Honda NSX 2004 User Manual
2004 NSX Online Reference Owner's Manual
Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference.
For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com .
Owner's Identification Form
Introduction..................................................................................................................................................... i
A Few Words About Safety ..........................................................................................................................ii
Your Vehicle at a Glance...............................................................................................................................2
Driver and Passenger Safety .......................................................................................................................5
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental R estra int System.
Instruments and Controls...........................................................................................................................39
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features.........................................................................................................77
How to operate the climate control system, the aud io system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving .............................................................................................................................................103
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving...........................................................................................................................................................117
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance.................................................................................................................................................133
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.
Taking Care of the Unexpected...............................................................................................................169
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Technical Information...............................................................................................................................199
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)......................................................................213
A summary of the warranties covering your new Honda, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...............................................................................................................217
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index .................................................................................................................................................................I
Service Information Summary
A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
Contents
Owner’s Identif ication
Main Menu
OWNER
ADDRESS
STREET
CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/
POSTAL CODE
V. I. N.
DELIVERY DATE
(Date sold to original retail purchaser)
DEALER NAME DEALER NO.
ADDRESS
STREET
CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/
POSTAL CODE
OWNER’S SIGNATURE
DEALER’S SIGNATURE
This Owner’s Manual should be
considered a permanent part of the
vehicle, and should remain with the
vehicle when it is sold.
This Owner’s Manual covers all
models of the Acura NSX. You may
find descriptions of equipment and
features that are not on your
particular model.
The information and specifications
included in this publication were in
effect at the time of approval for
printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
reserves the right, however, to
discontinue or change specifications
or design at any time without notice
and without incurring any obligation
whatsoever.
Introduction
Main Menu
Congratulations on your selection of the 2004 Acura NSX. We are certain
you will be pleased with your purchase of one of the most sophisticated and
technologically-advanced sports cars in the world.
One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Acura is to read
this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls and
convenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner’s manual in your vehicle so
youcanrefertoitatanytime.
Several warranties protect your new Acura. Read the warranty booklet
thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights
and responsibilities.
Maintaining your vehicle according to the schedules given in this manual
helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment.
When your vehicle needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Acura dealer’s
staff is specially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Acura.
Your Acura dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to
answer any questions and concerns.
California Proposition 65 Warning
WARNING:
California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of
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 Acura, other
property, or the environment.
i
AFewWordsAboutSafety
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
Safety Messages
three signal words: , , or .
These signal words mean:
Safety Headings
Safety Precautions.
Safety Section
Instructions
This entire book is filled with important safety information please read it
carefully.
−
on the vehicle.
−
preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of
DANGER WARNING CAUTION
You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow
instructions.
−
such as Important Safety Reminders or Important
−
such as Driver and Passenger Safety.
−
how to use this vehicle correctly and safely.
−
ii
Your Car at a Glance
Main Menu
HEADLIGHT
SWITCH
(P.51)
HOOD RELEASE
HANDLE
(P.108)
DOOR LOCK
SWITCH
(P.58)
POWER WINDOW
SWITCHES
(P.63)
MIRROR
CONTROLS
(P.71)
TRUNK
RELEASE
BUTTON
(P.59)
TURN SIGNAL LEVER
(P.51)
FUEL FILL
DOOR RELEASE
(P.105)
HAZARD WARNING BUTTON
(P.52)
WINDSHIELD WIPER
CONTROLS
(P.50)
SHIFT LOCK RELEASE
(P.127)
(Automatic transmission only)
DIGITAL CLOCK
(P.76)
AUTOMATIC
CLIMATE
CONTROL
(P.78)
AUDIO SYSTEM
(P.84)
SEAT
ADJUSTMENT
SWITCHES
(P.62)
2
Your Car at a Glance
Main Menu
INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS
(P.52)
HEADLIGHTS
(P.51)
REAR WINDOW
DEFOGGER
(P.52)
TURN SIGNALS
(P.51)
TELESCOPE ADJUSTMENT TILT ADJUSTMENTHORN
(P.53) (P.53)
TCS ON/OFF SWITCH
(P.132)
HAZARD WARNING LIGHT
(P.52)
CRUISE CONTROL
MASTER SWITCH
(P.100)
WINDSHIELD WIPERS/
WASHERS
(P.50)
BUTTONS
3
4
Main Menu
Driver and Passenger Saf ety
Main Menu
This section gives you important
information about how to protect
yourself and your passenger. It
shows you how to use seat belts
properly. It explains how your
airbags work. And it tells you how to
properly restrain children in your
vehicle.
