2001 RL Online Reference Owner's Manual...

2001 RL 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

Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i A Few Words About Safety ................................................................................................................. ii

Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................5 Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls ................................................................................................................. 51Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features ............................................................................................. 121How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 167What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 179The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 203The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer. Appearance Care.............................................................................................................................. 263Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 271This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 299ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 313A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 319How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...................................................................................................................................................... I

Service Information SummaryA summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

Accord Value Package Audio System

Owner's Identification Form

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

Owner's Identification

This Owner's Manual should be considereda permanent part of the car, and shouldremain with the car when it is sold.The information and specifications includedin this publication were in affect at the timeof approval for printing. Honda Motor Co.,Ltd. reserves the right, however, todiscontinue or change specifications ordesign at any time without notice andwith out incurring any obligation whatsoever

.

OWNER

ADDRESSSTREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE /POSTAL CODE

V. I. N.

DELIVERY DATE(Date sold to original retail purchaser)

DEALER NAME DEALER NO.

ADDRESSSTREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/POSTAL CODE

OWNER'S SIGNATURE

DEALER'S SIGNATURE

knelson

Introduction

Congratulations on your selection of the 2001 Acura 3.5 RL. We are certainyou will be pleased with your purchase of one of the finest luxury cars in theworld.

One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Acura is to readthis manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls andconvenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner's manual in your car so youcan refer to it at any time.

Several warranties protect your new Acura. Read the warranty bookletthoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rightsand responsibilities.

Maintaining your car according to the schedules given in this manual helpsto keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment. Whenyour car needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Acura dealer's staff isspecially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Acura. YourAcura dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answerany questions and concerns.

California Proposition 65 Warning

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

As you read this manual, you willfind information that is preceded by

symbol. Thisinformation is intended to help youavoid damage to your Acura, otherproperty, or the environment.

NOTICEa

A Few Words About Safety

Your safety, and the safety of others,is very important. And operating thiscar safely is an importantresponsibility.

To help you make informeddecisions about safety, we haveprovided operating procedures andother information on labels and inthis manual. This information alertsyou to potential hazards that couldhurt you or others.

Of course, it is not practical orpossible to warn you about all thehazards associated with operating ormaintaining your car. You must useyour own good judgement.

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

Safety Labels — on the car.Safety Messages — preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of

three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.These signal words mean:

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

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

You CAN be HURT if you don't followinstructions.

Safety Headings — such as Important Safety Reminders or ImportantSafety Precautions.

Safety Section — such as Driver and Passenger Safety.Instructions — how to use this car correctly and safely.

This entire book is filled with important safety information — please read itcarefully.

Magesh

Your Car at a Glance

MIRROR CONTROLS(P.99)

INSTRUMENT PANEL(P.53)

DIGITAL CLOCK(P. 109)

CLIMATE CONTROLSYSTEM(P.122)

AUDIO SYSTEM(P.136)

DRIVING POSITIONMEMORY(P.101)

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES(P.106)

TRUNK RELEASEBUTTON(P.86)

FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASEHANDLE(P.169)

HOOD RELEASEHANDLE(P.170)

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Your Car at a Glance

WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS(P. 68, 70)

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS(P. 70)

VEHICLE STABILITYASSIST SYSTEM OFFSWITCH(P. 192)

CRUISE CONTROL(P. 73)

INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS(P. 66)

STEERING WHEELADJUSTMENTS(P. 71)

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS(P. 63, 66)

FOG LIGHTS(P. 67)

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER(P. 71)

Driver and Passenger Safety

This section gives you importantinformation about how to protectyourself and your passengers. Itshows you how to use seat beltsproperly. It explains your Supple-mental Restraint System. And it tellsyou how to properly restrain infantsand children in your car.

Important Safety Precautions .......... 6Your Car's Safety Features .............. 7

Seat Belts........................................ 8Airbags............................................ 9Seats & Seat-Backs...................... 10Head Restraints........................... 10Door Locks................................... 10Pre-Drive Safety Checklist......... 11

Protecting Adults............................. 121. Close and Lock the Doors...... 12

2. Adjust the Front Seats............ 123. Adjust the Seat-Backs............. 134. Adjust the Head Restraints.... 145. Fasten and Position the Seat

Belts...................................... 156. Adjust the Steering Wheel..... 177. Maintain a Proper Sitting

Position................................. 17Advice for Pregnant Women...... 18Additional Safety Precautions.... 19

Protecting Children......................... 20All Children Must Be

Restrained................................ 20Children Should Sit in the Back

Seat............................................21The Passenger's Front Airbag

Poses Serious Risksto Children............................ 21

If You Must Drive with SeveralChildren.................................... 23

If a Child Requires CloseAttention...................................23

Additional Safety Precautions.... 23General Guidelines for Using

Child Seats................................24Protecting Infants........................ 28

Protecting Small Children.......... 32Protecting Larger Children........ 35Using Child Seats with

Tethers......................................39Additional Information About Your

Seat Belts.................................. 40Seat Belt System Components... 40Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 40Automatic Seat Belt

Tensioners................................ 41Seat Belt Maintenance................ 42

Additional Information About YourAirbags......................................43

SRS Components......................... 43How Your Front Airbags

Work..........................................43How Your Side Airbags Work.... 45How the SRS Indicator Light

Works........................................46How The Side Airbag Indicator

Light Works............................. 47Airbag Service.............................. 48Additional Safety Precautions.... 48

Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 49Safety Labels.................................... 50


Important Safety Precautions

You'll find many safelyrecommendations throughout thissection, and throughout this manual.The recommendations on this pageare the ones we consider to be themost important.

Always Wear Your Seat BeltA seat belt is your best protection inall types of collisions. Airbagssupplement seat belts, but airbagsare designed to inflate only in amoderate to severe frontal collision.So even though your car is equippedwith airbags, make sure you andyour passengers always wear yourseat belts, and wear them properly.(See page 15.)

Restrain All ChildrenChildren are safest when they areproperly restrained in the back seat,not the front seat. A child who is toosmall for a seat belt must be properlyrestrained in a child safety seat. (Seepage 20.)

Be Aware of Airbag HazardsWhile airbags can save lives, theycan cause serious or fatal injuries tooccupants who sit too close to them,or are not properly restrained.Infants, young children, and shortadults are at the greatest risk. Besure to follow all instructions andwarnings in this manual. (See page

9.)

Don't Drink and DriveAlcohol and driving don't mix. Evenone drink can reduce your ability torespond to changing conditions, andyour reaction time gets worse withevery additional drink. So don't drinkand drive, and don't let your friendsdrink and drive, either.

Control Your SpeedExcessive speed is a major factor incrash injuries and deaths. Generally,the higher the speed the greater therisk, but serious accidents can alsooccur at lower speeds. Never drivefaster than is safe for currentconditions, regardless of themaximum speed posted.

Keep Your Car in Safe ConditionHaving a tire blowout or amechanical failure can be extremelyhazardous. To reduce the possibilityof such problems, check your tirepressures and condition frequently,and perform all regularly scheduledmaintenance. (See page 206.)


Your Car's Safety Features

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

Your car is equipped with manyfeatures that work together toprotect you and your passengersduring a crash.

Some safety features do not requireany action on your part. Theseinclude a strong steel frameworkthat forms a safety cage around thepassenger compartment; front andrear crush zones that are designed tocrumple and absorb energy during acrash; a collapsible steering column;and seat belt tensioners thatautomatically tighten the front seatbelts in the event of a crash.

CONTINUED



These safety features are designedto reduce the severity of injuries in acrash. However, you and yourpassengers can't take full advantageof these safety features unless youremain sitting in a proper positionand always wear your seat beltsproperly. In fact, some safetyfeatures can contribute to injuries ifthey are not used properly.

Seat BeltsFor your safety, and the safety ofyour passengers, your car isequipped with seat belts in all seatingpositions.

Your seat belt system alsoincludes a light on the

instrument panel to remind you andyour passengers to fasten your seatbelts.

Why Wear Seat BeltsSeat belts are the single mosteffective safety device for adults andlarger children. (Infants and smallerchildren must be properly restrainedin child seats.)

Not wearing a seat belt properlyincreases the chance of seriousinjury or death in a crash, eventhough your car has airbags.

In addition, most states and allCanadian provinces require you towear seat belts.

When properly worn, seat belts:

Keep you connected to the vehicleso you can take advantage of thevehicle's built-in safety features.

Help protect you in almost everytype of crash, including frontal,side, and rear impacts androllovers.


Not wearing a seat belt properlyincreases the chance of seriousinjury or death in a crash, evenif you have airbags.

Be sure you and yourpassengers always wear seatbelts and wear them properly.

Magesh


Help keep you from being thrownagainst the inside of the car andagainst other occupants.

Keep you from being thrown outof the car.

Help keep you in a good positionshould the airbags ever deploy. Agood position reduces the risk ofinjury from an inflating airbag, andallows you to get the bestadvantage from the airbag.

Of course, seat belts cannotcompletely protect you in everycrash. But in most cases, seat beltscan reduce your risk of seriousinjury.

What you should do: Always wearyour seat belt, and make sure youwear it properly.

Airbags

Your car has a SupplementalRestraint System (SRS) with frontairbags to help protect the heads andchests of the driver and a front seatpassenger during a moderate tosevere frontal collision.

Your car also has side airbags to helpprotect the upper torso of the driveror a front seat passenger during amoderate to severe side impact.

The most important things you needto know about your airbags are:

Airbags do not replace seat belts.They are designed to supplementthe seal belts.


CONTINUED


Airbags offer no protection in rearimpacts, rollovers, or minorfrontal or side collisions.

Airbags can pose serious hazards.To do their job, airbags mustinflate with tremendous force andspeed. So while airbags help savelives, they can cause minor injuries,or more serious or even fatalinjuries if occupants are notproperly restrained or sittingproperly.

What you should do: Always wearyour seat belt properly, and situpright and as far back as possiblefrom the steering wheel ordashboard.

Seats & Seat-BacksYour car's seats are designed to keepyou in a comfortable, uprightposition so you can take fulladvantage of the protection offeredby seat belts and the energyabsorbing materials in the seats.

How you adjust your seats and seat-backs can also affect your safety. Forexample, sitting too close to thesteering wheel or dashboardincreases the risk of you or yourpassenger being injured by strikingthe inside of the car, or by aninflating airbag.

Reclining a seat-back too far reducesthe seat belt's effectiveness andincreases the chance that the seat'soccupant will slide under the seatbelt in a crash and be seriouslyinjured.

What you should do: Move the frontseats as far back as possible, andkeep adjustable seat-backs in anupright position whenever the car ismoving.

Head RestraintsHead restraints can help protect youfrom whiplash and other injuries. Formaximum protection, the back ofyour head should rest against thecenter of the head restraint.

Door LocksKeeping your doors locked reducesthe chance of being thrown out ofthe car during a crash. It also helpsprevent occupants from accidentallyopening a door and falling out, andoutsiders from unexpectedly openingyour doors.



Pre-Drive Safety ChecklistTo make sure you and yourpassengers get the maximumprotection from your car's safetyfeatures, check the following eachtime before you drive away:

All adults, and children who haveoutgrown child safety seats, arewearing their seat belts andwearing them properly (see page15).

Any infant or small child isproperly restrained in a child seatin the back seat (see page 20).

Front seat occupants are sittingupright and as far back as possiblefrom the steering wheel anddashboard (see page 12).

Seat-backs are upright (see page13).

Head restraints are properlyadjusted (see page 14).

All doors are closed and locked(see page 12).

Al l cargo is properly stored orsecured (see page 176).

The rest of this section gives moredetailed information about how youcan maximize your safety.

Remember, however, that no safetysystem can prevent all injuries ordeaths that can occur in severecrashes, even when seat belts areproperly worn and the airbags deploy.


Protecting Adults

IntroductionThe following pages provideinstructions on how to properlyprotect the driver and other adultoccupants.

These instructions also apply tochildren who have outgrown childseats and are large enough to wearlap/shoulder belts. (See page 35 forimportant additional guidelines onhow to properly protect largerchildren.)

1. Close and Lock the DoorsAfter everyone has entered the car,be sure the doors are closed andlocked.

Your car has a door monitor light onthe instrument panel to indicatewhen a specific door is not tightlyclosed.

For safety, locking the doors reducesthe chance that a passenger,especially a child, will open a doorwhile the car is moving andaccidentally fall out. It also reducesthe chance of someone being thrownout of the car during a crash.

For security, locked doors canprevent an outsider fromunexpectedly opening a door whenyou come to a stop.

See page 81 for how to lock thedoors.

2.Adjust the Front Seats

Any driver who sits too close to thesteering wheel is at risk of beingseriously injured or killed by strikingthe steering wheel or from beingstruck by an inflating front airbagduring a crash.


Protecting Adults

To reduce the chance of injury, wearyour seat belt properly, sit uprightwith your back against the seat, andmove the seat as far back as possiblefrom the steering wheel while stillmaintaining full control of the car.Also make sure your front seatpassenger moves the seat as far tothe rear as possible.

Most shorter drivers can get farenough away from the steeringwheel and still reach the pedals.However, if you are concerned aboutsitting too close, we recommend thatyou investigate whether some typeof adaptive equipment may help.

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

See page 94 for how to adjust thefront seats.

3.Adjust the Seat-Backs

Adjust the driver's seat-back to acomfortable, upright position,leaving ample space between yourchest and the airbag cover in thecenter of the steering wheel. If yousit too close to the steering wheel,you could be injured if the frontairbag inflates.

CONTINUED


Sitting too close to a frontairbag can result in seriousinjury or death if the frontairbags inflate.

Always sit as far back from thefront airbags as possible.

Magesh

Protecting Adults

A front passenger should also adjustthe seat-back to an upright position,but as far from the dashboard aspossible. A passenger who sits tooclose to the dashboard could beinjured if the front airbag inflates.

Reclining a seat-back so that theshoulder part of the belt no longerrests against the occupant's chestreduces the protective capability ofthe belt. It also increases the chanceof sliding under the belt in a crashand being seriously injured. Thefarther a seat-back is reclined, thegreater the risk of injury.

See page 95 for how to adjust seat-backs.

4.Adjust the Head Restraints

Before driving, make sure everyonewith an adjustable head restraint hasproperly positioned the headrestraint. The restraint should bepositioned so the back of theoccupant's head rests against thecenter of the restraint. A tallerperson should adjust the restraint ashigh as possible.


Reclining the seat-back too farcan result in serious injury ordeath in a crash.

Adjust the seat-back to anupright position and sit wellback in the seat.

Magesh

Protecting Adults

Properly adjusted head restraintswill help protect occupants fromwhiplash and other crash injuries.

See page 96 for how to adjust thehead restraints.

5.Fasten and Position the SeatBelts

Insert the latch plate into the buckle,then tug on the belt to make sure thebelt is securely latched. Also checkthat the belt is not twisted, because atwisted belt can cause seriousinjuries in a crash.

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

CONTINUED


Improperly positioning headrestraints reduces theireffectiveness and you can beseriously injured in a crash.

Make sure head restraints arein place and positioned properlybefore driving.

Magesh

Protecting Adults

If necessary, pull up on the belt againto remove any slack from theshoulder part, then check that thebelt rests across the center of yourchest and over your shoulder. Thisspreads the forces of a crash overthe strongest bones in your upperbody.

If the seat belt touches or crossesyour neck, or if it crosses your arminstead of your shoulder, you need toadjust the seat belt anchor height.

To adjust the height of a front seatbelt anchor, press the release buttonand slide the anchor up or down asneeded (it has four positions).

Never place the shoulder portion of alap/shoulder belt under your arm orbehind your back. This could causevery serious injuries in a crash.

If a seat belt does not seem to workas it should, it may not protect theoccupant in a crash. No one shouldsit in a seat with an inoperative seatbelt. Anyone using a seat belt that isnot working properly can beseriously injured or killed. Have yourAcura dealer check the belt as soonas possible.

See page 40 for additionalinformation about your seat beltsystem and how to take care of yourbelts.


Improperly positioning the seatbelts can cause serious injuryor death in a crash.

Make sure all seat belts areproperly positioned beforedriving.

Magesh

Protecting Adults

6.Adjust the Steering Wheel

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

Pointing the steering wheel towardyour chest provides optimalprotection from the airbag.

See page 71 for how to adjust thesteering wheel.

7.Maintain a Proper SittingPosition

After all occupants have adjustedtheir seats and put on seat belts, it isvery important that they continue tosit upright, well back in their seats,with their feet on the floor, until thecar is parked and the engine is off.

Sitting improperly can increase thechance of injury during a crash. Forexample, if an occupant slouches,lies down, turns sideways, sitsforward, leans forward or sideways,or puts one or both feet up, thechance of injury during a crash isgreatly increased.

In addition, an occupant who is out ofposition in the front seat can beseriously or fatally injured bystriking interior parts of the car, orby being struck by an inflating frontairbag. Being struck by an inflatingside airbag can result in possiblyserious injuries.

CONTINUED


Sitting improperly or out ofposition can result in seriousinjury or death in a crash.

Always sit upright, well back inthe seat, with your feet on thefloor.

Magesh

Protecting Adults

Remember, to get the bestprotection from your car's airbagsand other safety features, you mustsit properly and wear your seat beltproperly.

Advice for Pregnant Women

Because protecting the mother is thebest way to protect her unborn child,a pregnant woman should alwayswear a seat belt whenever she drivesor rides in a car.

Remember to keep the lap portion ofthe belt as low as possible acrossyour hips.

Pregnant women should also situpright and as far back as possiblefrom the steering wheel ordashboard. This will reduce the riskof injuries to both the mother andher unborn child that can be causedby a crash or an inflating airbag.

Each time you have a check-up, askyour doctor if it's okay for you todrive.


Protecting Adults

Additional Safety PrecautionsTwo people should never use thesame seat belt. If they do, theycould be very seriously injured in acrash.

Do not put any accessories on seatbelts. Devices intended to improveoccupant comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt canseverely compromise theprotective capability of the seatbelt and increase the chance ofserious injury in a crash.

Do not place hard or sharp objectsbetween yourself and a frontairbag. Carrying hard or sharpobjects on your lap, or driving witha pipe or other sharp object inyour mouth, can result in injuriesif your front airbag inflates.

Do not attach or place objects onthe front airbag covers. Any objectattached to or placed on the coversmarked "SRS AIRBAG" in thecenter of the steering wheel andon top of the dashboard couldinterfere with the proper operationof the airbags. Or, if the airbagsinflate, the objects could bepropelled inside the car and hurtsomeone.

Do not attach hard objects on ornear a front door. If a side airbaginflates, a cup holder or other hardobject attached on or near thedoor could be propelled inside thecar and hurt someone.

Keep your hands and arms awayfrom the airbag covers. If yourhands or arms are close to theairbag cover in the center of thesteering wheel or on top of thedashboard, they could be injured ifthe front airbags inflate.


Protecting Children

Children depend on adults to protectthem. However, despite their bestintentions, many parents and otheradults may not know how to properlyprotect young passengers.

So if you have children, or if you everneed to drive with a grandchild orother children in your car, be sure toread this section.

All Children Must Be RestrainedEach year, many children are injuredor killed in vehicle crashes becausethey are either unrestrained or notproperly restrained. In fact, vehicleaccidents are the number one causeof death of children ages 12 andunder.

To reduce the number of childdeaths and injuries, every state andCanadian province requires thatinfants and children be restrainedwhenever they ride in a vehicle.

Any child who is too small to wear aseat belt should be properlyrestrained in a child seat. (See page24.)

A larger child should always berestrained with a seat belt. (See page35.)


Children who are unrestrainedor improperly restrained can beseriously injured or killed in acrash.

Any child too small for a seatbelt should be properlyrestrained in a child seat. Alarger child should be properlyrestrained with a seat belt.

Magesh

Protecting Children

Children Should Sit in the BackSeatAccording to accident statistics,children of all ages and sizes aresafer when they are restrained in theback seat, not the front seat. TheNational Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration and TransportCanada recommend that all childrenages 12 and under be properlyrestrained in the back seat.

In the back seat, children are lesslikely to be injured by striking hardinterior parts during a collision orhard braking. Also, children cannotbe injured by an inflating airbagwhen they ride in the back.

The Passenger's Front AirbagPoses Serious Risks to ChildrenFront airbags have been designed tohelp protect adults in a moderate tosevere frontal collision. To do this,the passenger's front airbag is quitelarge, and it inflates with tremendousspeed.

InfantsNever put a rear-facing child seat inthe front seat of a vehicle equippedwith a passenger's front airbag. Ifthe airbag inflates, it can hit the backof the child seat with enough forceto kill or very seriously injure aninfant.

