Acura TL 2002 Sedan Owner's Manual PDF

2002 TL 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 Car at a Glance ...........................................................................................................................2

Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................5 Proper use and care of your car's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls ................................................................................................................. 55 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................. 115 How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 163 What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new car, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 177 The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 209 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your car to the dealer. Appearance Care.............................................................................................................................. 269 Tips on cleaning and protecting your car. Things to look for if your car ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 277 This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 305 ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 319 A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 325 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.

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.

This Owners Manual covers all models of the Acura 3.2 TL. You may find descriptions of equipment and features that are not on your particular model.

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

Owners Identif ication

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

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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 car 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 car according to the schedules given in this manual helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment. When your car 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.

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.

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.

Congratulations! Your selection of a 2002 Acura 3.2 TL was a wise investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure.

Introduction

WARNING:

i

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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.

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

preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of three signal words: , , or . These signal words mean:

such as Driver and Passenger Safety.

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

such as Important Safety Reminders or Important Safety Precautions.

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

on the car.

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

how to use this car correctly and safely.

A Few Words About Safety

Safety Messages

Safety Section

Safety Headings

Safety Labels

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.

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Your Car at a Glance

2

DIGITAL CLOCK

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

MIRROR CONTROLS

AUDIO SYSTEM

TRUNK RELEASE BUTTON

AIRBAGS

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM

POWER DOOR LOCKS

FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE HANDLE (P.165) (P.166) (P.180)

(P.9, 47) DRIVING POSITION MEMORY (P.96)

(P.79)

(P.100)

(P.94)

(P.85)

(P.129)

(P.116, 123)

(P.105)

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Your Car at a Glance

3

HEADLIGHTS/ TURN SIGNALS

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS

TILT ADJUSTMENT REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

HORNCRUISE CONTROL

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS

MOONROOF SWITCH

FOG LIGHTS

(P.69, 71) (P.72, 73)

(P.73)

(P.74)

(P.68)

(P.75)

(P.103)

(P.71)

(P.153)

TRACTION CONTROL/ VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST SYSTEM ON/OFF SWITCH (P.194, 197)

(P.70)

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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 your Supple- mental Restraint System. And it tells you how to properly restrain infants and children in your car.

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

.......................................Seat Belts . 8 ...........................................Airbags . 9

.....................Seats & Seat-Backs . 10 ..........................Head Restraints . 10

..................................Door Locks . 10 ........Pre-Drive Safety Checklist . 11

............................Protecting Adults . 12 .....1. Close and Lock the Doors . 12

...........2. Adjust the Front Seats . 13 ............3. Adjust the Seat-Backs . 14

...4. Adjust the Head Restraints . 15 5. Fasten and Position the Seat

.....................................Belts . 15 ....6. Adjust the Steering Wheel . 18

7. Maintain a Proper Sitting ................................Position . 18

.....Advice for Pregnant Women . 19 ...Additional Safety Precautions . 20

........................Protecting Children . 21 All Children Must Be

...............................Restrained . 21 Children Should Sit in the Back

...........................................Seat . 22 The Passengers Front Airbag

Poses Serious Risks ...........................to Children . 22

If You Must Drive with Several ...................................Children . 25

If a Child Requires Close ..................................Attention . 25

...Additional Safety Precautions . 25 General Guidelines for Using

...............................Child Seats . 26 .......................Protecting Infants . 30

.........Protecting Small Children . 33 .......Protecting Larger Children . 37

Using Child Seats with .....................................Tethers . 41

.............................Using LATCH . 42 Additional Information About Your

.................................Seat Belts . 44 ..Seat Belt System Components . 44

......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 44 Automatic Seat Belt

...............................Tensioners . 45 ...............Seat Belt Maintenance . 46

Additional Information About Your .....................................Airbags . 47

........................SRS Components . 47 How Your Front Airbags

.........................................Work . 47 ...How Your Side Airbags Work . 49

How the SRS Indicator Light .......................................Works . 50

How The Side Airbag Indicator ............................Light Works . 51 .............................Airbag Service . 52

...Additional Safety Precautions . 52 .............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 53

...................................Safety Labels . 54

Driver and Passenger Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

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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.

Excessive speed is a major factor in crash injuries and deaths. Generally, the higher the speed the greater the risk, but serious accidents can also occur at lower speeds. Never drive faster than is safe for current conditions, regardless of the maximum speed posted.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 car is equipped with airbags, make sure you and your passengers always wear your seat belts, and wear them properly. (See page .)

Children are safest when they are properly restrained in the back seat, not the front seat. A child who is too small for a seat belt must be properly restrained in a child safety seat. (See page .)

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 .)

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

.)9

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Important Safety Precautions

Always Wear Your Seat Belt

Be Aware of Airbag Hazards Control Your Speed

Keep Your Car in Safe Condition

Restrain All Children

Dont Drink and Drive

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Your car 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 crush zones that are designed to crumple and absorb energy during a crash; a collapsible steering column; and seat belt tensioners that automatically tighten the front seat belts in the event of a crash.

CONTINUED

Driver and Passenger Safety

Your Cars Safety Features

7

(5) (7)

(6)

(2)

(2)

(1)(3)(8)

(7)

(4)(9)

(10) (9)

(1) Safety Cage

(2) Crush Zones

(3) Seats & Seat-Backs

(4) Head Restraints

(5) Collapsible Steering Column

(6) Seat Belts

(7) Front Airbags

(8) Door Locks

(9) Side Airbags

(10) Seat Belt Tensioners

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

When properly worn, seat belts:

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

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

For your safety, and the safety of your passengers, your car is equipped with seat belts in all seating positions.

Your seat belt system also includes a light on the

instrument panel to remind you and your passengers to fasten your seat belts.

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 car has airbags.

These safety features are designed to reduce the severity of injuries in a crash. However, you and your passengers cant take full advantage of these safety features unless you remain sitting in a proper position and

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

Your Cars Safety Features

Seat Belts

Why Wear Seat Belts

always wear your seat belts properly.

8

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.

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CONTINUED

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

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

They are designed to supplement the seat belts.

Your car 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.

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.

Driver and Passenger Safety

Your Cars Safety Features

Airbags do not replace seat belts.

What you should do:

Airbags

9

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Keeping your doors locked reduces the chance of being thrown out of the car during a crash. It also helps prevent occupants from accidentally opening a door and falling out, and outsiders from unexpectedly opening your doors.

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

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

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

How you adjust your seats and seat- backs can also affect your safety. For example, sitting too close to the steering wheel or dashboard increases the risk of you or your passenger being injured by striking the inside of the car, or by an inflating airbag.

Reclining a seat-back too far reduces the seat belts effectiveness and increases the chance that the seats occupant will slide under the seat belt in a crash and be seriously injured.

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

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

Driver and Passenger Safety

Your Cars Safety Features

Door Locks

Head Restraints

Seats & Seat-Backs What you should do:Airbags offer no protection in rear impacts, rollovers, or minor frontal or side collisions.

Airbags can pose serious hazards.

What you should do:

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All adults, and children who have outgrown child safety seats, are wearing their seat belts and wearing them properly (see page

).

Any infant or small child is properly restrained in a child seat in the back seat (see page ).

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

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

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

adjusted (see page ).

All doors are closed and locked (see page ).

Front seat occupants are sitting upright and as far back as possible from the steering wheel and dashboard (see page ).

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

Seat-backs are upright (see page ).

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21

13

14

15

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Pre-Drive Safety Checklist

Your Cars Safety Features

11

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

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

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

See page for how to lock the doors.

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

Your car has a door monitor light on the instrument panel to indicate when a specific door is not tightly closed.

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

37

79

Driver and Passenger Safety

Protecting Adults

Introduction Close and Lock the Doors1.

12

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

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

See page for how to adjust the front seats.

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

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

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transport Canada recommend that drivers adjust the seat so the center of the chest is at least 10 inches away from the center of the steering wheel. Also make sure your front seat passenger moves the seat as far to the rear as possible.

88

Driver and Passenger Safety

Protecting Adults

Adjust the Front Seats2.

13

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.

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See page for how to adjust seat- backs.

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

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.

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. If you sit too close to the steering wheel, you could be injured if the front airbag inflates.

89

Driver and Passenger Safety

Protecting Adults

Adjust the Seat-Backs3.

14

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.

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

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

See page for how to adjust the head restraints.

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.

91

CONTINUED

Adjust the Head Restraints Fasten and Position the Seat Belts

4. 5.

Protecting Adults

Driver and Passenger Safety 15

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

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

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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 from the shoulder part, 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.

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

Protecting Adults

Driver and Passenger Safety16

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

Make sure all seat belts are properly positioned before driving.

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

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.

Anyone using a seat belt that is not working properly can be seriously injured or killed. Have your Acura dealer check the belt as soon as possible.

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

44

Protecting Adults

Driver and Passenger Safety

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.

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Adjust the steering wheel, if needed, so that the wheel points toward your chest, not toward your face.

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

See page for how to adjust the steering wheel.

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 car 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 by striking interior parts of the car, or by being struck by an inflating front airbag. Being struck by an inflating side airbag can result in possibly serious injuries.

75

Adjust the Steering Wheel Maintain a Proper Sitting Position

6. 7.

Protecting Adults

Driver and Passenger Safety18

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

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

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Because protecting the mother is the best way to protect her unborn child, a pregnant woman should always wear a seat belt whenever she drives or rides in a car.

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

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

Remember to keep the lap portion of the belt as low as possible across your hips.

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

Advice for Pregnant Women

Protecting Adults

Driver and Passenger Safety 19

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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 severely compromise the protective capability of the seat belt and increase the chance of serious injury in a crash.

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

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

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

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

Additional Safety Precautions Two people should never use the same seat belt.

Do not put any accessories on seat belts.

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

Do not attach hard objects on or near a front door.

Keep your hands and arms away from the airbag covers.Do not attach or place objects on

the front airbag covers.

Protecting Adults

Driver and Passenger Safety20

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

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

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.

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

(See page .)

(See page .)

26

37

properly

All Children Must Be Restrained

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

Any child who is too small to wear a seat belt should be properly restrained in a child seat.

A larger child should always be restrained with a seat belt.

21

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.

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Front airbags have been designed to help protect adults in a moderate to severe frontal collision. To do this, the passengers front airbag is quite large, and it inflates with tremendous speed.

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

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

If you are not wearing a seat belt in a crush, you could be thrown forward into the dashboard and crush the child. If you are wearing a seat belt, the child can be torn from your arms during a crush. For example, if your car crushes into a parked vehicle at 30 mph (48 km/h), a 20-lb (9 kg) infant will become a 600-lb (275 kg) force, and you will not be able to hold on.

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

The Passengers Front Airbag Poses Serious Risks to Children

Children Should Sit in the Back Seat

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Precautions to Parents Never hold an infant or child on your lap.

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

22

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CONTINUED

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 a small child.

Whenever possible, larger children should sit in the back seat, properly restrained with a seat belt. (See page for important information about protecting larger children.)

37

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

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

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

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

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

U.S. Models Canadian Models

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety24

00/12/25 13:56:56 31S0K630_027

Using this feature will prevent children from opening the doors and accidentally falling out (see page ).

Using this feature will prevent children from playing with the windows, which could expose them to hazards or distract the driver (see page ).

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

Placing a child in the front seat exposes the child to hazards from the passengers front airbag, 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.

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

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

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

).

Your car has three seating positions in the back seat where children can be properly restrained.

If you ever have to carry more than three children in your car:

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13

18

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100

CONTINUED

Additional Safety PrecautionsIf a Child Requires Close Attention

If You Must Drive with Several Children Use childproof door locks to

prevent children from opening the doors.

Use the main power window switch to prevent children from opening the rear windows.

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety 25

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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. And children left alone with the key in the ignition can accidentally set the vehicle in motion, possibly injuring themselves or others.

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

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

The child seat should meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS 213) or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 (CMVSS 213). Look for the manufacturers statement of compliance on the box and seat.

Children who play in cars can accidentally get trapped inside the trunk. Teach your children not to play in or around cars. Know how to operate the emergency trunk opener (U.S. models only) and decide if your children should be shown how to use this feature (see page ).

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

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Do not leave children alone in your vehicle.

Selecting a Child Seat

The child seat should meet safety standards.

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

Keep car keys and remote transmitters out of the reach of children.

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Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

General Guidelines for Using Child Seats

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CONTINUED

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

However, Acura is confident that one or more child seat models can fit and be properly installed in all recommended seating positions in your car.

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

A child who is too large for a rear-facing child seat, and who can sit up without support, should be restrained in a forward- facing child seat. See page for additional information on protecting small children.

Children up to about one year old should be restrained in a rear-facing, reclining child seat. Only a rear-facing seat provides the proper support to protect an infants head, neck, and back. See page

for additional information on protecting infants. 30

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Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

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

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

Infants:

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2.

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

This page briefly summarizes Acuras recommendations on where to place rear-facing and forward-facing child seats in your car.

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

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

Never in the front seat, due to the front airbag hazard.

Not recommended, due to the front airbag hazard. If a small child must ride in front, move the vehicle seat to the rear- most position and secure a front- facing child seat with the seat belt (see page ).

Recommended positions. Properly secure a rear-facing child seat (see page ).

Recommended positions. Properly secure a front- facing child seat (see page ).

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Placing a Child Seat Front Passengers Seat Infants:

Small children:

Back Seats Infants:

Small children:

Airbags Pose Serious Risks to Children

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

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

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 thrown out of the seat in a crash and be seriously injured.

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 in the desired seating position.

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

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

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

All child seats are designed to be secured to the car with the lap part of a lap/shoulder belt. Some child seats can be secured to the vehicles LATCH anchorage system. A child whose seat is not properly secured to the car can be endangered in a crash. See pages , and for instructions on how to properly secure child seats in this car.

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Installing a Child Seat

Storing a Child Seat

Secure the child in the child seat.

Make sure the child seat is firmly secured.

Properly secure the child seat to the car.

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Only a rear-facing child seat provides proper support for a babys head, neck, and back. Infants up to about one year of age must be restrained in a rear-facing child seat.

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

We recommend that an infant be restrained in a rear-facing child seat until the infant reaches the seat makers weight or height limit and is able to sit up without support.

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

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

Protecting Infants

Child Seat Type

Rear-Facing Child Seat Placement

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

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

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety30

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.

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CONTINUED

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

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

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

When properly installed, a rear- facing child seat may prevent the driver or a front-seat passenger from moving the seat as far back as recommended (see page ). Or it may prevent them from locking the seat-back in the desired upright position (see page ).

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

If you have a child seat designed to attach to the vehicles LATCH anchorage system, follow the instructions on page .

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Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

Rear-Facing Child Seat Installation

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

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 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 (you might hear a clicking noise as the belt retracts).

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.

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For proper protection, an infant must ride in a reclined, or semi-reclined position. To determine the proper reclining angle, check with the babys doctor or follow the seat makers recommendations.

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

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 who can sit up without support, and who fits within the child seat makers weight and height limits, should be restrained in a forward-facing, upright child seat.

