INDICATOR

ꭧ

(P. 65)

LOW FUEL INDICATOR
(P. 62)

PARKING BRAKE AND
BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR
(P. 60, 305)

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
INDICATOR (P. 62)

Instruments and Controls

59

Instrument Panel Indicators

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

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

Malfunction Indicator
Lamp

See page 304.

Low Oil Pressure
Indicator

The engine can be severely damaged
if this indicator flashes or stays on
when the engine is running. For
more information, see page 303.

Charging System
Indicator

If this indicator comes on when the
engine is running, the battery is not
being charged. For more
information, see page 303.

U.S. Canada

Parking Brake
and Brake
System Indicator
(Red)

This indicator has two functions:

1. It comes on when you turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position. It is a reminder to check
the parking brake. A beeper
sounds if you drive with the
parking brake not fully released.
Driving with the parking brake not
fully released can damage the
brakes and tires.

2. If it remains on after you have fully
released the parking brake while
the engine is running, or if it
comes on while driving, there
could be a problem with the brake
system. For more information, see
page 305.

Seat Belt Reminder
Indicator

This indicator comes on when you
turn the ignition switch to the ON
(II) position. It reminds you and your
passengers to fasten your seat belts.
A beeper also sounds if you have not
fastened your seat belt.

If you turn the ignition switch to the
ON (II) position before fastening
your seat belts, the beeper sounds,
and the indicator flashes. If you do
not fasten your seat belts before the
beeper stops, the indicator stops
flashing but remains on.

60

Instrument Panel Indicators

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

If your front passenger does not
fasten their seat belt, the indicator
comes on about 6 seconds after the
ignition switch is turned to the ON
(II) position.

If either of you do not fasten your
seat belt while driving, the beeper
will sound and the indicator will flash
again at regular intervals. For more
information, see page 18.

Supplemental Restraint
System Indicator

This indicator comes on briefly when
you turn the ignition switch to the
ON (II) position. If it comes on at any
other time, it indicates a potential
problem with your front airbags. This
indicator will also alert you to a
potential problem with your side
airbags, passenger's side airbag
cutoff system, side curtain airbags,
automatic seat belt tensioners,
driver's seat position sensor, or the
front passenger's weight sensors.
For more information, see page 30.

U.S. Canada

Side Airbag Off
Indicator

This indicator comes on briefly when
you turn the ignition switch to the
ON (II) position. If it comes on at any
other time, it indicates that the
passenger's side airbag has
automatically shut off. For more
information, see page 31.

Instruments and Controls

CONTINUED

61

Instrument Panel Indicators

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Anti-lock Brake System
(ABS) Indicator

This indicator normally comes on for
a few seconds when you turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position, and when the ignition
switch is turned to the START (III)
position. If it comes on at any other
time, there is a problem with the
ABS. If this happens, have your
vehicle checked at a dealer. With this
indicator on, your vehicle still has
normal braking ability but no anti­lock function. For more information,
see page 231.

Electric Power Steering
(EPS) Indicator

This indicator normally comes on when
you turn the ignition switch to the ON
(II) position and goes off after the
engine starts. If it comes on at any
other time, there is a problem in the
electric power steering system. If this
happens, stop the vehicle in a safe
place and turn off the engine. Reset the
system by restarting the engine. The
indicator will not turn off immediately.
If it does not go off after driving a short
distance, or comes back on again while
driving, take the vehicle to your dealer
to have it checked. With the indicator
on, the EPS may be turned off, making
the vehicle harder to steer.

If you turn the steering wheel to the
full left or right position repeatedly
while stopping or driving at very low
speed, you may feel slightly harder
steering in order to prevent damage to
the steering box caused by
overheating.

Low Fuel Indicator

This indicator comes on as a
reminder that you must refuel soon.

When the indicator comes on, there
is about 1.64 US gal (6.2 L) of fuel
remaining in the tank before the
needle reaches E. There is a small
reserve of fuel remaining in the tank
when the needle does reach E.

Door and Tailgate Open
Indicator

This indicator comes on if any door
or the tailgate is not closed tightly.

62

Instrument Panel Indicators

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

High Temperature
Indicator

This indicator monitors the
temperature of the engine coolant. It
normally comes on when you turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II) position
and goes off after a few seconds. In
normal driving conditions, this
indicator should not blink or stay on. In
severe driving conditions, such as very
hot weather or a long period of uphill
driving, this indicator may blink. This
means the engine coolant temperature
is high. If the indicator begins to blink
while you are driving, be sure to slow
down to prevent overheating. If the
indicator stays on, pull safely to the
side of the road and turn off the engine.
See page 301 for instructions and
precautions on checking the engine's
cooling system.

