Contents

Acura RSX 2004 Coupe Owner's Manual PDF

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Summary of Content for Acura RSX 2004 Coupe Owner's Manual PDF

2004 RSX 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.

Contents

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 Restraint System. Instruments and Controls ................................................................................................................. 47 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features ................................................................................................ 87 How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 119 What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 133 The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 155 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.

Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 191 This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 217 ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 231 A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 236 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.

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

This Owners Manual covers all models of the Acura RSX. 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.

Owners Identif ication

POUR CLIENTS CANADIEN AVIS IMPORTANT: Si vous avez besoin dun Manuel du Conducteur en franais, veuillez demander votre concessionnaire de commander le numro de pice 33S6MC20

OWNER

ADDRESS

V. I. N.

DELIVERY DATE

DEALER NAME DEALER NO.

ADDRESS

OWNERS SIGNATURE

DEALERS SIGNATURE

STREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/ POSTAL CODE

(Date sold to original retail purchaser)

STREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/ POSTAL CODE

Congratulations! Your selection of a 2004 Acura RSX was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure.

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 owners manual in your vehicle so you can refer to it at any time.

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 dealers 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

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

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.

Introduction

WARNING:

i

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:

on the vehicle. preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of

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

such as Important Safety Reminders or Important Safety Precautions.

such as Driver and Passenger Safety. how to use this vehicle correctly and safely.

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

A Few Words About Safety

Safety Labels Safety Messages

Safety Headings

Safety Section Instructions

DANGER WARNING CAUTION

ii

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you dont follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you dont follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you dont follow instructions.

Your Vehicle at a Glance

2

DOOR AND HATCH LOCK SWITCH

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES

HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS

AUDIO SYSTEM

SHIFT LEVER FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

(P. 67)

(P. 78)

(P. 49)INDICATORS GAUGES

MIRROR CONTROLS (P. 56)(P. 81)

(P. 122)

(P. 123)

(P. 136, 139)

(P. 92)

(P. 88)

PARKING BRAKE (P. 82)

Your Vehicle at a Glance

3

TILT ADJUSTMENT

HORN

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/ WASHERS

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

CRUISE CONTROL

MOONROOF

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS

(P. 61)(P. 61)

(P. 80)

(P. 60) (P. 62)

(P. 61)

(P. 59)

HAZARD WARNING BUTTON

(P. 115)

4

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

.........Important Safety Precautions . 6 .......Your Vehicles Safety Features . 7

.......................................Seat Belts . 8 .........................................Airbags . 10

.........Protecting Adults and Teens . 11 .....1. Close and Lock the Doors . 11

...........2. Adjust the Front Seats . 11 ............3. Adjust the Seat-Backs . 13

4. Fasten and Position the ...Lap/Shoulder Seat Belts . 14 ....5. Adjust the Steering Wheel . 15

6. Maintain a Proper Sitting ................................Position . 16

.....Advice for Pregnant Women . 17 ...Additional Safety Precautions . 17

Additional Information About Your .................................Seat Belts . 19

..Seat Belt System Components . 19 ......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 19

Automatic Seat Belt ...............................Tensioners . 20

...............Seat Belt Maintenance . 21 Additional Information About

...........................Your Airbags . 22 ......Airbag System Components . 22

How Your Front Airbags .........................................Work . 22

...How Your Side Airbags Work . 25 ..How the SRS Indicator Works . 26

How the Side Airbag Cutoff ......................Indicator Works . 27

.............................Airbag Service . 28 ...Additional Safety Precautions . 28

Protecting Children General ................................Guidelines . 29

All Children Must Be ...............................Restrained . 29

All Children Should Sit in the .................................Back Seat . 30

The Passengers Front Airbag .........Can Pose Serious Risks . 30

If You Must Drive with Several ...................................Children . 31

If a Child Requires Close ..................................Attention . 32

...Additional Safety Precautions . 32 ...........................Protecting Infants . 33

.............Protecting Small Children . 34 .....................Selecting a Child Seat . 35 ....................Installing a Child Seat . 36

Installing a Child Seat Using .....................................LATCH . 37

Installing a Child Seat with a ..................Lap/shoulder Belt . 39

Installing a Child Seat with a ......................................Tether . 40

...........Protecting Larger Children . 41 ...............Checking Seat Belt Fit . 42

..................Using a Booster Seat . 42 ...Additional Safety Precautions . 44

.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 45 ...................................Safety Labels . 46

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety 5

Youll 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.

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

Children age 12 and under should ride properly restrained in a back seat. Infants and small children should be restrained in a child seat. Larger children should use a booster and a lap/shoulder belt until they

can use the belt properly without a booster (see page ).

Alcohol and driving dont mix. Even one drink can reduce your ability to respond to changing conditions, and your reaction time gets worse with every additional drink. So dont drink and drive, and dont let your friends drink and drive, either.

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 (see page

).

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.

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 ).

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10

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159

Driver and Passenger Safety

Important Safety Precautions

Always Wear Your Seat Belt

Restrain All Children

Dont Drink and Drive

Be Aware of Airbag Hazards

Control Your Speed

Keep Your Vehicle in Safe Condition

6

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

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

CONTINUED

Your Vehicles Safety Features

Driver and Passenger Safety 7

(8) Side Airbags (9) Seat Belt Tensioners (10) Door Locks

(1) Safety Cage (2) Crush Zone (3) Seats and Seat-Backs (4) Head Restraints (5) Collapsible Steering Column (6) Seat Belts (7) Front Airbags

(7)

(10)

(1) (3) (4) (6)

(8)

(2)

(9)(7) (5)

(2)

However, you and your passengers cant take full advantage of these safety features unless you remain sitting in a proper position and always wear your seat belts properly. In fact, some safety 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.

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

Your seat belt system also includes an indicator on the instrument panel to remind you and your passengers to fasten your seat belts.

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

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

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

Your Vehicles Safety Features

Seat Belts Why Wear Seat Belts

Driver and Passenger Safety8

When properly worn, seat belts:

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

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.

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

Help protect you in almost every type of crash, including frontal, side, rear impacts, and rollovers.

Your Vehicles Safety Features

What You Should Do:

Driver and Passenger Safety 9

Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even if you have airbags.

Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly.

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

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 for more information on how your side airbags work.)

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

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.

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.

They are designed to supplement the seat belts.

22

25

Your Vehicles Safety Features

Airbags

Driver and Passenger Safety

What you should do:

Airbags can pose hazards.

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

Airbags do not replace seat belts.

10

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 passengers 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 the drivers 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.

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 following pages provide instructions on how to properly protect the driver, adult passengers, and teenagers who are large enough and mature enough to ride in the front. See pages for important guidelines on how to properly protect infants, small children, and larger children who ride in your vehicle.

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33 44

CONTINUED

Introduction Close and Lock the Doors Adjust the Front Seats1. 2.

Protecting Adults and Teens

Driver and Passenger Safety 11

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 front seats.72

Protecting Adults and Teens

Driver and Passenger Safety12

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.

Adjust the drivers seat-back to a comfortable, upright position, leaving ample space between your chest and the airbag cover in the center of the steering wheel.

Reclining a seat-back so that the shoulder part of the belt no longer rests against the occupants 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- backs.

Passengers with adjustable seat- backs should also adjust their seat- back to a comfortable, upright position.

72

Protecting Adults and Teens

Adjust the Seat-Backs3.

Driver and Passenger Safety 13

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.

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.

Fasten and Position the Lap/ Shoulder Seat Belts

4.

Protecting Adults and Teens

Driver and Passenger Safety14

This could cause very serious injuries in a crash.

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

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

Adjust the steering wheel, if needed, so that the wheel points toward your chest, not toward your face. This provides optimal protection from the front airbag.

See page for how to adjust the steering wheel.

19

62

Protecting Adults and Teens

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

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

Adjust the Steering Wheel5.

Driver and Passenger Safety 15

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

Make sure all seat belts are properly positioned before driving.

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

Sitting improperly can increase the chance of injury during a crash. For example, if an occupant slouches, lies down, turns sideways, sits forward, leans forward or sideways, or puts one or both feet up, the chance of injury during a crash is greatly increased.

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

Maintain a Proper Sitting Position

6.

Protecting Adults and Teens

Driver and Passenger Safety16

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

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

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 check-up, ask your doctor if its okay for you to drive.

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

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

CONTINUED

Advice for Pregnant Women Additional Safety Precautions

Protecting Adults and Teens

Two people should never use the same seat belt.

Do not put any accessories on seat belts.

Driver and Passenger Safety 17

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

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

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

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

Protecting Adults and Teens

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

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

Do not attach hard objects on or near a door.

Keep your hands and arms away from the airbag covers.

Driver and Passenger Safety18

Your seat belt system includes lap/shoulder belts

in all four seating positions.

The seat belt system includes an indicator on the instrument panel to remind you and your passengers to fasten your belts.

If you turn the ignition switch to ON (II) without fastening your belt, a beeper will sound and the indicator will blink. The beeper will stop after a few seconds, but the indicator will stay on until the drivers seat belt is fastened.

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 properly position the belt).

To unlock the belt, push 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 drivers have an additional locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat (see page ).

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.

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CONTINUED

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt

Driver and Passenger Safety 19

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

The tensioners are designed to activate primarily in frontal collisions, and they should activate in any collision severe enough to cause front-airbag inflation.

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

However, the tensioners can be activated during a collision where the front airbags do not deploy. In this case, the airbags would not be needed, but the additional restraint could be helpful.

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners

Driver and Passenger Safety20

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

Acura provides a lifetime warranty on seat belts for U.S. models. See 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 the automatic seat belt tensioners activate during a crash, they must be replaced.

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

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

180

Acura Warranty Information

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt Maintenance

Driver and Passenger Safety 21

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.

Your airbag system includes:

Two SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) front airbags. The drivers airbag is stored in the center of the steering wheel; the front passengers airbag is stored in the dashboard. Both are marked SRS AIRBAG.

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

Automatic seat belt tensioners (see page ).

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

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

If you ever have a moderate to severe frontal collision, sensors will detect the vehicles rapid deceleration. If the rate of deceleration is high enough, the control unit will instantly inflate the drivers and front passengers front airbags, at the time and with the force needed.

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

An indicator on the dashboard that alerts you that the passengers side airbag has been turned off (see page ).

Emergency backup power in case your vehicles electrical system is disconnected in a crash.

20

26

27 25

Airbag System Components How Your Front Airbags Work

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Airbags

22

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 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.

After inflating, the front airbags immediately deflate, so they wont interfere with the drivers 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.

After a crash, you may see what looks like smoke. This is actually powder from the airbags 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.

CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Airbags

23

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.

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

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.

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

If the occupants belt is , the airbag will deploy at the same threshold as a conventional airbag.

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

Dual-Stage Airbags

more severe

less severe

not latched

is latched

Dual-Threshold Airbags

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Airbags

24

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

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

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

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

When you turn the ignition switch to ON (II), the indicator should come on briefly and go out (see page ). If it doesnt come on, stays on, or comes on while driving without a passenger in the front seat, have the system checked.

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.

27

How Your Side Airbags Work

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Airbags

25

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 off while you drive.

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

The SRS indicator alerts you to a potential problem

with your front airbags, side airbags, or front seat belt tensioners.

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

How the SRS Indicator Works

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Airbags

26

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.

This indicator alerts you that the passengers side

airbag has been automatically shut off. It does mean there is a problem with your side airbags.

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

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

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

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.

How the Side Airbag Cutoff Indicator Works

not

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Airbags

27

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

Any airbag that has deployed must be replaced along with the control unit. If a front airbag inflates, the seat belt tensioners must also be replaced. Do not try to remove or replace any airbag by yourself. This must be done by an Acura dealer or a knowledgeable body shop.

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

Together, airbags and seat belts provide the best protection.

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

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

Improperly replacing or covering front seat- back covers can prevent your side airbags from inflating during a side impact.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Airbag Service Additional Safety Precautions

An airbag ever inflates.

The SRS indicator alerts you to a problem.

Do not attempt to deactivate your airbags.

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

Do not expose the front seat-backs to liquid.

Do not cover or replace front seat- back covers without consulting an Acura dealer.

Additional Information About Your Airbags

28

CONTINUED

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 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 infants, small children, and larger children.

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 U.S. state and Canadian providence requires that infants and children be properly restrained when they ride in a vehicle.

Protecting Children General Guidelines

Driver and Passenger Safety

All Children Must Be Restrained

29

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.

(see pages ).

(see pages ).

According to accident statistics, children of all ages and sizes are safer when they are restrained in the back seat. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that all children age 12 and under be properly restrained in the back seat.

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 airbag when they ride in the back.

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

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

If the vehicle seat is too far forward, or the childs head is thrown forward during a collision, an inflating front airbag can strike the child with enough force to kill or very seriously injure them.

Whenever possible, larger children should sit in the back seat, in a booster seat if needed, and be properly restrained with a seat belt (see page for important information about protecting larger children).

3533

4441

41

Protecting Children General Guidelines

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

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

Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front seat of a vehicle equipped with a passengers front airbag.

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

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

All Children Should Sit in the Back Seat

The Passengers Front Airbag Can Pose Serious Risks

Infants

Small Children

Larger Children

Driver and Passenger Safety30

To remind you of the passengers front airbag hazards, and that children must be properly restrained in the back seat, your vehicle has warning labels on the dashboard and on the drivers and front passengers visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these labels.

To remind you of the front airbag hazards, your vehicle has warning labels on the drivers and front passengers visors. Please read and follow the instructions on these labels.

Your vehicle has two seating positions in the back seat where children can be properly restrained. If you ever have to carry more than two children, 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 ).

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

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

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

).

11

16

14

41

Protecting Children General Guidelines

U.S. Models Canadian Models If You Must Drive with Several Children

Driver and Passenger Safety 31

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

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

Never hold an infant or 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 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 or 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, 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 can accidentally set the vehicle in motion, possibly injuring themselves or others.

Lock both doors and the hatch when your vehicle is not in use. Children who play in vehicles can accidentally get trapped inside the vehicle. Teach your children not to play in or around vehicles.

Protecting Children General Guidelines

If a Child Requires Close Attention

Additional Safety Precautions

Driver and Passenger Safety32

Keep vehicle keys and remote transmitters out of reach of children. Even very young children learn how to unlock vehicle doors, turn on the ignition, and open the hatch, which can lead to accidental injury or death.

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

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

Only a rear-facing child seat provides proper support for a babys head, neck, and back.

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

CONTINUED

Child Seat Type

Protecting Children General Guidelines, Protecting Infants

Driver and Passenger Safety

Protecting Infants

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

33

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

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

In this vehicle, a rear-facing child seat can be placed in either seating position in the back seat, but not in the front seat.

If the passengers 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 rear- facing child seat may prevent the driver or a front passenger from moving the seat as far back as recommended, or from locking the seat-back in the desired position. In either of these situations, we strongly recommend that you install the child seat directly behind the front passenger seat, move the front seat as far forward as needed, and leave it unoccupied. Or you may wish to get a smaller child seat that allows you to safely carry a front passenger.

A child who is at least one year old, and who fits within the child seat makers weight and height limits, should be restrained in a forward- facing, upright child seat.

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

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

We strongly recommend placing a forward-facing child seat in a back seat, not the front. Even with advanced airbags, which can automatically turn the passengers front airbag off (see page ), a back seat is the safest place for a small child.

27

Child Seat Type

Child Seat Placement

Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front seat.

Child Seat Placement

Protecting Small Children

Protecting Infants, Protecting Small Children

Driver and Passenger Safety34

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

When buying a child seat, you need to choose between 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 rear seats.

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

We also recommend selecting a LATCH-compatible seat with a rigid, rather than a flexible, anchor (see page ).

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

38

CONTINUED

Protecting Small Children, Selecting a Child Seat

Selecting a Child Seat

Driver and Passenger Safety 35

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

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

Look for FMVSS 213 or CMVSS 213 on the box.

Rear-facing for infants, forward- facing for small children.

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.

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

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.

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 seats 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.

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

1.

2.

3.

1.

2.

3.

Selecting a Child Seat, Installing a Child Seat

The child seat should meet U.S. or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213.

The child seat should be of the proper type and size to fit the child.

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

Properly secure the child seat to the vehicle.

Make sure the child seat is firmly secured.

Secure the child in the child seat.

Installing a Child Seat

Driver and Passenger Safety36

Your vehicle is equipped with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) at the rear seats. The lower anchors are located between the seat-back and seat bottom, and are to be used only with a child seat designed for use with LATCH.

To install a LATCH-compatible child seat:

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

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

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 a rear- facing child seat.

Small marks are positioned to indicate the locations of each anchor point. 1.

2.

CONTINUED

Installing a Child Seat

Installing a Child Seat Using LATCH

Driver and Passenger Safety 37

LOWER ANCHORS

LOWER ANCHOR MARKS

Place the child seat on the vehicle seat, and attach the seat to the lower anchors according to the child seat makers instructions.

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

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

Whatever type you have, follow the child seat makers instructions for adjusting or tightening the fit.

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

Route the tether strap over the seat-back, making sure the strap is not twisted.

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

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Installing a Child Seat

Driver and Passenger Safety38

Rigid type Flexible type

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 the back seating positions, and in the front passenger seat, have a locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat.

With the child seat in the desired seating position, route the belt through the child seat according to the seat makers instructions, then insert the latch plate into the buckle.

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.

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.

1. 2.

3.

CONTINUED

Installing a Child Seat

Installing a Child Seat with a Lap/ Shoulder Belt

Driver and Passenger Safety 39

Push and pull the child seat forward and from side to side to verify that it is firmly secured. If the child seat is not secure, unlatch the belt, allow it to retract fully, then repeat these steps.

After confirming that the belt is locked, grab the shoulder part of the belt near the buckle and pull up to remove any slack from the lap part of the belt. Remember, if the lap part of the belt is not tight, the child seat will not be secure.

To remove slack, it may help to put weight on the child seat, or push on the back of the seat while pulling up on the belt.

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

A child seat with a tether can be installed in either seating position in the back seat, using one of the anchorage points.

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

4. 5.

Installing a Child Seat

Driver and Passenger Safety

Installing a Child Seat with a Tether

40

The tether anchorage points are located under plastic covers. Pivot the cover downward to access the anchorage point.

Attach the tether strap hook to the tether anchorage point as shown in the illustration, then tighten the strap according to the child seat makers instructions. Make sure strap is not twisted.

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 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.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Installing a Child Seat, Protecting Larger Children

Protecting Larger Children

41

TETHER ANCHORAGE POINT

COVER

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

If a large 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.

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

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

Do the childs knees bend comfortably over the edge of the seat?

Does the shoulder belt cross between the childs neck and arm?

Is the lap part of the belt as low as possible, touching the childs thighs?

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. A child who has outgrown a forward-

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

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Protecting Larger Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

Checking Seat Belt Fit Using a Booster Seat

42

CONTINUED

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

Booster seats can be high-back or low-back. Whichever style you select, make sure the booster meets federal safety standards and that you follow the booster seat makers instructions.

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

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

If the passengers 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.

The side airbag also poses risks. If any part of a larger childs 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 the front. There are other important factors you should consider.

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.

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

41

Protecting Larger Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

When Can a Larger Child Sit in Front

Maturity

Physical Size

43

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

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

Move the vehicle seat to the rear- most position.

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

Check that the childs seat belt is properly positioned and secured.

This could result in serious neck injuries during a crash.

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.

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

Devices intended to improve a childs 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.

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

Protecting Larger Children

Additional Safety Precautions Do not let a child wear a seat belt across the neck.

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

Two children should never use the same seat belt.

Do not put any accessories on a seat belt.

Driver and Passenger Safety44

Allowing a child age 12 or under to sit in front can result in injury or death if the passengers 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.

Your vehicles exhaust contains carbon monoxide gas. You should have no problem with carbon monoxide entering the vehicle in normal driving if you maintain your vehicle properly. Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks whenever:

The vehicle is raised 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 under- side.

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 hatch open, air flow can pull exhaust gas into your vehicles interior and create a hazardous condition. If you must drive with the hatch open, open all the windows and set the heating and cooling system as shown below.

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

Push the button. Select the mode. Turn the fan on high speed. Set the temperature control to a comfortable setting.

1. 2. 3. 4.

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Driver and Passenger Safety 45

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.

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

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

U.S. models

Canadian models

U.S. models only

Safety Labels

Driver and Passenger Safety46

RADIATOR CAP

SUN VISORDASHBOARD

HOOD

...........................Control Locations . 48 ............................Instrument Panel . 49

..........Instrument Panel Indicators . 50 Maintenance Required

...................................Indicator . 54 .........Security System Indicator . 55

.............................................Gauges . 56 .....................................Odometer . 56 ...................................Trip Meter . 56 ..................................Fuel Gauge . 57

...................Temperature Gauge . 57 Controls Near the Steering

...........................................Wheel . 58

......................Wipers and Washers . 59 ...........Turn Signal and Headlights . 60

........Instrument Panel Brightness . 61 .................Hazard Warning Button . 61 .................Rear Window Defogger . 61

..........Steering Wheel Adjustment . 62 ...............................Keys and Locks . 63

........................Immobilizer System . 64 ................................Ignition Switch . 65

......................................Door Locks . 67 .........Power Door/Hatch Locks . 67

............................................Hatch . 68 .......................Remote Transmitter . 69

........................................Glove Box . 71 .................................................Seats . 72

....................................Seat Heaters . 75 ...........................Cargo Area Cover . 76

..............................Power Windows . 78 .........................................Moonroof . 80

.............................................Mirrors . 80 .................................Parking Brake . 82 .................................Interior Lights . 83

...........Interior Convenience Items . 84 .......................Beverage Holders . 85

..........Accessory Power Sockets . 85 ...............Console Compartment . 86

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

Instruments and Controls

Instruments and Controls

47

AT model is shown.