Small ChildrenPlacing a forward-facing child seat inthe front seat of a vehicle equippedwith a passenger's front airbag canbe hazardous. If the vehicle seat istoo far forward, or the child's head isthrown forward during a collision, aninflating front airbag can strike thechild with enough force to kill orvery seriously injure a small child.

Larger ChildrenChildren who have outgrown childseats are also at risk of being injuredor killed by an inflating passenger'sfront airbag. Whenever possible,larger children should sit in the backseat, properly restrained with a seatbelt. (See page 35 for importantinformation about protecting largerchildren.)

CONTINUED


Protecting Children

U.S. ModelsTo remind you of the passenger'sfront airbag hazards, and thatchildren must be properly restrainedin the back seat, your car haswarning labels on the dashboard andon the driver's and front passenger'svisors. Please read and follow theinstructions on these labels.

Canadian ModelsTo remind you of the front airbaghazards, your car has warning labelson the driver's and front passenger'svisors. Please read and follow theinstructions on these labels.


CAUTIONTO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY:FOR MAXIMUM SAFETY PROTECTION INALL TYPES OF CRASHES, YOU MUSTALWAYS WEAR YOUR SAFETY BELT.DO NOT INSTALL REARWARD-FACINGCHILD SEATS IN ANY FRONTPASSENGER SEAT POSITION.DO NOT SIT OR LEAN UNNECESSARILYCLOSE TO THE AIR BAG.DO NOT PLACE ANY OBJECTS OVER THEAIR BAG OR BETWEEN THE AIR BAGAND YOURSELF.SEE THE OWNER'S MANUAL FOR FURTHERINFORMATION AND EXPLANATIONS.

PRECAUTION:POUR EVITER DES BLESSURES GRAVES:POUR PROFITER D'UNE PROTECTIONMAXIMALE LORS D'UNE COLLISION BOUCLEZTOUJOURS VOTRE CEINTURE DE SECURITE.N'lNSTALLEZ JAMAIS UN SIEGE POURENFANTS FAISANT FACE A L'ARRIERE SURLE SIEGE DU PASSAGER AVANT.NE VOUS APPUYEZ PAS ET NE VOUS ASSEYEZPAS PRES DU COUSSIN GONFLABLE.NE DEPOSEZ AUCUN OBJET SUR LE COUSSINGONFLABLE OU ENTRE LE COUSSINGONFLABLE ET VOUS.LISEZ LE GUIDE UTILISATEUR POUR DEPLUS AMPLES RENSEIGNEMENTS.

Protecting Children

If You Must Drive with SeveralChildrenYour car has three seating positionsin the back seat where children canbe properly restrained.

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

Place the largest child in the frontseat, provided the child is largeenough to wear a seat beltproperly (see page 35).

Move the vehicle seat as far to therear as possible (see page 12).

Have the child sit upright and wellback in the seat (see page 17).

Make sure the seat belt is properlypositioned and secured (see page15).

If a Child Requires CloseAttentionMany parents say they prefer to putan infant or small child in the frontpassenger seat so they can watch thechild, or because the child requiresattention.

Placing a child in the front seatexposes the child to hazards fromthe passenger's front airbag, andpaying close attention to a childdistracts the driver from theimportant tasks of driving, placingboth of you at risk.

If a child requires physical attentionor frequent visual contact, westrongly recommend that anotheradult ride with the child in the backseat. The back seat is far safer for achild than the front.

Additional Safety PrecautionsUse childproof door locks toprevent children from opening thedoors. Using this feature willprevent children from opening thedoors and accidentally falling out(see page 85).

Use the main power windowswitch to prevent children fromopening the rear windows. Usingthis feature will prevent childrenfrom playing with the windows,which could expose them tohazards or distract the driver (seepage 107).

CONTINUED


Protecting Children

Lock all doors and the trunk whenyour car is not in use. Childrenwho play in cars can accidentallyget trapped inside the trunk.Teach your children not to play inor around cars. Know how tooperate the emergency trunkopener (US models only) anddecide if your children should beshown how to use this feature (seepage 87).

Keep car keys and remotetransmitters out of the reach ofchildren. Even very youngchildren learn how to unlockvehicle doors, turn on the ignition,and open the trunk, which canlead to accidental injury or death.

Do not leave children alone in yourvehicle. Leaving children withoutadult supervision is illegal in moststates and Canadian provinces,and can be very hazardous. Forexample, infants and smallchildren left in a vehicle on a hotday can die from heatstroke. Andchildren left alone with the key inthe ignition can accidentally setthe vehicle in motion, possiblyinjuring themselves or others.

General Guidelines for UsingChild SeatsThe following pages give generalguidelines for selecting and installingchild seats for infants and smallchildren.

Selecting a Child SeatTo provide proper protection, a childseat should meet threerequirements:

1. The child seat should meet safetystandards. The child seat shouldmeet Federal Motor VehicleSafety Standard 213 (FMVSS 213)or Canadian Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard 213 (CMVSS 213). Lookfor the manufacturer's statementof compliance on the box and seat.


Protecting Children

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

Infants: Children up to about oneyear old should be restrained in arear-facing, reclining child seat. Onlya rear-facing seat provides theproper support to protect an infant'shead, neck, and back. See page28 for additional information onprotecting infants.

Small Children: A child who is toolarge for a rear-facing child seat, andwho can sit up without support,should be restrained in a forward-facing child seat. See page 32 foradditional information on protectingsmall children.

3. The child seat should fit thevehicle seating position (orpositions) where it will be used.

Due to variations in the design ofchild seats, vehicle seats, and seatbelts, all child seats will not fit allvehicle seating positions.

However, Acura is confident that oneor more child seat models can fit andbe properly installed in allrecommended seating positions inyour car.

Before purchasing a child seat, werecommend that parents test thechild seat in the specific vehicleseating position (or positions) wherethey intend to use the seat. If apreviously purchased child seat doesnot fit, you may need to buy adifferent one that will fit.

CONTINUED


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Protecting Children

Placing a Child SeatThis page briefly summarizes Acura'srecommendations on where to placerear-facing and forward facing childseats in your car.

Front Passenger's SeatInfants: Never in the front seat, due

to the front airbag hazard.

Small children: Not recommended,due to the front airbag hazard. If asmall 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 32).

Back SeatsInfants: Recommended positions.

Secure a rear-facing child seatwith the seat belt (see page 28).

Small children: Recommendedpositions. Secure a front-facingchild seat with the seat belt (seepage 32).


Airbags Pose SeriousRisks to Children

The passenger's front airbaginflates with enough force to killor seriously injure an infant in arear-facing child seat.

A small child in a forward-facingchild seat is also at risk. If thevehicle seat is too far forward,or the child's head is thrownforward during a collision, aninflating front airbag can kill orseriously injure the child.

If a small child must ride in thefront, follow the instructionsprovided in this section.

Protecting Children

Installing a Child SeatAfter selecting a proper child seat,and a good position to install the seat,there are three main steps ininstalling the seat:

1. Secure the child seat to the carwith a seat belt. Al l child seatsmust be secured to the car withthe lap part of a lap/shoulder belt.A child whose seat is not properlysecured to the car can beendangered in a crash. See pages29 and 33 for instructions on howto secure child seats in this car.

2. Make sure the child seat is firmlysecured. After installing a childseat, push and pull the seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure.

To provide security during normaldriving maneuvers as well as duringa collision, we recommend thatparents secure a child seat as firmlyas possible.

However, a child seat does not needto be "rock solid." In some vehiclesor seating positions, it may bedifficult to install a child seat so thatit does not move at all. Some side-to-side or back-and-forth movement canbe expected and should not reducethe child seat's effectiveness.

If the child seat is not secure, tryinstalling it in a different seatingposition, or use a different style ofchild seat that can be firmly securedin the desired seating position.

3. Secure the child in the child seat.Make sure the child is properlystrapped in the child seataccording to the child seat maker'sinstructions. A child who is notproperly secured in a child seatcan be thrown out of the seat in acrash and be seriously injured.

Storing a Child SeatWhen you are not using a child seat,either remove it and store it in a safeplace, or make sure it is properlysecured. An unsecured child seat canbe thrown around the car during acrash or sudden stop and injuresomeone.


Protecting Children

Protecting Infants

Child Seat TypeOnly a rear-facing child seat providesproper support for a baby's head,neck, and back. Infants up to aboutone year of age must be restrained ina rear-facing child seat.

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

We recommend that an infant berestrained in a rear-facing child seatuntil the infant reaches the seatmaker's weight or height limit and isable to sit up without support.

Rear-Facing Child Seat PlacementIn this car, a rear-facing child seatcan be placed in any seating positionin the back seat, but not in the frontseat.

Never put a rear-facing child seat inthe front seat. If the passenger'sfront airbag inflates, it can hit theback of the child seat with enoughforce to kill or seriously injure aninfant. If an infant must be closelywatched, we recommend thatanother adult sit in the back seatwith the baby.

Do not put a rear-facing child seat ina forward-facing position. If placedfacing forward, an infant could bevery seriously injured during afrontal collision.


Placing a rear-facing child seatin the front seat can result inserious injury or death if thepassenger's front airbag inflates.

Always place a rear-facing childseat in the back seat, not thefront.

Magesh

Protecting Children

Rear-Facing Child Seat InstallationThe lap/shoulder belts in the backseats have a locking mechanism thatmust be activated to secure a childseat.

The following pages provideinstructions and tips on how tosecure a rear-facing child seat withthis type of seat belt.

1. With the child seat in the desiredback seating position, route thebelt through the child seataccording to the seat maker'sinstructions, then insert the latchplate into the buckle.

2. To activate the lockable retractor,slowly pull the shoulder part of thebelt all the way out until it stops,then let the belt feed back into theretractor (you might hear aclicking noise as the belt retracts).

3. After the belt has retracted, tug onit. If the belt is locked, you will notbe able to pull it out. If you can pullthe belt out, it is not locked andyou will need to repeat these steps.


CONTINUED

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Protecting Children

4. After confirming that the belt islocked, grab the shoulder part ofthe belt near the buckle and pullup to remove any slack from thelap part of the belt. Remember, ifthe lap part of the belt is not tight,the child seat will not be secure.To remove slack, it may help toput weight on the child seat, orpush on the back of the seat, whilepulling up on the belt.

5. Push and pull the child seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure enough tostay upright during normal drivingmaneuvers. If the child seat, is notsecure, unlatch the belt, allow it toretract fully, then repeat thesesteps.

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


Protecting Children

Rear-Facing Child Seat InstallationTips

For proper protection, an infant mustride in a reclined, or semi-reclinedposition. To determine the properreclining angle, check with the baby'sdoctor or follow the seat maker'srecommendations.

To achieve the desired recliningangle, it may help to put a rolled uptowel under the toe of the child seat,as shown.

When properly installed, a rear-facing child seat may prevent thedriver or a front-seat passenger frommoving the seat as far back asrecommended (see page 12). Or itmay prevent them from locking theseat-back in the desired uprightposition (see page 13).

In either case, we recommend thatyou place the child seat directlybehind the front passenger seat,move the front seat as far forward asneeded, and leave it unoccupied. Oryou may wish to get a smaller childseat that allows you to safely carry afront passenger.

Additional Precautions for InfantsNever hold an infant on your lap.If you are not wearing a seat beltin a crash, you could be thrownforward into the dashboard andcrush the infant.

If you are wearing a seat belt, theinfant can be torn from your armsduring a crash. For example, ifyour car crashes into a parkedvehicle at 30 mph (48 km/h), a20-lb (9 kg) infant will become a600-lb (275 kg) force, and you willnot be able to hold on.

Never put a seat belt over yourselfand an infant. During a crash, thebelt could press deep into theinfant and cause very seriousinjuries.


Protecting Children

Protecting Small Children

Child Seat TypeA child who can sit up withoutsupport, and who fits within the childseat maker's weight and heightlimits, should be restrained in aforward-facing, upright child seat.

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

We also recommend that a smallchild stay in the child seat as long aspossible, until the child reaches theweight or height limit for the seat.

Child Seat PlacementIn this car, the best place to install aforward-facing child seat is in one ofthe seating positions in the back seat.

Placing a forward-facing child seat inthe front seat of a vehicle equippedwith a passenger's front airbag canbe hazardous. If the vehicle seat istoo far forward, or the child's head isthrown forward during a collision, aninflating front airbag can strike thechild with enough force to causevery serious or fatal injuries. If asmall child must be closely watched,we recommend that another adult sitin the back seat with the child.

If it is necessary to put a forward-facing child seat in the front, movethe vehicle seat as far to the rear aspossible, be sure the child seat isfirmly secured to the car, and thechild is properly strapped in the seat.


Improperly placing a forward-facing child seat in the frontseat can result in serious injuryor death if the front airbagsinflate.

If you must place a forward-facing child seat in front, movethe vehicle seat as far back aspossible and properly restrainthe child.

Magesh

Protecting Children

Child Seat InstallationThe lap/shoulder belts in the backand front passenger seating positionshave a locking mechanism that mustbe activated to secure a child seat.

The following pages provideinstructions on how to secure aforward-facing child seat with thistype of seat belt.

1. With the child seat in the desiredseating position, route the beltthrough the child seat accordingto the seat maker's instructions,then insert the latch plate into thebuckle.

2. To activate the lockable retractor,slowly pull the shoulder part of thebelt all the way out until it stops,then let the belt feed back into theretractor (you might hear aclicking noise as the belt retracts).

3. After the belt has retracted, tug onit. If the belt is locked, you will notbe able to pull it out. If you can pullthe belt out, it is not locked andyou will need to repeat these steps.


CONTINUED

Protecting Children

4. After confirming that the belt islocked, grab the shoulder part ofthe belt near the buckle and pullup to remove any slack from thelap part of the belt. Remember, ifthe lap part of the belt is not tight,the child seat will not be secure. Itmay help to put weight on thechild seat, or push on the back ofthe seat, while pulling up on thebelt.

5. Push and pull the child seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure enough tostay upright during normal drivingmaneuvers. If the child seat is notsecure, unlatch the belt, allow it toretract fully, then repeat thesesteps.

To deactivate the lockingmechanism in order to remove achild seat, unlatch the buckle,unroute the seat belt, and let the beltfully retract.


Protecting Children

Additional Precautions for SmallChildren

Never hold a small child on yourlap. If you are not wearing a seatbelt in a crash, you could bethrown forward into thedashboard and crush the child.

If you are wearing a seat belt, thechild can be torn from your armsduring a crash. For example, ifyour car crashes into a parkedvehicle at 30 mph (48 km/h), a30-lb (14 kg) child will become a900-lb (410 kg) force, and you willnot be able to hold on.

Never put a seat belt over yourselfand a child. During a crash, thebelt could press deep into the childand cause very serious injuries.

Protecting Larger ChildrenWhen a child reaches therecommended weight or height limitfor a forward-facing child seat, thechild should sit in the back seat andwear a lap/shoulder belt.

If a child is too short for the shoulderpart of the belt to properly fit, werecommend that the child use abooster seat until the child is tallenough to use the seat belt without abooster.

The following pages giveinstructions on how to check properseat belt fit, what kind of boosterseat to use if one is needed, andimportant precautions for a childwho must sit in the front seat.

CONTINUED


Allowing a larger child to sitimproperly in the front seat canresult in injury or death if thepassenger's front airbag inflates.

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

Magesh

Protecting Children

Checking Seat Belt Fit

To determine if a lap/shoulder beltproperly fits a child, have the childput on the seat belt. Follow theinstructions on page 15. Then checkhow the belt fits.

If the shoulder part of the belt restsover the child's collarbone andagainst the center of the chest, asshown, the child is large enough towear the seat belt.

However, if the belt touches orcrosses the child's neck, the childneeds to use a booster seat.

Do not let a child wear a seat beltacross the neck. This could result inserious neck injuries during a crash.

Do not let a child put the shoulderpart of a seat belt behind the back orunder the arm. This could causevery serious injuries during a crash.It also increases the chance that thechild will slide under the belt in acrash and be injured.

Do not put any accessories on a seatbelt. Devices intended to improveoccupant comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt, severelycompromise the protective capabilityof the seat belt and increase thechance of serious injury in a crash.

Two children should never use thesame seat belt. If they do, they couldbe very seriously injured in a crash.


Protecting Children

Using a Booster Seat

If a child needs a booster seat, werecommend choosing a style thatallows the child to use the lap/shoulder belt directly, without ashield, as shown.

Whichever style you select, followthe booster seat maker's instructions.

A child may continue using a boosterseat until the tops of the ears areeven with the top of the seat-back. Achild of this height should be tallenough to use the lap/shoulder beltwithout a booster.

When Can a Larger Child Sit in FrontThe National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration and TransportCanada recommend that all childrenages 12 and under be properlyrestrained in a back seat.

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

In addition, the passenger's frontairbag poses serious risks to children.If the seat is too far forward, or thechild's head is thrown forwardduring a collision, or the child isunrestrained or out of position, aninflating front airbag can kill orseriously injure the child.

The side airbag also poses risks. Ifany part of a larger child's body is inthe path of a deploying airbag, thechild could receive possibly seriousinjuries.


CONTINUED

Protecting Children

Of course, children vary widely. Andwhile age may be one indicator ofwhen a child can safely ride in thefront, there are other importantfactors you should consider.

Physical SizePhysically, a child must be largeenough for the lap/shoulder belt toproperly fit over the hips, chest, andshoulder (see pages 15 and 35). Ifthe seat belt does not fit properly,the child should not sit in the front.

MaturityTo safely ride in front, a child mustbe able to follow the rules, includingsitting properly and wearing the seatbelt properly throughout a ride.

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

Carefully read the owner's manualand make sure you understand allseat belt instructions and all safetyinformation.

Move the vehicle seat to the rear-most position.

Have the child sit up straight, backagainst the seat, and feet on ornear the floor.

Check that the child's seat belt isproperly positioned and secured.

Supervise the child. Even maturechildren sometimes need to bereminded to fasten the seat beltsor sit properly.


Protecting Children

Using Child Seats with Tethers

Your car has three tether anchoragepoints under the rear window forsecuring a tether-style child seat tothe car.

Since a tether can provide additionalsecurity, we recommend using atether whenever one is required oravailable.

Attach the tether strap hook to thetether anchorage point as shown inthe illustration, then tighten thestrap according to the child seatmaker's instructions.


Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

Seat Belt System ComponentsYour seat belt system includes lap/shoulder belts in all five seatingpositions. The front seat belts arealso equipped with automatic seatbelt tensioners.

The seat belt system alsoincludes a light on the

instrument panel to remind you andyour passengers to fasten your belts.If the driver's seat belt is notfastened before the ignition is turnedON (II), the light will come on and abeeper will also sound. The beeperwill stop after a few seconds, but thelight will stay on until the driver'sseat belt is fastened.

Lap/Shoulder Belt

This seat belt has a single belt thatgoes over your shoulder, across yourchest and across your hips.

To fasten the belt, insert the latchplate into the buckle, then tug on thebelt to make sure the buckle islatched.

To unlock the belt, push the redPRESS button on the buckle.Guide the belt across your body tothe door pillar. After exiting the car,be sure the belt is out of the way andwill not get closed in the door.

All seat belts have an emergencylocking retractor. In normal driving,the retractor lets you move freely inyour seat while it keeps sometension on the belt. During a collisionor sudden stop, the retractorautomatically locks the belt to helprestrain your body.

The seat belts in all seating positionsexcept the driver's have an additionallocking mechanism that must beactivated to secure a child seat. (Seepages 29 and 33 for instructions onhow to secure child seats with thistype of seat belt.)



If the shoulder part of the belt ispulled all the way out, the lockingmechanism will activate. The beltwill retract, but it will not allow thepassenger to move freely.

To deactivate the lockingmechanism, unlatch the buckle andlet the seat belt fully retract. Torefasten the belt, pull it out only asfar as needed.

See page 15 for instructions on howto wear the lap/shoulder beltproperly.

Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners

For added protection, the front seatbelts are equipped with automaticseat belt tensioners. When activated,the tensioners immediately tightenthe belts to help hold the driver anda front passenger in place.

The tensioners are designed toactivate primarily in frontal collisions.The tensioners are independent ofthe airbag system, so they can beactivated during a collision that

might not cause the airbags todeploy. In this case, the airbagswould not be needed but theadditional seat belt tension can behelpful.

The tensioners will be activated in acollision severe enough to cause thefront airbags to inflate.

When the tensioners are activated,the seat belts will remain tight untilthey are unbuckled in the normalway.

The SRS indicator light willcome on if there is a

problem with your automatic seatbelt tensioners (see page 45).


SRS


Seat Belt MaintenanceFor safety, you should check thecondition of your seat belts regularly.

Pull each belt out fully and look forfrays, cuts, burns, and wear. Checkthat the latches work smoothly andthat the lap/shoulder belts retracteasily. Any belt not in good conditionor not working properly will notprovide good protection and shouldbe replaced as soon as possible.