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

CONTINUED

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

Rear-Facing Child Seat Installation Tips

Child Seat Type

Protecting Small Children

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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 car, and the child is properly strapped in the 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.

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

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 cause very serious or fatal injuries. If a small child must be closely watched, we recommend that another adult sit in the back seat with the child.

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

Child Seat Placement

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

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Improperly placing a forward- facing child seat in the front seat can result in serious injury or death if the front airbags inflate.

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.

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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 (you might hear a clicking noise as the belt retracts).

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.

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

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

If you have a child seat designed to attach to the vehicles LATCH anchorage system, follow the instructions on page .

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3.

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CONTINUED

Child Seat Installation

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety 35

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

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

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

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CONTINUED

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

If a child is too short for the shoulder part of the belt to properly fit, we recommend that the child use a booster seat until the child is tall enough to use the seat belt without a booster.

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 the front seat.

To determine if a lap/shoulder belt properly fits a child, have the child put on the seat belt. Follow the instructions on page . Then check how the belt fits.

If the shoulder part of the belt rests over the childs collarbone and against the center of the chest, as shown, the child is large enough to wear the seat belt.

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Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

Protecting Larger Children Checking Seat Belt Fit

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

If a larger child must sit in front, make sure the child moves the seat as far back as possible and wears the seat belt properly.

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However, if the belt touches or crosses the childs neck, the child needs to use a booster seat.

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.

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

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

If a child needs a booster seat, we recommend choosing a style that allows the child to use the lap/ shoulder belt directly, without a shield, as shown.

Whichever style you select, follow the booster seat makers instructions.

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

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.

Do not put any accessories on a seat belt.

Two children should never use the same seat belt.

Using a Booster Seat

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CONTINUED

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

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

In addition, the passengers front airbag poses serious risks to children. If the seat is too far forward, or the childs head is thrown forward during a collision, or the child is unrestrained or out of position, an inflating front airbag can kill or seriously injure the child.

The side airbag also poses risks. If any part of a larger childs body is in the path of a deploying 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.

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

When Can a Larger Child Sit in Front

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

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

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

Move the vehicle seat to the rear- most position.

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

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

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 over the hips, chest, and shoulder (see pages and ). If the seat belt does not fit properly, the child should not sit in the front.

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Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

MaturityPhysical Size

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Your car has three tether anchorage points under the rear window for securing a tether-style child seat to the car.

Since a tether can provide additional security, we recommend using a tether whenever one is required or available.

The tether anchorage points are located under plastic covers. Pivot the cover backward 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.

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

Using Child Seats with Tethers

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

The exact location of each lower anchor is marked with a small circle above the lower anchor point.

To install a LATCH-compatible child seat:

Move the seat belt buckle or center seat belt away from the lower anchor.

Make sure there are no foreign objects around the anchor. Foreign objects could get in the way of a secure connection between the child seat and the anchor.

Put the child seat in the rear left or right vehicle seat and attach the child seat to the lower anchor according to the child seat makers instructions.

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Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety

Using LATCH

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Rigid typeLOWER ANCHORS

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Follow the child seat makers instructions for any additional advice on adjusting or tightening the fit.

Attach the tether strap hook to the tether anchorage point and tighten the strap according to the child seat makers instructions.

Push and pull the child seat forward and from side to side to verify that it is secure enough to stay upright during normal driving maneuvers.

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Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety 43

Flexible type

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This seat belt has a single belt that goes over your shoulder, across your chest and across your hips.

To unlock the belt, push the red PRESS button on the buckle.

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

Guide the belt across your body to the door pillar. After exiting the car, be sure the belt is out of the way and will not get closed in the door.

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

The seat belt system also includes a light on the

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

All seat belts have an emergency locking retractor. In normal driving, the retractor lets you move freely in your seat while it keeps some tension on the belt. During a collision or sudden stop, the retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body.

The seat belts in all seating positions except the drivers have an additional locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat. (See pages and for instructions on how to secure child seats with this type of seat belt.)

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt

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

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

See page for instructions on how to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly.

The tensioners are designed to activate primarily in frontal collisions. The tensioners are independent of the airbag system, so they can be activated during a collision that

might not cause the airbags to deploy. In this case, the airbags would not be needed but the additional seat belt tension can be helpful.

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

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

The SRS indicator light will come on if there is a

problem with your automatic seat belt tensioners (see page ).

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners

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

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

Acura provides a lifetime warranty on seat belts. Acura will repair or replace any seat belt component that fails to function properly during normal use. Please see your booklet for details.

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

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

For information on how to clean your seat belts, see page .273

Acura Warranty Information

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt Maintenance

U.S. Models

46

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.

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Your Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) includes:

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

Two front airbags. The 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.

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

If you ever have a moderate to severe frontal collision, the sensors will detect the vehicles rapid deceleration. If the rate of deceleration is high enough, the control unit will instantly inflate the front airbags.

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

Sensors that can detect a moderate to severe frontal collision.

Automatic seat belt tensioners (see page ).45

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CONTINUED

SRS Components How Your Front Airbags Work

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Airbags

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

After a crash, you may see what looks like smoke. This is actually powder from the airbags surface. Although the powder is not harmful, people with respiratory problems may experience some temporary discomfort. If this occurs, get out of the car as soon as it is safe to do so.

For additional information on how your airbags work, see the booklet titled

that came with your owners manual.

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

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

After inflating, the front airbags immediately deflate, so they wont interfere with the drivers visibility, or the ability to steer or operate other controls.

For additional information on how your airbags work, ask your dealer for a copy of the booklet titled

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

SRS: What You Need to Know About Airbags

SRS: What You Need to Know About Airbags.

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Airbags

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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.

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

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.

How Your Side Airbags Work

Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Airbags

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

If the light stays on after the engine starts.

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

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

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

The purpose of the SRS indicator light is to alert

you to a potential problem with your front airbags. This light will also alert you to a potential problem with your automatic seat belt tensioners (page ); or your side airbags or passengers side airbag automatic cutoff system (page ).

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

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How the SRS Indicator Light Works

Additional Information About Your Airbags

Driver and Passenger Safety50

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

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

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This light alerts you that the passengers side airbag

has been automatically shut off.

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

Although Acura does not encourage children to ride in the front seat, 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 small-statured adult leans sideways, or larger adult slouches and leans sideways into the deployment path of the side airbag, the system may also shut off the side airbag.

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

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

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Driver and Passenger Safety

Additional Information About Your Airbags

How The Side Airbag Off Indicator Light Works

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

Together, airbags and seat belts provide the best protection.

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

See page for further information and precautions relating to your airbags.

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

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

Any airbag that has deployed must be replaced along with the control unit and other related parts. 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 car to an authorized Acura dealer as soon as possible. If you ignore this indication, the airbags might not inflate when you need them.

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Additional Information About Your Airbags

Airbag Service Additional Safety Precautions Do not attempt to deactivate your airbags.

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

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

Do not expose the front seat-backs to water.

Your airbags ever inflate.

The SRS indicator light alerts you to a problem.

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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.

Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks whenever:

With the trunk lid open, air flow can pull exhaust gas into your cars interior and create a hazardous condition. If you must drive with the trunk lid open, open all the windows and set the climate control system as shown below.

If you must sit in your parked car, even in an unconfined area, with the engine running, adjust the climate control system as follows:

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

The car is raised for an oil change. You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust. The car was in an accident that may have damaged the underside. Select the Fresh Air mode.

Select the mode. Set the fan speed to high. Set the temperature control to a comfortable setting.

1. 2. 3. 4.

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Driver and Passenger Safety 53

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.

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

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

U.S. models only

U.S. models

Canadian models

Safety Labels

Driver and Passenger Safety54

HOOD RADIATOR CAP

SUN VISOR

DASHBOARD

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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.

...........................Control Locations . 56 ...............................Indicator Lights . 57

.............................................Gauges . 64 ...............................Speedometer . 64

.................................Tachometer . 64 .....................................Odometer . 65 ...................................Trip Meter . 65

Outside Temperature ...................................Indicator . 66

...................Temperature Gauge . 66 ..................................Fuel Gauge . 66

Maintenance Required ...................................Indicator . 67

Controls Near the Steering .......................................Wheel . 68

...................................Headlights . 69

...................................Fog Lights . 70 Automatic Lighting Off

.....................................Feature . 70 ............Daytime Running Lights . 70

....Instrument Panel Brightness . 71 ................................Turn Signals . 71

.....................Windshield Wipers . 72 ..................Windshield Washers . 73

..........................Hazard Warning . 73 .............Rear Window Defogger . 74

......Steering Wheel Adjustment . 75 ...............................Keys and Locks . 76

..............................................Keys . 76 ....................Immobilizer System . 77

............................Ignition Switch . 78 ......................Power Door Locks . 79

...................Remote Transmitter . 81 ..............Childproof Door Locks . 84

...........................................Trunk . 85 ........Emergency Trunk Opener . 86

....................................Glove Box . 87 ............................Seat Adjustments . 88

Drivers Seat Full Power ............................Adjustments . 88

...........Drivers Lumbar Support . 90

Front Passengers Seat ............................Adjustments . 90 ..........................Head Restraints . 91

........................................Armrest . 92 .............................................Mirrors . 94

....Adjusting the Power Mirrors . 94 Driving Position Memory

..........................................System . 96 ....................................Seat Heaters . 99

............................Power Windows . 100 .......................................Moonroof . 103

...............................Parking Brake . 104 ..................................Digital Clock . 105

.................Console Compartment . 106 ........................................Coin Box . 106

Armrest Storage ..........................Compartments . 107 ...........................Beverage Holder . 108

........................................Sun Visor . 109 ................................Vanity Mirror . 109

........................Sunglasses Holder . 110 ............Accessory Power Sockets . 110

...............................Interior Lights . 111 ..................................Storage Tray . 112

Instruments and Controls

Instruments and Controls 55

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Control Locations

Instruments and Controls56

POWER DOOR LOCKS

POWER WINDOW SWITCHES

TRUNK RELEASE BUTTON

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

MIRROR CONTROLS

AUDIO SYSTEM

FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE HANDLE

CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM

DIGITAL CLOCK

(P.166)(P.165)

DRIVING POSITION MEMORY (P.96)

(P.79)

(P.100)

(P.85)

(P.94) (P.105)

(P.116, 123)

(P.129)

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

Indicator Lights

Instruments and Controls

Premium model

57

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM INDICATOR

DOOR AND TRUNK OPEN MONITOR

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR

IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM INDICATOR

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

LOW FUEL INDICATOR

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT

BRAKE LAMP INDICATOR PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

(P.293)

(P.59, 291)

(P.59, 292)

(P.61)

(P.62)

(P.63)

(P.59)

(P.63) (P.59)

(P.60)

(P.60)

(P.63)

(P.60)

(P.63)

(P.62)

SIDE AIRBAG OFF INDICATOR

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

Indicator Lights

Instruments and Controls

Type S

58

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

DOOR AND TRUNK OPEN MONITOR

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR

IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM INDICATOR

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

LOW FUEL INDICATOR

SEAT BELT REMINDER LIGHT

BRAKE LAMP INDICATOR PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

(P.293)

(P.59, 291)

(P.59, 292)

(P.61)

(P.62)

(P.63)

(P.59)

(P.63) (P.59)

(P.60)

(P.60)

(P.63)

(P.60) (P.62)

(P.62) HIGH BEAM INDICATOR

VSA ACTIVATION INDICATOR

VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST SYSTEM INDICATOR

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR (P.63)

SIDE AIRBAG OFF INDICATOR

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

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

See page .

If you do not fasten your seat belt, the beeper will stop after a few seconds but the light stays on until you do. Both the light and the beeper stay off if you fasten your seat belt before turning on the ignition.

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). It is a reminder to you and your passengers to protect yourselves by fastening the seat belts. A beeper also sounds if you have not fastened your seat belt.

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

This light has two functions:

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

If the indicator remains lit after you have fully released the parking brake while the engine is running, or if it comes on while driving, it can indicate a problem in the brake system. For complete information, see page .

1.

2.

291

292

293

295

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

Charging System Indicator

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Seat Belt Reminder Light Parking Brake and Brake System Indicator

Indicator Lights

Instruments and Controls 59

CanadaU.S.

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

.

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

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

.

191

50

51

Indicator Lights

Instruments and Controls

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Indicator

Supplemental Restraint System Indicator

Side Airbag Off Indicator

60

U.S. Canada

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This indicator has three functions:

It comes on as a reminder that you have turned off the Traction Control System.

It flashes when the TCS is regulating wheelspin.

If it comes on and stays on when the Traction Control System is on, it indicates that there is a problem in the TCS.

This light also comes on when you turn the ignition ON (II) and goes off after the engine starts. See page

for more information on the TCS.

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

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

It comes on as a reminder that you have turned off the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system.

It flashes when VSA is active (see page ).

It comes on along with the VSA system indicator if there is a problem with the VSA system.

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

for more information on the VSA system.

This indicator has three functions:

1.

2.

3.

193

1.

2.

3.

196

196

196

On Type S On Type SOn Premium model

Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System Indicator

VSA Activation Indicator

Indicator Lights

Instruments and Controls 61

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Canadian models only This indicator lights when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II) with the headlight switch off and the parking brake set. It should go off if 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 light comes on with the high beam headlights. See page for information on the headlight controls.

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

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

The appropriate light comes on in this display if the trunk or any door is not closed tightly.

When you turn on the Hazard Warning switch, both turn signal lights blink. All turn signals on the outside of the car should flash.

All the lights in the monitor display come on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II).

260

69

70

Indicator Lights

Instruments and Controls

Daytime Running Lights Indicator

High Beam Indicator

Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Indicators

Door and Trunk Open Monitor

62

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

This indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). It will then go off if you have inserted a properly-coded ignition key. If it is not a 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 lights when you set the cruise control. See page for information on operating the cruise control.

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

If a brake light does not work, the indicator comes on

when you push the brake pedal with the ignition switch ON (II).

A burned out brake light is a hazard when drivers behind you cannot tell you are braking. Have your brake lights repaired right away.

76

234

77

Indicator Lights

Instruments and Controls

Washer Level IndicatorImmobilizer System Indicator

Cruise Control Indicator

Low Fuel Indicator

Brake Lamp Indicator

63

BRAKE LAMP

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U.S. Models

Canadian Models

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

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

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

Gauges

Instruments and Controls

Speedometer

Tachometer

64

TACHOMETER

SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE

TRIP METER

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR

OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE INDICATOR

ODOMETER

TEMPERATURE GAUGE

RESET BUTTON

SELECT BUTTON

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The odometer shows the total dis- tance your car 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.

To reset a trip meter, display it, and then press and hold the Reset button until the number resets to 0.0. Both trip meters will reset if the cars battery goes dead or is disconnected.

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

There are two trip meters: Trip A and Trip B. Switch between these displays by pressing the Select button repeatedly. Each trip meter works independently, so you can keep track of two different distances. When you turn the ignition switch ON (II), what you last selected is displayed.

Instruments and Controls

Gauges

Trip MeterOdometer

65

RESET BUTTON

SELECT BUTTON

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

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

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 red 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.