Control Locations

Instruments and Controls48

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES

FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE

MIRROR CONTROLS GAUGES

HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS

AUDIO SYSTEM

SHIFT LEVER

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

DOOR AND HATCH LOCK SWITCH

INDICATORS

(P. 67)

(P. 78)

(P. 81) (P. 49)

(P. 56) (P. 88)

(P. 92)

(P. 136, 139)

(P. 123)

(P. 122)

PARKING BRAKE (P. 82)

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

Instrument Panel

Instruments and Controls 49

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR

SIDE AIRBAG CUT-OFF INDICATOR

TURN SIGNAL AND HAZARD WARNING INDICATOR

LOW FUEL INDICATOR

DOOR-OPEN INDICATOR

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR

IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM INDICATOR

SECURITY SYSTEM INDICATOR

SEAT BELT REMINDER INDICATOR

(P. 206)

(P. 51, 204)

(P. 51, 205)

(P. 52)

(P. 51)

(P. 52)

(P. 54)

(P. 53)

(P. 55)

(P. 50)

(P. 50)

(P. 52)

(P. 52)

(P. 52)

(P. 50)

(P. 51)

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

This indicator comes on when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II). 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 do not fasten your seat belt, the beeper will stop after a few seconds but the indicator stays on until you do. Both the indicator and the beeper stay off if you fasten your seat belt before turning on the ignition.

This indicator comes on when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II). 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, passengers side airbag automatic cutoff system, or automatic seat belt tensioners. For more information, see page .

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

26

27

Instrument Panel Indicators

Seat Belt Reminder

Supplemental Restraint System Indicator

Side Airbag Cutoff Indicator

Instruments and Controls50

This indicator has two functions:

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

If it remains lit after you fully release 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 .

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

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

See page .

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

1.

2.

205

204

206

208

147

Only on models equipped with ABS (see page )146

Parking Brake and Brake System Indicator

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Indicator

Charging System Indicator

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Instrument Panel Indicators

Instruments and Controls 51

U.S. CanadaU.S. Canada

Only on models equipped with Cruise Control System This indicator comes on when you set the cruise control. See page

for information on operating the cruise control.

This indicator comes on with the high beam headlights. See page

for information on the headlight controls.

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

When you push the Hazard Warning button, both turn signal lights blink. All turn signals on the outside of the vehicle should flash.

This indicator comes on if either door is not closed tightly.

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

60

176

115

Instrument Panel Indicators

Cruise Control Indicator High Beam IndicatorTurn Signal Indicator and Hazard Warning Button

Door-open Indicator

Low Fuel Indicator

Instruments and Controls52

This indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II). 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 will not start (see page ).

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

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

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

64

167

Canadian models only Canadian models only

Immobilizer System Indicator

Daytime Running Lights Indicator

Washer Level Indicator

Instrument Panel Indicators

Instruments and Controls 53

This indicator reminds you that it is time to take your vehicle in for scheduled maintenance.

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

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

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

Refer to the Maintenance Schedules for Normal and Severe Driving Conditions on pages and .159 160

Instrument Panel Indicators

Maintenance Required Indicator

Instruments and Controls54

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR

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

Turn off the engine.

Press and hold the select/reset button in the instrument panel, then turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

Hold the button for about 10 seconds until the indicator goes off.

This indicator comes on when the security system is set. See page

for more information on the security system.

1.

2.

3.

114

Instrument Panel Indicators

Security System Indicator

Instruments and Controls 55

SELECT/RESET BUTTON

SECURITY SYSTEM INDICATOR

The odometer shows the total dis- tance 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.

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

There are two trip meters: Trip A and Trip B. The odometer and the two trip meters use the same display. Switch between these displays and the odometer by pressing the Select/ Reset button repeatedly. Each trip meter works independently, so you can keep track of two different distances.

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

Gauges

Odometer Trip Meter

Instruments and Controls56

TEMPERATURE GAUGE TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE

SELECT/RESET BUTTONODOMETER/TRIP METER

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.

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

202

Fuel Gauge Temperature Gauge

Gauges

Instruments and Controls 57

Avoid driving with an extremely low f uel level. Running out of f uel could cause the engine to misf ire, damaging the catalytic converter.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instruments and Controls58

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS

HORN

TILT ADJUSTMENTHEADLIGHTS/ TURN SIGNALS

MOONROOF

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

CRUISE CONTROL

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS

HAZARD WARNING BUTTON

The wipers are not activated.

The wipers run at low speed.

The wipers run at high speed. Rotate clockwise to turn the rear window wiper on.

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

OFF

Rotate counterclockwise to turn the window wiper on and the window washer to spray.

The length of the wiper interval is varied automatically according to the vehicles speed.

Vary the delay by turning the INT TIME ring. If you turn it to the shortest delay, the wipers will change to low speed operation when the vehicle speed exceeds 12 mph (20 km/h).

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

MIST OFF INT Intermittent LO Low HI High Windshield Washers

The wipers run at high speed until you release the lever.

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.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

1.

2.

3.

4.

OFF

LO

HI

Rear Window Wiper and Washer

INT

MIST

Windshield Wiper

Windshield Washer

Instruments and Controls

Wipers and Washers

59

Turn Signal Off Parking and interior lights Headlight on High beams Flash high beams

Rotating the switch on the left lever 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. If you leave the lights on with the key removed from the ignition switch, you will hear a reminder beeper when you open the drivers door.

To turn on the high beams, push the left lever forward until it clicks. The blue high beam indicator will come on (see page ). 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.

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

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

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 in the proper direction and hold it. The

lever will return to center when you release it or complete a turn.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

52

Turn Signal and Headlights

Headlights On

High Beams

Daytime Running Lights (Canadian Models)

Turn Signal

Turn Signal and Headlights

Instruments and Controls60

The knob on the instrument panel controls the brightness of the instrument panel. Turn the knob to adjust the brightness.

Push the red button to turn on the hazard warning lights (four-way flashers). This causes all four outside turn signals and both 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.

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. If you do not turn it off, the defogger will shut itself off after about 25 minutes. It also shuts off when you turn off the ignition. You have to turn it on again when you restart the vehicle.

CONTINUED

Instrument Panel Brightness, Hazard Warning Button, Rear Window Defogger

Rear Window DefoggerInstrument Panel Brightness Hazard Warning Button

Instruments and Controls 61

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.

Make any steering wheel adjustment before you start driving.

To adjust the steering wheel upward or downward:

Push the lever under the steering column all the way down.

1.

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

15

Rear Window Defogger, Steering Wheel Adjustment

Steering Wheel Adjustment

Instruments and Controls62

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.

Move the steering wheel so it points to your chest, not toward your face. Make sure you can see the instrument panel gauges and indicators.

Push the lever up to lock the steering wheel in that position.

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

The master key fits all the locks on your vehicle.

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

You should have received a key number tag with your keys. You will need this key number if you ever have to get a key replaced. Use only an Acura-approved key blank.

2.

3.

4.

CONTINUED

Steering Wheel Adjustment, Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks

63

MASTER KEY (BLACK)

VALET KEY (GREY)

KEY NUMBER TAG

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.

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

The Immobilizer System protects your vehicle from theft. If an improperly-coded key (or other device) is used, the engines fuel system is disabled.

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

The system may not recognize your keys 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 Acura dealer.

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

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

Keys and Locks, Immobilizer System

Immobilizer System

Instruments and Controls64

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 users 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.

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

You can insert or remove the key only in this position. To turn the key, the shift lever must be in Park, and you must push the key in slightly.

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

CONTINUED

LOCK (0)Ignition Switch

Instruments and Controls

Immobilizer System, Ignition Switch

65

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

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

The shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch.

You can operate the audio system and the accessory power sockets in this position.

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 ACCESSORY (I) to ON (II).

START (III)ACCESSORY (I)

ON (II)

Ignition Switch

Instruments and Controls66

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

Remove the key from the ignition switch only when parked.

Each door has a lock tab at the top of the door. When you push down the lock tab on the drivers door, both doors and the hatch lock. The lock tabs on both doors lock and unlock only that door. Pulling up on the drivers door lock tab only unlocks the drivers door.

To lock both doors and the hatch, press the master door lock switch on either door, press the lock tab down on the drivers door, or use the key on the outside lock.

Pulling up on either master door lock switch will unlock both doors and the hatch.

To unlock the drivers door from the outside, turn the key and release it. If you turn and hold it, both doors and the hatch unlock. Both doors and the hatch unlock when you use the key in the passengers door.

Door Locks

Door Locks Power Door/Hatch Locks

Instruments and Controls 67

LOCK TAB MASTER DOOR AND HATCH LOCK SWITCH

To open the hatch, pull the handle, then lift up the hatch. To close the hatch, press down on the back edge.

The hatch will not lock or unlock when the battery is disconnected.

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

on page .45

129

Door Locks

Instruments and Controls

Hatch

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

68

Pull

Press this button once to unlock the drivers door. Push it twice to unlock the passengers door and the hatch. If you do not open either door or the hatch within 30 seconds, they will automatically relock.

Press this button for about one second 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 ON (II).

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 Acura dealer.

Press this button to lock both doors and the hatch. You cannot lock the doors or the hatch if either are not fully closed or if the key is in the ignition switch.

CONTINUED

Remote Transmitter

UNLOCK

PANIC

LOCK

Remote Transmitter Care

Instruments and Controls 69

LED

UNLOCK BUTTON

LOCK BUTTON

PANIC BUTTON

If it takes several pushes on the button to lock or unlock the doors and the hatch, replace the battery as soon as possible. Battery type: CR2025

To replace the battery, place a cloth on the edge of the transmitter and remove the upper half by carefully prying on the edge with a small flat- tip screwdriver.

Insert a new battery with the side facing up.

Snap the two halves of the transmitter case back together.

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 users 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.

Remote Transmitter

Instruments and Controls

Replacing the Transmitter Battery

70

The glove box light comes on only when the instrument panel indicators are on.

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

U.S.: Canada:

All models Premium and Type-S models only

Glove Box

Instruments and Controls 71

An open glove box can cause serious injury to your passenger in a crash, even if the passenger is wearing the seat belt.

Always keep the glove box closed while driving.

See pages for important safety information and warnings about how to properly position seats and seat-backs.

11 13

Make all seat adjustments before you start driving.

To adjust the seat forward and backward, pull up on the bar under the seat cushions front edge. Then try to move the seat to make sure it is locked in position.

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

Seats

Instruments and Controls

Front Seat Adjustments

72

The height of your drivers seat is adjustable. Turn the dial on the outside of the seat cushion to change the height of the seat bottom.

To change the lumbar support, move the lever on the right side of the seat-back forward or backward. Keep moving the lever forward or backward until you find a suitable position.

To get into the back seat on the drivers side, pull up on the seat-back adjustment lever.

CONTINUED

U.S.: Canada:

All models U.S.: Canada:

All models Premium and Type-S models only

Premium and Type-S models only

Seats

Drivers Seat Height Adjustment Drivers Lumbar Support Rear Seat Access

Instruments and Controls 73

To get into the rear seat on the passengers side, push down on the release lever at the base of the seat- back. The seat-back will tilt forward, and the seat will slide forward to allow easier access to the rear seat.

The back of the rear seat folds down to give you more cargo space. Each side folds down separately. With only half the seat folded, you can still carry a passenger in the back seat.

To unlatch either side of the seat- back, pull up on the release tab. Move the seat belt out of the way and fold the seat-back down.

To lock the seat-back upright, push the seat-back firmly against its latch. Tug on the seat-back to make sure it is latched.

Do not put any heavy items on the seat-back when it is folded.

Make sure all items in the cargo area are secured. Loose items can fly forward and cause injury if you have to brake hard. See on page .129

Carrying Cargo

Folding Rear Seat

Instruments and Controls

Seats

74

RELEASE TAB

RELEASE LEVER

Both front seats are equipped with seat heaters. The ignition switch must be in the ON (II) position to use them. Push the heater switch to turn the power on or off. The indicators will come on and remain on while the heaters are on.

Do not use the seat heaters when the engine is off or when idling for a long period of time. They can drain the battery, making your vehicle hard to start.

On Canada Premium models

Seat Heaters

Instruments and Controls 75

SEAT HEATER SWITCHES

The cargo area cover may be re- moved to give you more cargo room.

Open the hatch.

Push up on the sides of the cargo area cover to release the cover from the hooks.

Pull down on the cover to remove the mounting pins from the holes in the hatch lining.

1.

2. 3.

Cargo Area Cover

Instruments and Controls76

MOUNTING PINHOOK

Reverse this procedure to install the cargo area cover.

There is a reference line on the cargo area side panel. To avoid damaging the cargo cover, remove it if the cargo goes above that line.

Do not place items on the cargo area cover, or stack objects higher than the top of the back seat. They could block your view and be thrown about the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop.

Cargo Area Cover

Instruments and Controls 77

REFERENCE

To open/close the drivers window, push the window switch firmly down or up to the second detent, and release it. The window will automatically go up or down all the way. To stop the window, pull/ push on the window switch briefly.

If the MAIN switch is OFF, the passenger window cannot be raised or lowered. Keep the MAIN switch off when you have children in the vehicle so they do not injure themselves by operating the window unintentionally.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) to raise or lower either window. To open the window, push the switch down and hold it. Release the switch when you want the window to stop. Pull back on the switch and hold it to close the window.

Power Windows

AUTO

Instruments and Controls78

MAIN SWITCH

DRIVERS WINDOW SWITCH

Closing a power window on someones hands or fingers can cause serious injury.

Make sure your passengers are away from the windows before closing them.

If the drivers window runs into any obstacle while it is closing automatically, it will reverse direction and then stop. To close the window, remove the obstacle, then use the window switch again.

Auto reverse stops sensing when the window is almost closed. You should always check that all passengers and objects are away from the window before closing it.

If your vehicles battery is disconnected or goes dead, or the drivers window fuse is removed, the AUTO function will be disabled. The power window system needs to be reset after reconnecting the battery or installing the fuse.

Start the engine. Push down and hold the drivers window switch until the window is fully open.

Pull and hold the drivers window switch to close the window completely, then hold the switch for a second or two more.

1.

2.

Power Windows

Instruments and Controls

AUTO REVERSE

79

Use the switch on the dashboard to open and close the moonroof. The ignition switch must be in the ON (II) position. Push and hold the

switch to open the moonroof. Release the switch when the moonroof reaches the desired position. To close the moonroof, press and hold the switch.

Keep the inside and outside mirrors clean and adjusted for best visibility. Be sure to adjust the mirrors before you start driving.

The inside mirror has day and night positions. The night position reduces glare from headlights behind you. Flip the tab on the bottom edge of the mirror to select the day or night position.

U.S.: All models Canada: Premium and Type-S models

only

Moonroof Mirrors

Moonroof, Mirrors

Instruments and Controls80

TAB

Closing the moonroof on someones hands or fingers can cause serious injury.

Make sure passengers are clear of the moonroof before closing it.

If you try to open the moonroof in below-f reezing temperatures, or when it is covered with snow or ice, you can damage the moonroof panel or motor.

Move the selector switch to L (drivers side) or R (passengers side).

Push the appropriate edge of the adjustment switch to move the mirror right, left, up, or down.

When you finish, move the selector switch to the center (off) position. This turns off the adjustment switch so you cant move a mirror out of position by accidentally bumping the switch.

The outside mirrors are heated to remove fog and frost. With the ignition switch in the ON (II) position, turn on the heaters by pressing the button. The indicator in the button comes on as a reminder. Press the button again to turn the heaters off.

1. 2.

3.

Mirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors Power Mirror Heaters

Instruments and Controls 81

HEATED MIRROR BUTTON

SELECTOR SWITCH ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up fully. To release it, pull up slightly, push the button, and lower the lever. The parking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parking brake is fully released (see page ).51

Parking Brake

Instruments and Controls82

NOTICE:PARKING BRAKE LEVER Driving the vehicle with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles.

Turn on the spotlight by pushing the button next to each light. Push the button again to turn it off. You can use the spotlights at all times.

The cargo area light comes on when you open the hatch.

The ceiling light has a three-position switch. In the OFF position, the light does not come on. In the center position, the ceiling light comes on when you open either door. After the doors are closed tightly, the light dims slightly, then fades out in about 30 seconds. In the ON position, the ceiling light stays on continuously.

U.S.: All models Canada: Premium and Type-S models

only

Interior Lights

Instruments and Controls

Ceiling Light Spotlights Cargo Area Light

83

DOOR ACTIVATED

Instruments and Controls

Interior Convenience Items

84

COAT HOOK

ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET CONSOLE COMPARTMENT BEVERAGE HOLDER

ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET

GLOVE BOX

BEVERAGE HOLDERS

Be careful when you are using the beverage holders. A spilled liquid that is very hot can scald you or your passengers. Spilled liquids can also damage the upholstery, carpeting, and electrical components in the interior.

There are two accessory power sockets, one is located in the front of the center console. The other is located at the rear of the console. To use either power socket, pull up the cover.

These sockets are intended to supply power for 12 volt DC accessories that are rated 120 watts or less (10 amps).

To power an accessory, the ignition switch must be in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position.

These sockets will not power an automotive type cigarette lighter element.

To open the beverage holder, push the left knob and slide the cover forward.

U.S.: Standard on all models Canada: Rear power socket optional

Interior Convenience Items

Beverage Holders Accessory Power Sockets

Instruments and Controls 85

Push

To open the console compartment, push the right knob and slide the cover forward.

Interior Convenience Items

Console Compartment

Instruments and Controls86

Push

...............Vents, Heating, and A/C . 88 ............................Playing the Radio . 92

..............................Radio Reception . 96 .................................Playing a Tape . 98

..................................Playing a CD . 101 ..........Playing a CD, CD Changer . 102

.......................................CD Player . 102 ...................................CD Changer . 103

....................Protecting Your CDs . 108 .........CD Player Error Messages . 109

.....CD Changer Error Messages . 110 .................Radio Theft Protection . 112

..........................Setting the Clock . 113 ............................Security System . 114

...............................Cruise Control . 115

Comfort and Convenience Features

Comfort and Convenience Features 87

Comfort and Convenience Features

Vents, Heating, and A/C

88

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

MODE CONTROL DIAL

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON

RECIRCULATION BUTTON AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

To use the heating and cooling system in automatic mode, set the system as follows.

Set the fan control dial to AUTO.

Set the mode control dial to AUTO.

Turn the temperature control dial to the desired temperature.

Select Fresh Air mode by pressing the Recirculation button. The indicator in the switch should be off.

Turn on the A/C by pressing the button.

To heat or cool the interior faster, select Recirculation mode and set the temperature control dial to the upper or lower limit.

The system runs on full cooling or heating only. It does not regulate the interior temperature. When the temperature is set between the lower and upper limits, the system regulates the interior temperature to the set value.

Turning the fan control dial to OFF shuts the heating and cooling system completely off. Keep the system completely off only for short periods. To keep stale air and mustiness from collecting, you should have the fan running at all times.

You can manually set the system controls for ventilation, air conditioning, heating, air flow direction, and fan speed in various combinations.

Pressing the A/C button turns the air conditioning ON and OFF. The indicator in the button comes on when the A/C is ON.

When you turn the A/C off, the system cannot regulate the inside temperature if you set the dial below the outside air temperature. With A/C on, use the temperature control dial to adjust the temperature of the air flow to a comfortable setting.

Air conditioning also removes mois- ture from the air as it operates. You can use it to defog the windows quickly in cool or damp weather. Used in combination with the heater, it also makes the interior warm and dry.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

CONTINUED

Vents, Heating, and A/C

Automatic Operation

Manual Operation

Air Conditioning Button

Comfort and Convenience Features 89

Air conditioning places an extra load on the engine. Watch the engine coolant temperature gauge (see page

) when using the A/C in heavy traffic or driving up long hills. If it moves near the red zone, turn off the air conditioning until the gauge reads normally.

This button controls the source of air going into the system. When the indicator in this button is on, the system is recirculating the interior air (Recirculation mode). When the indicator is off, fresh air is brought in from outside the vehicle (Fresh Air mode). Push the button to change between recirculated and fresh air.

Use Recirculation mode to heat or cool the interior more quickly, or to keep out smoke and dust. Leaving the system in the Recirculation mode with the A/C off can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to Fresh Air mode as soon as the interior reaches a comfortable temperature or the outside smoky, dusty condi- tion clears.

You can manually select the fan speed by turning the fan speed control dial. Turning this dial clockwise increases the fan speed, which increases air flow. When the dial is set to AUTO, the system controls the fan speed automatically.

Use this dial to select the direction of airflow coming out of the system. Some air will come out of the side vents in all modes.

In AUTO mode, the system controls the air flow direction automatically between the dashboard vents and the floor vents.

The main air flow comes out of the dashboard vents.

The main air flow is directed to the floor vents.

The main air flow is divided between the floor vents and defroster vents at the base of the windshield.

57

Vents, Heating, and A/C

Comfort and Convenience Features

Recirculation Button

Fan Speed

Mode Control Dial

90

When you select or , the A/C turns on automatically to help dehumidify the air and defog the windshield. When you select another mode, the A/C stays on. If you do not want to use the A/C in that mode, press the button to turn it off.

The main air flow is directed to the windshield for faster defrost- ing or defogging. To defrost or defog more quickly, turn the temperature control dial to maximum. Select

, and set the fan speed to high.

The heating and cooling system has temperature sensors next to the steering column and in the top of the dashboard. Do not cover the sensors or spill any liquid on them.

If there is actual frost on the win- dows, first select the Recirculation mode. If the windows are fogged, select the Fresh Air mode. Warmed air will then flow from the wind- shield and side defroster vents.

Vents, Heating, and A/C

Comfort and Convenience Features

Temperature Sensors

91

Playing the Radio

Comfort and Convenience Features

Type-S

All models except Type-S

92

AM/FM BUTTON

PWR/VOL KNOB SEEK/SKIP BAR PRESET BUTTONS TUNE/MODE KNOB

STEREO INDICATOR

SCAN INDICATOR

SCAN BUTTON

AUTO SELECT BUTTON

TUNE/MODE KNOB

PRESET BUTTONS

SCAN INDICATOR

STEREO INDICATOR

SCAN BUTTON

AUTO SELECT BUTTON

FM BUTTON

PWR/VOL KNOB

SEEK BUTTONS

AM BUTTON

The ignition switch must be in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position. Turn the system on by pressing the PWR/VOL knob, or the AM or FM button. Adjust the volume by turning the knob.

The band and frequency that the radio was last tuned to is displayed. To change bands, press the AM or FM button. On the FM band, ST will be displayed if the station is broad- casting in stereo. Stereo reproduction on AM is not available.

You can use any of five methods to find radio stations on the selected band: the preset buttons, and .

Use the TUNE knob to tune the radio to a desired frequency. Turn the knob right to tune to a higher frequency, or left to tune to a lower frequency.