Do not drive the vehicle while the
indicator is on or the engine may be
damaged.

Low Temperature
Indicator

This indicator monitors the
temperature of the engine coolant. If
there is no problem, this indicator
comes on when the engine is cold. If
it comes on when the engine is warm
(normal operating temperature),
have the vehicle inspected by your
dealer as soon as possible.

Turn Signal and
Hazard Warning
Indicators

The left or right turn signal indicator
blinks when you signal a lane change
or turn. If an indicator does not blink
or blinks rapidly, it usually means
one of the turn signal bulbs is burned
out (see page 264). Replace the bulb
as soon as possible, since other
drivers cannot see that you are
signaling.

When you press the hazard warning
button, both turn signal indicators
and all turn signals on the outside of
the vehicle flash.

Instruments and Controls

CONTINUED

63

Instrument Panel Indicators

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Low Tire Pressure
Indicator

U.S. models only

This indicator normally comes on for
a few seconds when you turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position. If it comes on while driving,
it indicates that one or more of your
vehicle's tires are significantly low on
pressure.

If this happens, pull to the side of the
road when it is safe, check which tire
has lost the pressure, and determine
the cause. If it is because of a flat tire,
replace the flat tire with the compact
spare (see page 284), and have the
flat tire repaired as soon as possible.
If two or more tires are underinflated,
call a professional towing service
(see page 311). For more
information, see page 235.

Tire Pressure Monitoring
System (TPMS) Indicator

U.S. models only

This indicator normally comes on for
a few seconds when you turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position.

If this indicator comes on and stays
on at any other time, or if it does not
come on when you turn the ignition
switch to the ON (II) position, there
is a problem with the TPMS. With
this indicator on, the low tire
pressure indicator will not come on
when a tire loses pressure. Take the
vehicle to your dealer to have the
system checked.

Lights On Indicator

This indicator reminds you that the
exterior lights are on. It comes on
when the light switch is in either the

or position. If you turn the
ignition switch to the ACCESSORY
(I) or LOCK (0) position without
turning off the light switch, this
indicator will stay on. A reminder
chime will also sound when you open
the driver's door.

Fog Light Indicator

On Sport model

This indicator comes on when you
turn on the fog lights. For more
information, see page 75.

64

Instrument Panel Indicators

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

High Beam Indicator

This indicator comes on with the
high beam headlights. For more
information, see page 75.

This indicator comes on with
reduced brightness when the
daytime running lights (DRL) are on
(see page 75).

Daytime Running Lights
Indicator

If this indicator comes on when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON
(II) position and the parking brake is
released, it means there is a problem
in the circuit. Have your vehicle
checked by your dealer.

Cruise Main Indicator

On Sport model and Canadian LX model

This indicator comes on when you
turn on the cruise control system by
pressing the CRUISE button (see
page 194).

Cruise Control Indicator

On Sport model and Canadian LX model

This indicator comes on when you
set the cruise control. See page 194
for information on operating the
cruise control.

Washer Level Indicator

Canadian models only

This indicator comes on when the
washer fluid level is low. Add washer
fluid when you see this indicator
come on (see page 258).

Instruments and Controls

CONTINUED

65

Instrument Panel Indicators

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Maintenance Minder
Indicator

This indicator comes on for a few
seconds when you turn the ignition
switch to the ON (II) position. It
reminds you that it is time to take
your vehicle in for scheduled
maintenance. The maintenance main
items and sub items will be displayed
in the information display. See page

245 for more information on the

maintenance minder.

This indicator goes off when your
dealer resets it after completing the
required maintenance service.

Immobilizer System
Indicator

This indicator comes on briefly when
you turn the ignition switch to the
ON (II) position. It will go off if you
have inserted a properly coded
ignition key. If it is not a properly
coded key, the indicator will blink,
and the engine's fuel system will be
disabled (see page 79).

Security System Indicator

SECURITY SYSTEM INDICATOR

On Sport model

This indicator comes on when the
security system is set. See page 193
for more information on the security
system.

66

Instrument Panel Indicators

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
System Indicator

If equipp ed

This indicator normally comes on for
a few seconds when you turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position and when the ignition switch
is turned to the START (III) position.

It flashes when VSA is active (see
page 233).