This indicator displays the outside temperature in Fahrenheit in U.S. models, and in Centigrade in Canadian models.

The temperature sensor is located in the front bumper. Therefore, the temperature reading can be affected by heat reflection from the road sur- face, engine heat, and the exhaust from the surrounding traffic. This can cause the temperature reading not to be correct when your speed is under 19 mph (30 km/h).

In certain weather conditions, temperature readings near freezing (32F, 0C) could mean that ice is forming on the road surface.

289

Instruments and Controls

Gauges

Fuel GaugeTemperature GaugeOutside Temperature Indicator

66

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Turn off the engine.

Press and hold the select and reset buttons on the instrument panel, then turn the ignition switch ON (II).

Between 6,000 miles (9,600 km) and 7,500 miles (12,000 km) this indicator will light for two seconds when you first turn the ignition switch ON (II), and then flash for ten seconds.

If you exceed 7,500 miles (12,000 km) without having the scheduled maintenance performed, this indicator will remain on as a constant reminder.

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.

For the first 6,000 miles (9,600 km) after the Maintenance Required Indicator is reset, it will come on for two seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II).

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

Hold the buttons for approximately ten seconds until the indicator resets.

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

1.

2.

3.

214 218

Gauges

Instruments and Controls

Maintenance Required Indicator

67

SELECT BUTTON

RESET BUTTON

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR

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

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

To use the horn, press the pad around the A logo.

The controls under the left air vent are for the fog lights, the moonroof, the cruise control and the VSA/TCS.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instruments and Controls68

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS

TILT ADJUSTMENT HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS

HORNCRUISE CONTROL

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER

HEADLIGHTS/ TURN SIGNALS

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS

TRACTION CONTROL/VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST SYSTEM ON/OFF SWITCH

MOONROOF SWITCH

FOG LIGHTS

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If you leave the lights on with the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0), you will hear a reminder chime when you open the drivers door.

To change between low beams and high beams, pull the turn signal lever until you hear a click, then let go. The blue high beam indicator will light (see page ).

To flash the high beams, pull the turn signal lever back lightly, then release it. The high beams will come on and go off.

The high beams will stay on for as long as you hold the lever back, no matter what position the headlight switch is in.

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

62

Headlights

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instruments and Controls 69

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The lights will turn on again when you unlock or open the drivers door. If you unlock the door, but do not open it within 15 seconds, the lights will go off. With the drivers door open, you will hear a lights-on reminder chime.

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.

The Automatic Lighting Off feature turns off the headlights, and all other exterior lights and the instrument panel lights within 15 seconds of removing the key from the ignition switch and closing the drivers door.

This feature activates if you leave the headlight switch in the or position, remove the key, open, then close the drivers door.

If you remove the key from the ignition switch with the headlight switch on, but do not open the door and get out, the lights will turn off after ten minutes.

Turn the fog lights on and off by pressing the button. The indicator in the button lights to show the fog lights are on.

You can use the fog lights only when the headlights are on low beam. They will go off when you turn the headlights off or onto high beam.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instruments and Controls

Daytime Running Lights (Canadian Models)

Automatic Lighting Off FeatureFog Lights

70

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

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

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

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instruments and Controls

Turn SignalsInstrument Panel Brightness

71

TURN SIGNAL LEVER

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The right lever controls the wind- shield wipers and washers. The rotary switch at the end of the lever has three positions:

INT: intermittent : low speed : high speed

You can vary how often the wipers sweep the windshield by turning the INT TIME ring next to the rotary switch.

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

In intermittent, the wipers operate every few seconds. The sweep interval will change slightly with speed; getting shorter as you drive faster. In low speed and high speed, the wipers run continuously.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instruments and Controls

Windshield Wipers

72

00/12/25 14:05:41 31S0K630_075

To clean the windshield, pull back on the wiper control lever. The washers spray until you release the lever. The wipers run at low speed while youre pulling the lever, then complete one more sweep of the windshield after you release it.

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

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 car is disabled.

CONTINUED

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instruments and Controls

Hazard WarningWindshield Washers

73

Cars without navigation system

00/12/25 14:05:51 31S0K630_076

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

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

The rear window defogger will clear fog, frost, and thin ice from the window. Push the defogger button to turn it on and off. The light in the button lights to show the defogger is on. If you do not turn it off, the defogger will shut itself off after about 15 minutes. It also shuts off when you turn off the ignition. You have to turn it on again when you restart the car.

Rear Window Defogger

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instruments and Controls74

Cars without navigation systemCars with navigation system Cars with navigation system

00/12/25 14:06:00 31S0K630_077

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

18

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.

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

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

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

1.

2.

3.

4.

Steering Wheel Adjustment

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Instruments and Controls 75

Adjusting the steering wheel position while driving may cause you to lose control of the car and be seriously injured in a crash.

Adjust the steering wheel only when the car is stopped.

00/12/25 14:06:12 31S0K630_078

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

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

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

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.

Your car also comes with two remote transmitters; see page for an explanation of the operation.

Your car comes with two master keys and a valet key. The master key fits all the locks on your car: Ignition Doors Glove box Trunk pass-through cover

You should have received a key number plate with your keys. You will need this key number if you ever have to get a lost key replaced. Keep the plate stored in a safe place. If you need to replace a key, use only an Acura-approved key blank.

The valet key works only in the ignition and the door locks. You can keep the trunk pass-through cover, and glove box locked when you leave your car and the valet key at a parking facility.

81

Keys

Remote Transmitter

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls76

VALET KEY (GREY)

MASTER KEY (BLACK)

KEY NUMBER PLATE

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

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

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

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

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

Use a plastic or leather key fob, not metal.

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

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

The Immobilizer System protects your car from theft. A properly- coded master or valet key must be used in the ignition switch for the engine to start. 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.

CONTINUED

Immobilizer System

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls 77

00/12/25 14:06:35 31S0K630_080

You can insert or remove the key only in this position. To switch from ACCESSORY to LOCK, you must push the key in slightly as you turn it. The shift lever must also be in Park. The anti-theft lock will lock the steering column when you remove the key.

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

side of the steering column. It has four positions: LOCK (0) ACCESSORY (I) ON (II) START (III)

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.

LOCK (0)Ignition Switch

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls78

00/12/25 14:06:45 31S0K630_081

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

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

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

The engine will not start if the Immobilizer System does not recognize the keys coding (see page

).

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

Each front door has a master door lock switch. Either switch locks and unlocks all doors. Push the switch down to lock all doors, and up to unlock them.

77

CONTINUED

ON (II)

ACCESSORY (I)

START (III)

Power Door Locks

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls 79

MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH

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If you forget and leave the key in the ignition switch, Lockout Prevention will not allow you to lock the drivers door. With the drivers door open and the key in the ignition, both master door lock switches are disabled. However, if the drivers door is not open, the master door lock switches are not disabled. Pushing the switch down on the open passengers door will lock all doors. If you try to lock an open drivers door by pushing in the lock tab, the tabs on all doors pop out. Pushing in the lock tab on the passengers door only locks that door.

Each door has a lock tab at the top of the door. When you push down the lock tab on the drivers door, all doors lock. Pulling up the lock tab on the drivers door only unlocks that door. The lock tab on each passengers door only locks and unlocks that door.

To lock any passengers door when getting out of the car, push the lock tab down and close the door. To lock the drivers door, remove the key from the ignition switch and push the lock tab down or push the master switch down, then close the door.

All doors can be locked from the outside by using the key in either front door. To unlock only the drivers door from the outside, insert the key in the drivers door lock, turn the key and release it. If you turn the key and hold it, all doors will unlock. All four doors will unlock when you unlock the passengers door with the key.

Lockout Prevention

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls80

00/12/25 14:07:03 31S0K630_083

You can lock and unlock your car with the remote transmitter. When you push the LOCK button, all doors lock. The parking lights, side marker lights, and taillights flash once.

If you unlock the doors with the remote transmitter, but do not open any of the doors within 30 seconds, the doors automatically relock and the security system sets.

You cannot lock or unlock the doors with the remote transmitter if any door is not fully closed or the key is in the ignition switch.

When you push the LOCK button a second time within 5 seconds after you have locked the doors, you will hear a beep to verify that the doors are locked and the security system has set.

When you push the UNLOCK button once, only the drivers door unlocks. The remaining doors unlock when you push the button a second time. The parking lights, side marker lights, taillights and license plate lights flash twice, each time you push the button.

The ceiling light (if the ceiling light switch is in the center position) will come on when you press the UNLOCK button. If you do not open any door, the light stays on for about 10 seconds, then fades out. If you relock the doors with the remote transmitter before 10 seconds have elapsed, the light will go off immediately.

To open the trunk, push the Trunk Release button for approximately one second.

You can open the trunk with the remote transmitter regardless of the position of the main switch in the glove box. The trunk will not open if the key is in the ignition switch.

CONTINUED

Remote Transmitter

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls 81

LED

UNLOCK BUTTON

LOCK BUTTON

PANIC BUTTON

TRUNK RELEASE BUTTON

00/12/25 14:07:16 31S0K630_084

To turn it back on, repeat this procedure. The LED will come on for one second to indicate the feature has been turned on.

If the seat and mirrors are already in the proper positions, you will hear three beeps when you open the door.

The driving position memory activated (Memory 1, Memory 2) is shown on the back of each transmitter. Make sure you store your desired driving position in the memory that is activated by the transmitter you normally carry.

You can turn off this driving position memory activation. Press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons at the same time. The LED in the remote transmitter will blink twice. Then release the buttons.

The remote transmitters will also activate the Driving Position Memory System (see page ). When you open the drivers door after unlocking it with the remote transmitter, you will hear a beep. The drivers seat and outside mirrors move to the positions stored in that memory location. You will hear two beeps when the movement is complete.

Panic mode allows you to remotely activate your cars security system to attract attention. When activated, the horn will sound, and the exterior lights will flash, for about 30 seconds. To activate panic mode, press and hold the PANIC button for about two seconds.

To cancel Panic mode before 30 seconds, press any button on the remote transmitter. You can also turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

Panic mode will not activate if the ignition switch is in the ON (II) position. 96

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls

Recalling a Memorized Driving Position

Panic Mode

82

With Memory 1 With Memory 2

00/12/25 14:07:28 31S0K630_085

Remove the old battery and note the polarity. Make sure the polarity of the new battery is the same ( side facing up), then insert it in the transmitter.

Snap the two halves of the transmitter case back together.

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.

When the remote transmitters battery begins to get weak, it may take several pushes on the button to lock or unlock the doors, and the LED will not light. Replace the battery as soon as possible.

Battery type: CR2025

CONTINUED

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls

Replacing the Battery

83

BATTERY

00/12/25 14:07:39 31S0K630_086

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.

Avoid severe shock to the trans- mitter, such as dropping or throwing it. Also, protect it from extreme hot or cold temperatures.

Clean the transmitter case with a soft cloth. Do not use strong cleaners or solvents that could harm the case. Immersing the transmitter in any liquid will harm the trans- mitter and cause it to not function properly.

If you lose a transmitter, you will need to have the replacement programmed to your cars system by your Acura dealer. Any other transmitters you have will also need to be reprogrammed.

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

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls

Transmitter Care Childproof Door Locks

84

LEVER

00/12/25 14:07:51 31S0K630_087

To close the trunk, press down on the trunk lid.

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

on page .

Reach through the trunk pass- through and pull the trunk release handle.

You can open the trunk in three ways:

Press the trunk release button on the drivers door.

Press the trunk release button on the remote transmitter.

173

53

CONTINUED

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Trunk

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls 85

TRUNK RELEASE HANDLETRUNK RELEASE BUTTON

00/12/25 14:08:03 31S0K630_088

As a safety feature, your car has a release lever on the trunk latch so the trunk can be opened from the inside.

To open the trunk, push the release lever to the left.

Lock the glove box with the master key. Make sure the trunk pass-through cover is locked (see page ).

Give the person the valet key.

Even if the trunk main switch is turned off, you can open the trunk with the remote transmitter.

To protect items in the trunk when you need to give the key to someone else:

Disable the trunk release button on the drivers door by turning off the trunk main switch in the glove box.

2.

3.

1.

93

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls

Emergency Trunk Opener

U.S. models only

86

EMERGENCY TRUNK OPENER

TRUNK MAIN SWITCH

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

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

Parents should decide if their children should be shown how to use this feature.

For more information about child safety, see pages and .25 26

Glove Box

Keys and Locks

Instruments and Controls 87

GLOVE BOX

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.

00/12/25 14:08:23 31S0K630_090

Pull up or push down on the front of the switch to move the seat bottoms front edge up or down. Pull up or push down on the rear of the switch to move the rear of the seat bottom up or down.

Push the horizontal switch forward or backward to move the seat forward or backward.

You can adjust the seat with the ignition switch in any position. Make all adjustments before you start driving.

The two power seat adjustment switches are on the outside edge of the seat bottom. The horizontal switch adjusts the seat bottom in several directions. The short vertical switch adjusts the seat-back angle.

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

1413

Drivers Seat Full Power Adjustments

Seat Adjustments

Instruments and Controls88

00/12/25 14:08:32 31S0K630_091

Pull the center of the horizontal switch up to raise the seat. Push it down to lower the seat.

Adjust the seat-back angle by pushing the rear switch in the direction you want to move.

The drivers seat includes a memory feature. Two seat positions can be stored in separate memories. You can then select a memorized position by pushing the appropriate memory button or using the remote transmitter. Refer to page for how to memorize and select seat positions.

96

Seat Adjustments

Instruments and Controls 89

00/12/25 14:08:39 31S0K630_092

The seat adjustment switches are on the outside edge of the seat bottom. Push the long horizontal switch forward or backward to move the seat bottom in that direction.

Adjust the seat-back angle by pushing the vertical switch in the direction you want to move.

Vary the lumbar support by moving the lever on the right side of the seat-back. Move the lever forward or backward to adjust the lumbar support through its full range.

Make all seat adjustments before you start driving.

You can adjust the seat with the ignition switch in any position.

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

13 14

Drivers Lumbar Support Front Passengers Seat Adjustments

Instruments and Controls

Seat Adjustments

90

00/12/25 14:08:51 31S0K630_093

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

The front head restraints help protect you and your passenger from whiplash and other injuries. They are most effective when you adjust them so the back of the occupants head rests against the center of the restraint. A taller person should adjust the restraint as high as possible. The head restraints adjust for height

and tilt. You need both hands to adjust the restraint. Do not attempt to adjust it while driving. To raise it, pull upward. To lower the restraint, push the release button sideways and push the restraint down. To adjust the tilt, pivot the head restraint to the desired position.

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

15

Seat Adjustments

Instruments and Controls

Head Restraints

91

RELEASE BUTTON

00/12/26 11:14:14 31S0K630_094

The rear seat armrest is located at the center of the rear seat. Pivot it down to use it.

Make sure the passengers hands or fingers are away from the armrest before moving it.

The lid of the console compartment can be used as an armrest by moving it forward and backward. Make sure the armrest is securely latched.