The SEEK function searches up and down from the current frequency to find a station with a strong signal. To activate it, press the or side of the bar or ( )/( ) buttons, then release it.

The SCAN function samples all the stations with strong signals on the selected band. To activate it, press the SCAN button, then release it. You will see SCAN in the display. The system will scan for a station with a strong signal. When it finds one, it will stop and play that station for about 5 seconds. If you do nothing, the system will then scan for the next strong station and play it for 5 seconds. When it plays a station that you want to listen to, press the SCAN button again.

CONTINUED

Playing the Radio

Comfort and Convenience Features

To Play the Radio

To Select a Station

TUNE, SEEK, SCAN, AUTO SELECT

TUNE

SEEK

SCAN

93

Each preset button can store one frequency on AM, and two frequencies on FM.

Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store two frequencies with each preset button. Use the TUNE, SEEK, or SCAN function to tune the radio to a desired station. Pick a preset button, and hold it until you hear a beep. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total of six stations on AM and twelve stations on FM.

The preset frequencies will be lost if your vehicles battery goes dead, is disconnected, or the radio fuse is removed.

If you are traveling far from home and can no longer receive the stations you preset, you can use the Auto Select feature to find stations in the local area.

Press the A. SEL button. A.SEL will flash in the display, and the system will go into scan mode for several seconds. It stores the frequencies of six AM stations and twelve FM stations in the preset buttons.

You will see a 0 displayed after pressing a preset button if Auto Select cannot find a strong station for every preset button.

If you do not like the stations Auto Select has stored, you can store other frequencies on the preset buttons. Use the TUNE, SEEK, or SCAN function to find stations, then store them in the preset buttons as described previously.

press the A. SEL button. This restores the presets you originally set.

1.

2.

3.

4.

To turn off Auto Select,

Playing the Radio

Preset AUTO SELECT

Comfort and Convenience Features94

Press the MODE (TUNE) knob repeatedly to display the Bass (BAS), Treble (TRE), Balance (BAL), and Fader (FAD) setting.

Each mode is shown in the display as it changes. Turn the MODE (TUNE) knob to adjust the setting to your liking. When the level reaches the center, you will see C in the display. The system will automatically return the display to the selected audio mode about 5 seconds after you stop adjusting a mode.

Use the TRE/BAS modes to adjust the tone to your liking.

These two modes adjusts the strength of the sound coming from each speaker. BAL adjusts the side-to-side strength, while FAD adjusts the front-to-back strength.

You can use the instrument panel brightness control knob to adjust the illumination of the audio system (see page ). The audio system illuminates when the parking lights are on, even if the radio is off.

61

Playing the Radio

Comfort and Convenience Features

Adjusting the Sound

Treble/Bass

Balance/Fader

Audio System Lighting

95

Your Acuras radio can receive the complete AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequen- cies:

AM band: 530 to 1,710 kilohertz FM band: 87.7 to 107.9 megahertz

Radio stations on the AM band are assigned frequencies at least ten kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550). Stations on the FM band are assigned frequencies at least 0.2 megahertz apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3).

Stations must use these exact frequencies. It is fairly common for stations to round-off the frequency in their advertising, so your radio could display a frequency of 100.9 even though the announcer may identify the station as FM101.

How well your Acuras radio receives stations is dependent on many factors, such as the distance from the stations transmitter, nearby large objects, and atmospheric conditions.

A radio stations signal gets weaker as you get farther away from its transmitter. If you are listening to an AM station, you will notice the sound volume becoming weaker, and the station drifting in and out. If you are listening to an FM station, you will see the stereo indicator flickering off and on as the signal weakens. Eventually, the stereo indicator will go off and the sound will fade completely as you get out of range of the stations signal.

Driving very near the transmitter of a station that is broadcasting on a frequency close to the frequency of the station you are listening to can also affect your radios reception. You may temporarily hear both stations, or hear only the station you are close to.

Radio Reception

Radio Frequencies Radio Reception

Comfort and Convenience Features96

Radio signals, especially on the FM band, are deflected by large objects such as buildings and hills. Your radio then receives both the direct signal from the stations transmitter, and the deflected signal. This causes the sound to distort or flutter. This is a main cause of poor radio reception in city driving.

Radio reception can be affected by atmospheric conditions such as thunderstorms, high humidity, and even sunspots. You may be able to receive a distant radio station one day and not receive it the next day because of a change in conditions.

Electrical interference from passing vehicles and stationary sources can cause temporary reception problems.

As required by the FCC: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the users authority to operate the equipment.

Radio Reception

Comfort and Convenience Features 97

Playing a Tape

Comfort and Convenience Features

All models except Type-S

Type-S

98

PWR/VOL KNOB

CASSETTE SLOT

FF BUTTON FM BUTTON

PWR/VOL KNOB

PLAY/PROG BUTTON

REW BUTTON

SKIP BAR

AM BUTTON

RPT BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

REPEAT INDICATOR

DOLBY INDICATOR

PLAY BUTTON

PROG BUTTON REW BUTTON

CD BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON TAPE BUTTON

TAPE EJECT BUTTON

FF BUTTON

SKIP BUTTONS

CD/TAPE BUTTON

AM/FM BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

REPEAT BUTTON

DOLBY INDICATOR

DOLBY BUTTON

The ignition switch must be in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position. Make sure the open side of the tape is facing right, then insert the tape most of the way into the slot. The system will pull the tape in the rest of the way, and begin to play it.

The tape direction indicator will come on to show you which side of the tape is playing. The indicates the side you inserted upward in now playing. If you want to play the other side, press the PLAY/PROG button. When the player reaches the end of the tape, it will automatically reverse direction and play the other side.

Dolby noise reduction turns on when you insert a tape. The

indicator will come on in the display. If the tape was not recorded in Dolby, turn it off by pressing the NR ( ) button. Dolby remains off until you press the NR ( ) button again.

To remove the tape, press the EJECT button. If you want to turn the player off, press the PWR/VOL knob or turn off the ignition. The tape will remain in the drive. When you turn the system back on, the tape will begin playing where it left off.

To switch to the radio or CD player while a tape is playing, press the AM/FM or CD/TAPE button. To change back to the tape player, press the CD/TAPE button.

To switch to the radio or CD changer while listening to a tape, press the AM, FM, or CD button. To change back to the tape player, press the TAPE button.

To rewind the tape, push the REW button. You will see REW in the display. To fast forward the tape, push the FF button. You will see FF displayed. Press the FF, REW, PLAY, or PLAY/PROG button to take the system out of rewind or fast forward.

Dolby noise reduction manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpo- ration. DOLBY and the double-D symbol

are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

CONTINUED

Optional on all models except Type-S

Type-S

Playing a Tape

Comfort and Convenience Features

To Play a Tape

To Stop Playing a Tape

Tape Search Functions FF/REW

99

Press the / ( ) buttons to find the beginning of the current song or passage. Press the

/ ( ) buttons to find the beginning of the next song or passage. When the system reaches the beginning of a song or passage, it begins to play it.

Press the RPT button to continuously play a song or passage. You will see RPT displayed. The track will repeat until you press the RPT button again.

The SKIP and REPEAT functions use silent periods on the tape to find the end of a song or passage. These features may not work if there is almost no gap between selections, a high noise level, or a silent period in the middle of a selection.

The tape player picks up dirt and oxides from the tape. This contamination build up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the player after every 30 hours of use.

If you do not clean the tape player regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the contamination with a normal cleaning kit. Your Acura dealer has a cleaning kit available.

Use 100-minute or shorter tapes. Tapes longer than that may break or jam the drive.

If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning the hub with a pencil or your finger. If the label is peeling off, remove it or it could cause the tape to jam in the player. Never try to insert a warped or damaged tape in the player.

Store tapes in their cases to protect them from dust and moisture. Never place tapes where they will be exposed to direct sunlight, high heat, or high humidity. If a tape is exposed to extreme heat or cold, let it reach a moderate temperature before inserting it into the player.

If you see the error indication on the display, press the EJECT button to remove the tape from the unit. Make sure the tape is not damaged. If the tape will not eject or the error indication stays on after the tape ejects, take the vehicle to your Acura dealer.

Never try to insert foreign objects into the tape player.

Type-S only

SKIP

REPEAT

Caring for the Tape and Player

Comfort and Convenience Features

Playing a Tape

100

NOTE:

Comfort and Convenience Features

Playing a CD

All models except Type-S

Type-S

101

CD/TAPE BUTTON

AM/FM BUTTON CD SLOT

REPEAT INDICATOR

EJECT BUTTON

RANDOM INDICATOR

SEEK/SKIP BAR

PWR/VOL KNOB

LOAD BUTTON

CD SLOT

CD EJECT BUTTON

SKIP BUTTONS

REPEAT BUTTON

PWR/VOL KNOB

REPEAT INDICATORRANDOM INDICATOR

CD BUTTONFM BUTTON

AM BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

RANDOM BUTTON

RANDOM BUTTON

With the ignition in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position, insert a CD into the CD slot. The drive will pull the CD in the rest of the way and begin to play it. You operate the CD player with the same controls used for the radio. The number of the track playing is shown in the display. The system will continuously play a CD until you change modes.

Each time you press and release / ( ) , the player skips

forward to the beginning of the next track. Press and release / ( ) to skip backward to the beginning of the previous track. To move rapidly within a track, press and hold the

/ ( ) or / ( ) . You will see CUE or REW in the display.

To continuously replay a track, press and release the RPT button. You will see RPT in the display. Press the RPT button again to turn it off.

Pressing either of the SKIP buttons also turns off the repeat feature.

This feature plays the tracks in random order. To activate Random Play, press and release the RDM button. You will see RDM in the display. This continues until you press the RDM button again.

Press the eject button ( ) to remove the CD. If you eject the CD, but do not remove it from the slot, the system will automatically reload the CD after 15 seconds and put it in pause mode. To begin playing, press the CD button. Press the AM/FM button to switch to the radio while a CD is playing. Press the CD button to play the CD.

If you turn the system off while a CD is playing, either with the PWR/VOL knob or by turning off the ignition, the CD will stay in the drive. When you turn the system back on, the CD will begin playing where it left off.

Type-S only

Playing a CD, CD Changer

Comfort and Convenience Features

CD Player

To Change Tracks (SKIP)

REPEAT

RANDOM

To Stop Playing a CD

102

To load multiple CDs in one operation:

Press and hold the Load button until you see LOAd in the display, then release the button.

On the upper left side of the display, the CD number for an empty position will begin blinking and the green CD Loaded indicator will come on.

Insert the CD into the CD slot. Insert it only about halfway; the drive will pull it in the rest of the way. You will see BUSY in the display. The CD Loaded indicator turns red and blinks as the CD is loaded.

When LOAd appears again in the display, insert the next CD into the CD slot.

Repeat this until all six positions are loaded. The system will then begin playing the last CD loaded.

If you are not loading CDs into all six positions, press the Load button again after the last CD has loaded. The system will begin playing the last CD loaded.

If you stop loading CDs before all six positions are filled, and you do not press the Load button, the system will wait for 10 seconds, then stop the load operation and begin playing the last CD loaded.

To load CDs or operate the CD changer, the ignition switch must be in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position.

Your Acuras audio system has an in- dash CD changer that holds up to six CDs, providing several hours of continuous entertainment. You operate this CD changer with the same controls used for the radio and tape player.

Load and play only standard round CDs. Odd-shaped CDs may jam in the drive or cause other problems. You cannot load and play 3-inch (8 cm) CDs in this system.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

CONTINUED

Type-S

Playing a CD, CD Changer

Comfort and Convenience Features

Operating the CD Changer Loading CDs in the Changer

103

To load a single CD:

Press and release the Load button.

When the CD number for an empty position starts to blink and the green CD Loaded indicator comes on, you will see LOAd in the display. Insert the CD into the CD slot. Insert it only about halfway, the drive will pull it in the rest of the way.

The system will load the CD, and begin playing it.

If you press the Load button while a CD is playing, the system will stop playing that CD and start the loading sequence. It will then play the CD just loaded.

You can also load a CD into an empty position while a CD is playing by pressing the appropriate preset button. Select an empty position (the CD Loaded indicator is off), and press the preset button for that position (1 to 6). The system will stop playing the current CD and start the loading sequence. It will then play the CD just loaded.

Select the CD changer by pressing the CD button. You will see Cd in the display. The system will begin playing the last selected CD in the CD changer. You will see the CD and track numbers displayed.

When that CD ends, the next CD in the CD changer is loaded and played. After the last CD finishes, the system returns to CD 1.

To select a different CD, press the appropriate Preset button (1 6). If you select an empty position in the CD changer, the system will go into the loading sequence (see page ).

You can use the SKIP buttons while a CD is playing to select passages and change tracks.

1.

2.

3.

103

Playing a CD, CD Changer

Comfort and Convenience Features

Operation

104

To move rapidly within a track, press and hold the appropriate SKIP button. You will hear a beep and the system will continue to move. Press the button to move forward, or the button to move backward. Release the button when the system reaches the point you want.

Each time you press the button and release it, the system skips forward to the beginning of the next track. Press and release the button to skip backward to the beginning of the current track. Press and release it again to skip to the beginning of the previous track.

To activate the Repeat feature, press and release the RPT button. You will see RPT in the display as a reminder. The system continuously replays the current track. Press the RPT button again to turn it off. Pressing either of the SKIP buttons also turns off the repeat feature.

This feature, when activated, plays the tracks within a CD in random order, rather than in the order they are recorded on the CD. To activate Random Play, press the RDM button. You will see RDM in the display. The system will then select and play tracks randomly. This continues until you deactivate Random Play by pressing the RDM button again, or you select a different CD with a preset button.

To take the system out of CD mode, press the AM or FM button, or insert a tape in the player. If a tape is already in the tape player, press the TAPE button. When you return to CD mode by pressing the CD button, play will continue at the same point that it left off.

If you turn the system off while a CD is playing, either with the PWR/VOL knob or the ignition switch, play will continue at the same point when you turn it back on.

CONTINUED

Playing a CD, CD Changer

REPEAT

RANDOM PLAY

Comfort and Convenience Features 105

To remove the CD that is currently playing, press the eject button. You will see EJEC in the display. When you remove the CD from the slot, the system automatically begins the Load sequence so you can load another CD in that position. If you do not load another CD, after 10 seconds the system begins playing the next CD in the changer. If the changer is empty, the system selects the previous mode (AM, FM, or Tape).

If you do not remove the CD from the slot, the system will reload the CD after 15 seconds and put the CD changer in pause mode. To begin playing the CD, press the CD button.

To remove a different CD from the changer, first select it with the appropriate preset button. When that CD begins playing, press the eject button.

If you press the Eject button while listening to the radio or tape, or with the audio system turned off, the CD that was last selected is ejected. After that CD is ejected, pressing the Eject button again will eject the next CD in the numerical order. By doing this six times, you can remove all the CDs from the changer.

In any mode, if you press the eject button and hold it until you hear a beep, the system will eject all of the CDs in the changer.

You can also eject CDs when the ignition switch is off. The CD that was last selected is ejected first. You can eject up to six CDs, one at a time.

Playing a CD, CD Changer

Removing CDs from the Changer

Comfort and Convenience Features106

To select the CD changer, press the CD button. The CD and track numbers will be displayed. To select a different CD, use the preset 5 (DISC ) or preset 6 (DISC ) button. If you select an empty slot in the magazine, the changer will, after finding that slot empty, try to load the CD in the next slot.

Load the desired CDs in the magazine, and load the magazine in the changer according to the instructions that came with the unit.

A CD changer is available for your vehicle. It holds up to six CDs. You operate the CD changer with the same controls used for the in-dash CD player.

Optional on all models except Type-S

Playing a CD, CD Changer

Comfort and Convenience Features

Operating the Optional CD Changer

107

When using CD-R discs, use only high quality CDs labeled for audio use.

When recording a CD-R, the recording must be closed for it to be used by the CD player or changer.

CD-RW discs will not work in this unit.

Play only standard round CDs. Odd-shaped CDs may jam in the drive or cause other problems.

When a CD is not being played, store it in its case to protect it from dust and other contamination. To prevent warpage, keep CDs out of direct sunlight and extreme heat.

To clean a CD, use a clean soft cloth. Wipe across the CD from the center to the outside edge.

A new CD may be rough on the inner and outer edges. The small plastic pieces causing this roughness can flake off and fall on the re- cording surface of the CD, causing skipping or other problems. Remove these pieces by rubbing the inner and outer edges with the side of a pencil or pen.

Never try to insert foreign objects in the CD player or the magazine.

Handle a CD by its edges; never touch either surface. Do not place stabilizer rings or labels on the CD. These, along with contamination from fingerprints, liquids, and felt-tip pens, can cause the CD to not play properly, or possibly jam in the drive.

Handle your CDs properly to prevent damage and skipping. See this page.

Protecting Your CDs

Comfort and Convenience Features

General Information Protecting CDs

108

If you see an error message in the display while playing a CD, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error message, take your vehicle to an Acura dealer.

SolutionMessage Cause

Press the EJECT button and pull out the CD. Check if it is inserted correctly in the CD player. Make sure the CD is not scratched or damaged. Press the EJECT button and pull out the CD. Check the CD for damage or deformation. If the CD cannot be pulled out or the error message does not disappear after the CD is ejected, consult your Acura dealer. Will disappear when the temperature returns to normal.

FOCUS error.

Mechanical error.

High temperature.

All models except Type-S

CD Player Error Messages

Comfort and Convenience Features 109

If you see an error message in the display while playing a CD, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error message, take your vehicle to an Acura dealer.

SolutionMessage Cause

Press the magazine eject button and pull it out, check for an error message, and insert the magazine again. If the message does not disappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out, consult your Acura dealer. Insert CD.

Press the magazine eject button and pull it out, check for an error message, and insert the magazine again. If the message does not disappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out, consult your Acura dealer. Will disappear when the temperature returns to normal. Insert CD magazine.

FOCUS error.

No CD in the CD magazine.

Mechanical error.

High temperature.

No CD magazine in the CD changer.

All models except Type-S

CD Changer Error Messages

Comfort and Convenience Features110

SolutionIf you see an error message in the display while playing a CD, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error message, take your vehicle to an Acura dealer.

Message Cause

Consult your Acura dealer.

Will disappear when the temperature returns to normal. Consult your Acura dealer.

Disc changer malfunction. High temperature.

Disc changer malfunction.

Type-S

CD Changer Error Messages

Comfort and Convenience Features 111

Your vehicles audio system will disable itself if it is disconnected from electrical power for any reason. To make it work again, you must enter a specific five-digit code in the preset buttons. Because there are hundreds of number combinations possible from five-digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible.

You should have received a card that lists your audio systems code number and serial number. It is best to store this card in a safe place at home. In addition, you should write the audio systems serial number in this Owners Manual. If you lose the card, you must obtain the code number from your Acura dealer. To do this, you will need the systems serial number.

If your vehicles battery is discon- nected or goes dead, or the radio fuse is removed, the audio system will disable itself. If this happens, you will see in the frequency display the next time you turn on the system. Use the preset buttons to enter the five-digit code. The code is located on the radio code card included in your Owners Manual kit. When it is entered correctly, the radio will start playing.

If you make a mistake entering the code, do not start over; complete the five-digit sequence, then enter the correct code. You have ten tries to enter the correct code. If you are unsuccessful in ten attempts, you must then leave the system on for 1 hour before trying again.

If the code card is lost, an Acura dealer can access your code with your radios serial number. To access the serial number, turn the

radio on. It must display COdE, then turn the radio off. Push the preset 1, preset 6, and power buttons at the same time, then quickly release.

You will have to store your favorite stations in the preset buttons after the system begins working. Your original settings were lost when the power was disconnected.

Only on U.S. model Theft Protection

Radio Theft Protection

Comfort and Convenience Features112

If your vehicles battery is disconnected or goes dead, you will need to set the clock.

Press and hold the CLOCK button. Change the hour by pressing the H button until the numbers advance to the desired time. Change the minute by press the M button until the numbers advance to the desired time.

When you are finished, release the CLOCK button.

You can quickly set the time to the nearest hour. If the displayed time is before the half hour, pressing and holding the CLOCK button, then pressing the R (RESET) button sets the clock back to the previous hour. If the displayed time is after the half

hour, the clock sets forward to the beginning of the next hour.

1:06 will reset to 1:00 1:52 will reset to 2:00

For example :

Setting the Clock

Comfort and Convenience Features

All models except Type-S Type-S

113

CLOCK BUTTON

M BUTTON

RESET BUTTONH BUTTON M BUTTON

H BUTTON

RESET BUTTON

CLOCK BUTTON

The security system helps to protect your vehicle and valuables from theft. The horn sounds and a combination of headlights, parking lights, side marker lights, and taillights flash if someone attempts to break into your vehicle. This alarm continues for 2 minutes, then the alarm stops. To reset an alarming system before the 2 minutes have elapsed, unlock either door with the key or the remote transmitter.

The security system sets automatically, 15 seconds after you lock the doors, hood, and hatch. The security system indicator starts blinking immediately to show you the system is setting itself.

Once the security system is set, opening either door (without using the key or the remote transmitter), or the hood, will cause it to alarm. It also alarms if the radio is removed from the dashboard or the wiring is cut.

The security system will not set if the hood, hatch, or either door is not fully closed. If the system will not set, check the Door-open Indicator on the instrument panel (see page ), to see if the doors and the hatch are fully closed. Since it is not part of the monitor display, manually check the hood.

Do not attempt to alter this system or add other devices to it.

52

Security System

Comfort and Convenience Features114

SECURITY SYSTEM INDICATOR

Cruise control allows you to maintain a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal. It should be used for cruising on straight, open highways. It is not recommended for city driving, winding roads, slippery roads, heavy rain, or bad weather.

Accelerate to the desired cruising speed above 25 mph (40 km/h).

Push in the Cruise Control Master Switch. The indicator in the switch will come on.

1.

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CONTINUED

U.S.: Canada:

All models Premium and Type-S models only

Cruise Control

Using the Cruise Control

Comfort and Convenience Features 115

CRUISE CONTROL MASTER SWITCHImproper use of the cruise control can lead to a crash.

Use the cruise control only when traveling on open highways in good weather.