If it comes on and stays on at any
other time, or if it does not come on
when you turn the ignition switch to
the ON (II) position, there is a
problem with the VSA system. Take
your vehicle to a dealer to have it
checked. Without VSA, your vehicle
still has normal driving ability, but
will not have VSA traction and
stability enhancement. See page 233
for more information on the VSA
system.

VSA Off Indicator

If equipp ed

It comes on as a reminder that you
have turned off the vehicle stability
assist (VSA) system.

This indicator normally comes on for
a few seconds when you turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position and when the ignition switch
is turned to the START (III) position.
See page 233 for more information
on the VSA system.

Instruments and Controls

67

Gauges

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

INFORMATION DISPLAY

U.S. model is shown.

TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE

ODOMETER/TRIP METER/CURRENT FUEL MILEAGE/
AVERAGE FUEL MILEAGE/CHECK FUEL CAP INDICATOR

SELECT/RESET KNOB

68

Gauges

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

CURRENT FUEL
MILEAGE

ODOMETER

TRIP METER

The information display consists of
two segments. The upper segment
displays current fuel mileage,
maintenance item code(s), and the
lower segment displays the trip
meter, odometer, average fuel
mileage, and engine oil life.

AVERAGE FUEL
MILEAGE

ENGINE OIL LIFE

To switch the display, press and
release the select/reset knob
repeatedly. When you turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position the last selection is
displayed.

Trip Meter

This meter shows the number of
miles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada)
driven since you last reset it.

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

When you reset the trip meter,
average fuel mileage is reset
simultaneously.

Instruments and Controls

69

Gauges

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Current Fuel Mileage

This shows your current fuel mileage
in mpg (U.S.) or l/100 km (Canada).

Average Fuel Mileage

This shows your vehicle's average
fuel economy in mpg (U.S.) or l/100
km (Canada) since you last reset the
trip meter.

When you reset a trip meter, the
average fuel mileage for that trip
meter also resets.

Odometer

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

Fuel Gauge

This shows how much fuel you have.
It may show slightly more or less
than the actual amount. The needle
returns to the bottom after you turn
off the ignition.

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

Check Fuel Cap Indicator

If the fuel fill cap is loose or missing,
a ‘‘ CHECK FUEL CAP ’’ message
appears on the information display
after you start the engine. The
message changes from CHECK, to
FUEL, to CAP repeatedly.

Turn the engine off and confirm the
fuel fill cap is installed. If it is, loosen
the cap, then retighten it until it
clicks at least once. You can cycle the
message off of the display by
pressing the select/reset knob
repeatedly, but this message will be
displayed each time the engine is
started. It will take several days of
normal driving for the vehicle to turn
the warning off.

70

Gauges

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

If the system still detects a loose or
missing fuel fill cap, the malfunction
indicator lamp (MIL) comes on. Turn
the engine off, and check or
retighten the fuel fill cap until it
clicks at least once. The MIL goes
out after several days of normal
driving once the cap is tightened or
replaced. If it does not go out, have
your dealer inspect the vehicle. For
more information, see page 304.

Maintenance Minder

The information display in the
instrument panel shows you the
engine oil life and maintenance
service items when the ignition
switch is in the ON (II) position. This
information helps to keep you aware
of the periodic maintenance your
vehicle needs for continued trouble­free driving. Refer to page 245 for
more information.

Instruments and Controls

71

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

PADDLE SHIFTER (DOWNSHIFT)
(P. 224)

HEADLIGHTS/
TURN SIGNAL/
FOG LIGHTS

ꭧ2

(P. 74)

ꭧ2

HORN

ꭧ1

INSTRUMENT PANEL
BRIGHTNESS
(P. 76)

PADDLE SHIFTER
(UPSHIFT)

ꭧ2

(P. 224)

WINDSHIELD
WIPERS/WASHERS
(P. 73)

HAZARD WARNING
BUTTON
(P. 76)

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF

INDICATOR
REMOTE AUDIO
CONTROL BUTTONS
(P. 189)

ꭧ2

(P. 31)

REAR WINDOW

DEFOGGER/HEATED

NAVIGATION SYSTEM
VOICE CONTROL
BUTTONS

ꭧ3

MIRROR BUTTON

(P. 76/102)

AUXILIARY INPUT JACK

(P. 190)

VEHICLE STABILITY
ASSIST (VSA) SYSTEM
OFF SWITCH
(P. 234)

Vehicle with navigation system is shown.