Instruments and Controls

Armrest

92

00/12/25 14:09:06 31S0K630_095

The pass-through cover can be opened from either side; it folds forward onto the center armrest. Open the cover by sliding the knob downward and pushing or pulling on the cover. To close the cover, swing it up and push firmly on the top. Make sure it latches properly.

Make sure all items in the trunk and those extending through the pass- through are secured.

For security, this cover can be locked and unlocked only with the master key. To lock the cover, insert the key and turn it clockwise.

Never drive with this cover open and the trunk lid open. See on page .53

Instruments and Controls

Trunk Pass-through Cover

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Armrest

93

KNOB

COVER

00/12/25 14:09:15 31S0K630_096

Adjust the outside mirrors with the adjustment switch on the drivers door armrest:

Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

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

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 can automatically darken to reduce glare. To turn on this feature, press the button on the bottom of the mirror. The AUTO indicator comes on as a reminder. When it is on, the mirror darkens when it senses the headlights of a vehicle behind you, then returns to normal visibility when the lights are gone. Press the button again to turn off this sensing.

1.

2.

Instruments and Controls

Mirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

94

SELECTOR SWITCH

SENSOR INDICATOR

AUTO BUTTON

00/12/26 11:14:23 31S0K630_097

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.

With the selector switch in the center (off) position, the passengers side mirror will pivot downward slightly when you shift the transmission into reverse. This will give you a better view of that side of the vehicle while parallel parking. The mirror returns to its original position when you take the transmission out of reverse.

Outside mirror positions can be stored in the driving position memory system (see page ).

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

3.

4.

96

Mirrors

Instruments and Controls 95

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

HEATED MIRROR BUTTON

00/12/25 14:09:34 31S0K630_098

Turn the ignition switch ON (II). You cannot add a new driving position in the memory unless the ignition switch is ON (II). You can recall a memorized position with the ignition switch in any position.

Store a driving position as explained in this section only when the car is parked.

Your Acura has a memory feature for the drivers seat and outside mirror positions.

Two seat and outside mirror positions, for different drivers or driving conditions, can be stored in separate memories. You select a memorized position by pushing the appropriate button or using the appropriate remote transmitter (Memory 1 or Memory 2).

Adjust the seat to a comfortable position (see page ). Adjust the outside mirrors for best visibility (see page ).

Press and release the MEMO button on the control panel. You will hear a beep. Immediately press and hold one of the memory buttons (1 or 2) until you hear two beeps. The indicator light in the memory button will come on. The current positions of the drivers seat and outside mirrors are now stored.

3.

1.

2. 88

94

Storing a Driving Position in Memory

Driving Position Memory System

Instruments and Controls96

MEMO BUTTON

00/12/25 14:09:46 31S0K630_099

Not pressing a memory button within 5 seconds.

You can select memorized positions as follows.

Make sure the parking brake is set and the shift lever is in Park.

Doing any of the following after pressing the MEMO button will cancel the storing procedure.

Readjusting the seat position.

Readjusting the outside mirror position.

Each memory button stores only one driving position. Storing a new position erases the previous setting stored in that buttons memory. If you want to add a new position while retaining the current one, use the other memory button.

All stored driving positions will be lost if your cars battery goes dead or is disconnected.

Press the desired memory button (1 or 2) until you hear a beep, then release the button.

The system will move the seat and outside mirrors to the memorized positions. The indicator light in the selected memory button will flash during movement. When the adjustments are complete, you will hear two beeps and the indicator light will remain on.

1.

2.

CONTINUED

Selecting a Memorized Position

Driving Position Memory System

Instruments and Controls 97

MEMORY BUTTONS

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To stop the systems automatic ad- justment;

If desired, you can use the adjustment switches to change the positions of the seat or outside mirrors after they are in their memorized position. If you change the memorized position, the indicator light in the memory button will go out. To keep this driving position for later use, you must store it in the driving position memory.

Press any button on the control panel: MEMO, 1 or 2. Push any of the adjustment switches for the seat. Shift out of Park. Adjust the outside mirrors.

Instruments and Controls

Driving Position Memory System

98

00/12/25 14:10:07 31S0K630_101

The HI or LO indicator lights and remains lit until you turn it off by pushing the opposite side of the switch lightly. The indicator will turn off.

In HI, the heater turns off when the seat gets warm, and turns back on after the seats temperature drops. It continues to cycle as long as you leave it set on HI. The HI indicator remains lit as a reminder that you have the heater on.

In LO, the heater runs continuously. It does not cycle with temperature changes.

Both front seats are equipped with seat heaters. The ignition switch must be ON (II) to use them. Push the front of the switch, HI, to rapidly heat up the seat. After the seat reaches a comfortable temperature, select LO by pushing the back of the switch. This will keep the seat warm.

Follow these precautions whenever you use the seat heaters:

Do not use the seat heaters, even on the LO setting, if the engine is left idling for an extended period. They can weaken the battery, causing hard starting.

Use the HI setting only to heat the seats quickly. Select the LO setting when the seats feel warm. The HI setting draws large amounts of current from the battery.

Because of the sensors for the side airbag system, there is no heater in the passengers seat-back.

Seat Heaters

Instruments and Controls 99

SEAT HEATERS

00/12/25 14:10:17 31S0K630_102

The drivers door armrest has a master power window control panel. To open any of the passengers win- dows, push down on the appropriate switch and hold it down until the window reaches the desired position. To close the window, pull back on the window switch. Release the switch when the window gets to the position you want.

Your cars windows are electrically- powered. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) to raise or lower any window.

Each door has a switch that controls its window. To open the window, push the switch down and hold it. Release the switch when you want the window to stop. Close the window by pulling back on the switch and holding it.

Power Windows

Instruments and Controls100

DRIVERS WINDOW SWITCH

MAIN 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.

00/12/25 14:10:25 31S0K630_103

The master control panel also con- tains these extra features:

The MAIN switch controls power to the passengerswindows. With this switch off, the passengerswindows cannot be raised or lowered. The MAIN switch does not affect the driv- ers window. Keep the MAIN switch off when you have children in the car so they do not injure themselves by operating the windows unintentional- ly. The lights inside the switches come on when you turn the parking lights or headlights on.

To open the drivers window fully, push the window switch firmly down, then release it. The window automatically goes down all the way. To stop the window from going all the way down, pull back on the window switch briefly.

To close the drivers window fully, pull back the window switch firmly, then release it. The window automatically goes all the way up. To stop the window from going all the way up, push down on the window switch briefly.

To open or close the drivers window partially, push down or pull back on the window switch lightly and hold it. The window will stop when you release the switch.

If the drivers window runs into any obstacle while it is closing automatically, it will stop, and then reverse direction. 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.

CONTINUED

Power Windows

Instruments and Controls

AUTO

Auto Reverse

101

00/12/25 14:10:35 31S0K630_104

The power window system has a key- off delay function. The windows will still operate for up to ten minutes after you turn off the ignition. Opening either front door cancels the delay function. You must turn the ignition switch ON (II) again before you can raise or lower the windows.

If your cars 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. You should do the following.

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

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

If the power windows do not operate properly after resetting, have your car checked by an Acura dealer.

1.

2.

Power Windows

Instruments and Controls102

00/12/25 14:10:43 31S0K630_105

The moonroof has a key-off delay. You can still open and close the moonroof for up to ten minutes after you turn off the ignition. The key-off delay cancels as soon as you open either front door. You must then turn the ignition ON (II) for the moonroof to operate.

To tilt up the back of the moonroof, press and hold the center button ( ). To close the moonroof, press and hold the top of the switch ( ). To open the moonroof, press and hold the bottom of the switch ( ). Release the switch when the moonroof gets to the desired position. Make sure everyones hands are away from the moonroof before opening or closing it.

The moonroof has two positions: it can be tilted up in the back for ventilation, or it can be slid back into the roof. Use the switch under the left dashboard vent to operate the moonroof. The ignition switch must be ON (II).

Instruments and Controls

Moonroof

103

MOONROOF SWITCH

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

Make sure all hands and fingers 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.

00/12/25 14:10:52 31S0K630_106

To apply the parking brake, push the parking brake pedal down with your foot. To release the parking brake, push on the pedal again. The parking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parking brake is fully released with the engine running. (see page .)59

Instruments and Controls

Parking Brake

104

PARKING BRAKE PEDAL

Driving the car with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles.

00/12/25 14:10:57 31S0K630_107

You can use R to quickly set the time to the nearest hour. If the displayed time is before the half hour, pressing R sets the clock back to the previous hour. If the displayed time is after the half hour, pressing R sets the clock forward to the beginning of the next hour. For example:

1:06 would RESET to 1:00. 1:52 would RESET to 2:00.

To set the clock:

Press and hold the H button until the hour advances to the desired time.

Press and hold the M button until the numbers advance to the desired time.

The digital clock displays the time with the ignition switch in any position.

1.

2.

Cars without Navigation System

Digital Clock

Instruments and Controls 105

RMH

00/12/25 14:11:08 31S0K630_108

The coin box is located under the audio system. To open the coin box, pull the bottom edge. Close it with a firm push.

To open the console compartment, pull up on the left lever and lift the lid.

To close, lower the lid and push it down until it latches.

You can put small items in the tray located in the console compartment lid. To use the tray, pull up on the right lever and lift up the armrest pad.

Console Compartment Coin Box

Console Compartment, Coin Box

Instruments and Controls106

CONSOLE COMPARTMENT

LEVER LEVER

COIN BOX

00/12/25 14:11:18 31S0K630_109

Small, lidded storage compartments are located in the armrest of the front passengers door, and in the armrests of both rear doors. To open a compartment, pivot the lid up.

To remove a storage compartment for emptying, open the lid, then carefully pull the compartment straight up and out of the armrest.

These storage compartments can also be used as ashtrays. Make sure you remove any flammable materials from the compartment before using it as an ashtray.

Armrest Storage Compartments

Instruments and Controls 107

00/12/25 14:11:25 31S0K630_110

The rear seat also has a beverage holder in the center armrest. To use it, pivot the armrest down.

To open the beverage holder, push on the button. The beverage holder lid is spring-loaded and will swing open. To close it, push either half of the lid closed.

Be careful when you are using the beverage holder. 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.

The beverage holder can be removed. To remove it, lift up the front of the holder by holding it at the middle. To reinstall it, put in the back of the holder, align the front tabs in the slots and push down the front of the holder.

Beverage Holder

Instruments and Controls108

00/12/25 14:11:34 31S0K630_111

To use the sun visor, pull it down. You can also use the sun visor at the side window. Remove the support rod from the clip and swing the sun visor toward the side window. In this position, the sun visor can be extended by sliding out the extension.

To use a vanity mirror on the back of the sun visor, pull up the cover.

The light beside the mirror comes on only when the headlight switch is in one of the on positions.

Make sure you put the sun visor back in place when you are getting into or out of the car. Do not use the sun visor extension over the rear view mirror.

Sun Visor Vanity Mirror

Sun Visor, Vanity Mirror

Instruments and Controls 109

00/12/25 14:11:44 31S0K630_112

Some larger styles of sunglasses may not fit in the holder.

To open the sunglasses holder, push on the front edge. It will unlatch and swing down. To close it, push it until it latches. Make sure the holder is closed while you are driving.

Your car has two accessory power sockets. One is located on the front panel next to the coin box, and the other is in the console compartment. To use an accessory power socket, the ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).

To open the socket on the front panel, pull the cover down.

You may also store small items in this holder. Make sure they are small enough to let the holder close and latch, and that they are not heavy enough to cause the holder to pop open while driving.

Sunglasses Holder Accessory Power Sockets

Sunglasses Holder, Accessory Power Sockets

Instruments and Controls110

Push

00/12/25 14:11:56 31S0K630_113

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 any door. The light fades out after all doors are closed. In the ON position, the ceiling light stays on continuously.

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

To use the socket in the console compartment, pull the cover up.

The ceiling light (with the switch in the center position) also comes on when you unlock the door with the remote transmitter (see page ).

They will not power an automotive type cigarette lighter element.

81

Ceiling Light

Accessory Power Sockets, Interior Lights

Instruments and Controls 111

OFF

ON

DOOR ACTIVATEDACCESSORY POWER SOCKET

COVER

00/12/25 14:12:06 31S0K630_114

The courtesy light in each front door comes on when the door is opened, and goes out when the door is closed.

Your car also has a courtesy light in the ignition switch. This light comes on when you open the drivers door. It remains on for several seconds after the door is closed.

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 storage tray is located above the audio system. Push on the center of the tray to get it to pop out. Then remove it by pulling it straight out.

Cars without Navigation System

Courtesy LightsSpotlights Storage Tray

Instruments and Controls

Interior Lights, Storage Tray

112

IGNITION SWITCH LIGHT

DOOR LIGHT STORAGE TRAY

00/12/25 14:12:18 31S0K630_115

You can put a writing pad, pen, and small items in the inner box in the storage tray. Lift the lid to use the tray.

To reinstall the storage tray into the dashboard, close the lid, then push the storage tray in until it latches.

Instruments and Controls

Storage Tray

113

00/12/25 14:12:23 31S0K630_116

114

...............Climate Control System . 116

.......Fully-automatic Operation . 118

.......Semi-automatic Operation . 119

.......Fully-automatic Operation . 123

.......Semi-automatic Operation . 124 Sunlight Sensor/

............Temperature Sensor . 128 ................................Audio System . 129

.................Operating the Radio . 130

.................Adjusting the Sound . 134 ............Audio System Lighting . 135

....................Radio Frequencies . 135 ........................Radio Reception . 135

Operating the Cassette .....................................Player . 137

............Tape Search Functions . 138 Caring for the Cassette

.....................................Player . 141 .....Operating the CD Changer . 142

.......Protecting Compact Discs . 148 CD Changer Error

.............................Indications . 149 ...........Remote Audio Controls . 150

.......................Theft Protection . 151

............................Security System . 152 ...............................Cruise Control . 153

Homelink Universal ................................Transceiver . 157

3.2 TL without Navigation System

3.2 TL with Navigation System

Comfort and Convenience Features

Comfort and Convenience Features 115

00/12/25 14:12:31 31S0K630_118

The automatic climate control system in your Acura picks the proper combination of air condi- tioning, heating, and ventilation to maintain the interior temperature you select. The system also adjusts the fan speed and air flow levels.

The direction of air flow from the vents in the center and each side of the dashboard, and in back of the center console is adjustable.

For the climate control system to provide heating and cooling, the engine must be running.

The climate control system draws air through the exterior vents at the bottom of the windshield. Keep these vents clear of leaves and other debris.

To adjust the air flow from each vent, move the tab in the center of each vent up-and-down and side-to-side.

The side and rear vents can be opened and closed with the dials.

Climate Control System

Comfort and Convenience Features116

CENTER VENTS DRIVERS-SIDE VENT

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Climate Control System

Comfort and Convenience Features 117

PASSENGERS-SIDE VENT

REAR VENTS DIAL

TABS

00/12/25 14:12:46 31S0K630_120

The system automatically selects the proper mix of conditioned and/or heated air that will, as quickly as possible, raise or lower the interior temperature from its current level to the set temperature.