Press and release the SET/decel button on the steering wheel. The CRUISE CONTROL indicator on the instrument panel comes on to show the system is now activated.

The cruise control may not hold the set speed when you are going up and down hills. If your speed increases going down a hill, use the brakes to slow down. This will cancel the cruise control. To resume the set speed, press the RESUME/accel button. The CRUISE CONTROL indicator on the instrument panel will come back on.

You can increase the set cruising speed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the RESUME/ accel button. When you reach the desired cruising speed, release the button.

Push on the accelerator pedal. Accelerate to the desired cruising speed and press the SET/decel button.

To increase your speed in very small amounts, tap the RESUME/ accel button. Each time you do this, your vehicle will speed up about 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

3.

Cruise Control

Comfort and Convenience Features

Changing the Set Speed

116

RESUME/accel

CANCEL

SET/decel

Press and hold the SET/decel button. Release the button when you reach the desired speed.

To slow down in very small amounts, tap the SET/decel button. Each time you do this, your vehicle will slow down about 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

Tap the brake or clutch pedal lightly with your foot. The CRUISE CONTROL indicator on the instrument panel will go out. When the vehicle slows to the desired speed, press the SET/ decel button.

Even with the cruise control turned on, you can still use the accelerator pedal to speed up for passing. After completing the pass, take your foot off the accelerator pedal. The vehicle will return to the set cruising speed.

Resting your foot on the brake or clutch pedal will cause the cruise control to cancel.

You can cancel the cruise control in any of these ways:

Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

Push the CANCEL button on the steering wheel.

Press the Cruise Control Master Switch.

You can decrease the set cruising speed in any of these ways:

Cruise Control

Cancelling the Cruise Control

Comfort and Convenience Features 117

Pressing the Cruise Control Master Switch turns the system completely off and erases the previous cruising speed.

When you push the CANCEL button, or tap the brake or clutch pedal, the system remembers the previously- set cruising speed. To return to that speed, accelerate to above 25 mph (40 km/h) and then press and release the RESUME/accel button. The CRUISE CONTROL indicator comes on. The vehicle will accelerate to the same cruising speed as before.

Cruise Control

Comfort and Convenience Features

Resuming the Set Speed

118

Before you begin driving your Acura, you should know what gasoline to use, and how to check the levels of important fluids. You also need to know how to properly store luggage or packages. The information in this section will help you. If you plan to add any accessories to your vehicle, please read the information in this section first.

.....................General Precautions . 120 .............................Break-in Period . 121

.................Fuel Recommendation . 121 .........Service Station Procedures . 122

...............................Fuel Economy . 126 ...Accessories and Modifications . 127

.............................Carrying Cargo . 129

Before Driving

Before Driving

119

Your Acura is designed to give you optimum handling and performance on well-maintained roads. As part of this design, your vehicle has a minimum of ground clearance.

Use caution if you should drive your vehicle on very rough or rutted roads. You could damage the suspension and underbody by bottoming out. Going too fast over parking lot speed bumps can also cause damage.

Curbs and steep inclines could damage the front and rear bumpers. Low curbs that do not affect the average vehicle may be high enough to hit the bumper on your Acura. The front or rear bumper may scrape when trying to drive onto an incline, such as a steep driveway or trailer ramps.

Type-S model

General Precautions

Before Driving120

Help assure your vehicles future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you drive during the first 600 miles (1,000 km). During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

Avoid hard braking for the first 200 miles (300 km).

Do not change the oil until the scheduled maintenance time.

Do not tow a trailer.

Your Acura is designed to operate on unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 86 or higher.

Your Acura is designed to operate on premium unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 91 or higher.

You should also follow these re- commendations with an overhauled or exchanged engine, or when the brakes are replaced.

Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause a persistent, heavy, metallic rapping noise in the engine that can lead to mechanical failure.

We recommend gasoline containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits. In addition, in order to maintain good performance, fuel economy, and emissions control, we strongly recommend, in areas where it is available, the use of gasoline that does NOT contain manganese-based fuel additives such as MMT. Use of

gasoline with these additives may adversely affect performance, and cause the Malfunction Indicator Lamp on your instrument panel to come on. If this happens, contact your authorized Acura dealer for service. For further important fuel- related information, please refer to your Quick Start Guide.

Some gasoline today is blended with oxygenates such as ethanol or MTBE. Your vehicle is designed to operate on oxygenated gasoline containing up to 10 percent ethanol by volume and up to 15 percent MTBE by volume. Do not use gasoline containing methanol.

If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another service station or switch to another brand of gasoline.

(All models except Type-S)

(Type-S)

Break-in Period Fuel Recommendation

Before Driving

Break-in Period, Fuel Recommendation

121

Park with the drivers side closest to the gas pump.

Open the fuel fill door by pushing on the handle to the left of the drivers seat.

Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. Put the attachment on the fuel fill cap into the slit on the fuel fill door.

Stop filling the tank after the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off. Do not try to top off the tank. Leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes.

even though the tank is not full, there may be a problem with your vehicles fuel vapor recovery system. The system helps keep fuel vapors from going into the atmosphere. Consult your dealer.

1.

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3.

4.

If the fuel nozzle keeps clicking off

Fueling

Service Station Procedures

Before Driving122

FUEL FILL CAP

Pull

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks, and flames away. Handle fuel only outdoors. Wipe up spills immediately.

Screw the fuel fill cap back on until it clicks at least three times. If you do not properly tighten the cap, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp may come on (see page

).

Push the fuel fill door closed until it latches.

Park the vehicle, and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle located under the lower left corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.

To find the hood latch handle, put your fingers under the front edge of the hood just to left of center. Lift up the hood latch handle until it releases the hood. Lift up the hood.

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CONTINUED

Opening the Hood

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

123

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

LATCH

Pull the support rod out of its clip, and insert the end into the hole on the left side of the hood.

Lift it up slightly to remove the support rod from the hole. Put the support rod back into its holding clip. Lower the hood to about a foot (30 cm) above the fender, then let it drop. Make sure it is securely latched.

If the hood latch handle moves stiffly, or if you can open the hood without lifting the handle, the mechanism should be cleaned and lubricated (see page ).

3.

173

To Close the Hood

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

124

SUPPORT ROD

Wait a few minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

Remove the dipstick (orange handle).

Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Remove the dipstick again and check the level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

If it is near or below the lower mark, see on page .

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see

on page for information on adding the proper coolant.

Insert the dipstick all the way back in its tube.

4.

1.

2.

3.

164

167

CONTINUED

Before Driving

Oil Check Engine Coolant Check

Adding Oil

Adding Engine Coolant

Service Station Procedures

125

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

RESERVE TANK

MAX

MIN

Refer to on page for information

about checking other items on your Acura.

Always drive in the highest gear possible.

Try to maintain a constant speed. Every time you slow down and speed up, your vehicle uses extra fuel. Use the cruise control when appropriate.

Combine several short trips into one.

The air conditioning puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Use the fresh-air ventilation when possible.

an underinflated tire causes more rolling resistance, which uses fuel.

The build-up of snow or mud on your vehicles underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

Drive moderately. Rapid acceleration, abrupt cornering, and hard braking use more fuel.

Always maintain your vehicle according to the maintenance schedule. See

on page .

158

158

For example,

Service Station Procedures, Fuel Economy

Before Driving

Owners Maintenance Checks

Improving Fuel Economy

Owners Maintenance Checks

126

Modifying your vehicle, or installing some non-Acura accessories, can make your vehicle unsafe. Before you make any modifications or add any accessories, be sure to read the following information.

Your dealer has Acura accessories that allow you to personalize your vehicle. These accessories have been designed and approved for your vehicle, and are covered by warranty.

Although aftermarket accessories may fit on your vehicle, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your vehicles handling and stability.

When properly installed, cellular phones, alarms, two-way radios, and low-powered audio systems should not interfere with your vehicles computer controlled systems, such as the SRS and anti-lock brake system.

Before installing any accessory: Make sure the accessory does not obscure any lights, or interfere with proper vehicle operation or performance.

Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits (see page ) or interfere with proper operation.

Have the installer contact your Acura dealer for assistance before installing any electronic accessory.

210

Accessories

Before Driving

Accessories and Modifications

127

Improper accessories or modifications can affect your vehicles handling, stability, and performance, and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owners manual regarding accessories and modifications.

Removing parts from your vehicle, or replacing components with non- Acura (aftermarket) components could seriously affect your vehicles handling, stability, and reliability.

Some examples are: Lowering your vehicle with an aftermarket suspension kit that significantly reduces ground clearance can allow the undercarriage to hit speed bumps or other raised objects, which could cause the airbags to deploy.

Raising your vehicle with an aftermarket suspension kit can affect the handling and stability.

Aftermarket wheels, because they are a universal design, can cause excessive stress on suspension components.

Larger or smaller wheels and tires can interfere with the operation of your vehicles anti-lock brakes and other systems.

Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of your Supplemental Restraint System. Modifications could make the system ineffective.

If you plan to modify your vehicle, consult your Acura dealer.

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

Additional Safety PrecautionsModifying Your Vehicle

Before Driving

Accessories and Modifications

Do not cover or replace front seat- back covers without consulting a Honda dealer.

128

Your vehicle has several convenient storage areas:

Glove box Door and seat-back pockets Cargo area Roof-rack (if installed)

However, carrying too much cargo, or improperly storing it, can affect your vehicles handling, stability, stopping distance, and tires, making it unsafe. Before carrying any type of cargo, be sure to read the following pages.

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving 129

DOOR POCKET

CARGO AREA GLOVE BOXSEAT-BACK POCKET

Overloading or improper loading can affect handling and stability and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and other loading guidelines in this manual.

The maximum load for your vehicle is 700 lbs (325 kg). This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, accessories, and the tongue weight if you are towing a trailer.

Locate the statement, the combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed 700 lbs (325 kg) on your vehicles placard (on the drivers doorjamb).

Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in the vehicle.

Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from 700 lbs (325 kg).

The resulting figure equals the available load capacity.

For example, if there will be four 150 lbs (70 kg) occupants in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 100 lbs (45 kg). 4 150 lbs (70 kg) = 600 lbs (280 kg) 700 lbs (325 kg) 600 lbs (280 kg) = 100 lbs (45 kg)

Determine the combined weight of accessories, luggage, and cargo being loaded in the vehicle. The weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in step 4 [100 lbs (45 kg) in this example].

If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, the load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available

cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.

The total weight must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The load for the front and rear axles also must not exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) (see page ).

4.

6.

5.

1.

2.

3.

150

Load Limit

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving130

Store or secure all items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash.

Be sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll under the seats and interfere with the pedals or seat operation.

Distribute cargo evenly on the floor of the cargo area, placing the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible.

If you fold down the back seat, tie down items that could be thrown about the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop.

Do not place items on the cargo area cover, or stack objects higher than the top of the back seat. They could block your view and be thrown about the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop.

If you carry large items that prevent you from closing the hatch, exhaust gas can enter the passenger area. To avoid the possibility of

, follow the instructions on page .

If you can carry any items on a roof rack, be sure the total weight of the rack and the items does not exceed the maximum allowable weight. Please contact your Acura dealer for further information.

Keep the glove box closed while driving. If it is open, a passenger could injure their knees during a crash or sudden stop.

45

Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment

carbon monoxide poisoning

Carrying Cargo in the Cargo Area or on a Roof Rack

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving 131

132

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the 5-speed and 6-speed manual transmissions and automatic transmission. It also includes important information on parking your vehicle, the braking system, and facts you need if you are planning to tow a trailer.

........................Preparing to Drive . 134 .......................Starting the Engine . 135

5-speed and 6-speed .............Manual Transmissions . 136 ..............Automatic Transmission . 139

...........................................Parking . 145 .............................Braking System . 146

...............Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) . 147 ...........................Towing a Trailer . 149

Driving

Driving 133

You should do the following checks and adjustments every day before you drive your vehicle.

Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice.

Check the seat adjustment (see page ).

Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors (see page ).

Check the steering wheel adjustment (see page ).

Make sure the doors and hatch are securely closed and locked.

Fasten your seat belt. Check that your passengers have fastened their seat belts (see page ).

When you start the engine, check the gauges and indicators in the instrument panel (see page ).

Check that the hood is fully closed.

Visually check the tires. If a tire looks low, use a gauge to check its pressure.

Check that any items you may be carrying are stored properly or fastened down securely.

1.

2.

3.

9.

8.

7.

6.

5.

4.

10. 72

62

14

49

80

Preparing to Drive

Driving134

Apply the parking brake.

In cold weather, turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

Push the clutch pedal down all the way. START (III) does not function unless the clutch pedal is pressed.

Make sure the shift lever is in Park. Press on the brake pedal.

Turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. Do not hold the key in START for more than 15 seconds at a time. If the engine does not start right away, pause for at least 10 seconds before trying again.

If the engine does not start within 15 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 4 with the accelerator pedal pressed halfway down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

If the engine fails to start, press the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting to clear flooding. If the engine still does not start, return to step 5.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Manual Transmission:

Automatic Transmission:

Starting the Engine

Driving 135

NOTICE: The engine is harder to start in cold weather. Also, the thinner air f ound at altitudes above 8,000 f eet (2,400 meters) adds to this problem.

The manual transmission is syn- chronized in all forward gears for smooth operation. It has a lockout so you cannot shift directly from Fifth to Reverse. When shifting up or down, make sure you push the clutch pedal down all the way, shift to the next gear, and let the pedal up gradually. When you are not shifting, do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal. This can cause your clutch to wear out faster.

Come to a full stop before you shift into Reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into Reverse with the vehicle moving. Push down the clutch pedal, and pause for a few seconds before shifting into Reverse, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This stops the gears so they wont grind.

When slowing down, you can get extra braking from the engine by shifting to a lower gear. This extra braking can help you maintain a safe speed and prevent your brakes from overheating while going down a steep hill. Before downshifting, make sure engine speed will not go into the tachometers red zone in the lower gear.

5-speed and 6-speed Manual Transmissions

Driving136

Rapid slowing or speeding-up can cause loss of control on slippery surfaces. If you crash, you can be injured.

Use extra care when driving on slippery surfaces.

Drive in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you the best fuel economy and effective emis- sions control. The following shift points are recommended:

Shift up

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th

Normal acceleration

14 mph (23 km/h) 25 mph (40 km/h) 40 mph (64 km/h) 49 mph (79 km/h)

Shift up

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th 5th to 6th

Normal acceleration

14 mph (23 km/h) 25 mph (40 km/h) 40 mph (64 km/h) 49 mph (79 km/h) 54 mph (87 km/h)

Shift up

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th

Shift up

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th 5th to 6th

7 mph (11 km/h) 23 mph (37 km/h) 33 mph (53 km/h) 45 mph (72 km/h)

7 mph (11 km/h) 23 mph (37 km/h) 33 mph (53 km/h) 45 mph (72 km/h) 50 mph (80 km/h)

If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, the engine speed will enter into the tachometers red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engines computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the RPM below the red zone.

Before downshifting, make sure the engine will not go into the tachometers red zone.

Cruise from acceleration

Cruise from acceleration

5-speed

5-speed

6-speed

6-speed

5-speed and 6-speed Manual Transmissions

Driving

Recommended Shift Points Engine Speed Limiter

137

The 6-speed manual transmission has an electric lockout so you cannot accidentally shift from Fifth to Reverse instead of Sixth. If you cannot shift to Reverse when the vehicle is stopped:

With the clutch pedal pressed, move the shift lever to the First/ Second gear side of the Neutral gate, then shift to Reverse.

If you are still unable to shift to Reverse, apply the parking brake and turn the ignition key to ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0).

Press the clutch pedal, and shift to Reverse.

With the clutch pedal still pressed, start the engine.

If you need to use this procedure to shift to Reverse, your vehicle may be developing a problem. Have the vehicle checked by your Acura dealer.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5-speed and 6-speed Manual Transmissions

Reverse Lockout

Driving138

These indicators on the instrument panel show which position the shift lever is in. The D indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II). If it flashes at any time (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission. Avoid rapid acceleration, and have the transmission checked by an Acura dealer as soon as possible.

To shift from any position, move the shift lever. You cannot shift out of Park when the ignition switch is in LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I) position.

CONTINUED

To shift from: P to R

R to N N to D D to D D to D D to N N to R R to P

Do this: Press the brake pedal, then move the shift lever.

Move the lever. 3

3

Shift Lever Position Indicators Shifting

Driving

Automatic Transmission

139

SHIFT LEVER

This position mechani- cally locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift out of Park, you must press on the brake pedal and have your foot off the accelerator pedal.

If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see on page .

To avoid transmission damage, come to a complete stop before shifting into Park. The shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch.

Press the brake pedal, and move the shift lever from Park to Reverse. To shift from Reverse to Neutral, come to a complete stop, and then shift.

Your vehicle has a reverse lockout so you cannot accidentally shift to Reverse when the vehicle speed exceeds 5 mph (8 km/h).

Use Neutral if you need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to the Park position if you need to leave your vehicle for any reason. Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from Neutral to another gear.

Use this position for your normal driving. The transmission automatically selects a suitable gear for acceleration.

This position is simi- lar to D, except only the first three gears are selected. Use D when towing a trailer in hilly terrain, or to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D can also keep the transmission from cycling third, fourth and fifth gears in stop-and-go driving.

If you cannot shift to Reverse when the vehicle is stopped, press the brake pedal and slowly shift to Neutral, and then to Reverse.

If there is a problem in the reverse lockout system, or your vehicles battery is disconnected or goes dead, you cannot shift to Reverse. (Refer to Shift Lock Release on page ).144

144

3

3

Automatic Transmission

Park (P)

Shift Lock Release

Reverse (R) Neutral (N)

Drive (D)

Drive (D )3

Driving140

With the shift lever in D position, you can select the Sequential SportShift Mode to shift gears; much like a manual transmission, but without a clutch pedal.

To enter the Sequential SportShift Mode, move the shift lever further to the drivers side. To return to D, move the shift lever to the passengers side.

When you move the shift lever from D to the Sequential SportShift mode, the display shows the selected gear.

In Sequential SportShift mode, each time you push forward on the shift lever, the transmission will shift to a higher gear. Pull back on the lever to downshift. The number of the gear selected is displayed on the instrument panel (see page ).

When you accelerate away from a stop, the transmission will be in first gear. The transmission will not automatically upshift. Watch the tachometer and upshift manually before the engine reaches redline.

The transmission remains in the selected gear (5, 4, 3, 2, or 1). There is no automatic downshift when you push the accelerator pedal to the floor.

139

CONTINUED

Automatic Transmission

Driving

Sequential SportShift Mode

141

Up shift

Down shift

The transmission may automatically downshift from the higher gear to the lower gear under the following conditions:

The vehicle speeds drops below 5 4: 33 mph (52 km/h) 4 3: 20 mph (32 km/h)

If you drive uphill between 5 4: 45 33 mph (72 52 km/h) 4 3: 33 20 mph (52 32 km/h)

If you press the brake pedal as you drive downhill.

Downshifting gives you more power when climbing or provides engine braking when going down a steep hill.

The transmission will also shift automatically as the vehicle comes to a complete stop. It will downshift to first gear when the vehicle speed is under 6 mph (10 km/h).

If you try to manually downshift at a speed that would cause the engine to exceed the redline in a lower gear, the transmission will not downshift. The gear indicator will flash the number of the lower gear several times, then return to the higher gear.

If the vehicle speed slows to below the redline of the selected lower gear position while the indicator is flashing, the transmission will downshift and the display will show the selected lower gear.

The table shows the speed ranges for upshifting and downshifting.

To shift from

1 2

2 3

3 4

4 5

Speed range

over 0 mph (0 km/h)

over 6 mph (10 km/h)

over 20 mph (32 km/h)

over 33 mph (52 km/h)

Automatic Transmission

Driving142

To shift from

2 1

3 2

4 3

5 4

Speed range

under 31 mph (50 km/h)

under 63 mph (100 km/h)

under 94 mph (150 km/h)

under 131 mph (210 km/h)

When you are in Sequential Sportshift mode, and the vehicle is stopped, push forward on the shift lever to shift to second gear. You will see 2 in the display. Starting out in second gear will help to reduce wheelspin in deep snow or on a slippery surface.

If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, the engine speed will enter into the tachometers red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engines computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the rpm below the red zone.

Automatic Transmission

Starting in Second Gear Engine Speed Limiter

Driving 143

Do this if pushing on the brake pedal does not shift the transmission out of Park:

Set the Parking brake.

Make sure the ignition switch is in the LOCK (0) position.

Put a cloth on the edge of the Shift Lock Release slot cover next to the shift lever. Using a small flat- tipped screwdriver or a metal fingernail file, carefully pry on the edge of the cover.

Insert the key in the Shift Lock Release slot.

Push down on the key while you move the shift lever out of Park to Neutral.

Remove the key from the shift lock release slot, then install a new cover. Press the brake pedal and restart the engine.

If you need to use the Shift Lock Release, it means your vehicle is developing a problem. Have it checked by your Acura dealer.

5.

4.

3.

2.

1.

6.

Automatic Transmission

Driving

Shift Lock Release

144

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT

Always use the parking brake when you park your vehicle. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly or your vehicle may roll if it is on an incline.

Set the parking brake before you put the transmission in Park. This keeps the vehicle from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission.

Make sure the moonroof and the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

Place any packages, valuables, etc. in the cargo area, or take them with you.

Lock the doors.

Never park over dry leaves, tall grass, or other flammable materials. The hot three way catalytic converter could cause these materials to catch on fire.

If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb.

If the vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb.

Make sure the parking brake is fully released before driving away. Driving with the parking brake partially set can overheat or damage the rear brakes.

Parking Tips

Parking

Driving 145

Your Acura is equipped with disc brakes at all four wheels. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The ABS helps you retain steering control when braking very hard.

Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, builds up heat, and reduces their effectiveness. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you.

Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by taking your foot off the accelerator and downshifting to a lower gear.

Check the brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them gently and frequently until they do. Be extra cautious in your driving.

The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake,

etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels.

If the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive, metallic screeching sound when you apply the brake pedal. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will screech all the time. It is normal for the brakes to occasionally squeal or squeak when you apply them.

Braking System

Braking System

Braking System Design

Brake Wear Indicators

Driving146

Front

The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) helps prevent the brakes from locking up and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly, much faster than a person can do it.

this defeats the purpose of the ABS. Let the ABS work for you by always keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal as you steer away from the hazard. This is sometimes referred to as stomp and steer.