ꭧ2

STEERING WHEEL
ADJUSTMENTS
(P. 77)

CRUISE CONTROL
BUTTONS

ꭧ2

(P. 194)

ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET
(P. 106)

ꭧ1: To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.
ꭧ2: If equipped.
ꭧ3: Only on vehicles equipped with navigation system. Refer to the navigation system manual.

ꭧ2

72

Windshield Wipers and Washers

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Windshield Wipers

1. MIST

2. OFF

3. INT － Intermittent

4. LO － Low speed

5. HI － High speed

6. Windshield washers

Push the right lever up or down to
select a position.

MIST － The wipers run at high

speed until you release the lever.

OFF － The wipers are not activated.

INT －

LO － The wipers run at low speed.
HI － The wipers run at high speed.

Windshield
Washers

The wipers operate every
few seconds.

Pull the wiper control

－

lever toward you, and
hold it. The washers
spray until you release
the lever. The wipers
run at low speed, then
complete one more
sweep after you release
the lever.

Rear Window Wiper and Washer

Instruments and Controls

1. OFF
When you turn the wiper switch to
the ‘‘ OFF ’’ position, the wiper will
return to its parked position.

2. Rotate the switch clockwise to turn
the rear window wiper ON.

3. Hold past ON to turn the rear
window wiper on and to spray the
rear window washer.

CONTINUED

73

Windshield Wipers and Washers, Turn Signal and Headlights

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

4. Hold past OFF to turn the rear
window wiper on and to spary the
rear window washer. The rear
window wiper makes one more
sweep after you release the switch.

When you shift the transmission to
the reverse position with the front
windshield wiper activated, the rear
wiper operates automatically even if
the rear wiper switch is off.

The rear window washer uses the
same fluid reservoir as the
windshield washer.

Turn Signal and Headlights

1. Turn signal

2. Off

3. Parking and interior lights

4. Headlights

5. High beams

6. Flash high beams

On Sport model

7. Fog lights off

8. Fog lights on

Turn Signal － Push down on the
left lever to signal a left turn and up
to signal a right turn. To signal a lane
change, push lightly on the lever and
hold it. The lever will return to the
center when you release it or
complete a turn.

74

Headlights

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Headlights － Turning the switch to
the ‘‘

’’ position turns on the
parking lights, taillights, instrument
panel lights, side-marker lights, and
rear license plate lights.

Turning the switch to the ‘‘

’’

position turns on the headlights.

When the light switch is in the

’’ or ‘‘ ’’ position, the lights

‘‘

on indicator comes on as a reminder.
This indicator stays on if you leave
the light switch on and turn the
ignition switch to the ACCESSORY
(I) or the LOCK (0) position.

If you leave the lights on with the key
removed from the ignition switch,
you will hear a reminder chime when
you open the driver’s door.

High Beams － Push the lever
forward and the high beam indicator
will come on (see page 65). Pull it
back to return to low beams.

To flash the high beams, pull the
lever back lightly, then release it.
The high beams will stay on as long
as you hold the lever back.

Fog Lights

On Sport model

Turn the fog lights on and off by
turning the switch next to the
headlight switch.

You can use the fog lights only when
the headlights are on low beam.They
will go off when the headlights are
turned off.

Daytime Running Lights

With the headlight switch off or in
the

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

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

Instruments and Controls

75

Instrument Panel Brightness, Hazard Warning Button, Rear Window Defogger

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Instrument Panel Brightness

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS
CONTROL KNOB

You can change the instrument panel
brightness only when the ignition
switch is in the ON (II) position and
the light switch is on.

Turn the knob on the lower part of the
instrument panel to adjust the
brightness.

You will hear a beep when maximum
or minimum brightness is reached.
You will also hear a beep when the
maximum level is canceled by turning
the knob a click to the left.

Hazard Warning Button

Push the button to turn on the
hazard warning lights (four-way
flashers). This causes all four outside
turn signals and both turn indicators
in the instrument panel to flash. Use
the hazard warning lights if you need
to park in a dangerous area near
heavy traffic, or if your vehicle is
disabled.

Rear Window Defogger

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 indicator in the
button comes on to show the
defogger is on. You must manually
shut off the rear window defogger
when it is no longer needed.

76

Rear Window Defogger, Steering Wheel Adjustment

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

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

The defogger wires on the inside of
the rear window can be accidentally
damaged. When cleaning the glass,
always wipe side-to-side.