To put the Automatic Climate Control in fully-automatic mode, press the AUTO button and set the fan control dial to AUTO, then set the desired temperature by turning the temperature control dial. You will see FULL AUTO in the systems display. The light in the

button also shows you which mode, Recirculation or Fresh Air, is selected.

When you set the temperature to its lower limit (60F/18C) or its upper limit (90F/32C), the system runs at 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.

Pressing the OFF button shuts the climate control 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.

Climate Control System

Comfort and Convenience Features

Fully-automatic Operation 3.2 TL without Navigation System

118

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

FAN CONTROL DIAL

OFF BUTTONAUTO BUTTON

FULL AUTO DISPLAY

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CONTINUED

You can manually select various functions of the Climate Control system when it is in FULL AUTO. All other features remain auto- matically controlled. Making any manual selection causes the word FULL to go out.

Press the A/C button to turn the air conditioning on and off. You will see A/C ON or A/C OFF in the display.

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

Climate Control System

Comfort and Convenience Features

Semi-automatic Operation

Air Conditioning (A/C) Button

119

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL

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You can manually select the fan speed by turning the fan control dial. When you turn the dial clockwise, the fan is taken out of automatic mode and starts to run at its lowest speed. Turning the dial fully clockwise increases the fans speed, which increases air flow.

This button controls the source of the air going into the system. When the indicator in this button is lit, air from the cars interior is sent through the system again (Recirculation mode). When the indicator is off, air is brought in from outside the car (Fresh Air mode). You can, for example, manually put the system in recirculation mode when driving through an area of smoke or fumes.

Use the MODE button to select the vents the air flows from. Some air will flow from the side vents and the dashboard corner vents in all modes. Each time you press the MODE button, the display shows the mode selected. Press the button four times to see all the modes.

Mode Button

Fan Control Dial

Recirculation Button

Climate Control System

Comfort and Convenience Features120

MODE BUTTON FAN CONTROL DIAL

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

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The main air flow is divided between the dashboard vents and the floor vents.

The main air flow is divided between the floor vents and de- froster vents at the base of the wind- shield.

The main air flow comes from the floor vents.

The main air flow comes from the dashboard vents.

CONTINUED

Climate Control System

Comfort and Convenience Features 121

00/12/25 14:13:22 31S0K630_124

The button directs the main air flow to the windshield for faster defrosting. It also overrides any MODE selection you may have made.

When you select , the A/C turns on automatically and the system selects Fresh Air mode. If the fan control dial is in AUTO, the fan speed increases automatically. If it is not in AUTO, manually increase the fan speed or set the dial to AUTO. You can increase air flow to the windshield by closing the side vents in the dashboard.

When you turn off by pressing the button again, the system returns to its former settings.

This button turns the rear window defogger on and off (see page ).74

Climate Control System

Comfort and Convenience Features

Rear Window Defogger Button

122

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON

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Pressing the OFF button shuts the climate control 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.

To put the Automatic Climate Control in fully-automatic mode, press the AUTO button. The indicator in the button will light. Then set the desired temperature by pressing either side of the TEMP button: to raise the temperature above the displayed value, or to lower the temperature. The light in the button also shows you which mode, Recirculation or Fresh Air, is selected.

The system automatically selects the proper mix of conditioned and/or heated air that will, as quickly as possible, raise or lower the interior temperature from its current level to the set temperature.

When you set the temperature to its lower limit (60F/18C) or its upper limit (90F/32C), the system runs at 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.

Fully-automatic Operation

Comfort and Convenience Features

Climate Control System

3.2 TL with Navigation System

123

OFF BUTTON

TEMPERATURE DISPLAY

AUTO BUTTON

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

TEMPERATURE BUTTON

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You can manually select various functions of the Climate Control system when it is in FULL AUTO. All other features remain automatically controlled. Some of these functions appear in the Navigation System display. Press the A/C button next to the display to show these functions. Making any manual selection causes the indicator in the AUTO button to go out.

Pressing ON or OFF in the display turns the air conditioning on and off. You will see A/C ON or A/C OFF activated in the display.

Semi-automatic Operation

A/C (Air Conditioning) On/Off Icons

Climate Control System

Comfort and Convenience Features124

A/C ON/OFF ICONS

A/C BUTTON

RECIRCULATION BUTTON TEMPERATURE BUTTON

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You can manually select the fan speed by pressing any of the fan control icons.

This button controls the source of the air going into the system. When the indicator in this button is lit, air from the cars interior is sent through the system again (Recirculation mode). When the indicator is off, air is brought in from outside the car (Fresh Air mode). You can, for example, manually put the system in recirculation mode when driving through an area of smoke or fumes.

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

CONTINUED

Climate Control System

Comfort and Convenience Features

Fan Control Icons

Recirculation Button

125

FAN CONTROL ICONS

MODE ICONS

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

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The main air flow comes from the dashboard vents.

The main air flow is divided between the dashboard vents and the floor vents.

The main air flow comes from the floor vents.

The main air flow is divided between the floor vents and de- froster vents at the base of the wind- shield.

Use the MODE icons to select the vents the air flows from. Some air will flow from the dashboard corner vents and the side vents in all modes.

Mode Icons

Comfort and Convenience Features

Climate Control System

126

00/12/25 14:14:10 31S0K630_129

The button directs the main air flow to the windshield for faster defrosting. It also overrides any MODE selection you may have made.

When you select , the A/C turns on automatically, the system selects Fresh Air mode, and the fan speed increases. You can increase air flow to the windshield by closing the side vents in the dashboard.

When you turn off by pressing the button again, the system returns to its former settings.

This button turns the rear window defogger on and off (see page ).74

Rear Window Defogger Button

Climate Control System

Comfort and Convenience Features 127

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON

DEFROST BUTTON

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The climate control system has two sensors. A sunlight sensor is located in the top of the dashboard and a temperature sensor is next to the steering column. Do not cover the sensors or spill any liquid on them.

Sunlight Sensor/Temperature Sensor

Climate Control System

Comfort and Convenience Features128

TEMPERATURE SENSORSUNLIGHT SENSOR

00/12/25 14:14:25 31S0K630_131

Your Acuras audio system provides clear reception on both AM and FM bands, while the preset buttons allow you to easily select your favorite stations.

The anti-theft feature will disable the system if it is disconnected from the cars battery. To get the system working again, you must enter a code number (see page ).

The cassette system features Dolby noise reduction, automatic sensing of chromium-dioxide (CrO ) tape, and autoreverse for continuous play.

The in-dash CD changer holds up to six discs. You operate the CD changer with the same controls used for the radio. See page for CD changer operation.

142

151

2

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.

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features

AM/FM/Cassette/CD Changer Audio System

129

00/12/25 14:14:35 31S0K630_132

The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. 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.

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features

Operating the Radio

130

SCAN BUTTON PRESET BUTTONS SEEK BUTTONS

PWR/VOL KNOB AM BUTTON

FM BUTTON

STEREO INDICATOR

TUNE KNOB

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To store a frequency:

Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store two frequencies with each Preset button.

Pick the Preset button you want for that station. Press the 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 on FM.

Once a stations frequency is stored, simply press and release the proper preset button to tune to 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. When the system is in the SCAN mode, SCAN shows in the display. The system will scan up the band for a station with a strong signal. When it finds one, it will stop and play that station for approximately five seconds. If you do nothing, the system will then scan for the next strong station and play that for five seconds. When it plays a station that you want to continue listening to, press the SCAN button again.

You can store the frequencies of your favorite radio stations in the six preset buttons. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two frequencies on the FM band.

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

You can use any of four methods to find radio stations on the selected band: TUNE, SEEK, SCAN or the Preset buttons.

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

The SEEK function searches the band for a station with a strong signal. To activate it, press either SEEK button ( or ), then release it. Depending on which SEEK button you press, the system scans upward or downward from the current frequency. It stops when it finds a station with a strong signal.

Use the TUNE or SEEK function to tune the radio to a desired station.

1.

2.

3.

4.

CONTINUED

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features

SCAN

Preset

TUNE

SEEK

131

00/12/25 14:14:56 31S0K630_134

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.

If you are in a remote area, Auto Select may not find six strong AM stations or twelve strong FM stations. If this happens, you will see a 0 displayed when you press any preset button that does not have a station stored.

To activate Auto Select, press the A. SEL button. A. SEL will flash in the display, and the system will go into scan mode for several seconds. It automatically scans both bands, looking for stations with strong signals. It stores the frequencies of six AM stations and twelve FM stations in the preset buttons. You can then use the preset buttons to select those stations.

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features

AUTO SELECT

132

A. SEL BUTTON

A. SEL INDICATOR

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

Auto Select does not erase the frequencies that you preset pre- viously. When you return home, turn off Auto Select by pressing the A. SEL button. The preset buttons will then select the frequencies you originally set.

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features 133

PRESET BUTTONS

SCAN BUTTON

SEEK BUTTONSA.SEL BUTTON

A.SEL INDICATOR TUNE KNOB

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Bass, Treble, Balance, and Fader are each adjustable. You select which of these you want to adjust by pressing the TUNE knob. The mode changes from BAS to TRE to FAD to BAL, and then back to the selected audio mode, each time you press the TUNE knob.

Use these modes to adjust the tone to your liking. Select TRE or BAS by pressing the TUNE knob. Adjust the desired mode by turning the TUNE knob. The level indicators on the display show you the range.

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

Select BAL or FAD by pressing the TUNE knob. Adjust the Balance or Fader to your liking by turning the TUNE knob. The level indicators on the display show you the range.

The system will automatically return the display to the selected audio mode about five seconds after you stop adjusting a mode with the TUNE knob.

Adjusting the Sound

Treble/Bass

Balance/Fader

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features134

TUNE KNOBLEVEL INDICATORS

00/12/25 14:15:21 31S0K630_137

CONTINUED

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.

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

71

Audio System Lighting

Radio Frequencies Radio Reception

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features 135

00/12/25 14:15:35 31S0K630_138

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.

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features136

00/12/25 14:15:44 31S0K630_139

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

The tape direction indicator will light to show you which side of the cassette is playing. The indicates the side you inserted facing upward is now playing. If you want to play the other side, press the PROG button.

If you turn the system off while a tape is playing, either with the PWR/ VOL knob or by turning off the ignition, the cassette 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 changer while listening to a tape, press the AM, FM or CD button. To change back to the cassette player, press the TAPE button.

Dolby noise reduction turns on when you insert a cassette. The indi- cator will light in the display. If the tape was not recorded with Dolby noise reduction, turn it off by pressing the button.

When the system reaches the end of the tape, it will automatically reverse direction and play the other side. If you want to remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT button.

Noise reduction remains off until you turn it on by pressing the button again.

You can remove the cassette with the ignition switch in any position, even if the audio system is turned off.

Operating the Cassette Player

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features 137

00/12/25 14:15:56 31S0K630_140

With a cassette playing, you can use the FF, REW, SKIP, or REPEAT function to find a desired program.

Fast Forward and Rewind move the tape rapidly. 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 or PLAY button to take the system out of rewind or fast forward. When the system reaches the end of the tape, it reverses direction and begins to play.

Tape Search Functions

FF/REW

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features138

DOLBY INDICATORPWR/VOL KNOB

AM BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

CASSETTE SLOT

TAPE EJECT BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

PROG BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

CD BUTTON

FF BUTTON

TAPE BUTTON

REW BUTTONFM BUTTON

00/12/25 14:16:04 31S0K630_141

The SKIP function allows you to find the beginning of a song or passage. To skip to the beginning of a song or passage currently playing, push the button. You will see REW flashing in the display as the tape rewinds. To skip to the beginning of the next song, push the

button. You will see FF flashing in the display as the tape fast forwards. When the system finds the begin- ning of a song or passage, it goes back to PLAY.

To stop the SKIP function before it finds the beginning of a song or passage, press either of the SKIP buttons ( or ).

CONTINUED

SKIP

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features 139

SKIP BUTTONSRPT BUTTON

REPEAT INDICATOR

FF BUTTON

REW BUTTON

00/12/25 14:16:11 31S0K630_142

The Repeat function continuously replays the current song or passage. Press the RPT button to activate it; you will see RPT displayed as a reminder. When the system reaches the end of the song or passage currently playing, it will automatically go into rewind. When it senses the beginning of the same song or passage, the system returns to PLAY mode. It will continue to repeat this same program until you deactivate REPEAT by pressing the button again. Pressing the REW or FF button, or either of the SKIP buttons, also turns off REPEAT.

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 to your satisfaction if there is almost no gap between selections, a high noise level between selections, or a silent period in the middle of a selection.

REPEAT

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features140

REPEAT INDICATOR

REW BUTTON

SKIP BUTTONSFF BUTTONRPT BUTTON

00/12/25 14:16:18 31S0K630_143

The cassette player picks up dirt and oxides from the tape. This contami- nation builds up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the player after every 30 hours of use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit available.

If you do not clean the cassette player regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the contamination with a normal cleaning kit.

Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes. Cassettes longer than that use thinner tape that may break or jam the drive.

Look at the cassette before you insert it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning a hub with a pencil or your finger.

When they are not in use, store cassettes in their cases to protect them from dust and moisture. Never place cassettes where they will be exposed to direct sunlight, high heat, or high humidity. If a cassette is exposed to extreme heat or cold, let it reach a moderate temperature before inserting it in the player.

Never try to insert foreign objects into the cassette player.

If the label is peeling off, remove it from the cassette or it could cause the cassette to jam in the player. Never try to insert a warped or damaged cassette in the player.

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

Caring for the Cassette Player

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features 141

00/12/25 14:16:30 31S0K630_144

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

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

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

Operating the CD Changer

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features142

SKIP BUTTONSCD BUTTONRDM BUTTON

REPEAT BUTTON

LOAD BUTTON CD EJECT BUTTON

PWR/VOL KNOB

CD SLOT

00/12/25 14:16:38 31S0K630_145

To load multiple CDs in one operation:

Press and hold the Load button until you hear a beep and see _ _ _ _ in the display, then release the button.

On the left side of the display, the CD Loaded indicator for an empty position will begin blinking.

When LOAd appears again in the display, insert the next disc 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 ten seconds, then stop the load operation and begin playing the last CD loaded.

To load a single CD:

Press and release the Load button.

When the CD Loaded indicator for an empty position starts to blink, and you see LOAd in the display, insert the disc 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.When you see LOAd in the display,

insert the disc into the CD slot. Insert it only about halfway, the drive will pull it in the rest of the way. You will again see the dashes in the display as the CD is loaded.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

1.

2.

3.

CONTINUED

Loading CDs in the Changer

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features 143

00/12/25 14:16:54 31S0K630_146

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.

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features144

LOAD BUTTON

AM BUTTON PRESET BUTTONS

CD SLOTFM BUTTON

CD LOADED INDICATOR

TAPE BUTTON

00/12/25 14:17:01 31S0K630_147

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

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

To select a different disc, 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 disc is playing to select passages and change tracks.