U.S. ModelsAcura provides a lifetime warrantyon seat belts. Acura will repair orreplace any seat belt componentthat fails to function properlyduring normal use. Please seeyour Acura Warranty Informationbooklet for details.

If a seat belt is worn during a crash,you should have your dealer inspectthe belt, and replace it if necessary.A belt that has been worn during acrash may not provide the same levelof protection in a subsequent crash.The dealer should also inspect theanchors for damage and replacethem if needed.

Automatic seat belt tensioners thatdeployed during a crash must bereplaced.

For information on how to clean yourseat belts, see page 267.


Not checking or maintainingseat belts can result in seriousinjury or death if the seat beltsdo not work properly whenneeded.

Check your seat belts regularlyand have any problemcorrected as soon as possible.

Magesh

Additional Information About Your Airbags

SRS ComponentsYour Supplemental Restraint System(SRS) includes:

Two front airbags. The driver'sairbag is stored in the center ofthe steering wheel; the frontpassenger's airbag is stored in thedashboard. Both are marked "SRSAIRBAG."

Automatic seat belt tensioners(see page 41).

Sensors that can detect amoderate to severe frontalcollision.

A sophisticated electronic systemthat continually monitors andrecords information about thesensors, the control unit, theairbag activators, and driver andpassenger seat belt use when theignition is ON (II).

An indicator light on theinstrument panel that alerts you toa possible problem with thesystem (see page 45).

Emergency backup power in caseyour car's electrical system isdisconnected in a crash.

How Your Front Airbags Work

If you ever have a moderate tosevere frontal collision, the sensorswill detect the vehicle's rapiddeceleration. If the rate ofdeceleration is high enough, thecontrol unit will instantly inflate thefront airbags.

CONTINUED



During a frontal crash, your seatbelts help restrain your lower bodyand torso. Your airbag provides acushion to help restrain and protectyour head and chest.

Since both airbags use the samesensors, both airbags normallyinflate at the same time. However, itis possible for only one airbag toinflate.

This can occur when the severity ofa collision is at the margin, orthreshold, that determines whetheror not the airbags will deploy. Insuch cases, the seat belt will providesufficient protection, and thesupplemental protection offered bythe airbag would be minimal.

After inflating, the front airbagsimmediately deflate, so they won'tinterfere with the driver's visibility,or the ability to steer or operateother controls.

The total time for inflation anddeflation is approximately one-tenthof a second, so fast that mostoccupants are not aware that theairbags deployed until they see themlying in their laps.

After a crash, you may see whatlooks like smoke. This is actuallypowder from the airbag's surface.Although the powder is not harmful,people with respiratory problemsmay experience some temporarydiscomfort. If this occurs, get out ofthe car as soon as it is safe to do so.

U.S. OwnersFor additional information on howyour airbags work, see the booklettitled SRS: What You Need to KnowAbout Airbags that came with yourowner's manual.

Canadian OwnersFor additional information on howyour airbags work, ask your dealerfor a copy of the booklet titled SRS:What You Need to Know About Airbags.



How Your Side Airbags WorkYour car is equipped with sideairbags for the driver and a frontseat passenger. The airbags arestored in the outer edges of the frontseat-backs, and both are marked"SIDE AIRBAG."

If you ever have a moderate tosevere side impact, the sensors willdetect rapid deceleration and signalthe control unit to instantly inflateeither the driver's or the passenger'sside airbag.

Only one airbag will deploy during aside impact. If the impact is on thepassenger's side, the passenger'sside airbag will deploy even if thereis no passenger.

To get the best protection from theside airbags, front seat occupantsshould wear their seat belts and situpright and well back in their seats.



How the SRS Indicator LightWorks

The purpose of the SRSindicator light is to alert

you to a potential problem with yourfront airbags. This light will alsoalert you to a potential problem withyour automatic seat belt tensioners(page 41); or your side airbags orpassenger's side airbag automaticcutoff system (page 45).

When you turn the ignition ON (II),this indicator will light briefly thengo out. This tells you that the systemis working properly.

If the light comes on at any othertime, or does not come on at all, youshould have the system checked byyour dealer. For example:

If the SRS indicator light does notcome on after you turn the ignitionON (II).

If the light stays on after theengine starts.

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

If you see any of these indications,your front or side airbags may notdeploy, your passenger's side airbagautomatic cutoff system may notwork properly, or your seat belttensioners may not work when youneed them. See your Acura dealer assoon as possible.


Ignoring the SRS indicator lightcan result in serious injury ordeath if the airbags, cutoffsystem, or tensioners do notwork properly.

Have your vehicle checked by adealer as soon as possible ifthe SRS light alerts you to apotential problem.

SRS

Magesh


How The Side Airbag IndicatorLight Works

This light alerts you thatthe passenger's side airbag

has been automatically shut off.

To reduce the risk of injury from aninflating side airbag, your car has anautomatic cutoff system for thepassenger's side airbag.

Although Acura does not encouragechildren to ride in the front seat, thissystem is designed to shut off theside airbag if a child leans sidewaysand the child's head is in the sideairbag deployment path.

If a small-statured adult leanssideways, or larger adult slouchesand leans sideways into thedeployment path of the side airbag,the system may also shut off the sideairbag.

If the side airbag indicator lightcomes on, you should have thepassenger sit upright. Once thepassenger is out of the deploymentpath of the side airbag, the systemwill turn the airbag back on and thelight will go out.

A front seat passenger should notuse a cushion or other object as abackrest. It may prevent the cutoffsystem from working properly.

When you turn the ignition ON (II),the indicator should light briefly andgo out (see page 55). If it doesn'tlight, stays on, or comes on whiledriving without a passenger in thefront seat, have the system checked.


SIDEAIRBAG


Airbag ServiceYour front and side airbag systemsare virtually maintenance-free, andthere are no parts you can safelyservice. However, you must haveyour car serviced if:

Your airbags ever inflate. Anyairbag that has deployed must bereplaced along with the controlunit and other related parts. Donot try to remove or replace anyairbag by yourself. This must bedone by an Acura dealer or aknowledgeable body shop.

The SRS indicator light alerts youto a problem. Take your car to anauthorized Acura dealer as soon aspossible. If you ignore thisindication, the airbags might notinflate when you need them.

Additional Safety PrecautionsDo not attempt to deactivate yourairbags. Together, airbags andseat belts provide the bestprotection.

Do not tamper with airbagcomponents or wiring for anyreason. Tampering could causethe airbags to deploy, possiblycausing very serious injury.

Do not expose the front seat-backsto water. If rain or spilled watersoaks into a seat-back, it canprevent the side airbag systemfrom working properly.

Do not cover or replace front seat-back covers without consulting anAcura dealer. Improperlyreplacing or covering front seat-back covers can prevent your sideairbags from inflating during acollision.

See page 175 for further informationand precautions relating to yourairbags.


Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Your car's exhaust contains carbonmonoxide gas. You should have noproblem with carbon monoxideentering the car in normal driving ifyou maintain your car properly.Have the exhaust system inspectedfor leaks whenever:

The car is raised for an oil change.You notice a change in the soundof the exhaust.The car was in an accident thatmay have damaged the underside. High levels of carbon monoxide can

collect rapidly in enclosed areas,such as a garage. Do not run theengine with the garage door closed.Even with the door open, run theengine only long enough to move thevehicle out of the garage.

With the trunk lid open, air flow canpull exhaust gas into your car'sinterior and create a hazardouscondition. If you must drive with thetrunk lid open, open all the windowsand set the climate control system asshown below.

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

1. Select the Fresh Air mode.2. Select the mode.3. Set the fan speed to high.4. Set the temperature control to a

comfortable setting.


Carbon monoxide gas is toxic.Breathing it can causeunconsciousness and even killyou.

Avoid any enclosed areas oractivities that expose you tocarbon monoxide.

Magesh

Safety Labels

These labels are in the locationsshown. They warn you of potentialhazards that could cause seriousinjury. Read these labels carefully.

If a label comes off or becomes hardto read, contact your Acura dealerfor a replacement.


SUN VISORU.S. models Canadian models

RADIATOR CAP

DASHBOARDU.S. models only

HOOD

Instruments and Controls

This section gives information aboutthe controls and displays thatcontribute to the daily operation ofyour Acura. All the essential controlsare within easy reach.

Control Locations............................ 52Indicator Lights................................ 53Gauges.............................................. 58

Speedometer................................ 58Tachometer.................................. 58Odometer...................................... 59Trip Meter/Outside

Temperature Indicator............ 59Temperature Gauge.................... 60Fuel Gauge................................... 60Maintenance Required

Indicator.................................... 61Controls Near the Steering Wheel........ 62

Headlights.................................... 63Automatic Lighting..................... 64Daytime Running Lights............. 65Instrument Panel Brightness..... 66Turn Signals................................. 66Fog Lights.................................... 67Windshield Wipers...................... 68

Windshield Washers................... 70Hazard Warning........................... 70Rear Window Defogger.............. 71Steering Wheel Adjustments..... 71

Steering Wheel Controls ................ 73Cruise Control.............................. 73Remote Audio Controls .............. 76

Keys and Locks................................ 77Keys...............................................77Immobilizer System..................... 78Ignition Switch............................. 80Power Door Locks....................... 81Remote Transmitter.................... 82Childproof Door Locks............... 85Trunk............................................ 86Emergency Trunk Opener......... 87Glove Box..................................... 88

HomeLink Universal Transmitter......... 89Customer Assistance.................. 89Important Safety Precautions.... 89Training the Transmitter............ 90Training With a Rolling Code

System.......................................92Erasing Codes.............................. 93

Seat Adjustments............................. 94Driver's Seat Adjustments.......... 94

Driver's Lumbar Support............ 96Front Passenger's Seat

Adjustments............................. 96Head Restraints........................... 96

Armrest............................................. 97Mirrors.............................................. 99

Adjusting the Power Mirrors..... 99Driving Position Memory

System......................................... 101Seat Heaters................................... 103Ski Sleeve........................................ 104Power Windows............................. 106Moonroof........................................ 107Parking Brake................................ 109Digital Clock................................... 109Sunglasses Holder......................... 111Beverage Holder............................ 112Console Compartment.................. 113Coin Box......................................... 113Sun Visor......................................... 114Vanity Mirror................................. 114Accessory Power Socket.............. 115Cigarette Lighter........................... 116Ashtrays.......................................... 117Ceiling Lights................................. 118Courtesy Lights............................. 119


Control Locations


MIRRORCONTROLS(P. 99)

DIGITAL CLOCK(P. 109)

CLIMATE CONTROLSYSTEM(P. 122)

AUDIO SYSTEM(P. 136)

DOOR LOCKSWITCHES(P. 81)

DRIVING POSITIONMEMORY(P. 101)

POWER WINDOWSWITCHES(P. 106)

TRUNK RELEASEBUTTON(P. 86)

FUEL FILLDOOR RELEASEHANDLE(P. 169)

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE(P. 170)

Indicator Lights

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


MALFUNCTIONINDICATORLAMP(P.287)

LIGHTS ONINDICATOR(P.55)

PARKING BRAKE ANDBRAKE SYSTEMINDICATOR*(P.54)

VSA ACTIVATIONINDICATOR(P.56)

SIDEAIRBAGINDICATOR (P.55)

CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR(P.55)

VEHICLE STABILITY ASSISTSYSTEM INDICATOR(P.56)

ANTI-LOCK BRAKESYSTEM INDICATOR*(P.56)

LOW OILPRESSUREINDICATOR(P-54)

CHARGING SYSTEMINDICATOR (P.54)

IMMOBILIZERSYSTEM INDICATOR(P.55)

HIGH BEAMINDICATOR(P.57)

LOW FUELINDICATOR(P.57)

DOOR AND BRAKELAMP MONITOR(P.57)

SEAT BELTREMINDERLIGHT (P.54)

SUPPLEMENTALRESTRAINT SYSTEMINDICATOR (P.55)

Indicator Lights

The instrument panel has manyindicators to give you importantinformation about your car.

Seat Belt Reminder Light

This indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch ON (II). It is areminder to you and your passengersto protect yourselves by fasteningthe seat belts. A beeper also soundsif you have not fastened your seatbelt.

If you do not fasten your seat belt,the beeper will stop after a fewseconds but the light stays on untilyou do. Both the light and the beeperstay off if you fasten your seat beltbefore turning on the ignition.

Low Oil PressureIndicator

The engine can be severely damagedif this light flashes or stays on whenthe engine is running. For completeinformation, see page 285.

Charging SystemIndicator

If this light comes on when theengine is running, the battery is notbeing charged. For completeinformation, see page 286.

U.S. Canada

Parking Brake and Brake SystemIndicatorThis light has two functions:

1. This indicator comes on when youturn the ignition switch ON (II). Itis a reminder to check the parkingbrake. Driving with the parkingbrake not fully released candamage the brakes and tires.

2. If the indicator remains lit afteryou have fully released theparking brake while the engine isrunning, or if it comes on whiledriving, it can indicate a problemin the brake system. For completeinformation, see page 289 .


B R A K E

Indicator Lights

Lights On Indicator(U.S. models only)

On cars with automatic lighting (seepage 64)This indicator reminds you that theexterior lights are on. It comes onwhen the light switch is in either the

or position. If you turn theignition switch to ACCESSORY (I)or LOCK (0) without turning off thelight switch, this indicator willremain on. A reminder chime willalso sound when you open the driver'sdoor.

This indicator will also come onwhen the light switch is in AUTOand the lights turn on automatically.

Cruise Control Indicator

This lights when you set the cruisecontrol. See page 73 for informationon operating the cruise control.

Immobilizer SystemIndicator

This indicator comes on for a fewseconds when you turn the ignitionswitch ON (II). It will then go off ifyou have inserted a properly-codedignition key. If it is not a properly-coded key, the indicator will blinkand the engine will not start (seepage 78).

This indicator also blinks severaltimes when you turn the ignitionswitch from ON (II) to ACCESSORY(I) or LOCK (0).

Malfunction IndicatorLamp

See page 287.

Supplemental RestraintSystem Indicator

This indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch ON (II). If itcomes on at any other time, itindicates a potential problem withyour front airbags. This light willalso alert you to a potential problemwith your side airbags, passenger'sside airbag automatic cutoff systemor automatic seat belt tensioners.For complete information, see page45.

Side Airbag Indicator

This indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch ON (II). If itcomes on at any other time, itindicates that the passenger's sideairbag has automatically shut off.For complete information, see page47.


SRS

SIDEAIRBAG

CRUISECONTROL

Indicator Lights

Vehicle Stability Assist(VSA) System Indicator

This indicator normally comes on fora few seconds when you turn theignition switch ON (II).

If this light comes on and stays on atany other time, or it does not comeon when you turn the ignition switchON (II), there is a problem with theVSA system. Take the car to yourdealer to have it checked. WithoutVSA, your car still has normaldriving ability, but will not have VSAtraction and stability enhancement.See page 191 for more informationon the VSA system.

VSA Activation Indicator

This indicator has three functions:

1. It comes on as a reminder that youhave turned off the VehicleStability Assist (VSA) system.

2. It flashes when VSA is active (seepage 191).

3. It comes on along with the VSAsystem indicator if there is aproblem with the VSA system.

This indicator normally comes on fora few seconds when you turn theignition switch ON (II). See page191 for more information on the

VSA system.

U.S. CanadaAnti-lock BrakeSystem (ABS)Indicator

This light normally comes on for afew seconds when you turn theignition switch ON (II), and whenthe ignition switch is turned toSTART (III). If this light comes on atany other time, there is a problem inthe ABS. If this happens, take thecar to your dealer to have it checked.With the light on, your car still hasnormal braking ability but no anti-lock. For complete information, seepage 189.


VSAA B S

Indicator Lights

Door and Brake Lamp Monitor

The appropriate light comes on inthis display if the trunk or any dooris not closed tightly. If a brake lightdoes not work, the BRAKE LAMPindicator comes on when you pushthe brake pedal with the ignitionswitch ON (II).

A burned out brake light is a hazardwhen drivers behind you cannot tellyou are braking. Have your brakelights repaired right away.

All the lights in the monitor displaycome on for a few seconds when youturn the ignition switch ON (II).

Turn Signal andHazard WarningIndicators

The left or right turn signal lightblinks when you signal a lane changeor turn. If the light does not blink orblinks rapidly, it usually means oneof the turn signal bulbs is burned out(see page 250 ). Replace the bulb assoon as possible, since other driverscannot see that you are signalling.

When you turn on the HazardWarning switch, both turn signallights blink. All turn signals on theoutside of the vehicle should flash.

Low Fuel Indicator

This light comes on as a reminderthat you must refuel soon.

High Beam Indicator

This light comes on with the highbeam headlights. See page 63 forinformation on the headlightcontrols.

On Canadian models, this indicatorcomes on with reduced brightnesswhen the Daytime Running Lights(DRL) are on (see page 65 ).

"Daytime RunningLights" Indicator

Canadian models onlyThis indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch to ON (II) withthe headlight switch off and theparking brake set. It should go off ifyou turn on the headlights or releasethe parking brake. If it comes on atany other time, it means there is aproblem with the DRL. There mayalso be a problem with the highbeam headlights.


D R L

Gauges

The gauges illuminate when youturn the ignition switch ON (II).

SpeedometerU.S. ModelsThis shows your speed in miles perhour (mph). The smaller innernumbers are the speed in kilometersper hour (km/h).

Canadian ModelsThis shows your speed in kilometersper hour (km/h). The smaller innernumbers are the speed in miles perhour (mph).

TachometerThe tachometer shows the enginespeed in revolutions per minute(rpm). To protect the engine fromdamage, never drive with thetachometer needle in the red zone.


TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER TEMPERATUREGAUGE

SELECTBUTTON

MAINTENANCEREQUIRED INDICATOR

ODOMETER FUEL GAUGE

TRIP METER/OUTSIDETEMPERATURE INDICATOR

RESETBUTTON

Gauges

OdometerThe odometer shows the total dis-tance your car has been driven. Itmeasures miles in U.S. models andkilometers in Canadian models.It is illegal under U.S. federal law andCanadian provincial regulations todisconnect, reset, or alter theodometer with the intent to changethe number of miles or kilometersindicated.

Trip Meter/Outside TemperatureIndicator

The trip meter and the outsidetemperature indicator use the samedisplay. To switch the displaybetween the trip meter and theoutside temperature, press theSelect button. When you turn theignition switch to ON (II), what youlast selected is displayed.

Trip MeterThe trip meter shows the number ofmiles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada)driven since you last reset it.

There are two trip meters, Trip Aand Trip B. Switch between theseand the outside temperature displayby pressing the Select buttonrepeatedly. Each trip meter worksindependently, so you can keep trackof two different distances.

To reset a trip meter, display it andthen press the Reset button until youhear a beep. Both trip meters will re-set if the car's battery goes dead oris disconnected.

CONTINUED


SELECTBUTTON

RESETBUTTON

Gauges

Outside Temperature IndicatorThis indicator displays the outsidetemperature in Fahrenheit in U.S.models, and in Centigrade inCanadian models.

The temperature sensor is located inthe front bumper. Therefore, thetemperature reading can be affectedby heat reflection from the road sur-face, engine heat, and the exhaustfrom the surrounding traffic. Thiscan cause the temperature readingnot to be correct when your speed isunder 19 mph (30 km/h).

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

Temperature GaugeThis shows the temperature of theengine's coolant. During normaloperation, the pointer should risefrom the bottom white mark to aboutthe middle of the gauge. In severedriving conditions, such as very hotweather or a long period of uphilldriving, the pointer may rise to nearthe upper white mark. If it reachesthe red (Hot) mark, pull safely to theside of the road. Turn to page 283 forinstructions and precautions onchecking the engine's coolingsystem.

Fuel GaugeThis shows how much fuel you have.It is most accurate when the car is onlevel ground. It may show slightlymore or less than the actual amountwhen you are driving on curvy orhilly roads.

The gauge stays at the same fuellevel reading after you turn off theignition. When you add fuel, thegauge slowly changes to the newreading after you turn the ignitionswitch back ON (II).


Gauges

Maintenance Required Indicator

This indicator reminds you that it istime to take your car in forscheduled maintenance.Refer to the Maintenance Schedulesfor Normal and Severe DrivingConditions on pages 208— 212

For the first 6,000 miles (9,600 km)after the Maintenance RequiredIndicator is reset, it will come on fortwo seconds when you turn theignition switch ON (II).

Between 6,000 miles (9,600 km) and7,500 miles (12,000 km) thisindicator will light for two secondswhen you first turn the ignitionswitch ON (II), and then flash forten seconds.

If you exceed 7,500 miles (12,000km) without having the scheduledmaintenance performed, thisindicator will remain on as a constantreminder.