If equipp ed

Pushing this button also turns the
mirror heaters on or off. For more
information, see page 102.

Steering Wheel Adjustment

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
in a crash.

Adjust the steering wheel only
when the vehicle is stopped.

1. Pull the lever under the steering
column toward you until it stops.

2. Move the steering wheel up or
down, and in or out, so it points
toward your chest, not toward your
face. Make sure you can see the
instrument panel gauges and
indicators.

Instruments and Controls

3. Push the lever forward fully to lock
the steering wheel in position.

4. Make sure you have securely
locked the steering wheel in place
by trying to move it up, down, in,
and out.

77

Keys and Locks

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

On Sport model and Canadian LX model

KEY NUMBER TAG

KEYS WITH
TRANSMITTER

Your vehicle comes with the two
ignition keys.

All models except Sport model and
Canadian LX model

KEY NUMBER TAG

KEYS

You should have received a key
number tag with your keys. You will
need this key number if you ever
have to get a lost key replaced. Use
only 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.

●

Do not drop the keys or set heavy
objects on them.

●

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

All models except Sport model and
Canadian LX model

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

78

Immobilizer System

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

The immobilizer system protects
your vehicle from theft. If an
improperly coded key (or other
device) is used, the engine's fuel
system is disabled.

When you turn the ignition switch to
the ON (II) position, the immobilizer
system indicator should come on
briefly, then go off. If the indicator
starts to blink, it means the system
does not recognize the coding of the
key. Turn the ignition switch to the
LOCK (0) position, remove the key,
reinsert it, and turn the ignition
switch to the ON (II) position again.

The system may not recognize your
key's coding if another immobilizer
key or other metal object (i.e. key
fob) is near the ignition switch when
you insert the key.

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

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

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

Always take the ignition key with you
whenever you leave the vehicle alone.

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 harmful 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.

Instruments and Controls

79

Ignition Switch

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

The ignition switch has four positions:
LOCK (0), ACCESSORY (I), ON (II),
and START (III).

LOCK (0) － You can insert or remov e
the key only in this position. To turn
the key, push it in slightly. If your
vehicle has an automatic transmission,
the shift lever must also be in Park.

If the front wheels are turned, the anti­theft lock may make it difficult to turn
the key. Firmly turn the steering wheel
to the left or right as you turn the key.

ACCESSORY (I) － You can operate
the audio system and the accessory
power socket in this position.

ON (II) － This is the normal key
position when driving. Several of the
indicators on the instrument panel
come on as a test when you turn the
ignition switch from the
ACCESSORY (I) to the ON (II)
position.

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

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

If your vehicle has an automatic
transmission, the shift lever must be
in Park before you can remove the
key from the ignition switch.

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

Remove the key from the
ignition switch only when
parked.

80

Door Locks

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

LOCK TAB

To lock

To unlock

RED INDICATOR

Each door has a lock tab next to the
inside door handle. Pull the lock tab
to lock the door, and push it forward
to unlock the door.

On Canadian DX and DX-A models

To lock the passenger's door when
getting out of the vehicle, pull the
lock tab and close the door. To lock
the driver's door, pull and hold the
outside door handle, then pull the
lock tab. Release the handle, then
close the door.

When the door is unlocked, you can
see the red indicator on the lock tab
above the inner door handle.

UNLOCK

LOCK

All models except Sport model and
Canadian LX model

Each front door can be locked or
unlocked with the ignition key.

Power Door Locks

MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH

Instruments and Controls

All models except Canadian DX and
DX-A models

To lock the doors and the tailgate,
push the top of the master door lock
switch on the driver's door, pull the
lock tab rearward on the driver's
door, or use the key in the outside
door lock on the driver's door.

Pushing the bottom of the master
door lock switch unlocks all doors
and the tailgate.

CONTINUED

81

Door Locks

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

The lock tab on each passenger's
door locks and unlocks only that
door. Pushing forward the lock tab
on the driver's door unlocks only that
door. To unlock only the driver's
door from the outside, turn the key
and release it. If you turn it again, the
remaining doors and the tailgate
unlock.

To lock a passenger's door when
getting out of the vehicle, pull the
lock tab rearward and close the door.
To lock the driver's door, remove
key from ignition switch and pull the
lock tab rearward or push the top of
the master door lock switch, then
close the door.