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 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.

143

CONTINUED

Operation REPEAT

RANDOM PLAY

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features 145

00/12/25 14:17:12 31S0K630_148

To take the system out of CD mode, press the AM or FM button, or insert a cassette in the player. If a tape is already in the cassette 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.

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features146

PRESET BUTTONS SKIP BUTTONSRPT BUTTON RDM BUTTON

RDM INDICATOR

RPT INDICATOR

PWR/VOL KNOB

AM BUTTON FM BUTTON

CD BUTTON

TAPE BUTTON

CD EJECT BUTTON

00/12/25 14:17:19 31S0K630_149

To remove the disc that is currently playing, press the Eject button. You will see EJEC in the display. When you remove the disc 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 ten seconds the system begins playing the next disc in the changer. If the changer is empty, the system selects the previous mode (AM, FM, or Tape).

If you do not remove the disc from the slot, the system will reload the disc after ten seconds and begin playing it.

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 disc that was last selected is ejected. After that disc is ejected, pressing the Eject button again will eject the next disc 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 discs in the changer.

You can also eject discs when the ignition switch is off. The disc that was last selected is ejected first. You can eject all six discs, one at a time.

Removing CDs from the Changer

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features 147

00/12/25 14:17:29 31S0K630_150

Handle a CD by its edges; never touch either surface. Contamination from fingerprints, liquids, felt-tip pens, and labels can cause the CD to not play properly, or possibly jam in the drive.

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

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

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 disc, causing skipping or other problems. Remove these pieces by rubbing the inner and outer edges with the side of a pencil or pen.

Protecting Compact Discs

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features148

00/12/25 14:17:39 31S0K630_151

If you see an error indication in the display while operating the CD changer, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error indication, take the car to your Acura dealer.

Indication Cause Solution

Disc-changer malfunction. High temperature.

Disc-changer malfunction. High temperature.

Misconnection or disconnection of optional trunk-mounted CD changer. No CD magazine in the optional trunk-mounted CD changer. No CD in magazine.

Consult your Acura dealer.

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

Will disappear when the temperature returns to normal.

See your Acura dealer.

Insert a CD magazine.

Insert a CD in magazine.

CD Changer Error Indications

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features 149

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The top and bottom buttons adjust the volume up ( ) or down ( ). Press the proper button and hold it until the desired volume is reached, then release it.

The AUDIO/CH button has three functions, depending on whether you are listening to the radio, or playing a cassette or CD.

If you are listening to the radio, use the AUDIO/CH button to change stations. Each time you press this button, the system advances to the next preset station on the band you are listening to. You will see the number of the selected Preset button in the display. To change bands, press the AM or FM button on the audio systems front panel.

If you are playing a cassette, use the AUDIO/CH button to advance to the next selection. You will see FF blinking in the display when you press the AUDIO/CH button. The system fast forwards until it senses a silent period, then goes back to PLAY.

If you are playing a CD, the system skips to the beginning of the next track each time you push the AUDIO/CH button. You will see the disc and track number in the display.

Two controls for the audio system are mounted in the steering wheel hub. These let you control basic functions without removing your hand from the wheel.

Remote Audio Controls

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features150

AUDIO/CH BUTTON

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

Your cars audio system will disable itself if it is disconnected from electrical power for any reason. To make it work again, the user 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 should happen to 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 cars battery is disconnected or goes dead, or the radio fuse is removed, the audio system will disable itself. If this happens, you will see Code in the frequency display the next time you turn on the system. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code. If it is entered correctly, the radio will start playing.

If you make a mistake entering the code, do not start over or try to correct your mistake. 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 one hour before trying again.

Theft Protection

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features 151

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Once the security system is set, opening any 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 sets auto- matically fifteen seconds after you lock the doors, hood, and trunk. For the system to activate, you must lock the doors from the outside with the key, lock tab, door lock switch, or remote transmitter. The security system light next to the drivers door lock starts blinking immediately to show you the system is setting itself.

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

With the system set, you can still open the trunk with the remote transmitter without triggering the alarm. The alarm will sound if the trunk is opened with the trunk release button on the drivers door, the trunk release handle behind the trunk pass-through cover, or the emergency trunk opener.

The security system will not set if the hood, trunk, or any door is not fully closed. If the system will not set, check the Door and Trunk Open Monitor on the instrument panel (see page ), to see if the doors and trunk 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.

62

Security System

Comfort and Convenience Features152

SECURITY SYSTEM LIGHT

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

Push in the Cruise Control Master Switch to the left of the steering column. The indicator in the switch will light.

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 conditions such as city driving, winding roads, slippery roads, heavy rain, or bad weather. You should have full control of the car under those conditions.

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CONTINUED

Using the Cruise Control

Cruise Control

Comfort and Convenience Features 153

CRUISE CONTROL MASTER SWITCH

Improper use of the cruise control can lead to a crash.

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

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

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

Press and hold the RESUME/ accel button. The car will acceler- ate. When you reach the desired cruising speed, release the button.

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

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

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 to the desired speed. This will cancel the cruise control. To resume the set speed, press the RESUME/accel button. The CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel comes on.

When climbing a steep hill, the automatic transmission may downshift to hold the set speed.

3.

Changing the Set Speed

Cruise Control

Comfort and Convenience Features154

RESUME/ accel

SET/decel

CANCEL

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

Press and hold the SET/decel button. The car will decelerate. Release the button when you reach the desired speed.

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

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 car will return to the set cruising speed.

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

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

Tap the brake pedal.

Push the CANCEL button on the steering wheel.

Press the Cruise Control Master Switch.

Tap the brake pedal lightly with your foot. The CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out. When the car slows to the desired speed, press the SET/decel button. The car will then maintain the desired speed.

CONTINUED

Cancelling the Cruise Control

Cruise Control

Comfort and Convenience Features 155

CANCEL BUTTON

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Pressing the Cruise Control Master Switch turns the system completely off and erases the previous cruising speed from memory. To use the system again, refer to

.

When you push the CANCEL button, or tap the brake pedal, the CRUISE CONTROL light on the instrument panel will go out and the car will begin to slow down. You can use the accelerator pedal in the normal way.

The system remembers the previously-set cruising speed. To return to that speed, accelerate to above 25 mph (40 km/h), then press and release the RESUME/accel button. The CRUISE CONTROL light comes on, and the car will accelerate to the same cruising speed as before.

Using the Cruise Control

Cruise Control

Comfort and Convenience Features156

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The HomeLink Universal Transceiver built into your car can be programmed to operate remotely- controlled devices around your home, such as garage doors, lighting, or home security systems. It can replace up to three remote transmitters.

If you have problems with training the HomeLink Universal Transceiver, or would like information on home products that can be operated by the transmitter, call (800) 355-3515. On the Internet, go to www.homelink. com.

Always refer to the operating instructions and safety information that came with your garage door opener or other equipment you intend to operate with the HomeLink Universal Transceiver. If you do not have this information, you should contact the manufacturer of the equipment.

While training or using HomeLink, make sure you have a clear view of the garage door or gate, and that no one will be injured by its movement.

If you are training HomeLink to operate a garage door or gate, it is recommended that you unplug the motor for that device during training. Repeatedly pressing the remote control button could burn out the motor.

HomeLink stores the code in a permanent memory. There should be no need to retrain HomeLink if your cars battery goes dead or is disconnected.

If your garage door opener was manufactured before April 1982, you may not be able to program HomeLink to operate it. Garage door openers manufactured before that date do not have a safety feature that causes them to stop and reverse if an obstacle is detected during closing, increasing the risk of injury. If you have questions, call (800) 355-3515.

HomeLink Universal Transceiver

Comfort and Convenience Features

Customer Assistance

Important Safety Precautions

General Information

157

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If you are training the second or third buttons, go directly to Step 1.

Unplug the garage door opener motor from the house current.

Before you can use HomeLink to operate devices around your home, it must learn the proper codes. For example, to train HomeLink to open and close the garage door:

If you just took delivery of your vehicle and have not trained any of the buttons in HomeLink before, you should erase any previously learned codes before training the first button. To do this, press and hold the two outside buttons on the HomeLink transceiver for about 20 seconds, until the red light flashes. Release the buttons, then proceed to Step 1.

Hold the end of the garage door opener remote control 2 to 5 inches from HomeLink. Make sure you are not blocking your view of the red light in HomeLink.

Select the HomeLink button you want to train.

Press the button on the remote control and the button on HomeLink at the same time. Hold down both buttons.

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3.

4. 1.

HomeLink Universal Transceiver

Comfort and Convenience Features

Training HomeLink Before you begin

158

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CONTINUED

Canadian Owners: The remote control you are training from may stop transmitting after two seconds. This is not long enough for HomeLink to learn the code. Release and press the button on the remote control every two seconds until HomeLink has learned the code.

For security purposes, newer garage door opening systems use a rolling or variable code. Information from the remote control and the garage door opener are needed before HomeLink can operate the garage door opener.

TheTraining HomeLink procedure trains HomeLink to the proper garage door opener code. The following procedure synchronizes HomeLink to the garage door opener so they send and receive the correct codes.

The red light in HomeLink should begin flashing. It will flash slowly at first, then rapidly.

When the red light flashes rapidly, release both buttons. HomeLink should have learned the code from the remote control.

Plug in the garage door opener motor, then test the HomeLink transceiver button by pushing it. It should operate the garage door.

If the button does not work, repeat this procedure to train it again. If it still does not work, you may have a

variable or rolling code garage door opener. Test this by pressing and holding the HomeLink transceiver button you just trained. If the red light blinks for two seconds, then stays on, you have a rolling code garage door opener. You may be able to verify this with the manufacturers documentation. Go to Training With a Rolling Code System.

Repeat these steps to train the other two HomeLink buttons to operate any other remotely- controlled devices around your home (lighting, automatic gate, security system, etc.).

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6. 8.

7.

Training With a Rolling Code System

HomeLink Universal Transceiver

Comfort and Convenience Features 159

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It may be helpful to have someone assist you with this procedure.

Find the Training button on your garage door opener unit. The location will vary, depending on the manufacturer. The manufacturers documentation may help.

Press the Training button on the garage door opener unit until the light next to the button comes on, then release it. The light may blink, or come on and stay on. You then have approximately 30 seconds to complete the following steps.

Make sure you have properly completed the Training HomeLink procedure.

Press and release the button on HomeLink. (The same button you trained with the Training HomeLink procedure.)

Press and release the HomeLink button again. This should turn off the training light on the garage door opener unit. (Some systems may require you to press and release the button up to three times.)

Press the HomeLink button again. It should operate the garage door.

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HomeLink Universal Transceiver

Comfort and Convenience Features160

TRAINING BUTTON

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As required by the FCC: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause 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.

To erase the codes stored in all three buttons, press and hold the two outside buttons until the red light begins to flash, then release the buttons.

You should erase all three codes before selling the car.

To train an already programmed HomeLink button to operate a new device:

Select the HomeLink button you want to train.

Press and hold the HomeLink button until the red light begins to flash slowly (approximately 20 seconds).

While continuing to hold the HomeLink button, place the remote control for the device 2 to 5 inches from HomeLink.

Release both buttons. HomeLink should now be trained to operate the device.

Press and hold the button on the remote control. Hold both buttons until the red light begins to flash rapidly.

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4.

5.Retraining a Button

Erasing Codes

HomeLink Universal Transceiver

Comfort and Convenience Features 161

00/12/25 14:19:56 31S0K630_164

162

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 car, please read the information in this section first.

.............................Break-in Period . 164 .........................................Gasoline . 164

.........Service Station Procedures . 165 ................Filling the Fuel Tank . 165

....................Opening the Hood . 166 ...............................Oil Check . 168

.........Engine Coolant Check . 169 ...............................Fuel Economy . 170

.....................Vehicle Condition . 170 ...........................Driving Habits . 170

...Accessories and Modifications . 171 .............................Carrying Cargo . 173

Before Driving

Before Driving 163

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During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

Avoid hard braking. New brakes need to be broken-in by moderate use for the first 200 miles (300 km).

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

Do not change the oil until the recommended time or mileage interval shown in the maintenance schedule.

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

In Canada, some gasolines contain an octane-enhancing additive called MMT. If you use such gasolines, your emissions control system performance may deteriorate and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp on your instrument panel may turn on. If this happens, contact your authorized Acura dealer for service.

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

Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause occasional, metallic knocking noises in the engine and will result in decreased engine performance.

We recommend gasolines containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits.

Using gasoline containing lead will damage your cars emissions controls. This contributes to air pollution.

Before Driving

Break-in Period Gasoline

Break-in Period, Gasoline

164

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Because the fuel fill cap is on the drivers side of the car, park with that side closest to the service station pumps.

Open the fuel fill door by pulling on the handle at the outside of the drivers seat.

Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. Place the cap in the holder on the fuel fill door.

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2.

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CONTINUED

Filling the Fuel Tank

Service Station Procedures

Before Driving 165

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 flame away. Handle fuel only outdoors. Wipe up spills immediately.

00/12/25 14:20:26 31S0K630_168

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.

Your car has an on-board refueling vapor recovery system to help keep fuel vapors from going into the atmosphere. If the fuel pump keeps clicking off even though the tank is not full, there may be a problem with this system. Consult your dealer.

Screw the fuel fill cap back on, tighten it until it clicks several 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.

Shift to Park or Neutral 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.

4. 5.

6.

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293

Service Station Procedures

Before Driving

Opening the Hood

166

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

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CONTINUED

Standing in front of the car, put your fingers under the front edge of the hood to the right of center. Slide your hand to the left until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle up until it releases the hood. Lift the hood.

Lift the hood up most of the way. The hydraulic supports will lift it up the rest of the way and hold it up.

If you can open the hood without lifting the hood latch handle, or the hood latch handle moves stiffly or does not spring back as before, the mechanism should be cleaned and lubricated (see page

).

To close the hood, lower it to about a foot (30 cm) above the fender, then press down firmly with your hands. After closing the hood, make sure it is securely latched.

2. 3.

237

Service Station Procedures

Before Driving 167

LATCH

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Check the engine oil level every time you fill the car with fuel. 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.

Insert it all the way back in its tube.

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2. 3.

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Oil Check

168

DIPSTICK

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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.

Refer to on page for information

on checking other items in your Acura.

4.

223

228

221

Service Station Procedures

Before Driving

Adding Oil

Adding Engine Coolant

Owner Maintenance Checks

Engine Coolant Check

169

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

RESERVE TANK MAX

MIN

00/12/25 14:21:05 31S0K630_172

A cold engine uses more fuel than a warm engine. It is not necessary to warm-up a cold engine by letting it idle for a long time. You can drive away in about a minute, no matter how cold it is outside. The engine will warm up faster, and you get better fuel economy. To cut down on the number of cold starts, try to combine several short trips into one.

You can improve fuel economy by driving moderately. Rapid acceler- ation, abrupt cornering, and hard braking use more fuel.

Always drive in the highest gear that allows the engine to run and acceler- ate smoothly.