Your dealer will reset this indicatorafter completing the scheduledmaintenance. If this maintenance isdone by someone other than yourAcura dealer, reset the indicator asfollows.

1. Turn off the engine.

2. Press and hold the select and resetbuttons next to the instrument pan-el, then turn the ignition switchON (II).

3. Hold the buttons forapproximately ten seconds untilthe indicator resets.


SELECTBUTTON

RESETBUTTON

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATOR

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

The two levers on the steeringcolumn contain controls for drivingfeatures you use most often. The leftlever controls the turn signals,headlights, and high beams. Theright lever controls the windshieldwashers and wipers.

The switch for the hazard warninglights is on the dashboard to theright of the steering column.

The controls under the left air ventare for the cruise control, instrumentpanel brightness and the VSASystem.

The switches for the rear windowdefogger and fog lights are underthe audio system.

The steering wheel adjustmentswitch on the side of the steeringcolumn allows you to tilt andtelescope the steering wheel.


VEHICLESTABILITYASSIST SYSTEMOFF SWITCH

HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS

HAZARD WARNINGLIGHTS

WINDSHIELDWIPERS/WASHERS

REAR WINDOWDEFOGGER

HORN FOGLIGHTS

INSTRUMENTPANELBRIGHTNESS

STEERING WHEELADJUSTMENTS

CRUISECONTROL


Headlights

The rotating switch on the left levercontrols the lights. Turning thisswitch to the position turns onthe parking lights, taillights, sidemarker lights, and rear license platelights. Turning the switch to the

position turns on theheadlights.

If you leave the lights on with theignition switch in ACCESSORY (I)or LOCK (0), you will hear areminder chime when you open thedriver's door.

On cars with automatic lightingWhen the light switch is in either ofthese positions, the Lights Onindicator comes on as a reminder.This light remains on if you leave thelight switch on and turn the ignitionswitch to ACCESSORY (I) or LOCK(0).

To change between low beams andhigh beams, pull the turn signal leveruntil you hear a click, then let go.The blue high beam indicator willlight (see page 57).

CONTINUED



To flash the high beams, pull theturn signal lever back lightly, thenrelease it. The high beams will comeon and go off.

The high beams will stay on for aslong as you hold the lever back, nomatter what position the headlightswitch is in.

Automatic Lighting

On U.S. modelsThe Automatic Lighting featureturns on the headlights, all otherexterior lights, and the instrumentpanel lights when it senses lowambient light.

To turn on automatic lighting, turnthe light switch to AUTO at any time.The lights will come on automaticallywhen the outside light level becomeslow (at dusk, for example). The

Lights On indicator comes on as areminder. The lights and indicatorwill turn off automatically when thesystem senses high ambient light.

The lights will remain on when youturn off the ignition switch. They willturn off automatically when you openthe driver's door. To turn them onagain, either turn the ignition switchto ON (II) or turn the light switch to

Even with the automatic lightingfeature turned on, we recommendthat you turn on the lights manuallywhen driving at night or in a densefog, or when you enter dark areas,such as long tunnels or parkingstructures.


AUTO POSITION


Do not leave the light switch inAUTO if you will not be driving thecar for an extended period (a weekor more). You should also turn offthe lights if you plan to leave theengine idling or the engine off for along time. This will prevent thebattery from discharging.

The automatic lighting feature iscontrolled by a sensor located on topof the dashboard. Do not cover thissensor or spill liquids on it.

Daytime Running Lights(Canadian Models)With the headlight switch off, thehigh beam headlights come on withreduced brightness when you turnthe ignition switch to ON (II) andrelease the parking brake. Theyremain on until you turn the ignitionoff, even if you set the parking brake.

The headlights revert to normaloperation when you turn them onwith the switch.


LIGHTSENSOR


Instrument Panel Brightness

The dial on the dashboard to the leftof the instrument panel is used toadjust the brightness of the lights inthe controls and displays. Turn thedial to adjust the brightness.

To reduce glare at night, the instru-ment panel illumination dims whenyou turn the light switch to or

Turning the instrument panelbrightness control fully to the left,past the detent, will return the instru-ment panel to its full brightness.

Signal a turn or lane change with thislever. Push down on the lever tosignal a left turn, and up to signal aright turn. If you push it up or downall the way, the turn signal continuesto blink even when you release thelever. It shuts off automatically asyou complete the turn.


Turn Signals

TURN SIGNAL LEVER

INSTRUMENT PANELBRIGHTNESS DIAL

knelson

knelson


To signal a lane change, push lightlyon the turn signal lever in the properdirection and hold it. The lever willreturn to the center position as soonas you release it.

Fog Lights

Turn the fog lights on and off bypressing the button. The indicator inthe button lights to show the foglights are on.

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

On cars with automatic lightingWith the light switch in the AUTOposition, you can also use the foglights when the headlights turn onautomatically. They will go off whenthe headlights turn off.


Cars with navigation system


Windshield Wipers

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

INT: intermittent: low speed: high speed

In intermittent, the wipers operateevery few seconds. The sweepinterval will change slightly withspeed; getting shorter as you drivefaster. In low speed and high speed,the wipers run continuously.

You can vary how often the wiperssweep the windshield by turning theINT TIME ring next to the rotaryswitch.

If you turn the INT TIME ring to theshortest delay, the wipers willchange from intermittent to lowspeed operation when vehicle speedexceeds 12 mph (20 km/h).



To operate the wipers in mist mode,push the control lever down. Thewipers run at high speed until yourelease the lever. This gives you aquick way to clear the windshield.

Wiper Arms Winter PositionThe windshield wiper arms have twoparked positions: Winter andSummer. In the winter position, thearms sit slightly above the edge ofthe hood. This reduces the possibili-ty of damage to the wiper arms orwindshield wiper motor by a build-upof snow and ice.

Adjust the wiper arms to the winterposition by grasping either arm nearthe pivot. Pull on the arm, parallel tothe windshield, until it locks in thehigher position. Push the arm in theother direction to return the wipersto the summer position.

A heavy build-up of snow or ice onthe wiper arms will cause them toautomatically park in the winterposition.


WIPER ARMS


Windshield Washers

To clean the windshield, pull back onthe wiper control lever. The washersspray until you release the lever. Thewipers run at low speed while you'repulling the lever, then complete onemore sweep of the windshield afteryou release it.

Hazard Warning

Push the red button to the left of theclock to turn on the hazard warninglights (four-way flashers). Thiscauses all four outside turn signalsand both indicators in the instrumentpanel to flash. Use the hazardwarning lights if you need to park ina dangerous area near heavy traffic,or if your car is disabled.




Rear Window Defogger

The rear window defogger will clearfog, frost, and thin ice from thewindow. Push the defogger button toturn it on and off. The light in thebutton lights to show the defogger ison. If you do not turn it off, thedefogger will shut itself off afterabout 25 minutes. It also shuts offwhen you turn off the ignition. Youhave to turn it on again when yourestart the car.

Make sure the rear window is clearand you have good visibility beforestarting to drive.

The defogger and antenna wires onthe inside of the rear window can beaccidentally damaged. Whencleaning the glass, always wipe sideto side.

Steering Wheel AdjustmentsSee page 17 for important safetyinformation about how to properlyposition the steering wheel.

Your Acura's steering wheel iselectrically-adjustable for angle anddistance. The adjustment switch ison the left side of the steeringcolumn. Always adjust the steeringwheel before you begin driving.

CONTINUED


Adjusting the steering wheelposition while driving maycause you to lose control of thecar and be seriously injured in acrash.

Adjust the steering wheel onlywhen the car is stopped.


Magesh


1. Locate the adjustment switch onthe left side of the steering column.Move the steering wheel, in, out,up, or down by pushing andholding the adjustment switch inthat direction.

2. Release the switch when thesteering wheel reaches thedesired position. Make sure thesteering wheel points towardsyour chest, not toward your face,and that you can see theinstrument panel gauges andwarning lights.

The AUTO switch controls automat-ic movement of the steering wheel.When this switch is in the ON posi-tion, the steering wheel automatical-ly moves fully in and up when you re-move the key from the ignitionswitch.


Automatic Movement

AUTO SWITCH

Controls Near the Steering Wheel, Steering Wheel Controls

The steering wheel then returns toits original position when you insertthe key back in the ignition switch.

Steering wheel movement is alsocontrolled by the Driving PositionMemory System (see page 101).

Cruise ControlCruise control allows you to maintaina set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h)without keeping your foot on theaccelerator pedal. It should be usedfor cruising on straight, openhighways. It is not recommended forconditions such as city driving,winding roads, slippery roads, heavyrain, or bad weather. You shouldhave full control of the car underthose conditions.

Using the Cruise Control

1. Push in the Cruise Control MasterSwitch to the left of the steeringcolumn. The indicator in theswitch will light.

2. Accelerate to the desired cruisingspeed above 25 mph (40 km/h).

CONTINUED


CRUISE CONTROL MASTER SWITCH

Improper use of the cruisecontrol can lead to a crash.

Use the cruise control onlywhen traveling on openhighways in good weather.

Magesh

Steering Wheel Controls

3. Press and release the SET/decelbutton on the steering wheel. TheCRUISE CONTROL light on theinstrument panel comes on toshow the system is now activated.

The cruise control may not hold theset speed when you are going up anddown hills. If your speed increasesgoing down a hill, use the brakes toslow down to the desired speed. Thiswill cancel the cruise control. Toresume the set speed, press theRESUME/accel button. TheCRUISE CONTROL light on theinstrument panel comes on.

When climbing a steep hill, theautomatic transmission maydownshift to hold the set speed.

Changing the Set SpeedYou can increase the set cruisingspeed in any of these ways:

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

Push on the accelerator pedal. Ac-celerate to the desired cruisingspeed and press the SET/decelbutton.

To increase your speed in verysmall amounts, tap the RESUME/accel button repeatedly. Each timeyou do this, your car will speed upabout 1 mph (1.6 km/h).


RESUME/accelBUTTON

SET/decelBUTTON


You can decrease the set cruisingspeed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the SET/decelbutton. The car will decelerate.Release the button when youreach the desired speed.

Tap the brake pedal lightly withyour foot. The CRUISECONTROL light on theinstrument panel will go out.When the car slows to the desiredspeed, press the SET/decel button.The car will then maintain thedesired speed.

To slow down in very smallamounts, tap the SET/decelbutton repeatedly. Each time youdo this, your car will slow downabout 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

Even with the cruise control turnedon, you can still use the acceleratorpedal to speed up for passing. Aftercompleting the pass, take your footoff the accelerator pedal. The carwill return to the set cruising speed.

Resting your foot on the brake pedalwill cause the cruise control tocancel.

Cancelling the Cruise Control

You can cancel the cruise control inany of these ways:

Tap the brake pedal.

Push the CANCEL button on thesteering wheel.

Press the Cruise Control MasterSwitch.


CANCELBUTTON

CONTINUED


When you push the CANCEL button,or tap the brake pedal, the CRUISECONTROL light on the instrumentpanel will go out and the car willbegin to slow down. You can use theaccelerator pedal in the normal way.

The system remembers thepreviously-set cruising speed. Toreturn to that speed, accelerate toabove 25 mph (40 km/h), then pressand release the RESUME/accelbutton. The CRUISE CONTROLlight comes on, and the car willaccelerate to the same cruisingspeed as before.

Pressing the Cruise Control MasterSwitch turns the system completelyoff and erases the previous cruisingspeed from memory. To use thesystem again, refer to Using theCruise Control.

Remote Audio Controls

These buttons let you control somefunctions of the audio system with-out removing your hands from thewheel. Refer to page 163 for a com-plete explanation.


AUDIO/CHBUTTON

Keys and Locks

Keys

Your car comes with two masterkeys and a valet key.The master key fits all the locks onyour car:

IgnitionDoorsTrunkTrunk pass-through coverGlove box

The valet key works only in theignition and the door locks. You cankeep the trunk, trunk pass-throughcover, and glove box locked whenyou leave your car and the valet keyat a parking facility.

You should have received a keynumber plate with your keys. Youwill need this key number if you everhave to get a lost key replaced. Keepthe plate stored in a safe place. If you

need to replace a key, use only anAcura-approved key blank.

These keys contain electroniccircuits that are activated by theImmobilizer System. They will notwork to start the engine if thecircuits are damaged.

Protect the keys from directsunlight, high temperature, andhigh humidity.

Do not drop the keys or set heavyobjects 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.

CONTINUED


KEYNUMBERPLATE

MASTERKEYS(Black)

VALETKEY(Gray)

Keys and Locks

Remote TransmitterYour car also comes with two remotetransmitters; see page 82 for anexplanation of the operation.

Learning KeyYou should also receive a small casecontaining a learning key. It is usedby the Acura dealer to code replace-ment keys to your car's ImmobilizerSystem. It must not be used in yourcar's ignition switch. Store the learn-ing key with the key number plate ina safe place. If you attempt to use the learning

key to start your car's engine, it maycause a malfunction in the systemthat makes your master and valetkeys unusable. If this happens, youshould contact your Acura dealer.

If you need a new key made, take thekey number plate, the learning key,and all other keys that came withyour car to your Acura dealer.

Immobilizer SystemThe Immobilizer System protectsyour car from theft. A properly-coded master or valet key must beused in the ignition switch for theengine to start. If an improperly-coded key (or other device) is used,the engine's fuel system is disabled.

When you turn the ignition switch toON (II), the Immobilizer Systemindicator should come on for a fewseconds, then go out. If the indicatorstarts to blink, it means the systemdoes not recognize the coding of thekey. Turn the ignition switch toLOCK (0), remove the key, reinsertit, and turn the switch to ON (II)again.


Keys and Locks

The system may not recognize yourkey's coding if another immobilizerkey or other metal object is near theignition switch when you insert thekey. To make sure the systemrecognizes the key code:

Do not keep other immobilizerkeys on the same key ring.

Use a plastic or leather key fob,not metal.

Keep other keys away from yourvehicle's key and the ignitionswitch while trying to start theengine.

If the system repeatedly does notrecognize the coding of your key,contact your Acura dealer.

This indicator will also blink severaltimes when you turn the ignitionswitch from ON (II) to ACCESSORY(I) or LOCK (0).

Do not attempt to alter this systemor add other devices to it. Electricalproblems could result that may makeyour car undriveable.

If you have lost your key and youcannot start the engine, contact yourAcura dealer.

As required by the FCC:This device complies with Part 15 of theFCC rules. Operation is subject to thefollowing two conditions: (1) This devicemay not cause harmful interference, and(2) this device must accept anyinterference received, includinginterference that may cause undesiredoperation.

Changes or modifications not expresslyapproved by the party responsible forcompliance could void the user'sauthority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with IndustryCanada Standard RSS-210.Operation is subject to the following twoconditions: (1) this device may not causeinterference, and (2) this device mustaccept any interference that may causeundesired operation of the device.


Keys and Locks

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is on the rightside of the steering column. It hasfour positions:

LOCK (0)ACCESSORY (I)ON (II)START (III)

LOCK (0) — You can insert orremove the key only in this position.To switch from ACCESSORY toLOCK, you must push the key inslightly as you turn it. The shift levermust also be in Park. The anti-theftlock will lock the steering columnwhen you remove the key.

If the front wheels are turned, theanti-theft lock may sometimes makeit difficult to turn the key fromLOCK to ACCESSORY. Firmly turnthe steering wheel to the left or tothe right as you turn the key.

ACCESSORY (I) — In this position,you can operate the audio systemand the cigarette lighter.

ON (II) — This is the normal keyposition when driving. All featuresand accessories on the car are usable.Several of the lights on the instru-ment panel come on as a test whenyou turn the ignition switch from

ACCESSORY to ON.

START (I I I ) — Use this positiononly to start the engine. The switchreturns to ON (II) when you let go ofthe key.

The engine will not start if theImmobilizer System does notrecognize the key's coding (see page78).

You will hear a reminder beeper ifyou leave the key in the ignitionswitch in the LOCK (0) orACCESSORY (I) position and openthe driver's door. Remove the key toturn off the beeper.


Keys and Locks

Power Door Locks

Each front door has a master doorlock switch. Either switch locks andunlocks all doors. Push the switchdown to lock all doors, and up tounlock them.

Each door has a lock tab at the top ofthe door. When you push down thelock tab on the driver's door, alldoors lock. Pulling up the lock tab onthe driver's door only unlocks thatdoor. The lock tab on eachpassenger's door only locks andunlocks that door.

To lock any passenger's door whengetting out of the car, push the locktab down and close the door. To lockthe driver's door, remove the keyfrom the ignition switch and pushthe lock tab down or push the masterswitch down, then close the door.

All doors can be locked from theoutside by using the key in eitherfront door. To unlock only the driver'sdoor from the outside, insert the keyin the driver's door lock, turn the keyand release it. If you turn the keyand hold it, all doors will unlock. Allfour doors will unlock when youunlock the passenger's door with thekey.

CONTINUED


LOCK TABMASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH

Keys and Locks

Lockout PreventionIf you forget and leave the key in theignition switch, Lockout Preventionwill not allow you to lock the driver'sdoor. With the driver's door openand the key in the ignition, bothmaster door lock switches aredisabled. However, if the driver'sdoor is not open, the master doorlock switches are not disabled.Pushing the switch down on theopen passenger's door will lock alldoors. If you try to lock an opendriver's door by pushing in the locktab, the tabs on all doors pop out.Pushing in the lock tab on thepassenger's door only locks that door.

Remote Transmitter

You can lock and unlock your carwith the remote transmitter. Whenyou push the LOCK button, all doorslock. You will hear a beep, and theparking lights, taillights and licenseplate lights will flash once.

When you push the UNLOCK buttononce, only the driver's door unlocks.The remaining doors unlock whenyou push the button a second time.You will hear two beeps, and theoutside lights will flash twice, eachtime you push the button.

The ceiling lights (if the ceiling lightswitch is in the center position) andthe door courtesy lights will come onwhen you press the UNLOCK button.If you do not open any door, thelights stay on for about 10 seconds,then fade out. If you relock the doorswith the remote transmitter before10 seconds have elapsed, the lightswill go off immediately.


LED

UNLOCKBUTTON

LOCKBUTTON

TRUNKRELEASEBUTTON

PANICBUTTON

Keys and Locks

If you unlock the doors with theremote transmitter, but do not openany of the doors within 30 seconds,the doors automatically relock andthe security system sets.

You cannot lock any of the doorswith the remote transmitter if anydoor is not fully closed or the key isin the ignition switch. You cannotunlock any of the doors with the keyin the ignition switch.

To open the trunk, push the TrunkRelease button for approximatelyone second.

You can open the trunk with theremote transmitter regardless of theposition of the main switch in theglove box. The trunk will not open ifthe key is in the ignition switch.

Turning the Beep Off and OnYou can program the keyless entrysystem so it does not beep when youlock and unlock the doors. Thisprocedure only turns off the beep;the exterior lights will still flash.

To turn this feature off, stand nearthe car with the remote transmitter.Press and hold the Trunk Releasebutton, then press the Lock buttonwithin one second. You should seethe LED on the remote transmittercome on for one second. Release thebuttons after the LED goes out.

To turn this feature on, repeat theabove procedure. You should see theLED blink twice.

After you program the remotetransmitter, make sure the trunk lidis closed.

Panic ModePanic mode allows you to remotelyactivate your car's security system toattract attention. When activated, thehorn will sound, and the exteriorlights will flash, for about 30 seconds.To activate panic mode, press andhold the PANIC button for about twoseconds.

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

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

CONTINUED


Keys and Locks

Replacing the Battery

When the remote transmitter'sbattery begins to get weak, it maytake several pushes on the button tolock or unlock the doors, and theLED will get dim. Replace thebattery as soon as possible.

Battery type: CR2025

To replace the battery, remove theround cover on the back of the trans-mitter by turning it counterclockwisewith a coin.

Remove the old battery and note thepolarity. Make sure the polarity ofthe new battery is the same (+ sidefacing up), then insert it in thetransmitter.

Reinstall the cushion ring. Align themark on the cover with themark on the transmitter,

then set the cover in place and turn itclockwise.


ROUNDCOVER

CUSHIONRING

BATTERY

Open

Close

Keys and Locks




Transmitter CareAvoid severe shock to the trans-mitter, such as dropping or throwingit. Also, protect it from extreme hotor cold temperatures.

Clean the transmitter case with asoft cloth. Do not use strongcleaners or solvents that could harmthe case. Immersing the transmitterin any liquid will harm the trans-mitter and cause it to not functionproperly.

If you lose a transmitter, you willneed to have the replacementprogrammed to your car's system byyour Acura dealer. Any othertransmitters you have will also needto be reprogrammed.