You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and you may hear some noise. This is normal: it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before the ABS activates. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

If the ABS indicator comes on, the anti-lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system, but without anti-lock. You should have the dealer inspect your vehicle as soon as possible.

You should never pump the brake pedal;

U.S.: All models Canada: Premium and Type-S

models only

CONTINUED

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Activating the Anti-lock Brakes ABS Indicator

Driving 147

ABS INDICATOR

U.S. indicator shown

it only helps with steering control during braking.

such as trying to take a corner too fast or making a sudden lane change. Always drive at a safe speed for the road and weather conditions.

Always steer moderately when you are braking hard. Severe or sharp steering wheel movement can still cause your vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road.

on loose or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, than a vehicle without anti- lock. Slow down and allow a greater distance between vehicles under those conditions.

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Important Safety Reminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the vehicle;

ABS will not prevent a skid that results from changing direction abruptly,

ABS cannot prevent a loss of stability.

A vehicle with ABS may require a longer distance to stop

Driving148

To safely tow a trailer, you should observe the load limits, use the proper equipment, and follow the guidelines in this section.

The total weight of the trailer and everything loaded in it must not exceed 1,000 lbs (450 kg). Towing a load that is too heavy can seriously affect your vehicles handling and performance. It can also damage the engine and drivetrain.

The weight that the tongue of a fully-loaded trailer puts on the hitch should be approximately 10 percent of the trailer weight. Too little tongue load can make the trailer unstable and cause it to sway. Too much tongue load reduces front-tire traction and steering control.

CONTINUED

Towing a Trailer

Load Limits

Total Trailer Weight: Tongue Load:

Driving 149

Exceeding any load limit or improperly loading your vehicle and trailer can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Check the loading of your vehicle and trailer carefully before starting to drive.

To achieve a proper tongue load, start by loading 60 percent of the load toward the front of the trailer and 40 percent toward the rear, then re-adjust the load as needed.

The total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all cargo, and the tongue load must not exceed:

The total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all cargo, and the tongue load must not exceed:

on the front axle

on the rear axle

Towing a Trailer

Driving

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR):

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR):

150

3,660 lbs (1,660 kg)

1,950 lbs (885 kg)

1,775 lbs (805 kg)

Exceeding load limits or improperly loading your vehicle and trailer can cause a crash in which you can be seriously injured or killed.

Check the loading of your vehicle and trailer carefully before starting to drive.

The best way to confirm that vehicle and trailer weights are within limits is to have them checked at public scale.

Using a suitable scale or a special tongue load gauge, check the tongue load the first time you set up a towing combination (a fully-loaded vehicle and trailer), then recheck the tongue load whenever the conditions change.

Towing can require a variety of equipment, depending on the size of your trailer, how it will be used, and how much load you are towing.

Discuss your needs with your trailer sales or rental agency, and follow the guidelines in the rest of this section. Also make sure that all equipment is properly installed and that it meets federal, state, province, and local regulations.

Any hitch used on your vehicle must be properly bolted to the underbody.

Always use safety chains. Make sure they are secured to both the trailer and hitch, and that they cross under the tongue so they can catch the trailer if it becomes unhitched. Leave enough slack to allow the trailer to turn corners easily, but do not let chains drag on the ground.

CONTINUED

Towing a Trailer

Checking Loads Towing Equipment and Accessories

Hitches

Safety Chains

Driving 151

Acura recommends that any trailer having a total weight of 1,000 lbs (450 kg) or more be equipped with its own electric or surge-type brakes.

If you choose electric brakes, be sure they are electrically actuated. Do not attempt to tap into your vehicles hydraulic system. No matter how successful it may seem, any attempt to attach trailer brakes to your vehicles hydraulic system will lower braking effectiveness and create a potential hazard. If you use a converter, you can get

the connector and pins that mate with the connector in your vehicle from your Acura dealer.

Your vehicle has a trailer lighting connector located behind the right side panel in the cargo area. Refer to the drawing above for the wiring color code and purpose of each pin.

Since lighting and wiring vary in trailer type and brand, you should also have a qualified mechanic install a suitable connector between the vehicle and the trailer.

Towing a Trailer

Driving

Trailer Brakes Trailer Lights

152

TAILLIGHT (RED/YELLOW)

LEFT TURN SIGNAL (GREEN/RED)

RIGHT TURN SIGNAL (GREEN/YELLOW)

GROUND (BLACK)

BACK UP LIGHT (GREEN)

BRAKE LIGHT (WHITE/BLACK)

Many states and Canadian provinces require special outside mirrors when towing a trailer. Even if they dont, you should install special mirrors if you cannot clearly see behind you, or if the trailer creates a blind spot.

Ask your trailer sales or rental agency if any other items are recommended or required for your towing situation.

The added weight, length, and height of a trailer will affect your vehicles handling and performance, so driving with a trailer requires some special driving skills and techniques.

For your safety and the safety of others, take time to practice driving maneuvers before heading for the open road, and follow the guidelines discussed below.

Drive slower than normal in all driving situations, and obey posted speed limits for vehicles with trailers. If you have an automatic transmission, use D position when towing a trailer on level roads. D is the proper shift lever position to use when towing a trailer in hilly terrain. (See in the next column for additional gear information.)

Make turns more slowly and wider than normal. The trailer tracks a smaller arc than your vehicle, and it can hit or run over something the vehicle misses. Allow more time and distance for braking. Do not brake or turn suddenly as this could cause the trailer to jackknife or turn over.

When climbing hills, closely watch your temperature gauge. If it nears the red (Hot) mark, turn the air conditioning off, reduce speed and, if necessary, pull to the side of the road to let the engine cool.

If the automatic transmission shifts frequently between 3rd and 4th gears while going up a hill, shift to D .

3 3

CONTINUED

Towing a Trailer

Additional Trailer Equipment

Towing Speeds and Gears

Driving on Hills

Making Turns and Braking

Driving on Hills

Driving Safely With a Trailer

Driving 153

If you must stop when facing uphill, use the foot brake or parking brake. Do not try to hold the vehicle in place by pressing on the accelerator, as this can cause the automatic transmission to overheat.

When driving down hills, reduce your speed and shift down to 2nd gear. Do not ride the brakes, and remember it will take longer to slow down and stop when towing a trailer.

Crosswinds and air turbulence caused by passing trucks can disrupt your steering and cause trailer swaying. When being passed by a large vehicle, keep a constant speed and steer straight ahead. Do not try to make quick steering or braking corrections.

Always drive slowly and have someone guide you when backing up. Grip the of the steering wheel; then turn the wheel to the left to get the trailer to move to the left, and turn the wheel right to move the trailer to the right.

Follow all normal precautions when parking, including firmly setting the parking brake and putting the transmission in Park (automatic) or in 1st or Reverse (manual). Also, place wheel chocks at each of the trailers tires.

bottom

Towing a Trailer

Handling Crosswinds and Buffeting

Backing Up

Parking

Driving154

This section explains why it is important to keep your vehicle well maintained and how to follow basic maintenance safety precautions.

This section also includes Maintenance Schedules for normal driving and severe driving conditions, a Maintenance Record, and instruc- tions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself.

......................Maintenance Safety . 156 .................Maintenance Schedule . 157

....................Maintenance Record . 161 ..............................Fluid Locations . 163

........................Adding Engine Oil . 164 ..........Changing the Oil and Filter .165

....................Windshield Washers . 167 ..............................Engine Coolant . 167

....Automatic Transmission Fluid . 169 ........Manual Transmission Fluid . 170

................Brake and Clutch Fluid . 171 .....................................Drive Belts . 172

....................Power Steering Fluid . 173 ....................................Hood Latch . 173

.............................................Lights . 174 .......................................Seat Belts . 180 .....................................Floor Mats . 180

..................Dust and Pollen Filter . 180 .................................Wiper Blades . 181

...............................................Tires . 183 ...................Checking the Battery . 188

.............................Vehicle Storage . 190

If you have the skills and tools to per- form more complex maintenance tasks on your Acura, you may want to purchase the Service Manual. See page for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your Acura dealer.

236

Maintenance

Maintenance 155

All service items not detailed in this section should be performed by an Acura technician or other qualified mechanic.

To eliminate potential hazards, read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.

Make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground, the parking brake is set, and the engine is off.

To clean parts, use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline.

To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.

Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working

near the battery or when using compressed air.

Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.

Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching any parts.

Do not run the engine unless instructed to do so.

Some of the most important safety precautions are given here. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task.

Maintenance Safety

Maintenance

Important Safety Precautions

Potential Vehicle Hazards Carbon Monoxide poison from engine exhaust.

Burns from hot parts.

Injury from moving parts.

156

Improperly maintaining this vehicle or failing to correct a problem before driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection, maintenance recommendations, and schedules in this owners manual.

Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owners manual.

The maintenance schedule assumes you will use your vehicle as normal transportation for passengers and their possessions. You should also follow these recommendations:

Service your vehicle according to the time and mileage periods on one of the Maintenance Schedules on the following pages.

Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions if you drive your vehicle MAINLY under one or more of the following conditions.

Driving less than 5 miles (8 km) per trip or, in freezing temperatures, driving less than 10 miles (16 km) per trip.

Driving in extremely hot [over 90F (32C)] conditions.

Used primarily as a delivery vehicle or taxi that is driven mostly in stop-and-go traffic and/ or parked with the engine idling.

Trailer towing, driving with a roof rack, or driving in mountainous conditions.

Driving on muddy, dusty, or de- iced roads.

NOTE: If you only drive under a severe condition, you should follow the Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule.

Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

Avoid exceeding your vehicles load limit. This puts excess stress on the engine, brakes, and many other vehicle parts. The load limit is shown on the tire information label on the drivers doorjamb.

Operate your vehicle on reasonable roads within the legal speed limit.

Drive your vehicle regularly over a distance of several miles (kilometers).

Always use unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating (see page

).121

OCCASIONALLY

Maintenance Schedule

Which Schedule to Follow

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

Maintenance 157

Your authorized Acura dealer knows your vehicle best and can provide competent, efficient service. However, service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or skilled person to keep your warranty in effect. Keep all the receipts as proof of completion, and have the person who does the work fill out the Maintenance Record. Check your warranty booklet for more information.

We recommend the use of genuine Acura parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done.

U.S. Vehicles:

According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with will not void your emissions warranties. However, Acura recommends that all maintenance services be performed at the recommended time or mileage period to ensure long-term reliability.

You should check the following items at the specified intervals. If you are unsure of how to perform any check, turn to the appropriate page listed.

Engine oil level Check every time you fill the fuel tank. See page . Engine coolant level Check the radiator reserve tank every time you fill the fuel tank. See page . Windshield washer fluid Check the level in the reservoir monthly. If weather conditions cause you to use the washers frequently, check the reservoir each time you stop for fuel. See page . Automatic transmission Check the fluid level monthly. See page

. Brakes Check the fluid level monthly. See page . Tires Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign objects. See page

. Lights Check the operation of the headlights, parking lights, taillights, high-mount brake light, and license plate lights monthly. See page .

125

125

167

169

171

185

174

Servicing Your Vehicle Maintenance, replacement, or repair of emissions control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are certif ied to EPA standards.

Owners Maintenance Checks

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance158

Follow the Normal Maintenance Schedule if the severe driving conditions specified in the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule on the next page do not apply.

CONTINUED

NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLY drive under a severe condition, you should follow the Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule.

Maintenance 159

miles x 1,000 km x 1,000

Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given).

(Or every 6 years, whichever comes first)

(Otherwise adjust only if noisy)

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) (Or every 1 year, whichever comes first)

Check inflation and condition once a month Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

10 16

20 32

30 48

40 64

50 80

60 96

70 112

80 128

100 160

90 144

(Or every 2 years, whichever comes first)

120 192

130 208

140 224

150 240

120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

Every 160,000 miles (256,000 km)

110 176

Replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 5 years.

(Or every 1 year, whichever comes first)

See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, middle column, page .

Check engine oil and coolant Check tires Replace engine oil

Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 186 ) Replace engine oil filter Inspect front and rear brakes Check parking brake adjustment Visually inspect the following items:

Tie-rod ends, steering gear box and boots Suspension components Driveshaft boots Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system Fuel lines and connections

Inspect drive belts Replace dust and pollen filter Replace air cleaner element Replace spark plugs Inspect valve clearance

Replace automatic transmission fluid Replace manual transmission fluid

Inspect idle speed Replace engine coolant

Replace brake fluid

1: : 158

1

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te n a n ce

S ch

e d u le

fo r

N o rm

a lC

o n d itio

n s

Follow the Severe Maintenance Schedule if you drive your vehicle MAINLY under one or more of the following conditions:

Driving less than 5 miles (8 km) per trip or, in freezing temperatures, driving less than 10 miles (16 km) per trip. Driving in extremely hot [over 90F (32C)] conditions. Extensive idling or long periods of stop and go driving, such as a taxi or a commercial delivery vehicle.

Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads.

Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

Trailer towing, driving with a roof rack, or driving in mountainous conditions.

Maintenance

Canadian Owners

160

miles x 1,000 km x 1,000

(Or every 2 years, whichever comes first)

10 16

20 32

30 48

40 64

50 80

70 112

80 128

100 160

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

130 208

140 224

Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given).

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)

Check inflation and condition once a month Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or every 6 months,

whichever comes first

(Or every 3 years, whichever comes first)

(Otherwise adjust only if noisy)

Every 160,000 miles (256,000 km) 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, then every

60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

110 176

120 192

60 96

90 144

150 240

Clean every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), and replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

(Use normal schedule except in dusty condition)

(Or every 1 year, whichever comes first)

(Or every 1 year, whichever comes first)

See dust and pollen filter on page for

replacement information under special

driving conditions.

Replace at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3

years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000

km) or 2 years.

See information on maintenance and

emissions warranty, middle column,

page .

Check engine oil and coolant Check tires Replace engine oil

Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 186 ) Replace engine oil filter Inspect front and rear brakes Lubricate all hinges, locks, and latches Visually inspect the following items:

Tie-rod ends, steering gear box and boots, Suspension components, Driveshaft boots

Check parking brake adjustment Visually inspect the following items:

Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system , Fuel lines and connections Lights and controls/vehicle underbody

Inspect drive belts Replace dust and pollen filter Clean and replace air cleaner element

Replace spark plugs Inspect valve clearance

Replace automatic transmission fluid Replace manual transmission fluid

Inspect idle speed Replace engine coolant

Replace brake fluid

1 :

2 :

:

180

158

1

2

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S e ve

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(for Normal and Severe Schedules)

CONTINUED

Maintenance Record

Maintenance 161

5,000 mi

10,000 mi

15,000 mi

20,000 mi

25,000 mi

30,000 mi

35,000 mi

40,000 mi

45,000 mi

50,000 mi

55,000 mi

60,000 mi

65,000 mi

70,000 mi

75,000 mi

80,000 mi

8,000 km

16,000 km

24,000 km

32,000 km (or 1 year)

40,000 km

48,000 km

56,000 km

64,000 km (or 2 years)

Signature or dealer stamp mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

72,000 km

80,000 km

88,000 km

96,000 km (or 3 years)

104,000 km

112,000 km

120,000 km

128,000 km (or 4 years)

Signature or dealer stamp mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page ) or severe conditions (page ). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.

159 160

(for Normal and Severe Schedules)Maintenance Record

Maintenance162

85,000 mi

90,000 mi

95,000 mi

100,000 mi

105,000 mi

110,000 mi

115,000 mi

120,000 mi

125,000 mi

130,000 mi

135,000 mi

140,000 mi

145,000 mi

150,000 mi

155,000 mi

160,000 mi

136,000 km

144,000 km

152,000 km

160,000 km (or 5 years)

168,000 km

176,000 km

184,000 km

192,000 km (or 6 years)

Signature or dealer stamp mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

200,000 km

208,000 km

216,000 km

224,000 km (or 7 years)

232,000 km

240,000 km

248,000 km

256,000 km (or 8 years)

Signature or dealer stamp mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

Fluid Locations

Maintenance 163

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP (Black cap)

POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap)

ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR

RADIATOR CAP

BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap)

(Manual Transmission only) CLUTCH FLUID (Gray cap)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop)

WASHER FLUID (Blue cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop)

Make sure the API Certification Seal says For Gasoline Engines.

The oils viscosity or weight is provided on the containers label. 5W-20 oil is formulated for year- round protection of your Acura, to improve cold weather starting and fuel economy.

To add oil, unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on top of the valve cover. Pour in the oil slowly and carefully so you do not spill. Clean up any spills immediately. Spilled oil could damage components in the engine compartment. Install the engine oil fill cap and tighten it securely. Wait a few minutes and recheck the oil level. Do not fill above the upper mark on the dipstick; you could damage the engine.

Oil is major contributor to your engines performance and longevity. Always use a premium-grade detergent oil displaying the API Certification Seal. This seal indicates the oil is energy conserving, and that it meets the American Petroleum Institutes latest requirements. It is highly recommended that you use Honda motor oil in your vehicle. RSX and Premium models

Adding Engine Oil

Maintenance

Recommended Oil

164

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

API CERTIFICATION SEAL Ambient Temperature

An oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 is preferred for improved fuel economy and year-round protection in your Acura. You may use a 10W-30 oil if the temperature in your area never goes below 20F ( 7C).

Your Acura does not require any oil additives. Additives may adversely affect your engines or transmissions performance and durability.

Always change the oil and filter according to the recommendations in the maintenance schedule. The oil and filter collect contaminants that can damage your engine if they are not removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle should be raised on a service station- type hydraulic lift for this service. Unless you have the knowledge and proper equipment, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.

Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then shut it off.

You may use a synthetic motor oil if it meets the same requirements given for a conventional motor oil: it displays the API Certification Seal and it is the proper weight. You must follow the oil and filter change intervals given in the maintenance schedule.

1.

CONTINUED

Type-S

Maintenance

Synthetic Oil

Engine Oil Additives

Changing the Oil and Filter

Adding Engine Oil, Changing the Oil and Filter

165

Ambient Temperature

Open the hood and remove the engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.

Remove the oil filter, and let the remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your Acura dealer) is required.

Install a new oil filter according to the instructions that come with it.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten it to:

Refill the engine with the recom- mended oil.

Engine oil change capacity (including filter):

4.

3.2.

(Type-S)

(RSX and Premium models)

5.

6.

Type-S

RSX and Premium models

Changing the Oil and Filter

Maintenance166

WASHER OIL DRAIN BOLT OIL FILTER

33 lbfft (44 Nm , 4.5 kgfm)

29 lbfft (39 Nm , 4.0 kgfm)

4.8 US qt (4.5 )

4.2 US qt (4.0 )

CONTINUED

Replace the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator should go out within 5 seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine and check your work.

Let the engine run for several minutes, then check the drain bolt and oil filter for leaks.

Turn off the engine, let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level on the dipstick. If necessary, add more oil.

Check the fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal use.

Fill the reservoir with a good-quality windshield washer fluid. This increases the cleaning capability and prevents freezing in cold weather. When you refill the reservoir, clean the edges of the windshield wiper blades with windshield washer fluid on a clean cloth. This will help to condition them.

Always use Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.

If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

7.

8.

9.

Changing the Oil and Filter, Windshield Washers, Engine Coolant

Maintenance

Adding Engine CoolantWindshield Washers

167

NOTICE:NOTICE:

MAX

MIN

Do not use engine antif reeze or vinegar/water solution in the windshield reservoir. Antif reeze can damage your vehicles paint, while a vinegar/water solution can damage the windshield washer pump. Use only commercially available windshield washer f luid.

Improper disposal of engine oil can be harmf ul to the environment. If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed container and take it to a recycling center. Do not discard it in a trash bin or dump it on the ground.

If Honda antifreeze/coolant is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement. Make sure it is a high-quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. Continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

When the radiator and engine are cool, relieve any pressure in the cooling system by turning the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pressing down.

Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.

If the reserve tank is completely empty, you should also check the coolant level in the radiator.

2.

1.

Engine Coolant

Maintenance168

RADIATOR CAP

Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.

CONTINUED

The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low. Pour the coolant slowly and carefully so you do not spill. Clean up any spills immediately; spilled coolant could damage components in the engine compartment.

Put the radiator cap on, and tighten it fully.

Pour coolant into the reserve tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap on the reserve tank.

Do not add any rust inhibitors or other additives to your vehicles cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine components.

Check the fluid level with the engine at normal operating temperature.

Park the vehicle on level ground. Shut off the engine.

Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission, and wipe it with a clean cloth.

Insert the dipstick all the way into the transmission securely.

Remove the dipstick and check the fluid level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the filler hole to bring it to the upper mark.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

3.

4.

5.

Engine Coolant, Automatic Transmission Fluid

Maintenance

Automatic Transmission Fluid

169

DIPSTICK

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

Always use Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic Transmission Fluid). If its not available, you may use a DEXRON III automatic transmission fluid as a temporary replacement. However, continued use can affect the shift quality. Have the transmission flushed and refilled with Honda ATF-Z1 as soon as it is convenient.

To thoroughly flush the transmission, the technician should drain and refill it with Honda ATF-Z1, then drive the vehicle for a short distance. Do this three times. Then drain and refill the transmission a final time.

Insert the dipstick all the way back in the transmission.

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the time and distance recommen- dations in the maintenance schedule.

Check the fluid level with the transmission at normal operating temperature and the vehicle sitting on level ground. Remove the transmission filler bolt, and carefully feel inside the bolt hole with your finger. The fluid level should be up to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is not, add Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall the filler bolt, and tighten it securely.

If Honda MTF is not available, you may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity motor oil with the API Certification seal that says FOR GASOLINE ENGINES as a temporary replacement. However, motor oil does not contain the proper additives, and continued use can cause stiffer shifting. Replace as soon as it is convenient.

The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the time and distance recommen- dations in the maintenance schedule.

6.

Automatic Transmission Fluid, Manual Transmission Fluid

Maintenance

Manual Transmission Fluid

170

Correct level

FILLER BOLT

Check the fluid level in the reservoirs monthly. There are up to two reservoirs, depending on the model. They are:

Brake fluid reservoir (all models) Clutch fluid reservoir (manual transmission only)

The brake fluid should be replaced according to the time recommenda- tion in the maintenance schedule.