.........Important Safety Precautions . 6
.......Your Vehicle’s Safety Features . 7
.......................................Seat Belts . 8
...........................................Airbags . 9
.........Protecting Adults and Teens . 10
.....1. Close and Lock the Doors . 10
......................2. Adjust the Seats . 10
............3. Adjust the Seat-Backs . 11
4. Fasten and Position the Seat
.....................................Belts . 12
....5. Adjust the Steering Wheel . 13
6. Maintain a Proper Sitting
................................Position . 13
.....Advice for Pregnant Women . 14
...Additional Safety Precautions . 15
Additional Information About Your
.................................Seat Belts . 15
..Seat Belt System Components . 15
......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 16
Automatic Seat Belt
...............................Tensioners . 16
...............Seat Belt Maintenance . 17
Additional Information About Your
.....................................Airbags . 18
......Airbag System Components . 18
...........How Your Airbags Work . 18
.............................Airbag Service . 21
Protecting Children General
All Children Must Be
Your Vehicle is Not
Recommended for Child
The Passenger’s Airbag can Pose
Using Child Seats with
.....................................Tethers . 30
...................................Safety Labels . 36
−
................................Guidelines . 22
...............................Restrained . 22
..........................Passengers . 23
...........................Serious Risks . 23
.............Protecting Small Children . 26
.....................Selecting a Child Seat . 27
....................Installing a Child Seat . 27
...........Protecting Larger Children . 31
.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 35
..How the SRS Indicator Works . 20
...Additional Safety Precautions . 21
...Additional Safety Precautions . 25
Driver and Passenger Safety
5
Important Saf ety Precautions
Main Menu
Table of Contents
You’ll find many safety
recommendations throughout this
section, and throughout this manual.
Therecommendationsonthispage
are the ones we consider to be the
most important.
Always Wear Your Seat Belt
A seat belt is your best protection in
all types of collisions. Airbags
supplement seat belts, but airbags
are designed to inflate only in a
moderate to severe frontal collision.
So even though your vehicle is
equipped with airbags, make sure
you and your passenger always wear
your seat belts, and wear them
properly. (See page ).
12
Your Vehicle is Not
Recommended for Child
passengers
Since all children are safest in the
back seat of a vehicle, and your
vehicle does not have a back seat, we
recommend that you do not carry a
child passenger.
passenger’s airbag hazard, you
should never carry an inf ant in a
rear-f acing child seat in this vehicle.
Due to the
If a small child who must be
restrained in a f orward-facing child
seat, or a larger child, must ride in
this vehicle, be sure to follow all
instructions and safety warnings in
this manual (see pages and ).
26
31
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 f ailure can be extremely
hazardous. To reduce the possibility
of such problems, check your tire
pressures and condition frequently,
and perform all regularly scheduled
maintenance (see page ).
135
6
Driver and Passenger Safety
(1) (3) (9) (4)
Main Menu
Table of Contents
(6)
Your Vehicle’s Saf ety Features
Your vehicle is equipped with many
features that work together to
protect you and your passengers
during a crash.
(8)
(2)
(7)
(2)
(5)
(1) Safety Cage
(2) Crush Zones
(3) Seats and Seat-Backs
(4) Head Restraints
(5) Collapsible Steering Column
(6) Seat Belts
(7) Seat Belt Tensioners
(8) Airbags
(9) Door Locks
Some safety features do not require
anyactiononyourpart.These
include a strong aluminum
framework that forms a safety cage
around the passenger compartment;
front and rear crush zones, a
collapsible steering column, and seat
belt tensioners that tighten the seat
belts in the event of a crash.
However, you and your passenger
can’t take full advantage of these
safety f eatures unless you remain
sitting in a proper position and
always wear your seat belts properly.