Childproof Door Locks

The childproof door locks aredesigned to prevent children seatedin the rear from accidentally openingthe rear doors. Each rear door has alock lever near the edge. With thelever in the LOCK position, the doorcannot be opened from the insideregardless of the position of the locktab. To open the door, pull the locktab up and use the outside doorhandle.


LEVER

Keys and Locks

Trunk

You can open the trunk in threeways:

Press the trunk release button onthe driver's door.Use the master key to open thetrunk lock. The valet key does notwork in this lock.Press and hold the trunk releasebutton on the remote transmitterfor approximately one second (seepage 82).

To close the trunk, press down onthe trunk lid.

See page 176 for cargo loading andweight limit information. Keep thetrunk lid closed at all times whiledriving to avoid damaging the lid,and to prevent exhaust gas fromgetting into the interior. See CarbonMonoxide Hazard on page 49.

To protect items in the trunk whenyou need to give the key to someoneelse:

1. Disable the trunk release buttonon the driver's door by turning offthe trunk main switch in the glovebox.


TRUNK RELEASE BUTTON

MASTER KEY

TRUNK MAIN SWITCH

Keys and Locks

2. Lock the glove box with themaster key.

3. Make sure the trunk pass-throughcover is locked (see page 98).

4. Give the person the valet key.

Even if the trunk main switch isturned off, you can open the trunkwith the master key or the remotetransmitter.

Emergency Trunk Opener(U.S. models only)

As a safety feature, your car has arelease lever on the trunk latch sothe trunk can be opened from theinside.

To open the trunk, push the releaselever to the left.

Parents should decide if theirchildren should be shown how to usethis feature.

For more information about childsafety, see page 24.


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Keys and Locks

Glove Box

Open the glove box by pulling thebottom of the handle. Close it with afirm push. Lock or unlock the glovebox with the master key.

The glove box light comes on onlywhen the parking lights are on.


An open glove box can causeserious injury to your passengerin a crash, even if thepassenger is wearing the seatbelt.

Always keep the glove boxclosed while driving.

Magesh

HomeLink Universal Transmitter

The HomeLink UniversalTransmitter built into your car canbe programmed to operate remotely-controlled devices around your home,such as garage doors, lighting, orhome security systems. It canreplace up to three remotetransmitters.

Customer AssistanceIf you have problems with trainingthe HomeLink UniversalTransmitter, or would likeinformation on home products thatcan be operated by the transmitter,call (800) 355-3515. On the Internet,go to www.homelink.jci.com.

Important Safety PrecautionsAlways refer to the operatinginstructions and safety informationthat came with your garage dooropener or other equipment youintend to operate with the HomeLinkUniversal Transmitter. If you do nothave this information, you shouldcontact the manufacturer of theequipment.

While training or using thetransmitter, make sure you have aclear view of the garage door or gate,and that no one will be injured by itsmovement.

General InformationIf you are training the transmitterto operate a garage door or gate, itis recommended that you unplugthe motor for that device duringtraining. Repeatedly pressing theremote control button could burnout the motor.

The HomeLink transmitter storesthe code in a permanent memory.There should be no need to retrainthe transmitter if your car'sbattery goes dead or isdisconnected.If your garage door opener wasmanufactured before April 1982, youmay not be able to program theHomeLink Universal Transmitter tooperate it. Garage door openersmanufactured before that date donot have a safety feature that causesthem to stop and reverse if anobstacle is detected during closing,increasing the risk of injury. If youhave questions, call (800) 355-3515.



Training the TransmitterBefore you can use the HomeLinkUniversal Transmitter to operatedevices around your home, it must"learn" the proper codes. Forexample, to train the transmitter toopen and close the garage door:

Before you begin — If you just tookdelivery of your vehicle and have nottrained any of the buttons in theHomeLink transmitter before, youshould erase any previously learnedcodes before training the first button.To do this, press and hold the twooutside buttons on the HomeLinktransmitter for about 20 seconds,until the red light flashes. Releasethe buttons, then proceed to Step 1.

If you are training the second orthird buttons, go directly to Step 1.

1. Unplug the garage door openermotor from the house current.

2. Hold the end of the garage dooropener remote control 2 to 5inches from the HomeLinktransmitter. Make sure you arenot blocking your view of the redlight in the transmitter.

3. Select the transmitter button youwant to train.

4. Press the button on the remotecontrol and the button on thetransmitter at the same time. Holddown both buttons.



Canadian Owners:The remote control you are trainingfrom may stop transmitting after twoseconds. This is not long enough forthe HomeLink transmitter to learnthe code. Release and press thebutton on the remote control everytwo seconds until the transmitter haslearned the code.

5. The red light in the transmittershould begin flashing. It will flashslowly at first, then rapidly.

6. When the red light flashes rapidly,release both buttons. Thetransmitter should have learnedthe code from the remote control.

7. Plug in the garage door openermotor, then test the transmitterbutton by pushing it. It shouldoperate the garage door.

If the button does not work, repeatthis procedure to train it again. If it

still does not work, you may have avariable or rolling code garagedoor opener. Test this by pressingand holding the HomeLinktransmitter button you just trained.If the red light blinks for twoseconds, then stays on, you have arolling code garage door opener.You may be able to verify this withthe manufacturer's documentation.Go to 'Training With a RollingCode System."

8. Repeat these steps to train theother two transmitter buttons tooperate any other remotely-controlled devices around yourhome (lighting, automatic gate,security system, etc.).

Training With a Rolling CodeSystemFor security purposes, newer garagedoor opening systems use a "rolling"or variable code. Information fromthe remote control and the garagedoor opener are needed before theHomeLink transmitter can operatethe garage door opener.

The "Training the Transmitter"procedure trains the HomeLinktransmitter to the proper garagedoor opener code. The followingprocedure synchronizes theHomeLink transmitter to the garagedoor opener so they send andreceive the correct codes.

CONTINUED



It may be helpful to have someoneassist you with this procedure.

1. Make sure you have properlycompleted the 'Training theTransmitter" procedure.

2. Find the 'Training" button on yourgarage door opener unit. Thelocation will vary, depending onthe manufacturer. Themanufacturer's documentationmay help.

TRAININGBUTTON

3. Press the Training button on thegarage door opener unit until thelight next to the button comes on,then release it. The light may blink,or come on and stay on. You thenhave approximately 30 seconds tocomplete the following steps.

4. Press and release the button onthe HomeLink transmitter. (Thesame button you trained with the"Training the Transmitter"procedure.)

5. Press and release the HomeLinktransmitter button again. Thisshould turn off the training lighton the garage door opener unit.(Some systems may require you topress and release the button up tothree times.)

6. Press the transmitter button again.It should operate the garage door.



Retraining a ButtonTo train an already programmedtransmitter button to operate a newdevice:

1. Select the transmitter button youwant to train.

2. Press and hold the transmitterbutton until the red light begins toflash slowly (approximately 20seconds).

3. While continuing to hold thetransmitter button, place theremote control for the device 2 to5 inches from the HomeLinktransmitter.

4. Press and hold the button on theremote control. Hold both buttonsuntil the red light begins to flashrapidly.

5. Release both buttons. Thetransmitter should now be trainedto operate the device.

Erasing CodesTo erase the codes stored in all threebuttons, press and hold the twooutside buttons until the red lightbegins to flash, then release thebuttons.

You should erase all three codesbefore selling the car.





Seat Adjustments

See pages 12 — 14 for important safetyinformation and warnings about how toproperly position seats and seat-backs.

Make all seat adjustments beforeyou start driving.

Your Acura has power adjustmentsfor both front seats. The two powerseat adjustment switches are on theoutside edge of the seat bottom.

You can adjust the power seats withthe ignition switch in any position.

Driver's Seat Adjustments

The long horizontal switch adjuststhe seat bottom in several directions.The short vertical switch adjusts theseat-back angle.

Push the horizontal switch forwardor backward to move the seatforward or backward.

Pull up or push down on the front ofthe switch to move the seat bottom'sfront edge up or down. Pull up orpush down on the rear of the switchto move the rear of the seat bottomup or down.


Seat Adjustments

Pull the center of the horizontalswitch up to raise the seat. Push itdown to lower the seat.

Adjust the seat-back angle bypushing the rear switch in thedirection you want to move.

The driver's seat includes a memoryfeature. Two seat positions can bestored in separate memories. Youcan then select a memorized positionby pushing the appropriate memorybutton. Refer to page 101 for how tomemorize and select the seatpositions.


Seat Adjustments

Driver's Lumbar Support

Vary the lumbar support by movingthe lever on the right side of theseat-back. Pivot the lever forwarduntil it stops, then let it return. Doingthis several times adjusts the lumbarsupport through its full range.

Front Passenger's SeatAdjustments

The seat adjustment switches are onthe outside edge of the seat bottom.Push the long horizontal switchforward or backward to move theseat bottom in that direction.Adjust the seat-back angle bypushing the vertical switch in thedirection you want to move.

Head RestraintsSee page 14 for important safetyinformation and a warning about how toproperly position the head restraints.

The head restraints help protect youand your passengers from whiplashand other injuries. They are mosteffective when you adjust them sothe back of the occupant's head restsagainst the center of the restraint. Ataller person should adjust therestraint as high as possible.


Seat Adjustments, Armrest

RELEASE BUTTON

The head restraints adjust for heightand tilt. You need both hands toadjust the restraint. Do not attemptto adjust it while driving. To raise it,pull upward. To lower the restraint,push the release button sidewaysand push the restraint down. Toadjust the tilt, pivot the headrestraint to the desired position.

To remove a head restraint forcleaning or repair, pull it up as far asit will go. Push the release buttonand pull the restraint out of the seat-back.

The lid of the console compartmentcan be used as an armrest at thehigh or low position. To raise thearmrest, push the button on the lid.Make sure the armrest is securelylatched. To lower it, press the buttonand push the armrest down until itlatches.

Make sure the passengers' hands orfingers are away from the armrestbefore pushing it down.


Armrest

Push

Armrest

The rear seat armrest is located atthe center of the rear seat. Pivot itdown to use it.

Trunk Pass-through Cover

The pass-through cover can beopened from either side; it foldsforward onto the center armrest.Open the cover by sliding the knobdownward and pushing or pulling onthe cover. To close the cover, swingit up and push firmly on the top.Make sure it latches properly.

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

For security, this cover can belocked and unlocked only with themaster key. To lock the cover, insertthe key and turn it clockwise.

Never drive with this cover open andthe trunk lid open.See Carbon Monoxide Hazard onpage 49.


KNOB

LID

Mirrors

Keep the inside and outside mirrorsclean and adjusted for best visibility.Be sure to adjust the mirrors beforeyou start driving.

The inside mirror has an automaticanti-glare mechanism. When theAUTO switch is pushed in, theindicator will light. When the mirrorsenses light from the headlights ofthe car behind you, the mirrorsurface will automatically darken toreduce the glare.

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

Adjust the outside mirrors with theadjustment button on the driver'sdoor armrest:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

2. Move the selector switch to L(driver's side) or R (passenger'sside).

CONTINUED


INDICATORSENSOR

AUTO SWITCH

SELECTOR SWITCH

Mirrors

ADJUSTMENT BUTTON

3. Move the mirror right, left, up ordown by pushing the adjustmentbutton in that direction.

4. When you finish, move theselector switch to the center (off)position. This turns off theadjustment button so you can'tmove a mirror out of position byaccidentally bumping the button.

Outside mirror positions can bestored in the driving positionmemory system (see page 101).

HEATED MIRROR BUTTON

The outside mirrors are heated to re-move fog and frost. With the ignitionswitch ON (II), turn on the heatersby pressing the button. The light inthe button comes on as a reminder.Press the button again to turn theheaters off.


Driving Position Memory System

Your Acura has a memory featurefor the steering wheel, driver's seat,and outside mirror positions.

Two seat, steering wheel, andoutside mirror positions for differentdrivers or driving conditions can bestored in separate memories. Youselect a memorized position bypushing the appropriate button.

Storing a Driving Position in MemoryStore a driving position as explainedin this section only when the car isparked.

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).You cannot add a new drivingposition in the memory unless theignition switch is ON (II). You canrecall a memorized position withthe ignition switch in any position.

2. Adjust the seat to a comfortableposition (see page 94). Adjustthe steering wheel to acomfortable position (see page71).

Adjust the outside mirrors for bestvisibility (see page 99).

3. Press and release the MEMObutton on the control panel. Youwill hear a beep. Immediatelypress and hold one of the memorybuttons (1 or 2) until you hear twobeeps. The indicator light in thememory button will come on. Thecurrent positions of the driver'sseat, steering wheel, and outsidemirrors are now stored.

CONTINUED


MEMO BUTTON

Driving Position Memory System

Doing any of the following afterpressing the MEMO button willcancel the storing procedure.

Not pressing a memory buttonwithin 5 seconds.

Readjusting the seat or steeringposition.

Readjusting the outside mirrorposition.

Each memory button stores only onedriving position. Storing a newposition erases the previous settingstored in that button's memory. Ifyou want to add a new position whileretaining the current one, use theother memory button.

All stored driving positions will belost if your car's battery goes dead oris disconnected.

Selecting a Memorized Position

You can select memorized positionsas follows.

1. Make sure the parking brake is setand the shift lever is in Park.

2. Insert the key in the ignitionswitch. If you do not insert the keyin the ignition switch, the steeringwheel will not adjust to thememorized position until you do.

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

The system will move the seat,steering wheel and outside mirrorsto the memorized positions. Theindicator light in the selectedmemory button will flash duringmovement. When the adjustmentsare complete, you will hear twobeeps and the indicator light willremain on.


MEMORY BUTTONS

Driving Position Memory System, Seat Heaters

To stop the system's automatic ad-justment;

Press any button on the controlpanel: MEMO, 1 or 2.Push any of the adjustmentswitches for the seat or steeringwheel.Shift out of Park.Adjust the outside mirrors.

If you select a memorized positionwithout inserting the key in theignition switch, only the seat andoutside mirrors will adjust. To getthe system to also adjust the steeringwheel, insert the key in the ignitionswitch. You will hear two beepswhen it is complete.

If desired, you can use the adjust-ment switches to change the posi-tions of the seat, steering wheel oroutside mirrors after they are intheir memorized position. To keepthis driving position for later use,you must store it in the driving posi-tion memory.

Seat Heaters

Both front seats are equipped withseat heaters. The ignition switchmust be ON (II) to use them. Pushthe front of the switch, HI, to rapidlyheat up the seat. After the seatreaches a comfortable temperature,select LO by pushing the back of theswitch. This will keep the seat warm.

CONTINUED


SEAT HEATERS

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Seat Heaters, Ski Sleeve

The HI or LO indicator lights andremains lit until you turn it off bypushing the opposite side of theswitch lightly. The indicator will turnoff.

In HI, the heater turns off when theseat gets warm, and turns back onafter the seat's temperature drops. Itcontinues to cycle as long as youleave it set on HI. The HI indicatorremains lit as a reminder that youhave the heater on.

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

Because of the sensors for the sideairbag system, there is no heater inthe passenger's seat-back.

Follow these precautions wheneveryou use the seat heaters:

Use the HI setting only to heat theseats quickly. Select the LOsetting when the seats feel warm.The HI setting draws largeamounts of current from thebattery.

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

Ski SleeveThe ski sleeve allows you to carryskis or other long objects safelywithout soiling or damaging theinterior of your car. It attaches to thetrunk pass-through.

KNOB

To use the ski sleeve:1. Pull down the rear seat armrest.

Open the trunk pass-throughcover by sliding the knob down-ward and pulling on the cover.


LID

Ski Sleeve

2. Open the trunk. Remove the skisleeve from its storage bag.

3. Attach the ski sleeve to the trunkpass-through.

4. Load the skis into the ski sleevefrom the trunk. Make sure the tipof the ski sleeve is resting on thecenter console.

5. Use the strap on the ski sleeve tosecure it tightly to the rear seatarmrest.

Follow these precautions when youuse the ski sleeve:

Do not transport skis that arelonger or heavier than these limits:Maximum length: 84 in (215 cm)Maximum weight: 55 Ibs (25 kg)

After use, make sure the skisleeve is dry both inside and outbefore folding it up for storage.This will help to prevent mildew.


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Power Windows

Your car's windows are electrically-powered. Turn the ignition switch toON (II) to raise or lower any window.

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

DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH

MAIN SWITCH

The driver's door armrest has amaster power window control panel.To open any of the passengers' win-dows, push down on the appropriateswitch and hold it down until thewindow reaches the desired position.To close the window, pull back onthe window switch. Release theswitch when the window gets to theposition you want.


Closing a power window onsomeone's hands or fingers cancause serious injury.

Make sure your passengers areaway from the windows beforeclosing them.

Magesh

Power Windows, Moonroof

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

AUTO — To open the driver'swindow fully, push the windowswitch firmly down and release it.The window automatically goes allthe way down. To stop the windowfrom going all the way down, pullback on the window switch briefly.

To open the driver's window onlypartially, push the window switchdown lightly and hold it. The windowwill stop as soon as you release theswitch.

The AUTO function only works tolower the driver's window. To raisethe window, you must pull back onthe window switch and hold it untilthe window reaches the desiredposition.

The MAIN switch controls power tothe passengers'windows. With thisswitch off, the passengers'windowscannot be raised or lowered. TheMAIN switch does not affect the driv-er's window. Keep the MAIN switchoff when you have children in the carso they do not injure themselves byoperating the windows unintentional-ly. The lights inside the switchescome on when you turn the parkinglights or headlights on.

The power window system has a key-off delay function. The windows willstill operate for up to ten minutesafter you turn off the ignition.Opening either front door cancelsthe delay function. You must turnthe ignition switch ON (II) againbefore you can raise or lower thewindows.

Moonroof

There are two switches on theceiling near the front ceiling light.The ignition switch must be ON (II).

To open the moonroof, pull theOPEN/CLOSE switch backward andhold it until the moonroof reachesthe desired position.

CONTINUED


OPEN/CLOSESWITCH

Moonroof

To close the moonroof, push theOPEN/CLOSE switch forward andhold it. The moonroof will not closecompletely; it will stop about 5.1inches (130 mm) away from beingclosed. Make sure your passengersare clear of the moonroof, thenrelease the switch and push itforward again to close the moonroofcompletely.

The moonroof has an AUTOfunction. To open the moonroof fully,pull the OPEN/CLOSE switchbackward firmly until it clicks, thenrelease it. The moonroof opensautomatically all the way. To stop themoonroof from opening all the way,push the switch forward briefly. Toopen the moonroof partially, pull theOPEN/CEOSE switch backwardlightly and hold it until the moonroofreaches the desired position. TheAUTO function only works to openthe moonroof.

TILT-UP SWITCH

When you push and hold the TILT-UP switch, the rear of the moonroofwill tilt up. To close it, push theOPEN/CEOSE switch forward. Ifyou pull the switch backward andhold it, the moonroof will tilt downand then open. The AUTO functioncannot work with the moonroof inthe tilt up position.

If you try to open the moonroof inbelow-freezing temperatures, or whenit is covered with snow or ice, you candamage the moonroof panel or motor.


NOTICE

Parking Brake, Digital Clock

Parking Brake

To apply the parking brake, depressthe pedal fully. To release it, pull therelease lever. The parking brakelight on the instrument panel shouldgo out when the parking brake isfully released with the enginerunning (see page 54). If you try todrive the car without releasing theparking brake, the ABS indicatormay come on, and the ABS may notwork properly. The VSA systemindicator will also come on along

with the ABS indicator (see page189).

Driving the car with the parking brakeapplied can damage the rear brakesand axles.

Digital Clock

3.5 RL without Navigation SystemThe digital clock displays the timewith the ignition switch ON (II). Tosee the time with the ignition off,press and hold the wide button to theright of the clock.

CONTINUED


NOTICERELEASE LEVER

PARKINGBRAKE PEDAL

Digital Clock

To set the clock:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) todisplay the time.

2. Swing down the front cover of thewide button to the right of theclock display. You will see HOUR,MIN., and RESET buttons.

3. Press and hold the HOUR buttonuntil the hour advances to thedesired hour.

4. Press and hold the MIN. buttonuntil the numbers advance to thedesired time.

You can use the RESET button toquickly set the time to the nearesthour. If the displayed time is beforethe half hour, pressing the RESETbutton sets the clock back to theprevious hour. If the displayed timeis after the half hour, pressing theRESET button sets the clock for-ward to the beginning of the nexthour.

For example:1:06 would RESET to 1:00.1:52 would RESET to 2:00.


HOUR MIN. RESET

Sunglasses Holder

To open the sunglasses holder, pushon the front edge. It will unlatch andswing down. To close it, push it untilit latches. Make sure the holder isclosed while you are driving.

Some larger styles of sunglassesmay not fit in the holder.

You may also store small items inthis holder. Make sure they aresmall enough to let the holder closeand latch, and that they are notheavy enough to cause the holder topop open while driving.