Depending on traffic conditions, try to maintain a constant speed. Every time you slow down and speed up, your car uses extra fuel. Use the cruise control, when appropriate, to increase fuel economy.

The condition of your car and your driving habits are the two most important things that affect the fuel mileage you get.

Always maintain your car according to the maintenance schedule. This will keep it in top operating condition.

An important part of that mainte- nance is the

(see page ). For example, an underinflated tire causes more rolling resistance, which uses fuel. It also wears out faster, so check the tire pressure at least monthly.

In winter, the build-up of snow on your cars underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

The air conditioning puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Turn off the A/C or set the climate control to a higher temperature to cut down on air conditioning use. Use the flow- through ventilation when the outside air temperature is moderate.

221

Vehicle Condition

Driving Habits

Owner Maintenance Checks

Before Driving

Fuel Economy

170

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Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits (see page ).

If possible, have your dealer inspect the final installation.

Before installing any accessory:

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

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

Non-Acura accessories are usually designed for universal applications. Although aftermarket accessories may fit on your car, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your cars handling and stability. (See Modifications on the page for additional information.)

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

Make sure the accessory does not obscure any lights, or interfere with proper car operation or performance.

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

However, if electronic accessories are improperly installed, or exceed your cars electrical system capacity, they can interfere with the operation

of your car, or even cause the airbags to deploy.

300

172

Accessories

Before Driving

Accessories and Modifications

171

Improper accessories or modifications can affect your cars 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.

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In addition, any modifications that decrease ground clearance increase the chance of undercarriage parts striking a curb, speed bump, or other raised object, which could cause your airbags to deploy.

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

Do not remove any original equipment or modify your car in any way that would alter its design or operation. This could make your car unsafe and illegal to drive.

For example, do not make any modifications that would change the ride height of your car, or install wheels and tires with a different overall diameter.

Such modifications can adversely affect handling, and interfere with the operation of the cars anti-lock brakes and other systems.

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

Covering the outside edge of a front seat-back, with a non-Acura seat cover for example, could prevent the airbag from inflating properly.

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

Modifications

Additional Safety Precautions

Accessories and Modifications

Before Driving

Do not attach hard objects on or near a front door.

Do not place any objects over the outside edge of a front seat-back.

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

172

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Your car has several convenient storage areas so you can stow cargo safely.

The glove box, and the pockets in the front doors and seat-backs, are designed for small, lightweight items. The trunk is intended for larger, heavier items. In addition, the trunk pass-through allows you to carry longer items.

However, carrying too much cargo, or improperly storing it, can affect your cars handling, stability and operation and make it unsafe. Before carrying any type of cargo, be sure to read the following pages.

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving 173

FRONT DOOR POCKETCONSOLE COMPARTMENT

GLOVE BOXTRUNK SEAT-BACK POCKETS

00/12/25 14:21:48 31S0K630_176

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 drivers ability to operate the pedals, or with the proper operation of the seats.

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

This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, accessories, and the tongue weight if you are towing a trailer.

The final number is the total weight of cargo you can carry.

If you are towing a trailer, add the tongue weight to the number above.

Add up the weight of all occupants.

To figure out how much cargo you can carry:

Do not put any items on top of the rear shelf. They can block your view and be thrown around the car during a crash.

The maximum load for your car is 850 lbs (395 kg).

Subtract the total from 850 lbs (395 kg).

Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment

Load Limit

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving174

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.

00/12/25 14:22:03 31S0K630_177

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

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.

When you are not using the cargo net, store it in the pocket in the left side of the trunk.

The cargo net can be used to help hold down items stored in the trunk. To use the cargo net, hook it to the buttons on the floor and sides of the trunk. You can use the cargo net in several configurations by hooking it to different buttons.

If you carry large items that prevent you from closing the trunk lid, exhaust gas can enter the passenger area. To avoid the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning, follow the instructions on page .53

Carrying Cargo in the Trunk or on a Roof Rack

Cargo Net

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving 175

TRUNK NET HOOK

CARGO NET

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176

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the automatic transmission. It also includes important information on parking your car, the braking system, the Traction Control System, and facts you need if you are planning to tow a trailer.

........................Preparing to Drive . 178 .......................Starting the Engine . 179

Starting in Cold Weather ....................at High Altitude . 179

..............Automatic Transmission . 180 .Shift Lever Position Indicator . 180

................Shift Lever Positions . 181 ..............Engine Speed Limiter . 187

....................Shift Lock Release . 187 ...........................................Parking . 189

.....................The Braking System . 190 .............Brake Wear Indicators . 190

...............Brake System Design . 191 .......................Anti-lock Brakes . 191

Important Safety .........................Reminders . 192 ........................ABS Indicator . 192

..............Traction Control System . 193 ...............TCS ON/OFF Switch . 194

............................TCS Indicator . 195 ...Vehicle Stability Assist System . 196

...............Driving in Bad Weather . 199 ...........................Towing a Trailer . 201

Driving

Driving 177

00/12/25 14:22:19 31S0K630_180

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

Check that the hood and trunk are fully closed.

Check the adjustment of the seat (see page ).

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

Check the adjustment of the steering wheel (see page ).

Make sure the doors are securely closed and locked.

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

Turn the ignition switch ON (II). Check the indicator lights in the instrument panel.

Start the engine (see page ).

Check the gauges and indicator lights in the instrument panel (see page ).

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

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

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

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Preparing to Drive

Driving178

00/12/25 14:22:33 31S0K630_181

Apply the parking brake.

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

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

Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. If the engine does not start right away, do not hold the key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds at a time. 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 half-way down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

If the engine still does not start, press the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting in order to clear flooding. As before, keep the ignition key in the START (III) position for no more than 15 seconds. Return to step 5 if the engine does not start. If it starts, lift your foot off the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

An engine is harder to start in cold weather. The thinner air found at high altitude above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) adds to the problem.

Turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

Push the accelerator pedal half- way to the floor and hold it there while starting the engine. Do not hold the ignition key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds. When the engine starts, release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up and smooths out.

If the engine fails to start in step 2, push the accelerator pedal to the floor and hold it there while you try to start the engine for no more than 15 seconds. If the engine does not start, return to step 2.

Use the following procedure:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

1.

2.

3.

Starting the Engine

Driving

Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude (Above 8,000 feet/ 2,400 meters)

179

00/12/25 14:22:47 31S0K630_182

Your Acuras transmission has five forward speeds, and is electronically controlled for smoother shifting. It also has a lock-up torque converter for better fuel economy. You may feel what seems like another shift when the converter locks.

This indicator in the tachometer shows which position the shift lever is in. The illuminated number next to the D indicator shows you the gear you have selected in the Sequential SportShift mode.

The D indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission. Avoid rapid acceleration and have the transmission checked by an authorized Acura dealer as soon as possible.

5

5

Driving

Automatic Transmission

Shift Lever Position Indicator

180

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CONTINUED

The shift lever has nine positions. It must be in Park or Neutral to start the engine. When you are stopped in D , D , D , 2, 1, N, R, or the Sequential SportShift mode, press firmly on the brake pedal and keep your foot off the accelerator pedal.

To select the Sequential SportShift mode, slide the shift lever toward the left from the D position. In this mode the shift lever allows you to shift up and down manually.

You cannot shift out of Park with the brake pedal depressed when the ignition switch is in LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I).

Whenever you move the shift lever, slide it along the guide on the console.

5 4 3

5

To shift from: P to R

R to N N to D D to D D to D D to 2 2 to 1 1 to 2

2 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.

5

5 4

4 3

3

3

3 4

4 5

5

Automatic Transmission

Driving

Shift Lever Positions

181

SHIFT LEVER

SEQUENTIAL SPORTSHIFT MODE POSITION

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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. Move the shift lever to the right to shift out of the Park position.

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.

To shift to Reverse from Park, see the explanation under Park. To shift to Reverse from Neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift.

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

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

Your car has a reverse lockout so you cannot accidentally shift to Reverse from Neutral or any other driving position when the vehicle speed exceeds 7 9 mph (12 14 km/h).

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

187

187

Automatic Transmission

Driving

Park (P) Reverse (R)

182

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CONTINUED

Use Neutral if you need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to Park posi- tion if you need to leave the car 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 your speed and acceleration. You may notice the transmission shifting up at higher speeds when the engine is cold. This helps the engine warm up faster.

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 to the left. To return to D , move the shift lever to the right.

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

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

Even with the Sequential SportShift Mode selected, the transmission will automatically upshift and downshift between first and second gear.

180

5

5

5

5

Automatic Transmission

Driving

Neutral (N)

Drive (D )5

Sequential SportShift Mode

183

Downshift

Upshift

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When you accelerate away from a stop, the transmission will start in first gear and then automatically upshift to second gear. You have to manually upshift between second and fifth gears. Make sure you upshift before the engine speed reaches the tachometers red zone.

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

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

To shift from

4 3

5 4

Speed range

under 18 mph (29 km/h)

under 34 mph (55 km/h)

To shift from

4 3

5 4

Speed range

under 34 mph (55 km/h)

under 47 mph (75 km/h)

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 9 mph (15 km/h).

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

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.

Driving on level roads and downhill

Driving uphill

Automatic Transmission

Driving184

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CONTINUED

If the car 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.

If the transmission temperature is below 14 F ( 10 C), you may not be able to use the Sequential SportShift mode.

The table shows the speed ranges for upshifting and downshifting.

To shift from

2 3

3 4

4 5

Speed range

over 9 mph (15 km/h)

over 18 mph (29 km/h)

over 34 mph (55 km/h)

To shift from

3 2

4 3

5 4

Speed range

under 60 mph (96 km/h) under 65 mph (104 km/h)

under 93 mph (150 km/h) under 104 mph (166 km/h)

under 125 mph (200 km/h)

1

2

1

2

1 : Premium model 2 : Type S

Automatic Transmission

Driving 185

00/12/25 14:23:48 31S0K630_188

These positions are similar to D , except when you select the D position, only the first four gears are selected. When you select D , only the first three gears are selected. D can also keep the transmission from cycling between fourth and fifth gears in stop-and-go driving, and D can keep the transmission from cycling between third and fourth gears.

Use D when towing a trailer in hilly terrain, or to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D gives you more power and increased engine braking.

For faster acceleration when in D , D or D , you can get the transmission to automatically downshift by pushing the accelerator pedal to the floor. The transmission will shift down one or two gears, depending on your speed.

This position locks the transmission in second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop. Second gives you more power when climbing, and increased engine braking when going down steep hills. Use second gear when starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow. It will help reduce wheelspin.

5 4

3 4

3

3

3

3 4 5

Automatic Transmission

Driving

Drive (D , D ) Second (2)4 3

186

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With the lever in this position, the transmission locks in First gear.

If you shift into First position when the vehicle speed is above 31 mph (50 km/h), the transmission shifts into Second gear first to avoid sudden engine braking.

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.

This allows you to move the shift lever out of Park if the normal method of pushing on the brake pedal does not work. This procedure also releases the Reverse Lockout.

Set the Parking brake.

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

To release the Reverse Lockout, make sure the ignition switch is in the ACCESSORY (I) position.

1.

2.

CONTINUED

Automatic Transmission

Driving

First (1) Engine Speed Limiter Shift Lock Release

187

00/12/25 14:24:06 31S0K630_190

Insert a screwdriver in the Shift Lock Release slot.

Push down on the screwdriver and move the shift lever out of Park to Neutral.

To release the Reverse Lockout, move the shift lever from Neutral to Reverse, then Park.

Put a cloth on the edge of the Shift Lock Release slot cover next to the shift lever. Use a small flat-tipped screwdriver or small metal plate (neither are included in the tool kit) to remove the cover. Carefully pry off the edge of the cover.

Remove the screwdriver from the Shift Lock Release slot, then reinstall the cover. Make sure the notch on the cover is on the right side. Depress the brake pedal and restart the engine.

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

3.

6.

5.

4.

Automatic Transmission

Driving188

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOTCOVER

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Make sure the moonroof and the windows are closed.

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

Turn off the lights.

Always use the parking brake when you park your car. The indicator on the instrument panel shows that the parking brake is not fully released; it does not indicate that the parking brake is firmly set. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly or your car may roll if it is parked on an incline.

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

If the car 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.Set the parking brake before you put

the transmission in Park. This keeps the car from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission making it easier to move the shift lever out of Park when you want to drive away.

Lock the doors with the key or the remote transmitter. Check the indicator on the drivers door to verify that the security system is set.

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

Parking Tips

Parking

Driving 189

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Put your foot on the brake pedal only when you intend to brake. Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, causing them to build up heat. Heat build-up can reduce how well your brakes work. 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 downshifting to a lower gear and taking your foot off the accelerator pedal.

Check your 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. Since a longer distance is needed to stop with wet brakes, be extra cautious and alert in your driving.

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.

All four brakes have audible brake wear indicators. When the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive metallic screeching sound when you apply the brakes. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will begin screeching all the time.

Your brakes may sometimes squeal or squeak when you apply them lightly. Do not confuse this with the brake wear indicators. They make a very audible screeching.

Brake Wear Indicators

Driving

The Braking System

190

00/12/25 14:24:38 31S0K630_193

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

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.

Activation varies with the amount of traction your tires have. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before you activate the ABS. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

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.

Your car has an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as standard equipment. ABS helps to prevent the wheels from locking up and skidding during hard braking, allowing you to retain steering control.

When the front tires skid, you lose steering control; the car continues straight ahead even though you turn the steering wheel. The ABS helps to prevent lock-up and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly; much faster than a person can do it.

stomp and steer.

CONTINUED

Anti-lock Brakes You should never pump the brake pedal,

Brake System Design

Driving

The Braking System

191

Front

00/12/25 14:24:49 31S0K630_194

it only helps with steering control during braking. You should always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.

such as trying to take a corner too fast or making a sudden lane change. Always drive at a safe, prudent speed for the road and weather conditions. The ABS is self-checking. If anything

goes wrong, the ABS indicator on the instrument panel comes on (see page ). This means the anti-lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system without anti- lock, providing normal stopping ability. You should have the dealer inspect your car as soon as possible.

Always steer moderately when you are braking hard. Severe or sharp steering wheel movement can still cause your car 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.

60

Important Safety Reminders ABS Indicator 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

Driving

The Braking System

192

ABS INDICATOR

U.S. indicator shown

00/12/25 14:24:58 31S0K630_195

When starting out or driving at low speeds on a loose or slippery road surface, you may notice that the vehicle does not respond to the accelerator in the same way it does at other times. This is a sign the TCS is activating. You will see the TCS indicator light flash.

Your Acura is equipped with a Traction Control System (TCS) to assist you in maintaining traction while driving slowly on loose or slippery surfaces. The TCS assists only in low-speed, low-traction conditions; up to approximately 18 mph (30 km/h).

The TCS monitors the speed of all four wheels. When it senses a front wheel losing traction, it applies braking to that wheel. The TCS indicator flashes when this occurs.

Driving with TCS requires no special skills or technique. The TCS does not control your cars whole braking system and cannot prevent skidding if you enter a corner too fast. It is still your responsibility to drive at reasonable speeds and to leave a sufficient margin of safety.