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If the level is at or below the MIN mark, your brake system needs attention. Have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

Always use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement. However, the use of any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system flushed and refilled with Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 as soon as possible.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your vehicles braking system and can cause extensive damage.

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Maintenance

Brake System

171

MAX

MIN

An auto-tensioner adjusts the tension of the drive belt. The indicator on the auto-tensioner should be in the proper range. It should be checked according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule.

If the indicator is not within the proper range, have the drive belt replaced by your Acura dealer as soon as possible.

Low fluid level can indicate a leak in the clutch system. Have this system inspected as soon as possible.

The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If it is not, add brake fluid to bring it up to that level. Use the same fluid specified for the brake system.

Manual Transmission only

Brake and Clutch Fluid, Drive Belts

Maintenance

Drive BeltClutch System

172

INDICATOR

Proper range

MAX

MIN

Clean the hood latch assembly with a mild cleaner, then lubricate it with a multipurpose grease. Lubricate all the moving parts (as shown), including the pivot. Follow the time and distance recommendations in the Maintenance Schedule. If you are not sure how to clean and grease the latch, contact your Acura dealer.

Check the level on the side of the reservoir when the engine is cold. The fluid should be between the UPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL. If not add power steering fluid to the UPPER LEVEL mark.

Always use Honda Power Steering Fluid. You may use another power steering fluid as an emergency replacement, but have the power steering system flushed and refilled

with Honda PSF as soon as possible.

A low power steering fluid level can indicate a leak in the system. Check the fluid level frequently, and have the system inspected as soon as possible.

Power Steering Fluid, Hood Latch

Maintenance

Hood LatchPower Steering Fluid

173

NOTICE:

NOTICE: UPPER LEVEL LOWER LEVEL

LATCH ASSEMBLY

PIVOTSTurning the steering wheel to f ull lef t or right lock and holding it there can damage the power steering pump.

Do not spill the power steering f luid over the body, auto- tensioner, drive belt and pulleys. If spilled accidentally, wipe of f any f luid completely.

The headlights were properly aimed when your vehicle was new. If you regularly carry heavy items in the cargo area or pull a trailer, readjustment may be required. Adjustment should be done by an Acura dealer or other qualified mechanic.

Your vehicle has two bulbs on each side, four in total. Make sure you are replacing the bulb that is burned out. Your vehicle uses halogen headlight bulbs. Handle a bulb by its plastic case and protect the glass from contact with your skin or hard objects. If you touch the glass, clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth.

If you need to the change a headlight bulb on the passengers side, remove the power steering reservoir from the bracket.

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

1.

Lights

Headlight Aiming Replacing a Headlight Bulb

Maintenance174

Passengers side

POWER STEERING RESERVOIR

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

Install the rubber seal and make sure it is right side up; it is marked TOP.

Push the electrical connector onto the tabs of the new bulb. Make sure it locks in place.

(Passengers side) Install the power steering reservoir on the bracket.

Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by pulling the connector straight back.

Remove the rubber weather seal by pulling on the tab.

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

If you need to change a headlight bulb on the drivers side, remove the bolt from the battery hold- down, and carefully push the battery toward the windshield to obtain enough working space.

Pull the battery back to its original position, then install the bolt in the hold-down, and tighten it securely.

(Drivers side) 3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8. 2.

Lights

Maintenance 175

BULB

WEATHER SEAL

HOLD DOWN WIRE CONNECTOR

Drivers side

If you need to change a front turn signal bulb on the passengers side, remove the power steering reservoir from the bracket.

If you need to change a front turn signal bulb on the drivers side, remove the bolt from the battery hold-down, and carefully push the battery toward the windshield to obtain enough working space.

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

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket.

1. 2.

3.

Lights

Maintenance

Replacing a Front Turn Signal Bulb

176

Passengers side

POWER STEERING RESERVOIR

BULBDrivers side

Pull the bulb straight out of its socket.

The front parking bulb is next to the headlight bulb.

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

Install the new bulb into the socket.

(Passengers side) Install the power steering reservoir on the bracket.

(Drivers side) Place the battery in its original position, then install the bolt in the hold-down, and tighten it securely.

Install the new bulb into the socket.

3.4.

5.

1.

2.

4.

Replacing a Front Parking Bulb

Lights

Maintenance 177

BULB

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

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

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

Reinstall the high-mount brake light cover.

Open the hatch.

Remove the high-mount brake light cover by pivoting it toward the back of the vehicle.

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

Open the hatch. Remove the light assembly cover by pulling on the tab on the outside edge.

2.

3.

1.

4.

5.

6.

7.

1.

Lights

Maintenance

Replacing Rear BulbsReplacing a High-mount Brake Light Bulb

178

COVERCOVER

BULB

Reinstall the socket into the light assembly by turning it clockwise until it locks.

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

Install the light assembly cover. Make sure it locks in place.

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

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

Determine which of the five bulbs is burned out: brake/taillight, turn signal light, side marker light, back-up light, or taillight.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Lights

Maintenance 179

If your seat belts get dirty, use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean them. Do not use bleach, dye, or cleaning solvents. Let the belts air dry before you use the vehicle. Dirt build-up in the loops of the seat belt anchors can cause the belts to retract slowly. Wipe the insides of the loops with a clean cloth dampened in mild soap and warm water or isopropyl alcohol.

The drivers floor mat that came with your vehicle hooks over the floor mat anchor. This keeps the floor mat from sliding forward and possibly interfering with the pedals.

If you remove the drivers floor mat, make sure to re-anchor it when you put it back in your vehicle.

If you use a non-Acura floor mat, make sure it fits properly and that it can be used with the floor mat anchor. Do not put additional floor mats on top of the anchored mat.

This filter removes the dust and pollen that is brought in from the outside through the heating and cooling system.

Have your Acura dealer replace this filter every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) under normal conditions. It should be replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) if you drive primarily in urban areas that have high concentrations of soot in the air, or if the airflow from the heating and cooling system becomes less than usual.

Seat Belts, Floor Mats, Dust and Pollen Filter

Maintenance

Seat Belts Floor Mats

Dust and Pollen Filter

180

LOOP

CONTINUED

Check the condition of the wiper blades at least every six months. Look for signs of cracking in the rubber, or areas that are getting hard. Replace the blades if you find these signs, or if they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.

To replace a blade (front or rear):

Raise the wiper arm off the windshield or rear window.

Disconnect the blade assembly from the wiper arm by pushing in the lock tab. Hold the lock tab in while you push the blade assembly toward the base of the arm.

2.

1.

Wiper Blades

Maintenance 181

WIPER ARMS

LOCK TAB

Remove the blade from its holder by grasping the tabbed end of the blade. Pull firmly until the tabs come out of the holder.

Examine the new wiper blades. If they have no plastic or metal rein- forcement along the back edge, remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade, and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade.

Slide the new wiper blade into the holder until the tabs lock.

Slide the wiper blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place.

Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield or rear window.

3. 4.

5.

6.

7.

Wiper Blades

Maintenance182

BLADE BLADE

REINFORCEMENT

CONTINUED

To safely operate your vehicle, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated.

The following pages give more detailed information on how to take care of your tires and what to do when they need to be replaced.

Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best combination of handling, tread life, and riding comfort.

Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

Overinflated tires can make your vehicle ride more harshly, are more prone to damage from road hazards, and wear unevenly.

Tires

Maintenance

Inflation

183

Using tires that are excessively worn or improperly inflated can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owners manual regarding tire inflation and maintenance.

We recommend that you visually check your tires every day. If you think a tire might be low, check it immediately with a tire gauge.

The compact spare tire pressure is:

For convenience, the recommended tire sizes and cold air pressures are on a label on the drivers doorjamb.

For additional technical information, see page .

Use a gauge to measure the air pressure at least once a month. Even tires that are in good condition may lose one to two psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month. Remember to check the spare tire at the same time.

Check the pressure in the tires when they are cold. This means the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km).

Add or release air, if needed, to match the recommended cold tire pressures on this page.

(Canada: RSX)

(U.S.: All models, Canada: Premium and Type-S models)

222

Tire Size

Tire Size Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

Rear:

Front:

Rear:

Tires

Maintenance184

P205/55R16 89V 33 psi (230 kPa , 2.3 kgf/cm )

31 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

P195/65R15 89H 33 psi (230 kPa , 2.3 kgf/cm )

31 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.20 kgf/cm )

Tire pressure for high speed driving is the same as for normal driving.

If you check the pressure when the tires are hot (driven for several miles), you will see readings 4 to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4 kgf/cm ) higher than the cold reading. This is normal; do not release air to match the cold pressure.

Tubeless tires have some ability to self-seal if they are punctured. You should look closely for punctures if a tire starts losing pressure.

You should get your own tire pressure gauge and use it whenever you check your tire pressures. This will make it easier for you to tell if a pressure loss is due to a tire problem and not due to a variation between gauges.

Every time you check inflation, you should also examine the tires for damage, foreign objects, and wear. You should look for:

Bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if you find either or these conditions.

Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side of the tire. Replace the tire if you can see fabric or cord.

Excessive tread wear. When you see a 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide band running across the tread, there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. Replace the tire if you can see three or more tread wear indicators around it.

In addition to proper inflation, correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer check the wheel alignment.

CONTINUED

Tire Inspection Tire Maintenance

Tires

Maintenance 185

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

Replace your tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tires sidewall). Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the ABS to work inconsistently.

It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that is not possible or necessary, replace the two front tires or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire can seriously affect your vehicles handling.

To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, rotate the tires every 10,000 miles (16,000 km). Move the tires to the positions shown in the chart each time they are rotated. If you purchase directional tires, rotate only front-to- back.

Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This increases riding comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

(Only on vehicles equipped with aluminum wheels)

Replacing TiresTire Rotation

Tires

Maintenance186

NOTICE:

Front Front

(For Non-directional Tires and Wheels)

(For Directional Tires and Wheels)

Improper wheel weights can damage your vehicles aluminum wheels. Use only genuine Acura wheel weights f or balancing.

Tires marked M S or All Season on the sidewall have an all- weather tread design suitable for most winter driving conditions.

For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions.

If you mount snow tires on your Acura, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may be lower than your original tires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.

Wheels:

Tires:

See page for information about DOT Tire Quality Grading. Replacement wheels are available at your Acura dealer.

(U.S. : All models Canada : Premium and Type-S models)

(Canada : RSX)

(U.S. : All models Canada : Premium and Type-S models)

(Canada : RSX)

222

CONTINUED

Winter Driving

Snow Tires

Wheel and Tire Specifications

Tires

Maintenance 187

16 x 6 1/2 JJ

15 x 6 JJ

P205/55R16 89V

P195/65R15 89H

Installing improper tires on your vehicle can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this owners manual.

Check the condition of the battery monthly by looking at the test indicator window. The label on the battery explains the test indicators colors.

Use only SAE class S chains. Only certain brands of chains will fit your Acura without coming in contact with the body or causing mechanical damage. Before buying any types of chains, you should consult with your Acura dealer about the designs and brands that will work on your Acura. Also, make sure you purchase the correct size for your tires.

When installing chains, follow the manufacturers instructions and mount them as tightly as you can. Drive slowly with chains installed. If you hear them contacting the body or chassis, stop and investigate. Make sure the chains are installed tightly, and that they are not contacting the brake lines or suspension. Remove the chains as soon as you start driving on cleared roads.

Mount tire chains on your vehicle when warranted by driving conditions or required by local laws. Make sure the chains are the correct size for your tires. Install them only on the front tires.

Checking the BatteryTire Chains

Tires, Checking the Battery

Maintenance188

NOTICE: TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

Chains of the wrong size or ones that are improperly installed can damage your vehicles brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if you hear the chains hitting any part of the vehicle.

If additional battery maintenance is needed, see your Acura dealer or a qualified technician.

Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds.

If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damaging your vehicles electrical system. Always disconnect the negative ( ) cable first, and reconnect it last.

Check the terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To remove it, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent further corrosion.

WARNING:

Wash your hands after handling.

Maintenance

Checking the Battery

189

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled mechanic do the battery maintenance.

If you need to park your vehicle for an extended period (more than one month), there are several things you should do to prepare it for storage. Proper preparation helps prevent deterioration and makes it easier to get your vehicle back on the road. If possible, store your vehicle indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter.

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

Clean the interior. Make sure the carpeting, floor mats, etc. are completely dry.

Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in Reverse (manual) or Park (automatic).

Block the rear wheels.

If the vehicle is to be stored for a longer period, it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (if the vehicle is being stored indoors).

Disconnect the battery.

Support the front and rear wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield.

To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door and hatch seals. Also, apply a body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and hatch seals.

Cover the vehicle with a breathable cover, one made from a porous material such as cotton. Non-porous materials, such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture, which can damage the paint.

If possible, periodically run the engine until it reaches full operating temperature (the cooling fans cycle on and off twice). Preferably, do this once a month.

If you store your vehicle for 12 months or longer, have your Acura dealer perform the inspections called for in the 24 months/30,000 miles (48,000 km) maintenance schedule (Normal Conditions) as soon as you take it out of storage (see page ). The replacements called for in the maintenance schedule are not needed unless the vehicle has actually reached that time or mileage.

159

Vehicle Storage

Maintenance190

This section covers the more common problems that motorists experience with their vehicles. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your vehicle towed.

......................Compact Spare Tire . 192 ....................Changing a Flat Tire . 193

.............If the Engine Wont Start . 198 ................................Jump Starting . 200

..............If the Engine Overheats . 202 .........Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 204 ..........Charging System Indicator . 205

.......Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 206 ...............Brake System Indicator . 208

..................Closing the Moonroof . 209 ..............................................Fuses . 210

..........................Fuse Locations . 213 ......................Emergency Towing . 215

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Taking Care of the Unexpected 191

Use the compact spare tire as a temporary replacement only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced and put it back on your vehicle as soon as you can.

Check the inflation pressure of the compact spare tire every time you check the other tires. It should be inflated to:

Follow these precautions:

Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any circumstances.

This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road sur- faces. Use greater caution while driving on this tire.

Do not use your compact spare tire on another vehicle unless it is the same make and model.

Do not drive with the compact spare tire mounted on the front wheels for a long period; it will damage the Limited Slip Differential.

Replace the compact spare tire when you can see the tread wear indicator bars. The replacement should be the same size and design tire, mounted on the same wheel. The spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the spare wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.

Do not mount tire chains on it.

Type-S only

Compact Spare Tire

Taking Care of the Unexpected192

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

60 psi (420 kPa , 4.20 kgf/cm )

CONTINUED

If you have a flat tire while driving, stop in a safe place to change it. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an exit or an area to stop that is far away from the traffic lanes.

Park the vehicle on firm, level, and non-slippery ground. Put the transmission in Park (automatic) or Reverse (manual). Apply the parking brake. If you are towing a trailer, unhitch the trailer.

Turn on the hazard warning lights, and turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Have all the passengers get out of the vehicle while you change the tire.

Open the hatch. Pull up the floor mat and remove the spare tire cover.

Unscrew the wing bolt.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Changing a Flat Tire

Taking Care of the Unexpected 193

TOOL KIT

JACK

The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the vehicle when it is supported only by the jack.

Lift the bass speaker out of the spare tire and set it aside. Do not pull on the wiring harness going to the speaker.

Take the spare tire out of its well.

Turn the jacks end counterclockwise to loosen it, then remove the jack.

Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turn with the wheel wrench.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Type-S only:

Changing a Flat Tire

Taking Care of the Unexpected194

BASS SPEAKER (Type-S only)

JACK

CONTINUED

Place the jack under the jacking point. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.

Use the extension and wheel wrench as shown to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground.

Remove the wheel nuts, then remove the flat tire. Place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface facing up.

Before mounting the spare tire, wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with a clean cloth. Wipe the hub carefully; it may be hot from driving.

9. 10.

11.

12.

Changing a Flat Tire

Taking Care of the Unexpected 195

JACKING POINT

EXTENSION

WHEEL WRENCH

Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to:

Put on the spare tire. Put the wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten them fully.

Lower the vehicle to the ground and remove the jack.

15.

13. 14.

Changing a Flat Tire

Taking Care of the Unexpected196

(Except Type-S)

80 lbfft (108 Nm , 11 kgfm)

Store the jack in its holder. Turn the jacks end bracket clockwise to raise the jack and lock it in place.

Screw the adapter into the hole in the spare tire well.

Remove the wheel cover or center cap and place the flat tire face down in the spare tire well.

Set the bass speaker inside the wheel.

Secure the flat tire with the wing bolt.Remove the spacer cone from the

wing bolt, turn it over, and put it back on the bolt.

18.16.

17.

20.

21.Type-S only:

Type-S only:

19.All except Type-S:

CONTINUED

Changing a Flat Tire

Taking Care of the Unexpected 197

ADAPTER (Type-S only) WING BOLT SPACER

CONE

Store the tool kit.

Store the wheel cover or center cap in the cargo area. Make sure it will not get scratched or damaged.

Diagnosing why your engine wont start falls into two areas, depending on what you hear when you turn the key to START (III):

You hear nothing, or almost nothing. The engines starter motor does not operate at all, or operates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motor operating normally, or the starter motor sounds like it is spinning faster than normal, but the engine does not start up and run.

When you turn the ignition switch to START (III), you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound or series of clicks, or nothing at all. Check these things:

Check the transmission interlock. If you have a manual transmission, the clutch pedal must be pushed all the way to the floor or the starter will not operate. With an automatic transmission, it must be in Park or Neutral.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Turn on the headlights and check their brightness. If the headlights are very dim or dont light at all, the battery is discharged. See

on page .

Reinstall the floor mat and spare tire cover, then close the hatch.

22.

23.

24.

200

Changing a Flat Tire, If the Engine Wont Start

Taking Care of the Unexpected

If the Engine Wont Start Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly

Jump Starting

198

Loose items can fly around the interior in a crash and could seriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack, and tools securely before driving.

Turn the ignition switch to START (III). If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses. If the fuses are OK, there is probably something wrong with the electrical circuit for the ignition switch or starter motor. You will need a qualified technician to determine the problem (see on page ).

In this case, the starter motors speed sounds normal, or even faster than normal, when you turn the ignition switch to START (III), but the engine does not run.

Are you using a properly coded key? An improperly coded key will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the instrument panel to blink rapidly (see page ).

Are you using the proper starting procedure? Refer to

on page .

Do you have fuel? Check the fuel gauge; the low fuel indicator may not be working.

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

If you find nothing wrong, you will need a qualified technician to find the problem. See

on page .

If the headlights dim noticeably or go out when you try to start the engine, either the battery is discharged or the connections are corroded. Check the condition of the battery and terminal connections (see page ). You can then try jump starting the vehicle from a booster battery (see page ).

215

200

188

64

135

210

215

If the Engine Wont Start

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Emergency Towing

The Starter Operates Normally

Starting the Engine

Emergency Towing

199

Although this seems like a simple procedure, you should take several precautions.

You cannot start an Acura with an automatic transmission by pushing or pulling it.

To jump start your vehicle:

Open the hood and check the physical condition of the battery. In very cold weather, check the condition of the electrolyte. If it seems slushy or like ice, do not try jump starting until it thaws.

Connect one jumper cable to the positive ( ) terminal on the battery. Connect the other end to the positive ( ) terminal on the booster battery.

Turn off all the electrical acces- sories: heater, A/C, audio system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in Neutral or Park, and set the parking brake.

1.

2. 3.

Jump Starting

Taking Care of the Unexpected200

NOTICE:

A battery can explode if you do not follow the correct procedure, seriously injuring anyone nearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away from the battery.

If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can f reeze. Attempting to jump start with a f rozen battery can cause it to rupture.

Start your vehicle. If the starter motor still operates slowly, check the jumper cable connections to make sure they have good metal- to-metal contact.

Once your vehicle is running, disconnect the negative cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your vehicle, and then from the booster battery.

Keep the ends of the jumper cables away from each other and any metal on the vehicle until everything is disconnected. Otherwise, you may cause an electrical short.

Connect the second jumper cable to the negative ( ) terminal on the booster battery. Connect the other end to the grounding strap as shown. Do not connect this jumper cable to any other part of the engine.

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

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

5.

6.

7.

4.

Jump Starting

Taking Care of the Unexpected 201

BOOSTER BATTERY

The pointer of your vehicles temperature gauge should stay in the midrange. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason (hot day, driving up a steep hill, etc.).

If your vehicle overheats, you should take immediate action. The only indication may be the temperature gauge climbing to or above the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the hood.

Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in Neutral or Park, and set the parking brake. Turn off the all accessories, and turn on the hazard warning indicators.

If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn off the engine. Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood.

If you do not see steam or spray, leave the engine running and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading, the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the temperature gauge comes down to the midpoint, then continue driving.

If the temperature gauge stays at the red mark, turn off the engine.1.

2.

3.

4.

If the Engine Overheats

Taking Care of the Unexpected202

NOTICE:

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

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

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

Look for any obvious coolant leaks, such as a split radiator hose. Everything is still extremely hot, so use caution. If you find a leak, it must be repaired before you continue driving (see

on page ).

If you dont find an obvious leak, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Add coolant if the level is below the MIN mark.

If there was no coolant in the reserve tank, you may need to add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the pointer reaches the middle of the tempera- ture gauge, or lower, before check- ing the radiator.

Using gloves or large heavy cloth, turn the radiator cap counterclockwise without pushing down to the first stop. After the pressure releases, push down on the cap, and turn it until it comes off.

Start the engine, and set the temperature control lever to maximum. Add coolant to the radiator up to the base of the filler neck. If you do not have the proper coolant mixture available, you can add plain water. Remember to have the cooling system drained and refilled with the proper mixture as soon as you can.

Put the radiator cap back on tightly. Run the engine and watch the temperature gauge. If it goes back to the red mark, the engine needs repair (see

on page ).

If the temperature stays normal, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. If it has gone down, add coolant to the MAX mark. Put the cap back on tightly.

7. 8.

9.

6.

5.

10.

11.

215

215

If the Engine Overheats

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Emergency Towing

Emergency Towing

203

Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.

Start the engine, and watch the oil pressure indicator. If it does not go out within 10 seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving (see on page

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

Let the vehicle sit for a minute. Open the hood, and check the oil level (see page ). An engine very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.