Push

SUNGLASSES HOLDER

Beverage Holder

To use the front beverage holder,push on the lid. The beverage holderwill pop out. To close it, pushit until it latches.

Be careful when you are using thebeverage holder. A spilled liquid thatis very hot can scald you or yourpassengers. Spilled liquids can alsodamage the upholstery, carpeting,and electrical components in theinterior.

The rear seat also has a beverageholder in the center armrest. To useit, pivot the armrest down.


Console Compartment, Coin Box

Console Compartment

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

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

You can put small items in the traylocated in the console compartmentlid. To use the tray, pull the rightlever and lift up the armrest pad.

Coin Box

The coin box is located under the airvent. To open the coin box, push onthe front. To close it, push it in untilit clicks.


COIN BOX

LEVER

LEVER

CONSOLE COMPARTMENT

Sun Visor, Vanity Mirror

Sun Visor

To use the sun visor, pull it down.You can also use the sun visor at theside window. Remove the supportrod from the clip and swing the sunvisor toward the side window. In thisposition, the sun visor can beextended by sliding out theextension.

Make sure you put the sun visorback in place when you are gettinginto or out of the car. Do not use thesun visor extension over the rearview mirror.

Vanity Mirror

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

The light beside the mirror comeson when you pull up the cover.


EXTENSION

Accessory Power Socket

To use the accessory power socket,pull down on the cover. The ignitionswitch must be in ACCESSORY (I)or ON (II).

This socket is intended to supplypower for 12 volt DC accessoriesthat are rated 120 watts or less (10amps).

It will not power an automotive typecigarette lighter element.

Use the notch in the edge of theconsole compartment to route thewire to the accessory power socket.


ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET

NOTCH

Cigarette Lighter

The cigarette lighter is next to thefront ashtray under the ashtray lid.Open the lid by pushing on it.

The ignition switch must be inACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for thecigarette lighter to work. To heat upthe lighter, push it in. It will pop outwhen it is ready for use. Do not holdthe lighter in while it is heating up,you could cause it to overheat.


CIGARETTE LIGHTER

Push

Ashtrays

Open the front ashtray by pushingon the lid. To close the ashtray, pushit in until it clicks shut. To remove itfor emptying, grasp the tab on theleft side of the inner tray and lift it upand out.

The rear ashtrays are in the frontlower corner of each door. Open theashtray by swinging the upper edgeof the lid down. To remove theashtray for emptying, open it, thenlift up and out.

Use the ashtray only for cigarettes,cigars, and other smoking materials.To prevent a possible fire and damageto your car, don't put paper or otherthings that can, burn in the ashtray.


TAB

INNER TRAY

ASHTRAY

NOTICE

Ceiling Lights

Both front and rear ceiling lightscontain a main light as well as twospotlights.

The front ceiling light has a three-position switch. With the switch inthe OFF position (far left), the mainlights do not come on. In the centerposition, the main lights come onwhen you open any door. After alldoors are closed tightly, they dimslightly then fade out in about 10seconds. In the ON position (far

right), the main lights stay oncontinuously.

Turn on the spotlights in the frontand rear ceiling lights by pushing thegrey button next to each light. Pushthe button again to turn it off. Youcan use the front spotlights at alltimes. The rear spotlights only lightwhen the parking lights or head-lights are on.

On cars with automatic lightingWith the light switch in the AUTOposition, you can use the rearspotlights only when the headlightsturn on automatically.


OFF

ON

FRONT REAR

Courtesy Lights

In addition to the ceiling lights, yourAcura has courtesy lights in eachdoor and the ignition switch.

The door courtesy lights come onwhenever you open any door. Afterall doors are closed tightly, they dimslightly then fade out in about 10seconds.

Even if the door is open, the lightswill turn off after three minuteswhen the key is not in the ignitionswitch or the ignition switch is in theLOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I)position, and the light switch is in theoff position.

The door courtesy lights and ceilinglights (with the switch in the centerposition) come on when you unlockthe door with the key, lock tab onthe driver's door, master door lockswitch, or remote transmitter (seepage 82). If you relock the driver'sdoor or close the driver's door withthe key in the ignition switch, thelights turn off immediately.Otherwise, they remain on, then fadeout in about 10 seconds.

The door courtesy lights and ceilinglights (with the switch in the centerposition) also come on when youremove the key from the ignitionswitch. If you do not open a door,they stay on, then fade out in about10 seconds.

The courtesy light in the ignitionswitch comes on when you open thedriver's door. It remains on about 10seconds after the door is closed.


Comfort and Convenience Features

The climate control system in yourAcura provides a comfortable drivingenvironment in all weather condi-tions.

The standard audio system hasmany features. This section de-scribes those features and how touse them.

Your Acura has an anti-theft audiosystem that requires a code numberto enable it.

The security system helps to dis-courage vandalism and theft of yourAcura.

Climate Control System................ 1223,5 RL without Navigation SystemFully-automatic Operation........ 124Semi-automatic Operation........ 1253.5 RL with Navigation SystemFully-automatic Operation........ 129Semi-automatic Operation........ 130Rear Ventilation......................... 134Sunlight Sensor/

Temperature Sensor............. 135Audio System................................. 136

AM/FM/Cassette StereoAudio System......................... 136

3.5 RL without Navigation SystemOperating the Radio.................. 137Adjusting the Sound.................. 140Audio System Lighting............. 141Operating the Cassette

Player...................................... 141Tape Search Functions............. 142Operating the CD Changer...... 144

3.5 RL with Navigation SystemOperating the Radio.................. 147Adjusting the Sound.................. 150Audio System Lighting............. 151Radio Frequencies..................... 151Radio Reception......................... 151Operating the Cassette

Player...................................... 153Tape Search Functions............. 153Caring for the Cassette

Player...................................... 156Operating the CD Changer...... 157Loading the CD Changer ......... 159Protecting Compact Discs........ 161CD Changer Error

Indications.............................. 162Remote Audio Controls ............ 163Theft Protection ........................ 164

Security System............................. 165


Climate Control System

The automatic climate controlsystem in your Acura picks theproper combination of air condi-tioning, heating, and ventilation tomaintain the interior temperatureyou select. The system also adjuststhe fan speed and air flow levels.

The direction of air flow from thevents in the center and each side ofthe dashboard is adjustable. Movethe tab in the center of each vent up-and-down and side-to-side.

The side vents can be opened andclosed with the dials next to them.

In the rear seat, you can also adjustthe ventilation when the climate con-trol system is on (see page 134).

CENTER VENTS

The climate control system draws airthrough the exterior vents at thebottom of the windshield. Keepthese vents clear of leaves and otherdebris.

For the climate control system toprovide heating and cooling, theengine must be running.


SIDE VENTS


3.5 RL without Navigation SystemFully-automatic OperationTo put the Automatic ClimateControl in fully-automatic mode,press the AUTO button and set thefan control dial to AUTO, then setthe desired temperature by turningthe temperature control dial. You willsee FULL AUTO in the system'sdisplay. The light above either the

or button also goeson to show you which is selected.

The system automatically selects theproper mix of conditioned and/orheated air that will, as quickly aspossible, raise or lower the interiortemperature from its current level tothe set temperature.

When you set the temperature to itslower limit (60°F/18°C) or its upperlimit (90°F/32°C), the system runsat full cooling or heating only. It doesnot regulate the interior temperature.When the temperature is set

between the lower and upper limits,the system regulates the interiortemperature to the set value.

In cold weather, the fan will notcome on automatically until the carhas been driven for a short time andthe heater starts to develop warm air.

Pressing the OFF button shuts theclimate control system completelyoff. Keep the system completely offonly for short periods. To keep staleair and mustiness from collecting,you should have the fan running atall times.


TEMPERATURECONTROL DIAL

FULL AUTODISPLAY

FAN CONTROLDIAL

AUTOBUTTON

OFFBUTTON


Semi-automatic OperationYou can manually select variousfunctions of the Climate Controlsystem when it is in FULL AUTO.All other features remain auto-matically controlled. Making anymanual selection causes the wordFULL to go out.

Air Conditioning (A/C) ButtonPress the A/C button to operate theair conditioning. Each time you pressthe A/C button, the display showsthe mode: A/C ECON, A/C OFF, orA/C ON.

When you turn the A/C off, the sys-tem cannot regulate the inside tem-perature if you set the dial below theoutside temperature. With the A/Con, use the temperature control dialto adjust the temperature of the airflow to a comfortable setting.

With the A /C in economy mode, youwill see A/C ECON in the system'sdisplay. Use this mode to get betterfuel economy.

In this mode, you may feel a slight re-duction in cooling efficiency. If youwant more cooling, select A/C ON orFULL AUTO.

CONTINUED



AIR CONDITIONINGBUTTON

RECIRCULATED AIR FRESH AIR


Recirculated and Fresh AirThese two buttons control thesource of the air going into the sys-tem. In Fresh Air mode ( )air is brought in from outside the ve-hicle. In Recirculation mode( ) air from the car's interioris sent through the system again.You can, for example, manually putthe system in recirculation modewhen driving through an area ofsmoke or fumes. When you pressthe or button, thelight in that button comes on.

Fan Control DialYou can manually select the fanspeed by turning the fan control dial.When you turn the dial clockwise,the fan is taken out of automaticmode and starts to run at its lowestspeed. Turning the dial fullyclockwise increases the fan's speed,which increases air flow.

Mode ButtonUse the MODE button to select thevents the air flows from. Some airwill flow from the side vents and thedashboard corner vents in all modes.Each time you press the MODEbutton, the display shows the modeselected. Press the button four timesto see all the modes.


MODE BUTTON FAN CONTROL DIAL

RECIRCULATED AIR FRESH AIR


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

The main air flow comesfrom the floor vents.

The main air flow is dividedbetween the dashboard vents andthe floor vents.

The main air flow comesfrom the dashboard vents.

CONTINUED



The button directs the mainair flow to the windshield for fasterdefrosting. It also overrides anyMODE selection you may have made.

When you select the A/Cturns on automatically and thesystem selects Fresh Air mode. Forfaster defrosting, manually set thefan speed to high. You can alsoincrease air flow to the windshield byclosing the side vents in thedashboard.

When you turn off bypressing the button again, thesystem returns to its former settings.



3.5 RL with Navigation SystemFully-automatic OperationTo put the Automatic ClimateControl in fully-automatic mode,press the AUTO button and set thefan control dial to AUTO, then setthe desired temperature by turningthe temperature control dial. You willsee FULL AUTO in the system'sdisplay. The light above the

button also shows you whichmode, Recirculation or Fresh Air, isselected.

The system automatically selects theproper mix of conditioned and/orheated air that will, as quickly aspossible, raise or lower the interiortemperature from its current level tothe set temperature.

When you set the temperature to itslower limit (60°F/18°C) or its upperlimit (90°F/32°C), the system runsat full cooling or heating only. It doesnot regulate the interior temperature.

FAN CONTROLDIAL

FULL AUTODISPLAY


When the temperature is setbetween the lower and upper limits,the system regulates the interiortemperature to the set value.

In cold weather, the fan will notcome on automatically until the carhas been driven for a short time andthe heater starts to develop warm air.

OFFBUTTON

Pressing the OFF button shuts theclimate control system completelyoff. Keep the system completely offonly for short periods. To keep staleair and mustiness from collecting,you should have the fan running atall times.


AUTOBUTTON


Semi-automatic OperationYou can manually select variousfunctions of the Climate Controlsystem when it is in FULL AUTO.All other features remain auto-matically controlled. Making anymanual selection causes the wordFULL to go out.

Air Conditioning (A/C) ButtonPress the A/C button to operate theair conditioning. Each time you pressthe A/C button, the display showsthe mode: A/C ECON, A/C OFF, orA/C ON.

When you turn the A/C off, the sys-tem cannot regulate the inside tem-perature if you set the dial below theoutside temperature. With the A/Con, use the temperature control dialto adjust the temperature of the airflow to a comfortable setting.

AIR CONDITIONINGBUTTON


RECIRCULATION BUTTON

With the A /C in economy mode, youwill see A/C ECON in the system'sdisplay. Use this mode to get betterfuel economy.

In this mode, you may feel a slight re-duction in cooling efficiency. If youwant more cooling, select A/C ON orFULL AUTO.



Recirculation ButtonThis button controls the source ofthe air going into the system. Whenthe indicator above this button is lit,air from the car's interior is sentthrough the system again (Recircula-tion mode). When the indicator is off,air is brought in from outside the car(Fresh Air mode).You can, for example, manually putthe system in recirculation modewhen driving through an area ofsmoke or fumes.

Fan Control DialYou can manually select the fanspeed by turning the fan control dial.When you turn the dial clockwise,the fan is taken out of automaticmode and starts to run at its lowestspeed. Turning the dial fullyclockwise increases the fan's speed,which increases air flow.

FAN CONTROL DIAL MODE BUTTON

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

Mode ButtonUse the MODE button to select thevents the air flows from. Some airwill flow from the side vents and thedashboard corner vents in all modes.Each time you press the MODEbutton, the display shows the modeselected. Press the button four timesto see all the modes. CONTINUED



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

The main air flow comesfrom the floor vents.

The main air flow is dividedbetween the dashboard vents andthe floor vents.

The main air flow comesfrom the dashboard vents.



The button directs the mainair flow to the windshield for fasterdefrosting. It also overrides anyMODE selection you may have made.

When you select the A/Cturns on automatically and thesystem selects Fresh Air mode. Forfaster defrosting, manually set thefan speed to high. You can alsoincrease air flow to the windshield byclosing the side vents in thedashboard.

When you turn off bypressing the button again, thesystem returns to its former settings.

Rear Window Defogger ButtonThis button turns the rear windowdefogger on and off (see page 71).

REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER BUTTON



Rear Ventilation

The air flow from the rear vents canbe adjusted when the climate controlsystem is on.

You can adjust the direction of theair coming from the upper vents inthe center console by moving the tabin the center of each vent up-and-down and side-to-side.

You can also adjust the amount ofthe air flow by sliding the air flowcontrol lever under the upper vents.Slide this lever upward to increasethe amount of air flow.

(Upper position): Maximum(Center position): Moderate(Lower position): Off

Mode Control LeverUse the mode control lever to selectthe air flow level. Air flows into therear seat at three levels.

(Upper position):Air flows from the upper vents in theback of the center console.

— (Center position):Air flow is divided between the uppervents and the lower vents in the backof the center console.

(Lower position):Air flows from the lower vents.


AIR FLOWCONTROLLEVER

UPPERVENTS

MODECONTROLLEVER

LOWERVENTS


Sunlight Sensor/TemperatureSensor

SUNLIGHT SENSOR

The climate control system has twosensors. A sunlight sensor is locatedin the top of the dashboard and atemperature sensor is next to thesteering column. Do not cover thesensors or spill any liquid on them.

TEMPERATURE SENSOR


Audio System

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo AudioSystemYour Acura's audio system providesclear reception on both AM and FMbands, while the preset buttons allowyou to easily select your favoritestations.

The cassette system features Dolby*noise reduction, automatic sensing ofchromium-dioxide (CrO2) tape, andautoreverse for continuous play.

* 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.

The anti-theft feature will disable thesystem if it is disconnected from thecar's battery. To get the systemworking again, you must enter acode number (see page 164).


3.5 RL with Navigation System

3.5 RL without Navigation System

Audio System

3.5 RL without Navigation SystemOperating the RadioThe ignition switch must be inACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) tooperate the audio system. Turn thesystem on by pushing the PWR/VOL knob or the AM/FM button.Adjust the volume by turning theknob.

The band and frequency that the ra-dio was last tuned to is displayed. Tochange bands, press the AM/FM but-ton. On the FM band, ST will be dis-played if the station is broadcastingin stereo. ST will flash if you are driv-ing in an area where the radio signalis weak. Stereo reproduction on AMis not available.

You can use any of three methods tofind radio stations on the selectedband: TUNE, SEEK, or the Presetbuttons.

TUNE — Use the TUNE knob totune the radio to a desired frequency.Turn the TUNE knob to the right totune to a higher frequency, or to theleft to tune to a lower frequency.Turn the knob right or left until thedisplay reaches the desiredfrequency.

SEEK — The SEEK functionsearches the band for a station witha strong signal. To activate it, push ei-ther side of the SEEK/SKIP buttons(— or + ) . Push the + button toscan up from the current frequency,and the — button to scan down. Itstops when it finds a station with astrong signal.

Preset — You can store thefrequencies of your favorite radiostations in the six preset buttons.Each button will store one frequencyon the AM band, and twofrequencies on the FM band.

CONTINUED


Audio System

To store a frequency:

1. Select the desired band, AM orFM. FM1 and FM2 let you storetwo frequencies with each Presetbutton.

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK functionto tune the radio to a desiredstation.

3. Pick the Preset button you wantfor that station. Press the buttonand hold it until you hear a beep.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a totalof six stations on AM and twelveon FM.

Once a station's frequency is stored,simply press and release the properPreset button to tune to it.The preset frequencies will be lost ifyour car's battery goes dead, isdisconnected, or the radio fuse isremoved.

AM/FMBUTTON

PWR/VOLKNOB

SEEK/SKIPBUTTONS

PRESET BUTTONS


STEREOINDICATOR

TUNEKNOB

Audio System

AUTO SELECT — If you aretraveling far from home and can nolonger receive the stations youpreset, you can use the Auto Selectfeature to find stations in the localarea.

To activate Auto Select, press theA. SELECT button. A. SELECT willappear in the display, and the systemwill go into scan mode for severalseconds. It automatically scans bothbands, looking for stations withstrong signals. It stores the frequen-cies of six AM stations and twelveFM stations in the preset buttons.You can then use the preset buttonsto select those stations.

If you are in a remote area. AutoSelect may not find six strong AMstations or twelve strong FM stations.If this happens, you will see a "0"displayed when you press any presetbutton that does not have a stationstored.

With Auto Select on, you cannotmanually store any frequencies inthe preset buttons. If you do not likethe stations found by Auto Select,you can use the TUNE and SEEKfunctions to find other stations.

Auto Select does not erase thefrequencies that you preset pre-viously. When you return home, turnoff Auto Select by pressing theA. SELECT button. The presetbuttons will then select the fre-quencies you originally set.


AUTO SELECT INDICATOR

PRESET BUTTONS

SEEK/SKIPBUTTONS

TUNEKNOB

AUTO SELECT BUTTONAM/FM BUTTON

Audio System

Adjusting the SoundBalance/Fader — These twocontrols adjust the strength of thesound coming from each speaker.The Balance control adjusts the side-to-side strength, while the Fadercontrol adjusts the front-to-backstrength.

To adjust the fader, push on theBASS/FADER control knob to get itto pop out. Pull it out slightly farther,and adjust the front-to-back sound toyour liking. Push the knob back inwhen you are done so you cannotchange the setting by accidentallybumping it.

To adjust the balance, push on theTREBLE/BALANCE control knobto get it to pop out. Pull it out slightlyfarther, and adjust the side-to-sidesound to your liking. Push the knobback in when you are done so youcannot change the setting byaccidentally bumping it.

Treble/Bass — Use these controlsto adjust the tone to your liking.

To adjust the Treble level, push onthe TREBLE/BALANCE controlknob to get it to pop out. Withoutpulling it out farther, turn the knobto adjust the treble level. Push theknob back in when you are done soyou cannot change the setting byaccidentally bumping it.

To adjust the Bass level, push on theBASS/FADER control knob to get itto pop out. Without pulling it outfarther, turn the knob to adjust thebass level. Push the knob back inwhen you are done so you cannotchange the setting by accidentallybumping it.


BASS/FADERCONTROL

TREBLE/BALANCECONTROL

Audio System

Audio System LightingYou can use the instrument panelbrightness control dial to adjust the il-lumination of the audio system (seepage 66). The audio systemilluminates when the parking lightsare on, even if the radio is turned off.

Radio Frequencies and ReceptionFor information, See page 149.

Operating the Cassette PlayerThe ignition switch must be inACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).Make sure the tape opening on thecassette is facing to the right, theninsert the cassette most of the wayinto the slot. The system will pull itin the rest of the way, and begin toplay.

The tape direction indicator will lightto show you which side of thecassette is playing. The indicatesthe side you inserted facing upwardis now playing. If you want to playthe other side, press the PROG/PLAY button.

Dolby noise reduction turns on whenyou insert a cassette. If the tape wasnot recorded with Dolby noise reduc-tion, turn it off by pressing the

button.

When the system reaches the end ofthe tape, it will automatically reversedirection and play the other side. Ifyou want to remove the cassettefrom the drive, press the EJECTbutton.

If you turn the system off while atape is playing, either with the PWR/VOL knob or by turning off theignition, the cassette will remain inthe drive. When you turn the systemback on, the tape will begin playingwhere it left off.