Lockout Prevention

If you forget and leave the key in the
ignition switch, lockout prevention
will not allow you to lock the driver's
door. With any door open and the
key in the ignition switch, locking
with master door lock switch is
disabled. If the driver's door is
closed, the lock tab on the driver's
door is not disabled. Pulling the
driver's lock tab rearward will lock all
doors. If you try to lock an open
driver's door by pulling the lock tab
rearward, the driver's door lock tab
pops out and unlocks the driver's
door.

Childproof Door Locks

LEVER

Unlock

Lock

The childproof door locks are
designed to prevent children seated
in the rear from accidentally opening
the rear doors. Each rear door has a
lock lever near the edge. With the
lever in the LOCK position (lever is
down), the door cannot be opened
from the inside regardless of the
position of the lock tab. To open the
door, pull the lock tab forward and
use the outside door handle.

82

Door Locks

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Auto Door Locking/Unlocking

On all models except Canadian DX and
DX-A

Your vehicle has customizable
settings for the doors and tailgate to
automatically lock and unlock. There
are default settings for each of these
features. You can turn off or change
the settings for these features as
described on the following pages.

When you customize the setting,
make sure your vehicle is parked
safely, the engine is off, and apply the
parking brake. Make all settings
before you start driving.

Auto Door Locking

The auto door locking feature has
three possible settings:

●

The auto door locking is
deactivated all the time.

●

All doors and tailgate lock
whenever you move the shift lever
out of the Park (P) position (A/T
vehicles).

●

All doors and tailgate lock when
the vehicle speed reaches 9 mph
(15 km/h).
This is the default setting.

To turn off the Auto Door Lock
modes:

Instruments and Controls

1. Make sure the shift lever is in the
Park (P) position (A/T vehicles).

2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON
(II) position, and open the driver's
door.

CONTINUED

83

Door Locks

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

3. Push and hold the front of the
master door lock switch on the
driver's door until you hear a click
(after about 5 seconds).

4. Release the switch, and within 5
seconds, turn the ignition switch to
the LOCK (0) position.

To program the Park Lock mode:

Locks all doors and tailgate when the
shift lever is moved out of the Park (P)
position (A/T vehicles only).

1. Make sure the shift lever is in the
Park (P) position.

2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON
(II) position, and make sure to
close the driver's door.

3. Push and hold the front of the
master door lock switch on the
driver's door. You will hear a click.
Keep holding the switch until you
hear another click (after about 5
seconds).

4. Release the switch, and within 5
seconds, turn the ignition switch to
the LOCK (0) position.

84

Door Locks

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

To program the Drive Lock mode:

Locks all doors and tailgate when the
vehicle's speed reaches about 9 mph (15
km/h).

A/T models

1. Make sure the shift lever is in the
Park (P) position (A/T vehicles).

2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON
(II) position, and make sure to
close the driver's door.

On A/T vehicles,

3.

push and hold the
brake pedal, and move the shift
lever out of the Park (P) position.

4. Push and hold the front of the
master door lock switch on the
driver's door. You will hear a click.
Keep holding the switch until you
hear another click (after about 5
seconds).

5. Release the switch, and within 5
seconds, turn the ignition switch to
the ACCESSORY (I) position.

A/T vehicles,

move the shift lever to

On

the Park (P) position.

6. Turn the ignition switch to the
LOCK (0) position.

Auto Door Unlocking

The auto door unlocking feature has
five possible settings:

●

The auto door unlocking is
deactivated all the time.

●

On A/T vehicles,

the driver's door
unlocks when you move the shift
lever to the Park (P) position.
This is the default setting.

●

All doors and tailgate unlock when
you move the shift lever to the
Park (P) position (A/T vehicles).

●

The driver's door unlocks
whenever you turn the ignition
switch to the ACCESSORY (I)
position.
This is the default setting on M/T
vehicles.

●

All doors and tailgate unlock
whenever you turn the ignition
switch to the ACCESSORY (I)
position.

Instruments and Controls

CONTINUED

85

Door Locks

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

To tur n off the Auto Door Unlock
modes:

1. Make sure the shift lever is in the
Park (P) position (A/T vehicles).

2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON
(II) position, and open the driver's
door.

3. Push and hold the rear of the
master door lock switch on the
driver's door. You will hear a click,
and after about 5 seconds, you will
hear another click.

4. Release the switch, and within 5
seconds, turn the ignition switch to
the LOCK (0) position.

To program the Park Unlock mode:

Unlocks the driver's door or all doors
and tailgate when the shift lever is
moved into the Park (P) position (A/T
vehicles only).