Infact,somesafetyfeaturescan
contribute to injuries if they are not
used properly.
The following pages explain how you
cantakeanactiveroleinprotecting
yourself and your passenger.
Driver and Passenger Safety
7
Your Vehicle’s Saf ety Features
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Seat Belts
Foryoursafety,andthesafetyof
your passenger, your vehicle is
equipped with seat belts in both
seating positions.
Your seat belt system also includes
an indicator on the instrument panel
to remind you and your passenger to
fasten your seat belts.
Why Wear Seat Belts
Seat belts have proven to be the
singlemosteffectivesafetydevice.
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
if you have airbags.
Be sure you and your
passenger 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
car’s built-in safety features.
Help protect you in almost every
type of crash, including frontal,
side,rearimpacts,androllovers.
Help keep you from being thrown
against the inside of the vehicle
and against other occupants.
Keep you from being thrown out
of the vehicle.
Help keep you in a good position
should the airbags ever deploy. A
good position reduces the risk of
injury from an inflating airbag, and
allows you to get the best
advantage from the airbag.
Of course, seat belts cannot
completely protect you in every
crash.Butinmostcases,seatbelts
can reduce your risk of serious
injury.
What you should do:
Always wear
your seat belt, and make sure you
wear it properly.
8
Driver and Passenger Safety
Your Vehicle’s Saf ety Features
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Airbags
Your vehicle has a Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS) with frontal
airbags to help protect the heads and
chests of the driver and a passenger
during a moderate to severe frontal
collision (see page for more
18
information on how your airbags
work).
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, rollovers, or minor
collisions.
Airbags can pose 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 while allowing full
control of the vehicle. A f ront
passenger should move their seat as
far back f rom the dashboard as
possible.
Driver and Passenger Safety
9
Protecting Adults and Teens
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The rest of this section gives more
detailed information about how you
can maximize your safety.
Remember however, that no saf ety
system can prevent all injures or
deaths that can occur in severe
crashes, even where seat belts are
properly worn and the airbags deploy.
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 ride in
your Acura.
See page for important guidelines
22 58
on how to properly protect small
children and larger children who ride
in your vehicle.
Close and Lock the Doors Adjust the Seats1. 2.
After everyone has entered the
vehicle, be sure the doors are closed
and locked.
Locking the doors reduces the
chance of someone being thrown out
of the vehicle during a crash, and it
helps prevent a passenger from
accidentally opening a door and
falling out.
Locking the doors also helps prevent
an outsider from unexpectedly
opening a door when you come to a
stop.
See page for how to lock the
doors.
Adjust driver’s seat as far to the rear
as possible while allowing you to
maintain control of the vehicle. Have
a passenger adjust his or her seat as
far to the rear as possible.
If you sit too close to the steering
wheel or dashboard, you can be
seriously injured by an inflating
airbag, or by striking the steering
wheel or dashboard.
10
Driver and Passenger Safety
Protecting Adults and Teens
Main Menu
Table of Contents
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.
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.
Once your seat is adjusted correctly,
rock it back and forth to make sure it
is locked into position. See page
for how to adjust the seats.
62
Sitting too close to an airbag
can result in serious injury or
death if the airbags inflate.
Always sit as far back from the
airbags as possible while
allowing full control of the
vehicle.
Adjust the Seat-Backs3.
Adjust the driver’s seat-back to a
comfortable, upright position,
leaving ample space between your
chest and the airbag cover in the
center of the steering wheel.
A passenger should also adjust the
seat-back to an comfortable, upright
position.
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 for how to adjust seat-
62
backs.
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.
Driver and Passenger Safety
11
Protecting Adults and Teens
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Fasten and Position the Seat
4.
Belts
Insert the latch plate into the buckle,
then tug on the belt to make sure the
belt is securely latched. Also check
that the belt is not twisted, because a
twisted belt can cause serious
injuries in a crash.
Position the lap part of the belt as
low as possible across your hips,
then pull up on the shoulder part of
the belt so the lap part fits snugly.
This lets your strong pelvic bones
take the force of a crash and reduces
the chance of internal injuries.
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.
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.