Test your brakes as instructed on page . If the brakes feel normal, drive slowly and have your car repaired by your dealer as soon as possible. Avoid sudden hard braking which could cause the rear wheels to lock up and possibly lead to a loss of control.

The TCS indicator will come on along with the ABS indicator.

The VSA system indicator may come on along with the ABS indicator if there is a problem with the anti-lock brake system.

295

CONTINUED

On Premium model

On Type S

On Premium model

Driving

Traction Control System

The Braking System, Traction Control System

193

TCS INDICATOR

00/12/25 14:25:10 31S0K630_196

You should still install winter tires on your car during the winter. Make sure to use the same size originally supplied with vehicle. Exercise the same caution in winter driving as you would if your car was not equipped with TCS.

Driving with the compact spare tire installed (see page ) may activate the TCS. You should turn off the system.

If the brakes overheat while the TCS is activating, the TCS indicator will stop flashing and stay on temporarily. This indicates that the TCS system has turned off. After the brakes have cooled down (usually for about 10 minutes), the TCS will turn back on and the indicator will turn off.

This switch is under the side vent. It lets you turn the Traction Control System on and off. You cannot turn off the TCS while the TCS indicator light is flashing.

Deactivate the system by pressing the TCS On/Off switch. The TCS indicator light comes on as a reminder. Pressing the switch again turns the system back on.

The Traction Control System turns on every time you start the engine, even if you turned it off the last time you drove the vehicle.278

Traction Control System

Driving

TCS ON/OFF Switch

194

00/12/25 14:25:20 31S0K630_197

If the TCS indicator comes on and stays on for more than 10 minutes while driving, pull to the side of the road when it is safe and turn off the engine. Reset the system by restarting the engine, and watch the TCS indicator. If the indicator remains on, or comes back on while driving, have the system inspected by your Acura dealer. You can still drive the vehicle without TCS.

This indicator will come on along with the ABS indicator if there is a problem in the anti-lock brake system (see on page

).

The TCS indicator may occasionally come on for one or two seconds and then go out. This is normal.

The TCS indicator comes on or flashes under the following condi- tions:

When you turn the ignition switch to ON (II).

When you manually turn off the TCS.

It flashes when the TCS is regulating wheelspin.

If the systems diagnostics senses a problem in the TCS, the indica- tor will come on and stay on.

If the brakes overheat, the indicator will come on.

192

Traction Control System

Driving

ABS Indicator

TCS Indicator

195

00/12/25 14:25:31 31S0K630_198

The VSA system cannot enhance the cars driving stability in all situations and does not control your vehicles entire braking system. It is still your responsibility to drive and corner at reasonable speeds and to leave a sufficient margin of safety.

When VSA activates, you will see the VSA Activation indicator blink.

When VSA activates, you may notice that the engine does not respond to the accelerator in the same way it does at other times. You will also see the VSA Activation Indicator blink.

The Vehicle Stability Assist system helps to stabilize the vehicle during cornering if the car turns more or less than desired. It also assists you in maintaining traction while accelerating on loose or slippery road surfaces. It does this by regulating the engines output, and by selectively applying braking.

On Type S VSA Activation Indicator

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

Driving196

VSA ACTIVATION INDICATOR

00/12/25 14:25:39 31S0K630_199

If the VSA indicator comes on while driving, pull to the side of the road when it is safe and turn off the engine. Reset the system by restarting the engine, and watch the VSA system indicator. If the indicator remains on, or comes back on while driving, have the VSA system inspected by your Acura dealer.

When VSA is off, the VSA Activation Indicator light comes on as a reminder. Pressing the switch again turns the system back on.

If the indicator does not come on when the ignition switch is turned ON (II), there may be a problem with the VSA system. Have your dealer inspect your car as soon as possible.

Without VSA, your car will have normal braking and cornering ability, but it will not have VSA traction and stability enhancement.

This switch is under the left vent. Press it to turn the Vehicle Stability Assist system on and off.

The VSA system indicator (see page ) comes on and stays on when

there is a problem with the VSA system. The VSA Activation indicator will also come on.

61

CONTINUED

VSA System Indicator VSA Off Switch

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

Driving 197

VSA SYSTEM INDICATOR VSA OFF SWITCH

00/12/25 14:25:52 31S0K630_200

VSA is turned on every time you start the engine, even if you turned it off the last time you drove the car.

Driving with varying tire or wheel sizes may cause the VSA to malfunction. When replacing tires, make sure they are of the same size and type as your original tires (see page ).

Deactivate the VSA system if you need to drive with the compact spare tire installed (see page ).

If you install winter tires, make sure they are the same size as those that were originally supplied with your car. Exercise the same caution during winter driving as you would if your car was not equipped with VSA.

254

278

VSA and Tire Sizes

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

Driving198

00/12/25 14:25:59 31S0K630_201

Exercise extra caution when driving in rain after a long dry spell. After months of dry weather, the first rains bring oil to the surface of the roadway, making it slippery.

Always drive slower than you would in dry weather. It takes your car longer to react, even in conditions that may seem just barely damp. Apply smooth, even pressure to all the controls. Abrupt steering wheel movements or sudden, hard appli- cation of the brakes can cause loss of control in wet weather. Be extra cautious for the first few miles (kilometers) of driving while you adjust to the change in driving conditions. This is especially true in snow. A person can forget some snow-driving techniques during the summer months. Practice is needed to relearn those skills.

Rain, fog, and snow conditions require a different driving technique because of reduced traction and visibility. Keep your car well- maintained and exercise greater caution when you need to drive in bad weather. The cruise control should not be used in these conditions.

Driving Technique

Driving in Bad Weather

Driving 199

00/12/25 14:26:05 31S0K630_202

Being able to see clearly in all directions and being visible to other drivers are important in all weather conditions. This is more difficult in bad weather. To be seen more clearly during daylight hours, turn on your headlights.

Check your tires frequently for wear and proper pressure. Both are important in preventing hydroplaning (loss of traction on a wet surface). In the winter, mount snow tires on all four wheels for the best handling.

Watch road conditions carefully, they can change from moment to moment. Wet leaves can be as slip- pery as ice. Clear roads can have patches of ice. Driving conditions can be very hazardous when the outside temperature is near freezing. The road surface can become covered with areas of water puddles mixed with areas of ice, so your traction can change without warning.

Be careful when downshifting. If traction is low, you can lock up the drive wheels for a moment and cause a skid.

Be very cautious when passing, or being passed by other vehicles. The spray from large vehicles reduces your visibility, and the wind buffeting can cause you to lose control.

Inspect your windshield wipers and washers frequently. Keep the wind- shield washer reservoir full of the proper fluid. Have the windshield wiper blades replaced if they start to streak the windshield or leave parts unwiped. Use the defroster and air conditioning to keep the windows from fogging up on the inside (see pages and ).122 127

Visibility Traction

Driving in Bad Weather

Driving200

00/12/25 14:26:14 31S0K630_203

Your Acura has been designed primarily to carry passengers and their cargo. You can use it to tow a trailer if you carefully 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

Load Limits

Total Trailer Weight: Tongue Load:

Towing a Trailer

Driving 201

00/12/25 14:26:24 31S0K630_204

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

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:

on the front axle

on the rear axle

on the front axle

on the rear axle

and

Premium model

Type S

Premium model

Type S

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR):

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR):

Towing a Trailer

Driving202

4,400 lbs (1,995 kg)

2,425 lbs (1,100 kg)

2,050 lbs (930 kg)

4,475 lbs (2,030 kg)

2,470 lbs (1,120 kg)

2,050 lbs (930 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.

00/12/25 14:26:33 31S0K630_205

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

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.

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

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 the chains drag on the ground.

CONTINUED

Hitches

Safety ChainsTowing Equipment and Accessories

Checking Loads

Towing a Trailer

Driving 203

00/12/25 14:26:44 31S0K630_206

If you choose electric brakes, be sure they are electronically 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.

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.

If you use a converter, you can get the connector and pins that mate with the connector in your car from your Acura dealer.

Your car has a trailer lighting connector located in the trunk by the left taillight. To use the connector, undo the fastener and unscrew the cargo net mounting button on the left side of the trunk lining. Refer to the drawing in this page for the wiring color code and purpose of each pin.

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.

Trailer Brakes Trailer Lights

Driving

Towing a Trailer

204

GROUND (BLACK)

BACK-UP LIGHT (GREEN/BLACK)

LEFT TURN SIGNAL (GREEN/BLUE)

RIGHT TURN SIGNAL (GREEN/YELLOW)

TAILLIGHT (RED/BLACK)

BRAKE LIGHT (WHITE/BLACK)

00/12/25 14:26:54 31S0K630_207

When preparing to tow, and before driving away, be sure to check the following:

The vehicle has been properly serviced, and the tires, brakes, suspension, and cooling system are in good operating condition.

All weights and loads are within limits (see pages and ).

All items on and in the trailer are properly secured and cannot shift while you drive.

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 lights and brakes on your vehicle and the trailer are working properly.

Your vehicle tires and spare are properly inflated (see page ), and the trailer tires and spare are inflated as recommended by the trailer maker.

The hitch, safety chains, and any other attachments are secure.

201 202

252

Pre-Tow ChecklistAdditional Trailer Equipment

Towing a Trailer

Driving 205

00/12/25 14:27:07 31S0K630_208

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.

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 transmission shifts frequently between 4th and 5th gears while going up a hill, shift to D . And if the transmission shifts frequently between 3rd and 4th gears, shift to D .

Drive slower than normal in all driving situations, and obey posted speed limits for vehicles with trailers. Use the D or 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 following column for additional gear information.)

When towing a trailer in the Sequential SportShift mode, select Fourth, Third, Second, or First gear; depending on the vehicle speeds and road condition. Do not use Fifth gear. The recommended speed range for each gear position is shown in the table.

Gear position

1

2

3, 4

Speed range

0 37 mph (0 60 km/h)

12 68 mph

over 25 mph (over 40 km/h)

4

3

5 4 3

(20 110 km/h)

Driving Safely With a Trailer

Towing Speeds and Gears

Making Turns and Braking

Driving on Hills

Driving on Hills

Towing a Trailer

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Follow all normal precautions when parking, including putting the transmission in Park and firmly setting the parking brake. Also, place wheel chocks at each of the trailers tires.

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.

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.

bottom

ParkingHandling Crosswinds and Buffeting

Backing Up

Towing a Trailer

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208

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.

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

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.

......................Maintenance Safety . 210 .Important Safety Precautions . 211

.................Maintenance Schedule . 212 ...Required Maintenance Record . 219

.......Owner Maintenance Checks . 221 ..............................Fluid Locations . 222

......................................Engine Oil . 223 ..................................Adding Oil . 223

....................Recommended Oil . 223 ..............................Synthetic Oil . 224

....................................Additives . 225 .....Changing the Oil and Filter . 225

.............................Cooling System . 228 ............Adding Engine Coolant . 228

.......Replacing Engine Coolant . 230 ....................Windshield Washers . 233

....Automatic Transmission Fluid . 234 ....................................Brake Fluid . 236

............................Brake System . 236 ..............................Power Steering . 237

....................................Hood Latch . 237 .....................Air Cleaner Element . 238

....................................Spark Plugs . 240 ..............................Replacement . 240 ............................Specifications . 242

...........................................Battery . 243

.................................Wiper Blades . 246 ..............Air Conditioning System . 248

.................Air Conditioning Filter . 249 .....................................Drive Belts . 249 ....................................Timing Belt . 250

...............................................Tires . 250 ......................................Inflation . 251

..................................Inspection . 252 ..............................Maintenance . 253 .............................Tire Rotation . 254

...Replacing Tires and Wheels . 254 ......................Wheels and Tires . 255

..........................Winter Driving . 256 .............................Snow Tires . 256

...................Traction Devices . 256 .............................................Lights . 257

.....................Headlight Aiming . 259 ........................Replacing Bulbs . 259

...........................Storing Your Car . 267 325

Maintenance

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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.

Regularly maintaining your car is the best way to protect your investment. Proper maintenance is essential to your safety and the safety of your passengers. It will also reward you with more economical, trouble-free driving and help reduce air pollution.

This section includes instructions for simple maintenance tasks, such as checking and adding oil. Any service items not detailed in this section should be performed by an Acura technician or other qualified mechanic.

Maintenance Safety

Maintenance210

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.

Improperly maintaining this car 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 and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owners manual.

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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 in- structed to do so.

Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.

Before you begin any maintenance, make sure your car is parked on level ground and that the parking brake is set. Also, be sure the engine is off. This will help to eliminate several potential hazards:

To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline or batteries. Use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.

You should wear eye protection and protective clothing when working near the battery or when using compressed air.

Maintenance Safety

Maintenance

Important Safety Precautions

Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust.

Burns from hot parts.

Injury from moving parts.

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The services and time or distance intervals shown in the maintenance schedule assume you will use your vehicle as normal transportation for passengers and their possessions. You should also follow these recommendations:

The Maintenance Schedule specifies how often you should have your car serviced and what things need attention. It is essential that you have your car serviced as scheduled to retain its high level of safety, dependability, and emissions control performance.

Avoid exceeding your cars load limit. This puts excess stress on the engine, brakes, and many other parts of your car. The load limit is shown on the label on the drivers doorjamb.

Operate your car on reasonable roads within the legal speed limit.

Service your car according to the time and mileage periods on one of the Maintenance Schedules on the following pages. Select the schedule for Severe Conditions if most of your driving is done under one or more of the conditions listed on that page. Otherwise, follow the schedule for Normal Conditions.

Drive your car regularly over a distance of several miles (kilometers).

Always use unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating (see page

).164

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance

Which Schedule to Follow:

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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.U.S. Cars:

We recommend the use of genuine Acura parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done. These are manufactured to the same high- quality standards as the original components, so you can be confident of their performance and durability.

Your authorized Acura dealer knows your car 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 person who is skilled in this type of automotive service. 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.

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance

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.

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Follow the Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule if the severe driving conditions specified in the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule do not apply.

NOTE: If you only drive under a

severe condition, you should follow the Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule.

Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

OCCASIONALLY

Maintenance

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

214

Visually inspect the following items:

Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first.

miles x 1,000 km x 1,000 months

Replace every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

Replace engine oil Replace engine oil filter Check engine oil and coolant Replace air cleaner element Inspect valve clearance Replace spark plugs Replace timing belt, and inspect water pump Inspect and adjust drive belts Inspect idle speed Replace engine coolant

Replace transmission fluid

Inspect front and rear brakes Replace brake fluid Check parking brake adjustment Replace air conditioning filter Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month)

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 Cooling system hoses and connections Exhaust system Fuel lines and connections

Rotate tires every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

15 24 12

30 48 24

60 96 48

120 192 96

75 120 60

105 168 84

45 72 36

90 144 72

Every 36 months (independent of mileage)

See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page .

120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 72 months, then every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 60 months

120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 120 months, then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 60 months

:

Adjust only if noisy

213

M ai nt en an ce

S ch ed ul e fo rN

or m al C on di tio ns

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