To switch to the radio or CDchanger while listening to a tape,press the AM/FM or CD/TAPE but-ton. To change back to the cassetteplayer, press the CD/TAPE button.


Audio System

Tape Search FunctionsWith a cassette playing, you can usethe FF, REW, TMS, or REPEATfunction to find a desired program.

FF/REW — Fast Forward and Re-wind move the tape rapidly. To re-wind the tape, push the REW button.You will see REW in the display. Tofast forward the tape, push the FFbutton. You will see FF displayed.Press the PROG/PLAY button totake the system out of rewind or fastforward. When the system reachesthe end of the tape, it reversesdirection and begins to play if in fastforward, or it begins to play if inrewind.


AM/FM BUTTON

CASSETTE SLOT

PWR/VOL KNOB

TMS INDICATOR

DOLBY INDICATOR

EJECTBUTTON

REPEATINDICATOR

REPEATBUTTON

TMSBUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

PROG/PLAYBUTTON

TAPEDIRECTIONINDICATOR

REWINDBUTTON

CD/TAPE BUTTON FAST FORWARDBUTTON

Audio System

TMS — The Tape Music SearchFunction allows you to find the begin-ning of a song or passage. To acti-vate TMS, press the TMS button.You will see TMS displayed. To findthe beginning of the song or passagecurrently playing, push the REW but-ton. You will see REW flashing in thedisplay as the tape rewinds. To findthe beginning of the next song, pushthe FF button. You will see FFflashing in the display as the tapefast forwards. When the systemfinds the beginning of a song or pas-sage, it goes back to PLAY mode.Press the TMS button again to turnit off.

CONTINUED


CASSETTE SLOT

PWR/VOL KNOB TMS INDICATOR

TAPEDIRECTIONINDICATOR

EJECTBUTTON

REPEATINDICATOR

TMS BUTTON

REPEATBUTTON

FAST FORWARDBUTTON

REWINDBUTTON

Audio System

REPEAT — The Repeat functioncontinuously replays the currentsong or passage. Press the REPEATbutton to activate it; you will see RPTdisplayed as a reminder. When thesystem reaches the end of the songor passage currently playing, it willautomatically go into rewind.When it senses the beginning of thesame song or passage, the systemreturns to PLAY mode. It willcontinue to repeat this sameprogram until you deactivateREPEAT by pressing the buttonagain.Pressing the REW or FF button alsoturns off REPEAT.

The TMS and REPEAT functionsuse silent periods on the tape to findthe end of a song or passage. Thesefeatures may not work to yoursatisfaction if there is almost no gapbetween selections, a high noiselevel between selections, or a silentperiod in the middle of a selection.

Caring for CassettesDamaged cassettes can jam insidethe drive or cause other problems.See page 156 for information oncassette care and protection.

Operating the CD ChangerA Compact Disc changer is standardequipment. It holds up to six discs,providing several hours of continu-ous entertainment. You operate theCD changer with the same controlsused for the radio and cassetteplayer.

To load the CDs in the magazine andload the magazine into the CDchanger, refer to page 159. Play onlystandard round discs. Odd-shapedCDs may jam in the drive or causeother problems.

Do not play discs with discaccessories such as protective sealsor rubbers. Using them may alsocause the audio system tomalfunction.


Audio System

To operate the CD changer, the igni-tion switch must be in ACCESSORY(I) or ON (II).

Select the CD mode by pressing theCD/TAPE button. You will see "CD"in the display. The system will startto play the first track of the first discin the magazine. You will see thedisc and track number displayed.

When that disc ends, the next disc inthe magazine is loaded and played.After the last disc finishes, thesystem returns to disc 1.

To select a different disc, press theappropriate preset button (1 — 6). Ifyou select an empty slot in themagazine, the changer will, afterfinding that slot empty, try to loadthe CD in the next slot. Thiscontinues until it finds a CD to loadand play.

CONTINUED


A. SELECT INDICATOR

CD/TAPE BUTTON

REPEAT INDICATOR

REPEATBUTTON

SEEK/SKIPBUTTONS

AUTOSELECTBUTTON

PRESET BUTTONS

AM/FMBUTTON

PWR/VOLKNOB

Audio System

You can use the SEEK/SKIP buttonsto select tracks within a disc. If youpush and release cither side of theSEEK/SKIP buttons ( — or +),thesystem will move to the beginning ofa track. Push the + button to moveto the beginning of the next track,and push the — button to move tothe beginning of the current track.

If you push and hold the SEEK/SKIP button, you will hear a beepand the system will continue to moveacross tracks. Release the buttonwhen you think it has reached the de-sired place on the disc.

REPEAT — When you activate theRepeat feature by pressing theREPEAT button, the system continu-ously replays the current track. Youwill see RPT in the display as areminder. Press the REPEAT buttonagain to turn it off.

RANDOM PLAY — This feature,when activated, plays the tracks on aCD in random order, rather than inthe order they are recorded on theCD. To activate Random Play, pressthe A. SELECT button. You will seeA. SELECT in the display. The sys-tem will then select and play tracksrandomly on the current disc. Whenall tracks on that disc have beenplayed, the next disc is loaded andplayed randomly. This continues un-til you deactivate Random Play bypressing A. SELECT again.

To take the system out of CD mode,press the AM/FM button or insert acassette in the player. If a tape isalready in the cassette player, pressthe CD/TAPE button. When youreturn to CD mode, play will contin-ue at the same point that it left off.

If you turn the system off while a CDis playing, either with the PWR/VOLknob or the ignition switch, play willcontinue at the same point when youturn it back on.

Protecting Compact DiscsFor information on how to handleand protect compact discs, see page161.


Audio System

3.5 RL with Navigation SystemOperating the RadioThe ignition switch must be inACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) tooperate the audio system. Turn thesystem on by pushing the PWR/VOL knob or the AM/FM button.Adjust the volume by turning theknob.

The band and frequency that the ra-dio was last tuned to is displayed. Tochange bands, press the AM/FM but-ton. On the FM band, ST will be dis-played if the station is broadcastingin stereo. ST will flash if you are driv-ing in an area where the radio signalis weak. Stereo reproduction on AMis not available.

You can use any of three methods tofind radio stations on the selectedband: TUNE, SEEK, or the Presetbuttons.

TUNE — Use the TUNE bar to tunethe radio to a desired frequency.Push and release the appropriateside of the bar quickly. Thefrequency numbers will change insmall increments.

SEEK — The SEEK functionsearches the band for a station witha strong signal. To activate it, pusheither side of the SEEK bar (— or+) until you hear a beep. Push thebar on the + side to scan up fromthe current frequency, and on the —side to scan down. It stops when itfinds a station with a strong signal.

Preset — You can store thefrequencies of your favorite radiostations in the six preset buttons.Each button will store one frequencyon the AM band, and twofrequencies on the FM band.

CONTINUED


Audio System

To store a frequency:

1. Select the desired band, AM orFM. FM1 and FM2 let you storetwo frequencies with each Presetbutton.

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK functionto tune the radio to a desiredstation.

3. Pick the Preset button you wantfor that station. Press the buttonand hold it until you hear a beep.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a totalof six stations on AM and twelveon FM.

Once a station's frequency is stored,simply press and release the properPreset button to tune to it.The preset frequencies will be lost ifyour car's battery goes dead, isdisconnected, or the radio fuse isremoved.


STEREOINDICATOR

PRESET BUTTONS PWR/VOL KNOB

AM/FM BUTTON

TUNE/SEEK BAR

Audio System

AUTO SELECT — If you aretraveling far from home and can nolonger receive the stations yonpreset, you can use the Auto Selectfeature to find stations in the localarea.

To activate Auto Select, press theA. SELECT button. A. SELECT willappear in the display, and the systemwill go into scan mode for severalseconds. It automatically scans bothbands, looking for stations withstrong signals. It stores the frequen-cies of six AM stations and twelveFM stations in the preset buttons.You can then use the preset buttonsto select those stations.

If you are in a remote area, AutoSelect may not find six strong AMstations or twelve strong FM stations.If this happens, you will see a "0"displayed when you press any presetbutton that does not have a stationstored.

PRESET BUTTONS

With Auto Select on, you cannotmanually store any frequencies inthe preset buttons. If you do not likethe stations found by Auto Select,you can use the TUNE and SEEKfunctions to find other stations.

Auto Select does not erase thefrequencies that you preset pre-viously. When you return home, turnoff Auto Select by pressing theA. SELECT button. The presetbuttons will then select the fre-quencies you originally set.


TUNE/SEEK BARAUTO SELECTINDICATOR

AM/FM BUTTON AUTO SELECT BUTTON

Audio System

Adjusting the SoundBalance/Fader — These twocontrols adjust the strength of thesound coming from each speaker.The Balance control adjusts the side-to-side strength, while the Fadercontrol adjusts the front-to-backstrength.

To adjust the fader, push on theBASS/FADER control knob to get itto pop out. Pull it out slightly farther,and adjust the front-to-back sound toyour liking. Push the knob back inwhen you are done so you cannotchange the setting by accidentallybumping it.

To adjust the balance, push on theTREBLE/BALANCE control knobto get it to pop out. Pull it out slightlyfarther, and adjust the side-to-sidesound to your liking. Push the knobback in when you are done so youcannot change the setting byaccidentally bumping it.

BASS/FADERCONTROL

TREBLE/BALANCECONTROL

Treble/Bass — Use these controlsto adjust the tone to your liking.

To adjust the Treble level, push onthe TREBLE/BALANCE controlknob to get it to pop out. Withoutpulling it out farther, turn the knobto adjust the treble level. Push theknob back in when you are done soyou cannot change the setting byaccidentally bumping it.

To adjust the Bass level, push on theBASS/FADER control knob to get itto pop out. Without pulling it outfarther, turn the knob to adjust thebass level. Push the knob back inwhen you are done so you cannotchange the setting by accidentallybumping it.


Audio System

Audio System LightingYou can use the instrument panelbrightness control dial to adjust the il-lumination of the audio system (seepage 66). The audio systemilluminates when the parking lightsare on, even if the radio is turned off.

Radio FrequenciesYour Acura's radio can receive thecomplete AM and FM bands.Those bands cover these frequen-cies:

AM band:530 to 1,710 kilohertzFM band:87.7 to 107.9 megahertz

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

Stations must use these exactfrequencies. It is fairly common forstations to round-off the frequency intheir advertising, so your radio coulddisplay a frequency of 100.9 eventhough the announcer may identitythe station as "FM101."

Radio ReceptionHow well your Acura's radio receivesstations is dependent on manyfactors, such as the distance fromthe station's transmitter, nearbylarge objects, and atmosphericconditions.

A radio station's signal gets weakeras you get farther away from itstransmitter. If you are listening to anAM station, you will notice the soundvolume becoming weaker, and thestation drifting in and out. If you arelistening to an FM station, you willsee the stereo indicator flickering offand on as the signal weakens.Eventually, the stereo indicator will

go off and the sound will fadecompletely as you get out of range ofthe station's signal.

Driving very near the transmitter ofa station that is broadcasting on afrequency close to the frequency ofthe station you are listening to canalso affect your radio's reception.You may temporarily hear bothstations, or hear only the station youare close to.


CONTINUED

Audio System

Radio signals, especially on the FMband, are deflected by large objectssuch as buildings and hills. Yourradio then receives both the directsignal from the station's transmitter,and the deflected signal. This causesthe sound to distort or flutter. This isa main cause of poor radio receptionin city driving.

Radio reception can be affected byatmospheric conditions such asthunderstorms, high humidity, andeven sunspots. You may be able toreceive a distant radio station oneday and not receive it the next daybecause of a change in conditions.

Electrical interference from passingvehicles and stationary sources cancause temporary reception problems.

As required by the FCC:Changes or modifications not expresslyapproved by the party responsible forcompliance could void the user'sauthority to operate the equipment.


Audio System

Operating the Cassette PlayerThe ignition switch must be inACCESSORY (I) or ON (II).Make sure the tape opening on thecassette is facing to the right, theninsert the cassette most of the wayinto the slot. The system will pull itin the rest of the way, and begin toplay.

The tape direction indicator will lightto show you which side of thecassette is playing. The indicatesthe side you inserted facing upwardis now playing. If you want to playthe other side, press the PROG/PLAY button.

Dolby B noise reduction turns onwhen you insert a cassette. Theindicator in the button will light.If the tape was not recorded withDolby B noise reduction, turn it offby pressing the button.

When the system reaches the end ofthe tape, it will automatically reversedirection and play the other side. Ifyou want to remove the cassettefrom the drive, press the EJECTbutton.

If you turn the system off while atape is playing, either with the PWR/VOL knob or by turning off theignition, the cassette will remain inthe drive. When you turn the systemback on, the tape will begin playingwhere it left off.

To switch to the radio or CDchanger while listening to a tape,press the AM/FM or CD/TAPE but-ton. To change back to the cassetteplayer, press the CD/TAPE button.

Tape Search FunctionsWith a cassette playing, you can usethe FF, REW, TMS, or REPEATfunction to find a desired program.

FF/REW — Fast Forward andRewind move the tape rapidly. Torewind the tape, push the REWbutton. The indicator in this buttonwill light. To fast forward the tape,push the FF button. The indicator inthis button will light. Press thePROG/PLAY button to take thesystem out of rewind or fast forward.When the system reaches the end ofthe tape, it reverses direction andbegins to play if in fast forward, or itbegins to play if in rewind.

CONTINUED


Audio System

TMS — The Tape Music SearchFunction allows you to find thebeginning of a song or passage. Toactivate TMS, push either side of theTMS bar (— or + ) . To find thebeginning of the song or passagecurrently playing, push the bar onthe - side. You will see TMSindicator and the indicator in theREW button flashing. To find thebeginning of the next song, push thebar on the + side. You will see TMSindicator and the indicator in the FFbutton flashing.

CD/TAPEBUTTON

TMS BAR PROG/PLAYBUTTON

FAST FORWARDBUTTON


AM/FMBUTTON

REWINDBUTTON

REPEATBUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR CASSETTE SLOT PWR/VOL KNOB

EJECT BUTTONDOLBYBUTTON

TMS INDICATOR

Audio System

REPEAT — The Repeal functioncontinuously replays the currentsong or passage. Press the REPEATbutton to activate it; you will seeREPEAT displayed as a reminder.When the system reaches the end ofthe song or passage currentlyplaying, it will automatically go intorewind. When it senses thebeginning of the same song orpassage, the system returns to PLAYmode. It will continue to repeat thissame program until you deactivateREPEAT by pressing the buttonagain.Pressing the REW or FF button alsoturns off REPEAT.

The TMS and REPEAT functionsuse silent periods on the tape to findthe end of a song or passage. Thesefeatures may not work to yoursatisfaction if there is almost no gapbetween selections, a high noiselevel between selections, or a silentperiod in the middle of a selection.

REWIND BUTTON

REPEAT INDICATOR FAST FORWARDBUTTON

TMS BAR REPEAT BUTTON


Audio System

Caring for the Cassette PlayerThe cassette player picks up dirt andoxides from the tape. This contami-nation builds up over time andcauses the sound quality to degrade.To prevent this, you should clean theplayer after every 30 hours of use.Your dealer has a cleaning kitavailable.

If you do not clean the cassetteplayer regularly, it may eventuallybecome impossible to remove thecontamination with a normalcleaning kit.

Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes.Cassettes longer than that usethinner tape that may break or jamthe drive.

Look at the cassette before youinsert it. If the tape is loose, tightenit by turning a hub with a pencil oryour finger.If the label is peeling off, remove itfrom the cassette or it could causethe cassette to jam in the player.Never try to insert a warped ordamaged cassette in the player.

When they are not in use, storecassettes in their cases to protectthem from dust and moisture. Neverplace cassettes where they will beexposed to direct sunlight, high heat,or high humidity. If a cassette isexposed to extreme heat or cold, letit reach a moderate temperaturebefore inserting it in the player.

Never try to insert foreign objectsinto the cassette player.

If you see the error indication(3.5 RL with navigation

system)/ (3.5 RL withoutnavigation system) on the display,press the EJECT button to removethe cassette from the unit. Makesure the tape is not damaged. If thecassette will not eject or the errorindication stays on after the cassetteejects, take the car to your Acuradealer.


Audio System

Operating the CD ChangerA Compact Disc changer is standardequipment. It holds up to six discs,providing several hours of continu-ous entertainment. You operate theCD changer with the same controlsused for the radio and cassetteplayer.

To load the CDs in the magazine andload the magazine into the CDchanger, refer to page 159. Play onlystandard round discs. Odd-shapedCDs may jam in the drive or causeother problems.

Do not play discs with discaccessories such as protective sealsor rubbers. Using them may alsocause the audio system tomalfunction.

To operate the CD changer, the igni-tion switch must be in ACCESSORY(I) or ON (II).

PRESET BUTTONS PWR/VOL KNOB

REPEAT BUTTON

CD/TAPE BUTTON AUTO SELECT BUTTON

Select the CD mode by pressing theCD/TAPE button. You will see "CD"in the display. The system will startto play the first track of the first discin the magazine. You will see thedisc and track number displayed.

When that disc ends, the next disc inthe magazine is loaded and played.After the last disc finishes, thesystem returns to disc 1.


AM/FM BUTTON

SEEK BAR

CONTINUED

Audio System

To select a different disc, press theappropriate preset button (1— 6). Ifyou select an empty slot in themagazine, the changer will, afterfinding that slot empty, try to loadthe CD in the next slot. Thiscontinues until it finds a CD to loadand play.

You can use the SEEK bar to selecttracks within a disc. If you push andrelease either side of the SEEK bar(— or + ) , the system will move tothe beginning of a track. Push the +button to move to the beginning ofthe next track, and push the — but-ton to move to the beginning of thecurrent track.

If you push and hold the SEEK bar(— or + ) , you will hear a beep andthe system will continue to moveacross tracks. Release the buttonwhen you think it has reached thedesired place on the disc.

REPEAT — When you activate theRepeat feature by pressing theREPEAT button, the systemcontinuously replays the currenttrack. You will see REPEAT in thedisplay as a reminder. Press theREPEAT button again to turn it off.

RANDOM PLAY — This feature,when activated, plays the tracks on aCD in random order, rather than inthe order they are recorded on theCD. To activate Random Play, pressthe A. SELECT button. You will seeA. SELECT in the display. The sys-tem will then select and play tracksrandomly on the current disc. Whenall tracks on that disc have beenplayed, the next disc is loaded and

played randomly. This continues un-til you deactivate Random Play bypressing A. SELECT again.

To take the system out of CD mode,press the AM/FM button or insert acassette in the player. If a tape isalready in the cassette player, pressthe CD/TAPE button. When youreturn to CD mode, play will contin-ue at the same point that it left off.

If you turn the system off while a CDis playing, either with the PWR/VOLknob or the ignition switch, play willcontinue at the same point when youturn it back on.

Protecting Compact DiscsFor information on how to handleand protect compact discs, see page161.


Audio System

Loading the CD Changer

The CD changer is located in thetrunk on the driver's side.

1. Slide the lid to open the CDchanger.

2. Push the EJECT button to removethe CD magazine. The magazinewill pop up automatically.

CONTINUED


CD CHANGEREJECTBUTTON

Slide

Audio System

3. To install a CD, pull the tab out toremove the tray from the maga-zine.

4. Put a CD on a tray with the printedsurface up as shown.

5. Reinstall the tray in the magazine.Repeat this procedure for the oth-er five trays.

6. Store all six trays in the magazine,and then reinstall the magazine inthe CD changer as shown in the il-lustration.

7. Slide the lid closed until it clicks.


TABTRAY

Audio System

Protecting Compact Discs

Handle a CD by its edges; nevertouch either surface. Contaminationfrom fingerprints, liquids, felt-tippens, and labels can cause the CD tonot play properly, or possibly jam inthe drive.

When a CD is not being played, storeit in its case to protect it from dustand other contamination. To preventwarpage, keep CDs out of directsunlight and extreme heat.

To clean a disc, use a clean soft cloth.Wipe across the disc from the centerto the outside edge.

A new CD may be rough on theinner and outer edges. The smallplastic pieces causing this roughnesscan flake off and fall on the re-cording surface of the disc, causingskipping or other problems. Removethese pieces by rubbing the innerand outer edges with the side of apencil or pen.

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


Audio System

CD Changer Error IndicationsIf you see an error indication in thedisplay while operating the CDchanger, find the cause in the chartto the right. If you cannot clear theerror indication, take the car to yourAcura dealer.


Audio System

Remote Audio Controls

Two controls for the audio systemare mounted in the steering wheelhub. These let you control basicfunctions without removing yourhand from the wheel.

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

The AUDIO/CH button has threefunctions, depending on whether youare listening to the radio, or playing acassette or CD.