Improperly positioning the seat
belts can cause serious injury
or death in a crash.
Make sure all seat belts are
properly positioned before
driving.
12
Driver and Passenger Safety
Protecting Adults and Teens
Main Menu
Table of Contents
If a seat belt does not seem to work
as it should, 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 Acura dealer check the
belt as soon as possible.
See page for additional
15
information about your seat belts
and how to take care of them.
Adjust the Steering Wheel Maintain a Proper Sitting
5. 6.
Position
After occupants have adjusted their
seats and put on seat belts, it is very
important that they continue to sit
upright, well back in their seats, with
their feet on the floor, until the
vehicle is parked and the engine is
off.
Sitting improperly can increase the
chance of injury during a crash. For
example, if an occupant slouches,
lies down, turns sideways, sits
Adjust the steering wheel, if needed,
so that the wheel points toward your
chest, not toward your face. This
provides optimal protection from the
forward, leans forward or sideways,
or puts one or both feet up, the
chance of injury during a crash is
greatly increased.
airbag.
In addition, an occupant who is out of
See page for how to adjust the
53
steering wheel.
position can be seriously or f atally
injuredinacrashbystrikinginterior
parts of the vehicle, or being struck
by an inflating front airbag.
CONTINUED
Driver and Passenger Safety
13
Protecting Adults and Teens
Main Menu
Table of Contents
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 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 airbag.
Each time you have a check-up, ask
your doctor if it’s okay for you to
drive.
14
Driver and Passenger Safety
Protecting Adults and Teens, Additional Information About Your Seat Belts
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Additional Safety Precautions Seat Belt System Components
Two people should never use the
same seat belt.
If they do, they
could be very seriously injured in a
crash.
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.
Your seat belt system includes lap/
shoulder belts in both seating
positions. The seat belts are also
equipped with automatic seat belt
tensioners.
Do not 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
thebeltandincreasethechanceof
serious injury in a crash.
Do not attach or place objects on
the airbag covers.
Objects on the
covers marked SRS AIRBAG
could interf ere with the proper
operation of the airbags or be
propelled inside the vehicle and
hurt someone if the airbags inflate.
The seat belt system
includes an indicator on the
instrument panel to remind you and
your passenger to fasten your belts.
If you turn the ignitions switch to
ON (II) without fastening your seat
Do not place hard or sharp objects
between yourself and an airbag.
Carrying hard or sharp objects on
your lap, or driving with a pipe or
other sharp object in your mouth,
belt, a beeper will sound and the
indicator will blink. The beeper will
stop after a few seconds, but the
indicator stay on until the driver’s
seat belt is fastened.
can result in injuries if your
airbags inflate.
Driver and Passenger Safety
15
Additional Information About Your Seat Belts
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Lap/Shoulder Belt Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners
The lap and 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 for how to
12
properly position the belt).
To unlock the belt, push the red
PRESSbuttononthebuckle.Guide
the belt across your body so that it
retracts completely. After exiting the
vehiclebesurethebeltisoutofthe
way and will not get closed in the
door.
Both seat belts have an emergency
retractor. In normal driving, the
The passenger’s seat belt has an
additional locking mechanism that
must be activated to secure a child
seat (see page ).
28
If the shoulder part of the belt is
pulled all the way out, the locking
mechanism will activate. The belt
will retract, but it will not allow the
passenger to move freely.
To deactivate the locking
mechanism, unlatch the buckle, and
let the seat belt fully retract. To
refasten the belt, pull it out only as
far as needed.
For added protection, the seat belts
are equipped with automatic seat
belt tensioners. When activated, the
tensioners immediately tighten the
beltstohelpholdthedriverandthe
passenger in place.
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.
16
Driver and Passenger Safety
Additional Information About Your Seat Belts
Main Menu
Table of Contents
The tensioners are designed to
activate primarily in f rontal collisions,
andtheyshouldactivateinany
collision severe enough to cause
airbag inflation.
However, the tensioners can be
activated during a collision in which
the 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 in the normal
manner.
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. Any belt that
is not in good condition or working
properly will not provide good
protection and should be replaced as
soon as possible.