If necessary, add oil to bring the level back to the full mark on the dipstick (see page ).

This indicator should never come on when the engine is

running. If it starts flashing or stays on, the oil pressure has dropped very low or lost pressure. Serious engine damage is possible and you should take immediate action. 1.

2.

3.

4.

125

164

215

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Emergency Towing

204

NOTICE: Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical damage almost immediately. Turn of f the engine as soon as you can saf ely get the vehicle stopped.

Immediately turn off all electrical accessories. Try not to use other electrically operated controls such as the power windows. Keep the engine running; starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly.

Go to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.

If the charging system indicator comes on brightly

when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged.

Charging System Indicator

Taking Care of the Unexpected 205

If you have recently refueled your vehicle, the cause of this indicator coming on could be a loose or missing fuel fill cap. Check the cap or replace it. Tightening the cap will not make the indicator turn off immediately; it takes at least three days of normal driving.

If the indicator remains on, or the fuel cap was not loose or missing, have your vehicle checked by the dealer as soon as possible.

If the indicator comes on while driving, it means one

of the engines emission control systems may have a problem. Even though you may feel no difference in your vehicles performance, continued operation may cause serious damage.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Taking Care of the Unexpected206

NOTICE: If you keep driving with the Malf unction Indicator Lamp on, you can damage your vehicles emissions controls and the engine. Those repairs may not be covered by your vehicles warranties.

Your vehicle has certain readiness codes that are part of the on-board diagnostics for the emissions systems. In some states, part of the emissions testing is to make sure these codes are set. If they are not set, the test cannot be completed.

If your vehicles battery has been disconnected or gone dead, these codes are erased. It takes several days of driving under various conditions to set the codes again.

To check if they are set, turn the ignition switch to ON (II), without starting the engine. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp will come on for 20 seconds. If it then goes off, the readiness codes are set. If it blinks five times, the readiness codes are not set. If possible, do not take your vehicle for a state emissions test until the readiness codes are set. See State Emissions Testing on pages

and .229228

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Readiness Code

207

However, if the brake pedal does not feel normal, you should take immediate action. A problem in one part of the systems dual circuit design will still give you braking at two wheels. You will feel the brake pedal go down much farther before the vehicle begins to slow down and you will have to press harder on the pedal.

Slow down by shifting to a lower gear, and pull to the side of the road when it is safe. Because of the long distance needed to stop, it is hazardous to drive the vehicle. You should have it towed and repaired as soon as possible (see

on page ).

If you must drive the vehicle a short distance in this condition, drive slowly and carefully.

If the brake system indicator comes on while

driving, the brake fluid level is probably low in the reservoir. Press lightly on the brake pedal to see if it feels normal. If it does, check the brake fluid level the next time you stop at a service station (see page

). If the fluid level is low, take your vehicle to the dealer and have the brake system inspected for leaks or worn brake pads.

215

171

Brake System Indicator

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Emergency Towing

208

CanadaU.S.

If the electric motor will not close the moonroof, do the following:

Check the fuse for the moonroof motor (see page ). If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same or lower rating.

Try closing the moonroof. If the new fuse blows immediately or the moonroof motor still does not operate, you can close the moonroof manually.

Get the moonroof wrench out of the tool kit in the cargo area.

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

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

Remove the wrench. Reinstall the round plug.

5.

6.

4.

1.

2.

3.

211

Closing the Moonroof

Taking Care of the Unexpected 209

ROUND PLUG SOCKET

The vehicles fuses are located in two fuse boxes. The interior fuse box is underneath the steering column.

The under-hood fuse box is in the engine compartment next to the battery.

Fuses

Taking Care of the Unexpected210

INTERIOR UNDER-HOOD TAB

CONTINUED

If something electrical in your vehicle stops working, the first thing you should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on pages

and or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuses control that device. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that a blown fuse is the cause. Replace any blown fuses, and check if the device works.

Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Make sure the headlights and all other accessories are off.

Remove the cover from the fuse box.

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

Check the smaller fuses in the under-hood fuse box and all the fuses in the interior fuse box by pulling out each fuse with the fuse puller provided in the interior fuse box.

3.1.

2.

4.

213 214

Fuses

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Checking and Replacing Fuses

211

FUSE

BLOWN

Look for a burned wire inside the fuse. If it is burned, replace it with one of the spare fuses of the same rating or lower.

If you cannot drive your vehicle without fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits. Make sure you can do without that circuit temporarily (such as the cigarette lighter or radio).

If you replace the blown fuse with a spare fuse that has a lower rating, it might blow out again. This does not indicate anything wrong. Replace the fuse with one of the correct rating as soon as you can.

If the radio fuse is removed, the audio system will disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio you will see Code in the frequency display. Use the preset buttons to enter the five-digit code (see page

).

If the replacement fuse of the same rating blows in a short time, there is probably a serious electrical problem in your vehicle. Leave the blown fuse in that circuit, and have your vehicle checked by a qualified mechanic.

5.

6.

112

Fuses

Taking Care of the Unexpected212

NOTICE:

BLOWN

Replacing a f use with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chances of damaging the electrical system. If you do not have a replacement f use with the proper rating f or the circuit, install one with a lower rating.

CONTINUED

No. Circuits Protected

No. Circuits Protected

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Ignition Coil Laf Heater Daytime Running Lights ACG (IG) Not Used Power Window Relay Moonroof Radio Rear Wiper Gauge panel ABS Daytime Running Lights

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

SRS Power Mirror Bass Speaker Heated Seats Fuel Pump Accessory Power Socket Turn Signal Front Wiper Not Used Front Passengers Power Window Drivers Power Window Not Used Not Used

Canadian models only Type-S only

1 : 2 :

1

1

2

1

Fuse Locations

Taking Care of the Unexpected 213

INTERIOR FUSE BOX

No. Circuits Protected

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 25

Condenser fan Small Light Interior Light Cooling Fan Hazard FI ECU Horn, Stop ABS (F/S) Back Up ABS Motor Rear Demister Heater Motor Power Window Option Left Headlight Door Lock Right Headlight Not Used Main Fuse Battery Main Fuse Ignition Spare Fuse

Fuse Locations

Taking Care of the Unexpected214

UNDER HOOD FUSE BOX

CONTINUED

If your vehicle needs to be towed, call a professional towing service or, if you belong to one, an organization that provides roadside assistance. Never tow your vehicle behind another vehicle with just a rope or chain. It is very dangerous.

There are three popular types of professional towing equipment.

The operator loads your vehicle on the back of a truck.

The tow truck uses two pivoting arms that go under the tires (front or rear) and lift them off the ground. The other two tires remain on the ground.

The tow truck uses metal cables with hooks on the ends. These hooks go around parts of the frame or suspension and the cables lift that end of the vehicle off the ground. Your vehicles sus- pension and body can be seriously damaged.

If your Acura cannot be transported by flat-bed, it should be towed by wheel-lift equipment with the front wheels off the ground. If, due to damage, your vehicle must be towed with the front wheels on the ground, do the following:

Release the parking brake. Shift the transmission to Neutral.

Shift to D, then to N. Turn off the engine.

Start the engine. Release the parking brake.

With the front wheels on the ground, it is best to tow the vehicle no farther than 50 miles (80 km), and keep the speed below 35 mph (55 km/h).

Manual Transmission:

Automatic Transmission:

Emergency Towing

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Flat-bed Equipment

Wheel-lif t Equipment

Sling-type Equipment

This is the best way to transport your Acura.

This is an acceptable way to tow your Acura.

This method of towing is unacceptable.

215

NOTICE: Improper towing preparation will damage the transmission. Follow the above procedure exactly. If you cannot shif t the transmission or start the engine (automatic transmission), your vehicle must be transported with the f ront wheels of f the ground.

If you decide to tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, make sure you use a properly- designed and attached tow bar. Prepare the vehicle for towing as described above, and leave the ignition switch in the Accessory (I) position so the steering wheel does not lock. Make sure the radio and any electrical accessories are turned off so they do not run down the battery.

Emergency Towing

Taking Care of the Unexpected216

NOTICE:

NOTICE:

Trying to lif t or tow your vehicle by the bumpers will cause serious damage. The bumpers are not designed to support the vehicles weight.

The steering system can be damaged if the steering wheel is locked. Leave the ignition switch in the Accessory (I) position, and make sure the steering wheel turns f reely bef ore you begin towing.

This section gives you the dimensions and capacities of your Acura, and the locations of the identification numbers. It also includes information you should know about your vehicles tires and emissions control systems.

................Identification Numbers . 218 ................................Specifications . 220

DOT Tire Quality Grading ......................(U.S. Vehicles) . 222

Uniform Tire Quality ..................................Grading . 222 .................................Treadwear . 222

......................................Traction . 222 .............................Temperature . 223

.................................Tire Labeling . 224

.......................Emissions Controls . 225 .....................The Clean Air Act . 225

Crankcase Emissions Control ....................................System . 225

Evaporative Emissions Control ....................................System . 225

Onboard Refueling Vapor ................................Recovery . 226

...Exhaust Emissions Controls . 226 ....................PGM-FI System . 226

Ignition Timing Control ................................System . 226

Three Way Catalytic ...........................Converter . 226

....................Replacement Parts . 226 ..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 227

..............State Emissions Testing . 228

Technical Information

Technical Information 217

Your vehicle has several identifying numbers in various places.

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the 17-digit number your Acura dealer uses to register your vehicle for warranty purposes. It is also necessary for licensing and insuring your vehicle. The easiest place to find the VIN is on a plate fastened to the top of the dashboard. You can see it by looking through the windshield on the drivers side. It is also on the Certification label at- tached to the drivers doorjamb, and is stamped on the engine com- partment bulkhead. The VIN is also provided in bar code on the Certification label.

Identif ication Numbers

Technical Information218

CERTIFICATION LABEL

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

The Engine Number is stamped into the engine block.

The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission.

Identif ication Numbers

Technical Information 219

ENGINE NUMBER MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER

Specifications

Technical Information220

Dimensions

Weights

Air Conditioning

Capacities

Engine

173.0 in (4,395 mm) 67.9 in (1,725 mm) 55.1 in (1,400 mm)

HFC-134a (R-134a) 17.6 19.4 oz (500 550 g)

SP-10

13.2 US gal (50 )

1.35 US gal (5.1 )

101.2 in (2,570 mm) 58.3 in (1,482 mm) 58.3 in (1,481 mm)

3.19 x 3.50 in (81.0 x 88.9 mm) 121.9 cu-in (1,998 cm )

9.8 : 1 11.0 : 1

1.32 US gal (5.0 )

1.69 US gal (6.4 ) 1.66 US gal (6.3 )

4.2 US qt (4.0 ) 4.8 US qt (4.5 ) 4.2 US qt (4.0 ) 4.8 US qt (4.5 ) 5.6 US qt (5.3 ) 6.1 US qt (5.8 )

0.16 US gal (0.6 )

Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine. Reserve tank capacity:

Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.

Length Width Height Wheelbase Track

Gross vehicle weight rating See the certification label attached to the drivers doorjamb.

Refrigerant type Charge quantity Lubricant type

Fuel tank

Engine coolant

Engine oil Type

Bore x Stroke Displacement Compression ratio

Spark plug

Water cooled 4-stroke DOHC VTEC in line,

4-cylinder gasoline engine.

IZFR6K11 IFR7G-11KS

SKJ20DR-M11 SK22PR-M11S

Approx.

1 :

2 : 3 : 4 :

Front Rear

Change Manual Automatic

Total Manual Automatic

Change Including filter

Without filter

Total

RSX and Premium models Type-S

1 : 2 : RSX and Premium models

Type-S

NGK

DENSO

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

4

2

3

2

3

2

3

Specifications

Technical Information 221

Capacities Fuses

Alignment

Tires

Lights

Battery

0.0 in (0 mm) 0.08 in (2.0 mm)

000

1.8 US qt (1.7 ) 1.6 US qt (1.5 )

2.9 US qt (2.7 ) 6.9 US qt (6.5 ) 2.6 US qt (2.5 ) 4.8 US qt (4.5 )

12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V 12 V

045 130

P205/55R16 89V T135/70D15 99M T125/70D16 96M

P195/65R15 89H

33 psi (230 kPa , 2.3 kgf/cm ) 31 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm ) 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.20 kgf/cm )

Manual transmission fluid

Interior

Under-hood

Toe-in

Camber

Caster

Size

Pressure

Headlights

Front turn signal Front position lights Rear turn signal lights Brake/Taillights High-mount brake light Rear side marker lights Back-up lights License plate lights Ceiling light Cargo area light Spotlights Glove box light 12 V 3.4 W

12 V

12 V

12 V 12 V

12 V

8 W 5 W 8 W 5 W 21 W 5 W 21 W 21 W/5 W 21 W 5 W (Amber)

55 W

21 W

12 V 36 AH/5 HRCapacity

55 W

12 V 12 V

See page 213 or the fuse label attached to the inside of the fuse box door under the dashboard. See page 214 or the fuse box cover.

Front/Rear

Spare

Front Rear Spare

High Low

1 : 2 : 3 : 4 :

Front Rear Front Rear Front

Canadian RSX U.S. RSX Canadian Premium Type-S

Change Total Change Total U.S. vehicles Canadian vehicles

Automatic trans- mission fluid Windshield washer reservoir

1

2, 3, 4

1, 2, 3

4

The tires on your car meet all U.S. Federal Safety Requirements. All tires are also graded for treadwear, traction, and temperature perform- ance according to Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. The following explains these gradings.

Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between the tread shoulder and the maximum section width. For example:

All passenger vehicle tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition to these grades.

The treadwear grade is a compara- tive rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one- half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual condi- tions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tires ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.

Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Technical Information

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A

DOT Quality Grades

Treadwear Traction AA, A, B, C

222

The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tires resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance, which all passenger vehicle tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not over- loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla- tion, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Technical Information

Temperature A, B, C

223

Rim diameter in inches.

Load index (a numerical code associated with the maximum load the tire can carry).

Speed symbol (an alphabetical code indicating the maximum speed rating).

Tire Identification Number (TIN) is a group of numbers and letters that look like the following example TIN.

This indicates that the tire meets all requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Manufacturers identification mark.

Tire type code.

Date of manufacture.The tires that came on your vehicle have a number of markings. Those you should be aware of are described below.

Whenever tires are replaced, they should be replaced with tires of the same size. Following is an example of tire size with an explanation of what each component means.

Vehicle type (P indicates passenger vehicle).

Tire width in millimeters.

Aspect ratio (the tires section height as a percentage of its width).

Tire construction code (R indicates radial).

P

225

55

R

94

V

16

DOT

B97R

FW6X

2202

Tire Labeling

Technical Information

Tire Identif ication Number

Tire Size

224

DOT B97R FW6X 2202

P225/55R16 94V

The burning of gasoline in your vehicles engine produces several by- products. Some of these are carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline evaporating from the tank also produces hydrocarbons. Con- trolling the production of NOx, CO, and HC is important to the environ- ment. Under certain conditions of sunlight and climate, NOx and HC react to form photochemical smog. Carbon monoxide does not contri- bute to smog creation, but it is a poisonous gas.

In Canada, Acura vehicles comply with the Canadian emission requirements, as specified in an agreement with Environment Canada, at the time they are manufactured.

Your vehicle has a Positive Crankcase Ventilation System. This keeps gasses that build up in the engines crankcase from going into the atmosphere. The Positive Crank- case Ventilation valve routes them from the crankcase back to the intake manifold. They are then drawn into the engine and burned.

As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, an evaporative emissions control canister filled with charcoal adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this canister while the engine is off. After the engine is started and warmed up, the vapor is drawn into the engine and burned during driving.

The United States Clean Air Act sets standards for automobile emissions. It also requires that automobile manufacturers explain to owners how their emissions controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emissions controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page

.157

Emissions Controls

Technical Information

Crankcase Emissions Control System

Evaporative Emissions Control System

The Clean Air Act

225

The Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR) system captures the fuel vapors during refueling. The vapors are adsorbed in a canister filled with activated carbon. While driving, the fuel vapors are drawn into the engine and burned off.

The exhaust emissions controls include three systems: PGM-FI, Ignition Timing Control, and Three Way Catalytic Converter. These three systems work together to control the engines combustion and minimize the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that comes out the tailpipe. The exhaust emissions control systems are separate from the crankcase and evaporative emissions control systems.

The PGM-FI System uses sequential multiport fuel injection. It has three subsystems: Air Intake, Engine Control, and Fuel Control. The Engine Control Module (ECM) or the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) uses various sensors to determine how much air is going into the engine. It then controls how much fuel to inject under all operat- ing conditions.

This system constantly adjusts the ignition timing, reducing the amount of HC, CO, and NOx produced.

The emissions control systems are designed and certified to work to- gether in reducing emissions to levels that comply with the Clean Air Act. To make sure the emissions remain low, you should use only new Genuine Acura replacement parts or their equivalent for repairs. Using lower quality parts may increase the emissions from your vehicle.

The emissions control systems are covered by warranties separate from the rest of your vehicle. Read your warranty manual for more informa- tion.

The three way catalytic converter is in the exhaust system. Through chemical reactions, it converts HC, CO, and NOx in the engines exhaust to carbon dioxide (CO ), nitrogen (N ), and water vapor.

2

2

Emissions Controls

Technical Information

Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery

Exhaust Emissions Controls

Replacement PartsPGM-FI System

Ignition Timing Control System

Three Way Catalytic Converter

226

The three way catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts, promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gasses without affecting the metals. The catalytic converter is referred to as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Acura part or its equivalent.

The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the chemical reactions to take place. It can set on fire any com- bustible materials that come near it. Park your vehicle away from high grass, dry leaves, or other flamma- bles.

A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can impair your engines per- formance. Follow these guidelines to protect your vehicles three way catalytic converter.

Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter ineffective.

Keep the engine tuned-up.

Have your vehicle diagnosed and repaired if it is misfiring, back- firing, stalling, or otherwise not running properly.

Three Way Catalytic Converter

Technical Information 227

THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER

If you take your vehicle for a state emissions test shortly after the battery has been disconnected or gone dead, it may not pass the test. This is because of certain readiness codes that must be set in the on- board diagnostics for the emissions systems. These codes are erased when the battery is disconnected, and set again only after several days of driving under a variety of conditions.

If the testing facility determines that the readiness codes are not set, you will be requested to return at a later date to complete the test. If you must get the vehicle re-tested within the next two or three days, you can condition the vehicle for re-testing by doing the following.

Make sure the gas tank is nearly, but not completely, full (around 3/4).

Make sure the vehicle has been parked with the engine off for 8 hours or more.

Make sure the ambient temperature is between 20 and 95F.

Without touching the accelerator pedal, start the engine, and let it idle for 20 seconds.

Keep the vehicle in Park (automatic transmission) or Neutral (manual transmission). Increase the engine speed to 2,000 rpm and hold it there until the temperature gauge rises to at least 1/4 of the scale (approximately 3 minutes).

State Emissions Testing

Technical Information

Testing of Readiness Codes

228

Select a nearby lightly traveled major highway where you can maintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph (80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20 minutes. Drive on the highway in D (A/T) or 5th (M/T). Do not use the cruise control. When traffic allows, drive for 90 seconds without moving the accelerator pedal. (Vehicle speed may vary slightly; this is okay.) If you cannot do this for a continuous 90 seconds because of traffic conditions, drive for at least 30 seconds, then repeat it two more times (for a total of 90 seconds).

Then drive in city/suburban traffic for at least 10 minutes. When traffic conditions allow, let the vehicle coast for several seconds without using the accelerator pedal or the brake pedal.

If the testing facility determines the readiness codes are still not set, see your Acura dealer.

State Emissions Testing

Technical Information 229

230

Customer Relations ................................Information . 232

....................Warranty Coverages . 233 Reporting Safety Defects

..........................(U.S. Vehicles) . 234 .....................Authorized Manuals . 236

Warranty and Customer Relations

Warranty and Customer Relations 231

Acura dealership personnel are trained professionals. They should be able to answer all your questions. If you encounter a problem that your dealership does not solve to your satisfaction, please discuss it with the dealerships management. The Service Manager or General Manager can help. Almost all problems are solved in this way.

If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealerships management, contact the Acura Customer Relations Office.

U.S. Owners:

In Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands:

Bella International Corp. C-1 Bechara St. Segarra Corner Puerto Nuevo, Puerto Rico 00920

Tel:(787) 620-7020

When you call or write, please give us this information:

Vehicle Identification Number (see page ) Name and address of the dealer who services your vehicle Date of purchase Mileage on your vehicle Your name, address, and tele- phone number A detailed description of the problem Name of the dealer who sold the vehicle to you

Canadian Owners:

218

Customer Relations Information

Warranty and Customer Relations232

CUSTOMER RELATIONS

RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTLE

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Acura Client Services Mail Stop 500-2N-7E 1919 Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90501-2746

Tel: (800) 382-2238

Honda Canada Inc. 715 Milner Avenue Toronto, ON M1B 2K8

Tel:1-888-9-ACURA-9 Fax:Toll-free 1-877-939-0909

Toronto (416) 287-4776

Your new Acura is covered by these warranties:

covers your new vehicle, except for the battery, emissions control systems and accessories, against defects in materials and workmanship.

these two warranties cover your vehicles emis- sions control systems. Time, mileage, and coverage are conditional. Please read the warranty manual for exact information.

this warranty gives up to 100 percent credit toward a replacement battery.

a seat belt that fails to function properly is covered for the useful life of the vehicle.

all exterior body panels are covered for rust-through from the inside for the specified time period with no mileage limit.

Acura accessories are covered under this warranty. Time and mileage limits depend on the type of accessory and other factors. Please read your warranty manual for details.

covers all Acura replacement parts against defects in materials and workmanship.

provides prorated coverage for a replacement battery purchased from an Acura dealer.

provides coverage for as long as the pur- chaser of the muffler owns the vehicle.

Restrictions and exclusions apply to all these warranties. Please read the 2004 Acura Warranty Information booklet that came with your vehicle for precise information on warranty coverages. Your Acuras original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty information is in a separate booklet.

Please refer to the 2004 Warranty Manual that came with your vehicle.