1. Make sure the shift lever is in the
Park (P) position.

2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON
(II) position, and make sure to
close the driver's door.

3. Push and hold the rear of the
master door lock switch on the
driver's door. You will hear a click.
Continue to hold the switch:

●

Until you hear another click
(after about 5 seconds) to
activate

feature

●

Or, until you hear two more

driver's door unlock

.

clicks (after about 10 seconds)
to activate

unlock feature

all doors and tailgate

.

4. Release the switch, and within 5
seconds, turn the ignition switch to
the LOCK (0) position.

86

Door Locks

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

To program the Ignition Switch
Unlock mode:

Unlocks the driver's door or all doors
and tailgate when the ignition switch is
moved out of the ON (II) position.

A/T models

1. Make sure the shift lever is in the
Park (P) position (A/T vehicles).

2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON
(II) position, and make sure to
close the driver's door.

On A/T vehicles,

3.

push and hold the
brake pedal, then move the shift
lever out of the Park (P) position.

4. Push and hold the rear of the
master door lock switch on the
driver's door. You will hear a click.
Continue to hold the switch:

●

Until you hear another click
(after about 5 seconds) to
activate

feature

●

Or, until you hear two more

driver's door unl ock

.

clicks (after about 10 seconds)
to activate

unlock feature

all doors and tailgate

.

5. Release the switch, and within 5
seconds, turn the ignition switch to
the ACCESSORY (I) position.

A/T vehicles,

move the shift lever to

On

the Park (P) position.

6. Turn the ignition switch to the
LOCK (0) position.

Even if your vehicle's battery is
removed or goes dead, the system
keeps the auto door lock/unlock
setting which you selected.

Instruments and Controls

87

Tailgate

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

All models except Canadian DX and
DX-A models

The tailgate will lock or unlock when
you lock or unlock the driver's door
by using the key, the lock tab on the
driver's door, the master door lock
switch or the remote transmitter (if
equipped).

LOCK

UNLOCK

KEY

All models except Sport model and
Canadian LX model

You can lock or unlock the tailgate
with the key.

HANDLE

To open the tailgate, pull the handle,
then lift up.

88

TAILGATE HANDLE

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Unlocking the Tailgate

Lock

Tailgate

Unlock

Instruments and Controls

To close the tailgate, hold the tailgate
handle, lower the tailgate, then press
down on the back edge.

Keep the tailgate closed at all times
while driving to avoid damaging the
tailgate and to prevent exhaust gas
from getting into the interior. See
Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page

53.

On Sport model and Canadian LX model

If the power door lock system cannot
unlock the tailgate, unlock it
manually.

Place a cloth on the edge of the
cover, then use a small flat-tipped
screwdriver to remove the cover on
the back of the tailgate.

Push the release lever to the right as
shown.

If you need to unlock the tailgate
manually, it means there is a
problem with the tailgate. Have the
vehicle checked by your dealer.

89

Remote Transmitter

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

LED

UNLOCK
BUTTON

PANIC
BUTTON

On Sport model and Canadian LX model

LOCK
BUTTON

LOCK － Press this button once to
lock all doors and the tailgate. Some
exterior lights will flash once. When
you push LOCK twice within 5
seconds, the horn will sound to verify
that the doors and the tailgate are
locked and the security system (if
equipped) has set. You cannot lock
the doors and the tailgate if any door
or the tailgate is not fully closed or
the key is in the ignition switch.

UNLOCK － Press this button once
to unlock the driver's door. Push it
twice to unlock the remaining doors
and the tailgate. Some exterior lights
will flash twice each time you press
the button.

The ceiling light (if the ceiling light
switch is in the door activated
position) will come on when you
press the UNLOCK button. If you do
not open any door or the tailgate
within 30 seconds, the light fades
out. If you relock the doors and the
tailgate with the remote transmitter
before 30 seconds have elapsed, the
light will go off immediately.

If you do not open any door or the
tailgate within 30 seconds, they will
automatically relock and the security
system (if equipped) will set.

PANIC － Press this button for
about 2 seconds to attract attention:
the horn will sound, and the exterior
lights will flash for about 30 seconds.
To cancel panic mode, press any
other button on the remote
transmitter, or turn the ignition
switch to the ON (II) position.

90

Remote Transmitter

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Remote Transmitter Care

●

Avoid dropping or throwing the
transmitter.

●

Protect the transmitter from
extreme temperature.

●

Do not immerse the transmitter in
any liquid.

●

If you lose a transmitter, the
replacement needs to be
reprogrammed by your dealer.