Acura provides a lif etime warranty
on seat belts for U.S. models. See
Acura Warranty Information
your
booklet for details.
If a seat belt is worn during a crash,
it must be replaced by the dealer. A
belt that has been worn during a
crash may not provide the same level
of protection in a subsequent crash.
The dealer should also inspect the
anchors for damage and replace
them if needed. If automatic seat belt
tensioners activate during a crash,
they must be replaced.
For information on how to clean your
seat belts, see page .157
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
17
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Airbag System Components How Your Airbags Work
Your airbag system includes:
An indicator on the instrument
panel that alerts you to a possible
problem with the system (see
Two SRS (Supplemental Restraint
page ).
20
System) airbags. The driver’s
airbag is stored in the center of
the steering wheel; the passenger’s
airbag is stored in the dashboard.
Emergency backup power in case
your vehicle’s electrical system is
disconnected in a crash.
Both are marked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG.’’
Automatic seat belt tensioners
(see page ).
16
Sensors that can detect a
moderate to severe frontal
collision.
If you ever have a moderate to
severe frontal collision, sensors will
detect the vehicle’s rapid
A sophisticated electronic system
that continually monitors
information about the sensors, the
control unit, and the airbag
deceleration. If the rate of
deceleration is high enough, the
control unit will instantly inflate the
driver’s and passenger’s airbags.
activators when the ignition is in
the ON (II) position.
18
Driver and Passenger Safety
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Main Menu
Table of Contents
During a frontal crash, your seat belt
restrains your lower body and torso,
and the airbag helps protect your
head and chest.
Although both airbags normally
inflate within split second of each
other, it is possible for only one
airbag to deploy.
This can occur 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.
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.
After inflating, the airbags will
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.
Driver and Passenger Safety
19
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Main Menu
Table of Contents
How the SRS Indicator Works
The SRS indicator alerts
you to a potential problem
with your airbags or seat belt
tensioners (see page ).16
(II), this indicator comes on briefly
then go out. This tells you that
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 to
ON (II).
If the indicator stays on after the
engine starts.
If the indicator comes on or
flashes on and of f while you drive.
If you see any of these indications,
your airbags and seat belt tensioners
may not work properly when you
need them.When you turn the ignition to ON
Ignoring the SRS indicator can
result in serious injury or death
if the airbags 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.
20
Driver and Passenger Safety
Additional Information About Your Airbags
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Airbag Service Additional Saf ety Precautions
Your airbag systems are virtually
maintenance-free, and there are no
parts you can safely service.
However, you must have your
vehicle serviced if:
Your airbags ever inflate.
The
airbags, seat belt tensioners, and
control unit must be replaced. Do
not try to remove or replace the
airbags yourself.
This must be done by an Acura
dealer or a knowledgeable body
shop.
The SRS indicator alerts you to a
problem.
Take your vehicle to an
authorized Acura dealer as soon as
possible. If you ignore this
indication, the airbags may not
work properly.
Donotattempttodeactivateyour
airbags.
Together, airbags and
seat belts provide the best
protection.
Do not tamper with airbag
components or wiring for any
reason.
Tampering could cause
the airbags to deploy, possibly
causing very serious injury.
Driver and Passenger Safety
21
Protecting Children General Guidelines
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
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 if necessary.
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 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 small
children and larger children.
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 death of children ages 12 and
under.
To reduce the number of child
deaths and injuries, every state and
Canadian province requires that
infants and children be properly
restrained when they ride in a
vehicle.
A small child must be restrained in
an approved child seat that is
properly secured to the vehicle
pages ).
A larger child must be restrained
with a booster until the seat belt fits
him her properly
34
27 30
).
−
(see pages
31
(see
−
22
Driver and Passenger Safety
Protecting Children General Guidelines
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
Your Vehicle is Not
Recommended for Child
Passengers
The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration and Transport
Canada recommend that all children
age 12 and under be properly
restrained in a back seat.
Since this vehicle does not have a
back seat, we strongly recommend
that you do not carry any child who
is not large enough or mature
enough to ride in f ront (see page ).
33
The Passenger’s Airbag Can Pose
Serious Risks
Airbags have been designed to help
protect adults in a moderate to
severe frontal collision. To do this,
the passenger’s airbag is quite large
and it can inflate with enough force
to cause very serious injuries.