Warranty Coverages

Warranty and Customer Relations

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

New Vehicle Limited Warranty

Emissions Control Systems Defects Warranty and Emissions Performance Warranty

Original Equipment Battery Limited Warranty

Seat Belt Limited Warranty

Rust Perforation Limited Warranty

Accessory Limited Warranty

Replacement Parts Limited Warranty

Replacement Battery Limited Warranty

Replacement Muffler Lifetime Limited Warranty

233

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Acura Automobile Division, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

If NHTSA receives similar com- plaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Acura Automobile Division, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

Warranty and Customer Relations234

235

The publications shown below can be purchased from Helm Incorporated. You can order in any of three ways:

Detach and mail the order form on the right half of this page Call Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356 Go online at

If you are interested in other years or models, contact Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356

(credit card orders only)

Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners should contact their authorized Acura dealer.

Authorized Manuals

Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)

236

Price

Each

$69.00

$47.00

$44.00

$37.00

$12.00

$12.00

FREE

(NOTE: For Credit Card Holder Orders Only)

MINIMUM CREDIT CARD PURCHASE $10.00

Publication

Form Number

61S6M02

61S6M02EL

61S6M30

31S6M620

31S6M910

31S6MQ10

ACU-R

Form Description

2002 04 Acura RSX

Service Manual

2002 04 Acura RSX

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual

2002 04 Acura RSX

Body Repair Manual

2004 Acura RSX

Owners Manual

2004 Acura RSX

Maintenance Journal

2004 Acura RSX

Quick Start Guide

Order Form for Previous Years-

Indicate Year and Model Desired

ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-782-4356

OR

PUBLICATION NUMBER VEHICLE MODEL

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Total

Price

GRAND TOTAL

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TOTAL MATERIAL

$6.95

Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring obligation.

Monday-Friday 8:00 A.M. 6:00 P.M. EST

By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can pay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to Helm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.

Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring obligation.

Orders are mailed within 10 days. Please allow adequate time for delivery.

www. helminc. com

This manual covers maintenance and recommended procedures for repair to engine and chassis components. It is written for the journeyman mechanic, but is simple enough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under- stand.

This manual complements the Service Manual by providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit in your vehicle.

This manual describes the procedures involved in the replacement of damaged body parts.

Authorized Manuals

Service Manual:

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:

Body Repair Manual:

237

NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, and also the name of the person to whose attention the shipment should be sent. For purchases outside U.S.A. please write to the address shown below for a quotation.

P.O. BOX 07280DETROIT, MICHIGAN 482071-800-782-4356

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These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14 days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.

CONTINUED

....................................Accessories . 127 ACCESSORY (Ignition Key

.......................................Position) . 66 ..............Accessory Power Sockets . 85

....................Additives, Engine Oil . 165 .............................Airbag (SRS) . 10, 22

...Airbags, Additional Information . 22

...Additional Safety Precautions . 28 .............................Airbag Service . 28

How the Side Airbag Cutoff ......................Indicator Works . 27

..How the SRS Indicator Works . 26 How Your Front Airbags

.........................................Work . 22 ...How Your Side Airbags Work . 25

........................SRS Components . 22 ................Air Conditioning System . 88

.......................Air Pressure, Tires . 184 ......................................Antifreeze . 168

Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) ...............................Indicator . 51, 147

...................................Operation . 147 Anti-theft Steering Column

..............................................Lock . 65

..................................Audio System . 92 ...Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners . 20

.............Automatic Speed Control . 115 ..............Automatic Transmission . 139

..........................Capacity, Fluid . 220 ...............Checking Fluid Level . 169

.......................................Shifting . 139 .Shift Lever Position Indicator . 139

................Shift Lever Positions . 139 ....................Shift Lock Release . 144

Battery Charging System

...........................Indicator . 51, 205 ............................Jump Starting . 200

..............................Maintenance . 188 ............................Specifications . 221

..............................Before Driving . 119 ....................................Belts, Seat . 8, 19

...........................Beverage Holders . 85 ..................................Booster Seats . 42

Brakes ...........Anti-lock System (ABS) . 147

.............Break-in, New Linings . 121

....................Bulb Replacement . 174 ...........................................Fluid . 171

.................System Indicator . 51, 208 ........................Wear Indicators . 146

.............................Braking System . 146 .................Break-in, New Vehicle . 121

..Brightness Control, Instruments . 61 ........................Brights, Headlights . 60

Bulb Replacement ..........................Back-up Lights . 178

..............................Brake Lights . 178 ................Front Parking Lights . 177

.........Front Turn Signal Lights . 176 .................................Headlights . 174

.........High-mount Brake Light . 178

.........Rear Side Marker Lights . 178 ............................Specifications . 221

..............................Bulbs, Halogen . 174

Index

A

B

I

.................DANGER, Explanation of .ii ...................................Dashboard . 2, 48

................Daytime Running Lights . 60 Daytime Running Lights

.......................................Indicator . 53 .................................Dead Battery . 200

............Defects, Reporting Safety . 234 ..........................Defog and Defrost . 91

................Defogger, Rear Window . 61 ....................................Dimensions . 220

...............Dimming the Headlights . 60

...................Capacities Chart . 220, 221 .............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 45

...........................Cargo Area Cover . 76 ........................Cargo, . 129

Cassette Player ............................................Care . 100

.....................................Operation . 98 ..............CAUTION, Explanation of . ii

.........................................CD Care . 108 ...................................CD Changer . 101

............................................Care . 108 ...................................Operation . 101

CD Changer Error .............................Message . 110, 111

.......................CD Error Message . 109 ........................Certification Label . 218

...................................Chains, . 188 ....................Changing a Flat Tire . 193

Changing Oil ........................................How to . 165 ......................................When to . 159

...Charging System Indicator . 51, 205 ............Checklist, Before Driving . 134

.....................................Child Safety . 29 ..............................Booster Seats . 42

...................................Child Seats . 34 .....Important Safety Reminders . 29

..........................................Infants . 33 ..........................Larger Children . 41

.........................................LATCH . 37 ......................Risks with Airbags . 30

.............................Small Children . 34 .........................................Tethers . 40

.........Where Should a Child Sit? . 30 Child Seats

.........................................LATCH . 37 ...........................Lower Anchors . 37

..........Tether Anchorage Points . 40 ..............................................Clock . 113

.........................Clock, Setting the . 113 ...................................Clutch Fluid . 172

.....................Code, Audio System . 112 ........................CO in the Exhaust . 225

............Cold Weather, Starting in . 135 .......................Compact Spare . 192

...................Console Compartment . 86 ...............Consumer Information . 232

.............Controls, Instruments and . 47

Coolant ........................................Adding . 167

....................................Checking . 125 .........................Proper Solution . 167

...................Temperature Gauge . 57 Crankcase Emissions Control

........................................System . 225 ................Cruise Control Indicator . 52 ............Cruise Control Operation . 115

.....................................Cup Holders . 85 ..........Customer Relations Office . 232

how to carry

tires

tire

Index

C

D

II

CONTINUED

Dipstick ..........Automatic Transmission . 169

..................................Engine Oil . 125 ..........................Directional Signals . 60

........Disc Brake Wear Indicators . 146 .....................Disposal of Used Oil . 167

Doors ..............Locking and Unlocking . 67

......................Power Door Locks . 67 ..........DOT Tire Quality Grading . 222

Downshifting, 5-speed and 6-speed .............Manual Transmissions . 136

.....................................Drive Belts . 172 ...........Driver and Passenger Safety . 5

...........................................Driving . 133 ....................................Economy . 126

.....................................Fan, Interior . 90 Features, Comfort and

................................Convenience . 87 ....................Filling the Fuel Tank . 122

Filters ...............................................Oil . 165

.............Flashers, Hazard Warning . 61 ...................Flat Tire, Changing a . 193

Fluids ..........Automatic Transmission . 169

..........................................Brake . 171 .........................................Clutch . 172

..............Manual Transmission . 170 ..........................Power Steering . 173

..................Windshield Washer . 167 FM Stereo Radio

.....................................Reception . 93 ...........................Folding Rear Seat . 74 ..........................Four-way Flashers . 61

..............................Economy, Fuel . 126 Emergencies

............................Jump Starting . 200 .......................................Towing . 215

.........Hazard Warning Flashers . 61 ............Emergencies on the Road . 191 .............Battery, Jump Starting . 200

...........Brake System Indicator . 208 ................Changing a Flat Tire . 193

.....Charging System Indicator . 205 ..................Checking the Fuses . 211

.....Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 204 ...Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 206 ...Manually Closing Moonroof . 209

..................Overheated Engine . 202 ......................Emergency Flashers . 61

......................Emergency Towing . 215 .......................Emissions Controls . 225

.............Emissions Testing, State . 228 Engine

....Coolant Temperature Gauge . 57 .................................Drive Belts . 172

......Engine Speed Limiter . 137, 143 Malfunction Indicator

................................Lamp . 51, 206 ........Oil Pressure Indicator . 51, 204 ..............Oil, What Kind to Use . 164

...............................Overheating . 202 ............................Specifications . 220

.......................................Starting . 135 ...................Engine, . 135

.Evaporative Emissions Controls . 225 ...............................Exhaust Fumes . 45

Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat ........................................Belts by . 17

if it wont start

Index

F

E

III

............................Front Airbags . 10, 22 Front Seat

......................................Adjusting . 72 .........................................Heaters . 75 ...................................Airbags . 10, 22

.................................................Fuel . 121 ......................Fill Door and Cap . 122

...........................................Gauge . 57 ................Octane Requirement . 121

........................Reserve Indicator . 52 ........................Tank, Filling the . 122

.....................Fuses, Checking the . 211

...............Gas Mileage, Improving . 126 .........................................Gasoline . 121

...............Fuel Reserve Indicator . 52 ...........................................Gauge . 57

................Octane Requirement . 121 ........................Tank, Filling the . 122

................Gas Station Procedures . 122 Gauges

...Engine Coolant Temperature . 57 ...............................................Fuel . 57

Gearshift Lever Positions ..........Automatic Transmission . 139

5-speed and 6-speed Manual .......................Transmissions . 136

........................................Glove Box . 71

.............Halogen Headlight Bulbs . 174 ................................................Hatch . 68

.................................Opening the . 68 ............................Open Indicator . 52

..............Hazard Warning Flashers . 61 Headlights

........................................Aiming . 174 ............Daytime Running Lights . 60

..................High Beam Indicator . 52 ........................Reminder Beeper . 60

........Replacing Halogen Bulbs . 174 ...................................Turning on . 60

.....................................Heater, Seat . 75 .......................Heating and Cooling . 88

.............High Altitude, Starting at . 135 .................High-Low Beam Switch . 60 ..............High-mount Brake Light . 178

....................................Hood Latch . 173

.......................Hood, Opening the . 123 ..................................................Horn . 58

...........................Hydraulic Clutch . 172

...Identification Number, Vehicle . 218 Ignition

..............................................Keys . 63 ...........................................Switch . 65

............Timing Control System . 226 ........................Immobilizer System . 64

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

...............ABS (Anti-lock Brake) . 51 Brake (Parking and Brake

....................................System) . 51 ................Charging System . 51, 205

.............................Cruise Control . 52 ....................................Door-open . 52

DRL (Daytime Running ......................................Lights) . 53

...................................High Beam . 52 ........Key (Immobilizer System) . 53

......................................Low Fuel . 52 ................Low Oil Pressure . 51, 204

Index

G

H

I

IV

CONTINUED

...........................Side Airbag Off . 50 ...............................................SRS . 50

Turn Signal and Hazard ...................................Warning . 52

..............................Washer Level . 53 .........Indicators, Instrument Panel . 49

...............................Infant Restraint . 33 Infant Seats

.........................................LATCH . 37 ...........................Lower Anchors . 37

..........Tether Anchorage Points . 40 ...................Inflation, Proper Tire . 183

...................................Inside Mirror . 80 .............................Inspection, Tire . 185

........................Instrument Panel . 2, 49 ........Instrument Panel Brightness . 61

..........Instrument Panel Indicators . 50 .................................Interior Lights . 83

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

.................Jacking up the Vehicle . 195 .......................................Jack, Tire . 194

................................Jump Starting . 200

..................................................Keys . 63

.......................Label, Certification . 218 .................Lane Change, Signaling . 60

..................Lap/Shoulder Belts . 14, 19 ...........LATCH Anchorage System . 37

Lights ....................Bulb Replacement . 174

.....................................Load Limit . 130 ......LOCK (Ignition Key Position) . 65

Locks .......Anti-theft Steering Column . 65

............................Fuel Fill Door . 122 ....................................Glove Box . 71

............................................Hatch . 68 ..............Power Door and Hatch . 67

........................Low Coolant Level . 125 .........................Low Fuel Indicator . 52

...Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 51, 204 .................................Lower Anchor . 37

...Lower Gear, Downshifting to a . 136

Lubricant Specifications ..................................Chart . 220, 221

..............Luggage, . 129 .....Luggage Cover (Cargo Cover) . 76

..................................Maintenance . 155 ...Owner Maintenance Checks . 158

........................................Record . 161 ......................Required Indicator . 54

..........................................Safety . 156 .............................Schedule . 159-160

.Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 51, 206 ...................Manual Transmission . 136

...............Checking Fluid Level . 170 ................................Shifting the . 136

........Manual Transmission Fluid . 170 ...............................Meters, Gauges . 56

..........................Mirrors, Adjusting . 81 ...............Modifying Your Vehicle . 128

.........................................Moonroof . 80 ......................Closing Manually . 209

.....................................Operation . 80

Storing (Cargo)

Index

J

K

L M

V

...................Neutral Gear Position . 140 ..................New Vehicle Break-in . 121

.....................Normal Shift Speeds . 137 ...................NOTICE, Explanation of . i

...............Numbers, Identification . 218

...................Radiator Overheating . 202 ...............Radio/CD Sound System . 92

...........................Readiness Codes . 228 ..Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement . 178

............................Rear Seat Access . 73 ..........................Rear Seat, Folding . 74

............................Rear View Mirror . 80 .................Rear Window Defogger . 61

....................Rear Window Washer . 59 .......................Rear Window Wiper . 59

...............Reclining the Seat Backs . 72 .......Recommended Shift Speeds . 137

.......................Reminder Indicators . 49

.......................Remote Transmitter . 69 Replacement Information

..............Dust and Pollen Filter . 180 ................Engine Oil and Filter . 165

.................................Floor Mats . 180 ..........................................Fuses . 211

................................Light Bulbs . 174 ....................................Schedule . 159 ...................................Seat Belts . 180

...........................................Tires . 183 .............................Wiper Blades . 181

..............Panel Brightness Control . 61 ........................Park Gear Position . 140

...........................................Parking . 145 .................................Parking Brake . 82

Parking Brake and Brake .................System Indicator . 51, 208

........................Parking Lights . 60, 177 ..Parking Over Things that Burn . 145

............................Playing the Radio . 92 ..................................Playing a CD . 101

..................Playing a CD Changer . 101 .................................Playing a Tape . 98 .............................PGM-FI System . 226

..........................Power Door Locks . 67 .................Power Socket Locations . 85

..............................Power Windows . 78 .........Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts . 17 .........Protecting Adults and Teens . 11

...Additional Safety Precautions . 17 .....Advice for Pregnant Women . 17

........................Protecting Children . 29 .....................General Guidelines . 29

...........................Protecting Infants . 33 .............Protecting Small Children . 34

...Octane Requirement, Gasoline . 121 .........................................Odometer . 56

...............................Odometer, Trip . 56 Oil

........................Change, How to . 165 ......................Change, When to . 159 ......................Checking Engine . 125 ..............Pressure Indicator . 51, 204

Selecting Proper Viscosity ..............................Chart . 164, 165

...........ON (Ignition Key Position) . 66 Onboard Refueling Vapor

....................................Recovery . 226 ..............................Outside Mirrors . 81

....................Overheating, Engine . 202 .......Owner Maintenance Checks . 158

Index

N

O

P R

VI

CONTINUED

Replacing Seat Belts After a ............................................Crash . 21

...Reserve Tank, Engine Coolant . 167 ...............................Restraint, Child . 29

..................Reverse Gear Position . 140 ................................Rotation, Tire . 186

..................................Safety Belts . 8, 19 .........Safety Defects, Reporting . 234

.................................Safety Features . 7 .........................................Airbags . 10

.......................................Seat Belts . 8 .............Safety Labels, Location of . 46

...............................Safety Messages . ii .....................................Seat Belts . 8, 19

...............Additional Information . 19 Automatic Seat Belt

...............................Tensioners . 20 ................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 14, 19

........................Maintenance . 21, 180 Reminder Indicator and

................................Beeper . 19, 50 ...................System Components . 19

...............Use During Pregnancy . 17

...Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt . 14 ....................................Seat Heaters . 75

..................Seats, Adjusting the . 11, 72 ............................Security System . 114

...............................Serial Number . 218 ...........................Service Intervals . 159 ...........................Service Manual . 236

.........Service Station Procedures . 122 ..........................Setting the Clock . 113

.....Shift Lever Position Indicator . 139 ........................Shift Lock Release . 144

Shifting .The Automatic Transmission . 139

The 5-speed and 6-speed .........Manual Transmissions . 136

..............................Side Airbags . 10, 25 ....................Cutoff Indicator . 27, 50

...............................Signaling Turns . 60 .....................................Snow Tires . 187

..................................Sound System . 92 Spare Tire

......................................Inflating . 192 ............................Specifications . 221

....................Specifications Charts . 220 ................................Speed Control . 115

..........SRS, Additional Information . 22 ...Additional Safety Precautions . 28

.............................Airbag Service . 28 How the Side Airbag Cutoff

......................Indicator Works . 27 ..How the SRS Indicator Works . 26

How Your Front Airbags .........................................Work . 22

...How Your Side Airbags Work . 25 ........................SRS Components . 22

.............................SRS Indicator . 26, 50 ..............State Emissions Testing . 228

....START (Ignition Key Position) . 66 .......................Starting the Engine . 135

In Cold Weather at High ..................................Altitude . 135

................With a Dead Battery . 200 ........Steam Coming from Engine . 202

Steering Wheel ..................................Adjustment . 62

.............Anti-theft Column Lock . 65 .......................................Buttons . 116

.....................Stereo Sound System . 92 ....................Storing Your Vehicle . 190

Index

S

VII

Supplemental Restraint ................................System . 10, 22 ......................................Servicing . 28

.........................SRS Indicator . 26, 50 ...................System Components . 22

..................................Synthetic Oil . 165

Unexpected, Taking Care ..........................................of the . 191

....Uniform Tire Quality Grading . 222 ........................Unleaded Gasoline . 123

.......Used Oil, How to Dispose of . 167

.................Vehicle Capacity Load . 130 ......................Vehicle Dimensions . 220

....Vehicle Identification Number . 218

......Taillights, Changing Bulbs in . 178 Taking Care of the

...............................Unexpected . 191 ......................................Tape Player . 98

................Technical Descriptions . 217 ......DOT Tire Quality Grading . 222 .....Emissions Control Systems . 225

..........State Emissions Testing . 228 Three Way Catalytic

...............................Converter . 227 .................................Tire Labeling . 224

.......................Temperature Gauge . 57 ..........Temperature, Inside Sensor . 91

..............Tether Anchorage Points . 40 ............................Theft Protection . 112

..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 227 ..................Tilt the Steering Wheel . 62

..........................Time, Setting the . 113 ....................................Tire Chains . 188

.........Tire, How to Change a Flat . 193 ...............................................Tires . 183

..............................Air Pressure . 184 .........................Checking Wear . 185 ..........................Compact Spare . 192

......DOT Tire Quality Grading . 222 ......................................Inflation . 183

..................................Inspection . 185 ..............................Maintenance . 185

...................................Replacing . 186 ......................................Rotating . 186

...........................................Snow . 187 ............................Specifications . 221

................................Tire Chains . 188 ..........................Winter Driving . 187

...................Tools, Tire Changing . 193 Towing

.....................................A Trailer . 149 ................................Emergency . 215

....Equipment and Accessories . 151 .............................Weight Limit . 149 ...........................Traction Devices . 188

.............................Trailer Loading . 149 ......................Trailer Towing Tips . 149

Transmission Checking Fluid Level,

..............................Automatic . 169 Checking Fluid Level,

...................................Manual . 170 ...........................Fluid Selection . 170

..............Identification Number . 218 .............Shifting the Automatic . 139

..................Shifting the Manual . 136 .....................................Treadwear . 222 .......................................Trip Meter . 56

....................................Turn Signals . 60

Index

T

U

V

VIII

.............................Vehicle Storage . 190 .................................................VIN . 218

..................................Viscosity, Oil . 164

.............WARNING, Explanation of . ii .........Warning Labels, Location of . 46

..................Warranty Coverages . 233 Washer, Windshield

........Checking the Fluid Level . 167 .......................................Indicator . 53 .....................................Operation . 59

Wheels ...............Adjusting the Steering . 62 ............Alignment and Balance . 185

..........................Compact Spare . 192 ......................................Wrench . 194

Windows ..................Operating the Power . 78

...........................Rear, Defogger . 61 Windshield

.......................................Cleaning . 59 .....................................Defroster . 91

.......................................Washers . 59

Wipers, Windshield .......................Changing Blades . 181

.....................................Operation . 59 ....................................Worn Tires . 185

.....Wrecker, Emergency Towing . 215

: U.S. and Canada only

Index

W

IX

Service Information Summary

Gasoline:

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Recommended Engine Oil:

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Power Steering Fluid:

Brake Fluid:

Tire Pressure (measured cold):

13.2 US gal (50 )

33 psi (230 kPa , 2.3 kgf/cm )

31 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

1.6 US qt (1.5 )

4.2 US qt (4.0 )

4.8 US qt (4.5 )

SAE 5W-20 SAE 5W-30

Unleaded gasoline, pump octane number of 86 or higher.

Premium unleaded gasoline, pump octane number of 91 or higher.

API Premium grade detergent oil.

Oil change capacity (including filter):

Honda Manual Transmission Fluid preferred, or an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 motor oil as a temporary replacement (see page

).

Capacity (including differential):

Honda Power Steering Fluid preferred, or another brand of power steering fluid as a temporary replacement. Do not use ATF (see page ).

Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid as a temporary replacement (see page ).

Front:

Rear:

Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) preferred, or a DEXRON III ATF as a temporary replacement (see page

).

(All except Type S)

(Type S)

(All except Type-S)

(Type-S)

Except Type-S: Type-S:

169

170

173

171

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