Replacing the Transmitter Battery

If it takes several pushes on the
button to lock or unlock the doors
and the tailgate, replace the battery
as soon as possible.

Battery type: CR1616

Instruments and Controls

SCREW

To replace the battery:

1. Remove the screw at the base of
the transmitter with a small
Phillips-head screwdriver.

CONTINUED

91

Remote Transmitter

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

BATTERY

2. Separate the transmitter by prying
its middle seam with your
fingernail.

3. Inside the transmitter, separate the
inner cover from the keypad by
carefully prying on the edge with a
coin.

4. Remove the old battery, and insert
a new battery into the back of the
cover with the ＋ side facing down.

An improperly disposed of battery
can hurt the environment. Always
confirm local regulations for
battery disposal.

5. Install the parts in reverse order.

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 harmful interf erence, and (2) this
device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operati on.

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.

92

Front Seat Adjustments

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

See pag es 11 － 12 for important safety
information and warnings about how to
properly position the seats and seat­backs.

Make all seat adjustments before you
start driving.

Seats

Instruments and Controls

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

To change the seat-back angle, pull
up the lever on the outside of the
seat bottom.

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

CONTINUED

93

Seats

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Armrest

On Sport model and Canadian LX model

The driver's seat has an armrest on
the side of the seat-back. To use,
pivot it down.

Rear Seat Adjustments

RELEASE LEVER

You can adjust the angle of the rear
seat-backs separately. To change the
seat-back angle, pull up the release
lever on the outer side of the seat­back.

Head Restraints

See page 13 for important safety
information and a warning about
improperly positioning head restraints.

Your vehicle is equipped with head
restraints in all seating positions to
help protect you and your
passengers from whiplash and other
injuries.

They are most effective when you
adjust them so the center of the back
of the occupant's head rests against
the center of the restraint.

94

Seats

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Front

LEGS

SEAT-BACK

CUSHION

RELEASE BUTTON

Adjusting the Head Restrai nt

The head restraints adjust for height.
You need both hands to adjust a
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.

Rear Center
Position

LEGS

SEAT-BACK

CUSHION

RELEASE BUTTON

When a passenger is seated in the
rear center seating position, the
center head restraint should be
adjusted up or down, to match the
passenger's height.

Removing the Head Restraint

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

Failure to reinstall the head
restraints can result in severe
injury during a crash.

Always replace the head
restraints before driving.

When reinstalling a head restraint,
put the legs back in place. Then
adjust it to the appropriate height
while pressig the release button.

Make sure the head restraint locks in
position when you reinstall it.

Instruments and Controls

CONTINUED

95

Seats

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Active Head Restraints

The driver's and front passenger's
seats have active head restraints. If the
vehicle is struck severely from the rear,
the occupant properly secured with the
seat belt will be pushed against the
seat-back and the head restraint will
automatically move forward.

This reduces the distance between the
restraint and the occupant’s head. It
also helps protect the occupants
against whiplash and injuries to the
neck and upper spine.

After a collision, the activated restraint
should return to its normal position.

If the restraints do not return to their
normal position, or in the event of a
severe collision, have the vehicle
inspected by a Honda dealer.

For a head restraint system to work
properly:

●

Do not hang any items on the head
restraints, or from the restraint
legs.

●

Do not place any object between
an occupant and the seat-back.

●

Install each restraint in its proper
location.

●

Only use genuine Honda
replacement head restraints.

96

Seats

2009 Fit

Table Of Contents

Main Menu

Folding the Rear Seat Up

The left and right rear seat cushions
can be lifted up separately to make
room for cargo.

Remove any items from the seat
before you fold up the seat cushion.

꓉

꓇

꓈

Pull up the rear seat cushion, and
fold the seat leg down. Push the seat
cushion firmly against the seat-back
to lock it.

LEG

꓈

꓇

LATCH

FLOOR GUIDE

To return the seat cushion to its
original position, first make sure
there are no items on the floor, then
pull up the seat leg fully, and push
down the seat cushion slowly while
holding it with your hands. Set the
seat leg in the floor guide. A latch
comes out when the leg is set
properly.

Folding the Rear Seat Down

The rear seat-backs can be folded
down for more cargo room.

Each side folds down separately, so
you can still carry a passenger in the
rear outer seating position.

Remove any items from the seat
before folding down the seat-back.

Make sure there are no items on the
floor before folding down the seats.

Instruments and Controls

CONTINUED

97