Infants
Never put a rear-f acing child seat in
this vehicle.
If the passenger’s airbag
inflates, it can hit the back of the
child seat with enough f orce to kill or
very seriously injure an infant.
Small Children
Placing a forward-f acing child seat in
the passenger’s seat can be
hazardous.
If the vehicle seat is too
farforward,orthechild’sheadis
thrown f orward during a collision, an
inflating passenger’s airbag can
strike the child with enough force to
kill or very seriously injure them.
Larger Children
Children who have outgrown child
seats are also at risk of being injured
or killed by an inflating passenger’s
airbag.
this vehicle, see page for
If a larger child must ride in
33
important guidelines on how to
decide when a child is ready to ride
in front and how to properly protect
the child.
Driver and Passenger Safety
23
Protecting Children General Guidelines
Main Menu
Table of Contents
U.S. Models Canadian Models
To remind you of the passenger’s
airbag hazards, your vehicle has
warninglabelsonthedashboardand
on the driver’s and passenger’s
visors. Please read and follow the
instructions on these labels.
−
To remind you of the airbag hazards,
your vehicle has warning labels on
the driver’s and passenger’s visors.
Please read and follow the
instructions on these labels.
24
Driver and Passenger Safety
Protecting Children General Guidelines
Main Menu
Table of Contents
−
Additional Safety Precautions
Never hold a small child on your
lap. If you are not wearing a seat
belt in crash, you could be thrown
forward and crush the child
against the dashboard. 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.
Do not 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, a small child left in a
vehicle on a hot day can die from
heatstroke. A child left alone with
the key in the ignition can
accidentally set the vehicle in
motion, possibly injuring
themselves or others.
Lock both doors and the trunk
when your vehicle is not in use.
Children who play in vehicles can
accidentally get trapped inside the
trunk. Teach your children not to
play in or around vehicles. Know
how to operate the emergency
trunk opener and decide if your
children should be shown how to
use this feature (see page ).
59
Keep vehicle keys and remote
transmitters out of the reach of
children. Even very young
children learn how to unlock
vehicle doors, turn on the ignition,
and open the trunk, which can
lead to accidental injury or death.
Driver and Passenger Safety
25
Protecting Small Children
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Because an inflating airbag can
seriously injure or kill small children,
we recommend that you do not carry
a small child as a passenger in this
vehicle.
If you decide to transport a small
child in this vehicle, be sure to move
the passenger seat as far to the rear
as possible, and follow the
instructions and guidelines in the
following pages.
Child Seat 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 uses the child seat as long as
possible, until the child reaches the
weight or height limit for the seat.
Placing a forward-facing child
seat in the passenger’s seat
can result in serious injury or
death if the front airbag inflates.
Ifyoumustplaceaforwardfacing child seat in front, move
the vehicle seat as far back as
possible, and properly restrain
the child.
26
Driver and Passenger Safety
Selecting a Child Seat, Installing a Child Seat
Main Menu
Table of Contents
Selecting a Child Seat Installing a Child Seat
To provide proper protection, a child
seat should meet three
requirements:
The child seat should meet U.S. or
1.
Canadian Motor Vehicle Saf ety
Standard 213.
Look for FMVSS
213 or CMVSS 213 on the box.
After selecting a proper child seat,
there are three main steps to install
it:
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. A child
whose seat is not properly secured
The child seat should be of the
2.
proper type and size to fit the child.
The child seat should fit the
3.
passenger’s seat.
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
Before purchasing a child seat, or
using a previously purchased one, we
forward and from side to side to
verify that it is secure.
recommend that you test the seat to
make sure it fits properly in the
passenger’s seat.
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 sideto-side movement can be expected
and should not reduce the child
seat’s effectiveness.
Secure the child in the child seat.3.
Make sure the child is properly
strappedinthechildseat
according to the child seat maker’s
instructions. A child who is not
properly secured in a child seat
canbeseriouslyinjuredinacrash.
The following pages provide
guidelines on how to properly install
a forward-facing child seat.
Driver and Passenger Safety
27
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