If you are listening to the radio, usethe AUDIO/CH button to changestations. Each time you press thisbutton, the system advances to thenext preset station on the band youare listening to. You will see thenumber of the selected Preset buttonin the display. To change bands,press the AM/FM button on theaudio system's front panel.

If you are playing a cassette, use theAUDIO/CH button to advance to thenext selection. You will see "FF"blinking in the display when youpress the AUDIO/CH button. Thesystem fast forwards until it senses asilent period, then goes back toPLAY.

If you are playing a CD, the systemskips to the beginning of the nexttrack each time you push theAUDIO/CH button. You will see thedisc and track number in the display.


AUDIO/CHBUTTON

Audio System

Theft ProtectionYour car's audio system will disableitself if it is disconnected fromelectrical power for any reason. Tomake it work again, the user mustenter a specific five-digit code in thePreset buttons. Because there arehundreds of number combinationspossible from five digits, making thesystem work without knowing theexact code is nearly impossible.

You should have received a card thatlists your audio system's codenumber and serial number. It is bestto store this card in a safe place athome. In addition, you should writethe audio system's serial number inthis Owner's Manual. If you shouldhappen to lose the card, you mustobtain the code number from yourAcura dealer. To do this, you willneed the system's serial number.

If your car's battery is disconnectedor goes dead, or the radio fuse isremoved, the audio system willdisable itself. If this happens, youwill see "Code" in the frequencydisplay the next time you turn on thesystem. Use the Preset buttons toenter the five-digit code. If it isentered correctly, the radio will startplaying.

If you make a mistake entering thecode, do not start over or try tocorrect your mistake. Complete thefive-digit sequence, then enter thecorrect code. You have three tries toenter the correct code. If you areunsuccessful in three attempts, youmust then leave the system on forone hour before trying again.

You will have to store your favoritestations in the Preset buttons afterthe system begins working. Youroriginal settings were lost whenpower was disconnected.


Security System

The security system helps to protectyour car and valuables from theft.The horn sounds and a combinationof headlights, parking lights, sidemarker lights and taillights flashes ifsomeone attempts to break into yourcar or remove the radio. This alarmcontinues for two minutes, then thesystem resets. To reset an alarmingsystem before the two minutes haveelapsed, unlock either front doorwith the key or the remotetransmitter.

The security system sets auto-matically fifteen seconds after youlock the doors, hood, and trunk. Forthe system to activate, you must lockthe doors from the outside with thekey, lock tab, door lock switch, orremote transmitter. The securitysystem light next to the driver's doorlock starts blinking immediately toshow you the system is setting itself.

Once the security system is set,opening any door (without using thekey or the remote transmitter), orthe hood, will cause it to alarm. Italso alarms if the radio is removedfrom the dashboard or the wiring iscut.

With the system set, you can stillopen the trunk with the master keyor the remote transmitter withouttriggering the alarm. The alarm willsound if the trunk lock is forced, orthe trunk is opened with the trunkrelease button on the driver's door.

The security system will not set ifthe hood, trunk, or any door is notfully closed. If the system will not set,check the Door and Brake LampMonitor on the instrument panel(see page 57), to see if the doorsand trunk are fully closed. Since it isnot part of the monitor display,manually check the hood.

Do not attempt to alter this systemor add other devices to it.


SECURITY SYSTEM LIGHT

Before Driving

Before you begin driving your Acura,you should know what gasoline touse, and how to check the levels ofimportant fluids. You also need toknow how to properly store luggageor packages. The information in thissection will help you. If you plan toadd any accessories to your car,please read the information in thissection first.

Break-in Period.............................. 168Gasoline.......................................... 168Service Station Procedures .......... 169

Filling the Fuel Tank................. 169Opening the Hood..................... 170

Oil Check................................171Engine Coolant Check.......... 172

Fuel Economy................................ 173Car Condition............................. 173Driving Habits............................ 173

Accessories and Modifications.... 174Carriying Cargo.............................. 176

Before Driving

Break-in Period, Gasoline

Break-in PeriodHelp assure your car's futurereliability and performance by payingextra attention to how you driveduring the first 600 miles (1,000 km).During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapidacceleration.

Avoid hard braking. New brakesneed to be broken-in by moderateuse for the first 200 miles (300km).

Do not change the oil until therecommended time or mileageinterval shown in the maintenanceschedule.

You should follow these same re-commendations with an overhauledor exchanged engine, or when thebrakes are relined.

GasolineYour Acura is designed to operate onpremium unleaded gasoline with apump octane number of 91 or higher.

If you are unable to find premiumunleaded gasoline, you may substi-tute an unleaded regular gasoline.The engine will compensate for thelower octane, but you may notice aslight decrease in power as a result.

We recommend gasolines containingdetergent additives that help preventfuel system and engine deposits.

Using gasoline containing lead willdamage your car's emissionscontrols. This contributes to airpollution.

In Canada, some gasolines containan octane-enhancing additive calledMMT. If you use such gasolines,your emissions control systemperformance may deteriorate andthe Malfunction Indicator Lamp onyour instrument panel may turn on.If this happens, contact yourauthorized Acura dealer for service.

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Filling the Fuel Tank

1. Because the fuel fil l cap is on thedriver's side of the car, park withthat side closest to the servicestation pumps.

2. Open the fuel fill door by pullingon the handle to the left of thedriver's seat.

3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.You may hear a hissing sound aspressure inside the tank escapes.Place the cap in the holder on thefuel fill door.

4. Stop filling the tank after the fuelnozzle automatically clicks off. Donot try to "top off" the tank, leavesome room for the fuel to expandwith temperature changes.

Your car has an on-board refuelingvapor recovery system to helpkeep fuel vapors from going intothe atmosphere. If the fuel pumpkeeps clicking off even though thetank is not full, there may be aproblem with this system. Consultyour dealer.

CONTINUED

Before Driving

FUEL FILL CAP

Gasoline is highly flammableand explosive. You can beburned or seriously injuredwhen handling fuel.

Stop the engine and keepheat, sparks, and flame away.Handle fuel only outdoors.Wipe up spills immediately.

Pull

Magesh


5. Screw the fuel fil l cap back on,tighten it until it clicks severaltimes. If you do not properlytighten the cap, the MalfunctionIndicator Lamp may come on (seepage 287).

6. Push the fuel fill door closed untilit latches.

Opening the Hood

1. Shift to Park or Neutral and setthe parking brake. Pull the hoodrelease handle located under thelower left corner of the dashboard.The hood will pop up slightly.

2. Standing in front of the car, reachin between the hood and the frontbumper with your finger. Slide thelatch handle.

Before Driving

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

LATCH HANDLE

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If you can open the hood withoutsliding the hood latch handle, or thehood latch handle moves stiffly ordoes not spring back as before, themechanism should be cleaned andlubricated (see page 231).

3. Lift the hood up most of the way.The hydraulic supports will lift itup the rest of the way and hold itup.

To close the hood, lower it to about afoot (30 cm) above the fender, thenpress down firmly with your hands.After closing the hood, make sure itis securely latched.

Oil Check

Check the engine oil level every timeyou fill the vehicle with fuel. Wait afew minutes after turning the engineoff before you check the oil.

1. Remove the dipstick (orangehandle).

2. Wipe the dipstick with a cleancloth or paper towel.

CONTINUED

Before Driving

DIPSTICK

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3. Insert it all the way back in its tube. 4. Remove the dipstick again andcheck the level. It should bebetween the upper and lowermarks.

If it is near or below the lower mark,see Adding Oil on page 217 .

Engine Coolant Check

Look at the coolant level in theradiator reserve tank. Make sure it isbetween the MAX and MIN lines. Ifit is below the MIN line, see AddingEngine Coolant on page 221 forinformation on adding the propercoolant.

Refer to Owner MaintenanceChecks on page 215 for informationon checking other items in yourAcura.

Before Driving

RESERVE TANK

MAX

MIN

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

Fuel Economy

The condition of your car and yourdriving habits are the two mostimportant things that affect the fuelmileage you get.

Car ConditionAlways maintain your car accordingto the maintenance schedule. Thiswill keep it in top operating condition.

An important part of that mainte-nance is the Owner MaintenanceChecks (see page 215 ). Forexample, an underinflated tirecauses more "rolling resistance,"which uses fuel. It also wears outfaster, so check the tire pressure atleast monthly.

In winter, the build-up of snow onyour car's underside adds weight androlling resistance. Frequent cleaninghelps your fuel mileage and reducesthe chance of corrosion.

Driving HabitsYou can improve fuel economy bydriving moderately. Rapid acceler-ation, abrupt cornering, and hardbraking use more fuel.

Always drive in the highest gear thatallows the engine to run and acceler-ate smoothly.

Depending on traffic conditions, tryto maintain a constant speed. Everytime you slow down and speed up,your car uses extra fuel. Use thecruise control, when appropriate, toincrease fuel economy.

A cold engine uses more fuel than awarm engine. It is not necessary to"warm-up" a cold engine by letting itidle for a long time. You can driveaway in about a minute, no matterhow cold it is outside. The enginewill warm up faster, and you getbetter fuel economy. To cut down onthe number of "cold starts," try tocombine several short trips into one.

The air conditioning puts an extraload on the engine which makes ituse more fuel. Turn off the A/C orset the climate control to a highertemperature to cut down on airconditioning use. Use the flow-through ventilation when the outsideair temperature is moderate.

Before Driving

Accessories and Modifications

Modifying your car, or installingsome non-Acura accessories, canmake your car unsafe. Before youmake any modifications or add anyaccessories, be sure to read thefollowing information.

AccessoriesYour dealer has Genuine Acuraaccessories that allow you topersonalize your car. Theseaccessories have been designed andapproved for your car, and arecovered by warranty.

Non-Acura accessories are usuallydesigned for universal applications.Although aftermarket accessoriesmay fit on your car, they may notmeet factory specifications, andcould adversely affect your car'shandling and stability. (See"Modifications" on the page 175 foradditional information.)

When properly installed, cellularphones, alarms, two-way radios, andlow-powered audio systems shouldnot interfere with your car'scomputer-controlled systems, suchas the SRS and anti-lock brakesystem.

However, if electronic accessoriesare improperly installed, or exceedyour car's electrical system capacity,they can interfere with the operationof your car, or even cause theairbags to deploy.

Before installing any accessory:

Make sure the accessory does notobscure any lights, or interferewith proper car operation orperformance.

Be sure electronic accessories donot overload electrical circuits(see page 292 ).

Have the installer contact yourAcura dealer for assistance beforeinstalling any electronic accessory.

If possible, have your dealer inspectthe final installation.

Before Driving

Improper accessories ormodifications can affect yourcar's handling, stability andperformance, and cause acrash in which you can be hurtor killed.

Follow all instructions in thisowner's manual regardingaccessories and modifications.

Magesh

Accessories and Modifications

ModificationsDo not remove any originalequipment or modify your car in anyway that would alter its design oroperation. This could make your carunsafe and illegal to drive.

For example, do not make anymodifications that would change theride height of your car, or installwheels and tires with a differentoverall diameter.

Such modifications can adverselyaffect handling, and interfere withthe operation of the car's anti-lockbrakes and other systems.

In addition, any modifications thatdecrease ground clearance increasethe chance of undercarriage partsstriking a curb, speed bump, or otherraised object, which could causeyour airbags to deploy.

Do not modify your steering wheelor any other part of yourSupplemental Restraint System.Modifications could make thesystem ineffective.

Additional Safety PrecautionsDo not attach or place objects onthe front airbag covers. Any objectattached to or placed on the coversmarked "SRS AIRBAG," in thecenter of the steering wheel andon top of the dashboard, couldinterfere with the proper operationof the airbags. Or, if the airbagsinflate, the objects could bepropelled inside the car and hurtsomeone.

Do not attach hard objects on ornear a front door. If a side airbaginflates, a cup holder or other hardobject attached on or near thedoor could be propelled inside thecar and hurt someone.

Do not place any objects over theoutside edge of a front seat-back.Covering the outside edge of afront seat-back, with a non-Acuraseat cover for example, couldprevent the airbag from inflatingproperly.

Before Driving

Carrying Cargo

Your car has several convenientstorage areas so you can stow cargosafely.

The glove box, and the pockets inthe front doors and seat-back, aredesigned for small, lightweight items.The trunk is intended for larger,heavier items.

However, carrying too much cargo,or improperly storing it, can affectyour car's handling, stability andoperation and make it unsafe. Beforecarrying any type of cargo, be sure toread the following pages.

Before Driving

CONSOLE COMPARTMENT FRONT DOOR POCKET

TRUNK SEAT-BACK POCKET GLOVE BOX

Carrying Cargo

Load LimitThe maximum load for your car is850 lbs (395 kg).

This figure includes the total weightof all occupants, cargo, accessories,and the tongue weight if you aretowing a trailer.

To figure out how much cargo youcan carry:

Add up the weight of all occupants.

If you are towing a trailer, add thetongue weight to the numberabove.

Subtract the total from 850 Ibs(395 kg).

The final number is the total weightof cargo you can carry.

Carrying Items in the PassengerCompartment

Store or secure all items that couldbe thrown around and hurtsomeone during a crash.

Do not put any items on top of therear shelf. They can block yourview and be thrown around the carduring a crash.

Be sure items placed on the floorbehind the front seats cannot rollunder the seats and interfere withthe driver's ability to operate thepedals, or with the properoperation of the seats.

Keep the glove box closed whiledriving. If the lid is open, apassenger could injure their kneesduring a crash or sudden stop.

Before Driving

Overloading or improperloading can affect handling andstability and cause a crash inwhich you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and otherloading guidelines in thismanual.

Magesh

Carrying Cargo

Carrying Cargo in the Trunk or ona Roof Rack

Distribute cargo evenly on thefloor of the trunk, placing theheaviest items on the bottom andas far forward as possible.

If you carry large items thatprevent you from closing the trunklid, exhaust gas can enter thepassenger area. To avoid thepossibility of carbon monoxidepoisoning, follow the instructionson page 49 .

If you can carry any items on aroof rack, be sure the total weightof the rack and the items does notexceed the maximum allowableweight. Please contact your Acuradealer for further information.

Before Driving

Driving

This section gives you tips onstarting the engine under variousconditions, and how to operate theautomatic transmission. It alsoincludes important information onparking your car, the braking system,the Vehicle Stability Assist System,and facts you need if you areplanning to tow a trailer.

Preparing to Drive......................... 180Starting the Engine........................ 181

Starting in Cold Weatherat High Altitude ..................... 181

Automatic Transmission............... 182Shift Lever Position Indicator.. 182Shift Lever Positions................. 182Engine Speed Limiter ............... 184Shift Lock Release..................... 185

Parking............................................ 186The Braking System...................... 187

Brake Wear Indicators.............. 187Brake System Design................ 188Anti-lock Brakes........................ 188

Important SafetyReminders.......................... 189

ABS Indicator......................... 189Vehicle Stability Assist System.... 191Driving in Bad Weather................ 194Towing a Trailer............................ 196

Driving

Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checksand adjustments every day beforeyou drive your car.

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

2. Check that the hood and trunk arefully closed.

3. Visually check the tires. If a tirelooks low, use a gauge to check itspressure.

4. Check that any items you may becarrying with you inside are storedproperly or fastened downsecurely.

5. Check the adjustment of the seat(see page 94 ).

6. Check the adjustment of theinside and outside mirrors (seepage 99 ).

7. Check the adjustment of thesteering wheel (see page 71 ).

8. Make sure the doors are securelyclosed and locked.

9. Fasten your seat belt. Check thatyour passengers have fastenedtheir seat belts (see page 15 ).

10.Turn the ignition switch ON (II).Check the indicator lights in theinstrument panel.

11.Start the engine (see page 181).

12.Check the gauges and indicatorlights in the instrument panel (seepage 53).

Driving

Starting the Engine

1. Apply the parking brake.

2. In cold weather, turn off allelectrical accessories to reducethe drain on the battery.

3. Make sure the shift lever is inPark. Press on the brake pedal.

4. Without touching the acceleratorpedal, turn the ignition key to theSTART (III) position. If the enginedoes not start right away, do nothold the key in START (III) formore than 15 seconds at a time.Pause for at least 10 secondsbefore trying again.

5. If the engine does not start within15 seconds, or starts but stallsright away, repeat step 4 with theaccelerator pedal pressed half-waydown. If the engine starts, releasepressure on the accelerator pedalso the engine does not race.

6. If the engine still does not start,press the accelerator pedal all theway down and hold it there whilestarting in order to clear flooding.As before, keep the ignition key inthe START (III) position for nomore than 15 seconds. Return tostep 5 if the engine does not start.If it starts, lift your foot off theaccelerator pedal so the enginedoes not race.

Starting in Cold Weather at HighAltitude (Above 8,000 feet/2,400 meters)An engine is harder to start in coldweather. The thinner air found athigh altitude above 8,000 feet (2,400meters) adds to the problem.Use the following procedure:

1. Turn off all electrical accessoriesto reduce the drain on the battery.

2. Push the accelerator pedal half-way to the floor and hold it therewhile starting the engine. Do nothold the ignition key in START(III) for more than 15 seconds.When the engine starts, releasethe accelerator pedal gradually asthe engine speeds up and smoothsout.

3. If the engine fails to start in step 2,push the accelerator pedal to thefloor and hold it there while youtry to start the engine for no morethan 15 seconds. If the enginedoes not start, return to step 2.

Driving

Automatic Transmission

Your Acura's transmission has fourforward speeds, and is electronicallycontrolled for smoother shifting. Italso has a "lock-up" torque converterfor better fuel economy. You mayfeel what seems like another shiftwhen the converter locks.

Shift Lever Position IndicatorThis indicator between the fuelgauge and temperature gauge showswhich position the shift lever is in.

The "D4" indicator comes on for afew seconds when you turn theignition switch ON (II). If it flasheswhile driving (in any shift position),it indicates a possible problem in thetransmission. Avoid rapid acceler-ation and have the transmissionchecked by an authorized Acuradealer as soon as possible.

Shift Lever Positions

The shift lever has seven positions.It must be in Park or Neutral to startthe engine. When you are stopped inD4, D3, 2 ,1 , N or R, press firmly onthe brake pedal, and keep your footoff the accelerator pedal.

Driving

SHIFT LEVER


Whenever you move the shift lever,slide it along the guide on theconsole.

Park (P) — This position mechani-cally locks the transmission. UsePark whenever you are turning off orstarting the engine. To shift out ofPark, you must press on the brakepedal and have your foot off theaccelerator pedal. Move the shiftlever to the right to shift out of the

Park position.

If you have done all of the above andstill cannot move the lever out ofPark, see Shift Lock Release on page185.

To avoid transmission damage, cometo a complete stop before shiftinginto Park. The shift lever must be inPark before you can remove the keyfrom the ignition switch.

Reverse (R) — To shift to Reversefrom Park, see the explanation underPark. To shift to Reverse fromNeutral, come to a complete stop andthen shift. Push down on the shiftlever before shifting into Reversefrom Neutral.

Neutral (N) — Use Neutral if youneed to restart a stalled engine, or ifit is necessary to stop briefly withthe engine idling. Shift to Park posi-tion if you need to leave the car forany reason. Press on the brake pedalwhen you are moving the shift leverfrom Neutral to another gear.

CONTINUED

Driving

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Drive (D4) — Use this position foryour normal driving. The transmis-sion automatically selects a suitablegear for your speed and acceleration.You may notice the transmissionshifting up at higher speeds whenthe engine is cold. This helps theengine warm up faster.

Drive (D3) —This position is similarto D4, except only the first threegears are selected. Use D3 whentowing a trailer in hilly terrain, or toprovide engine braking when goingdown a steep hill. D3 can also keepthe transmission from cyclingbetween third and fourth gears instop-and-go driving.

For faster acceleration when in D3 orD4, you can get the transmission toautomatically downshift by pushingthe accelerator pedal to the floor.The transmission will shift down oneor two gears, depending on yourspeed.

Second (2) — This position locksthe transmission in second gear. Itdoes not downshift to first gearwhen you come to a stop. Secondgives you more power when climbing,and increased engine braking whengoing down steep hills. Use secondgear when starting out on a slipperysurface or in deep snow. It will helpreduce wheelspin.

First (1) — To shift from Second toFirst, push down on the shift lever.With the lever in this position, thetransmission locks in First gear. Byupshifting and downshifting through1, 2, D3 and D4, you can operate thistransmission much like a manualtransmission without a clutch pedal.

Engine Speed LimiterIf you exceed the maximum speedfor the gear you are in, the enginespeed will enter into the tachometer'sred zone. If this occurs, you may feelthe engine cut in and out. This iscaused by a limiter in the engine'scomputer controls. The engine willrun normally when you reduce theRPM below the red zone.

Driving


Shift Lock ReleaseThis allows you to move the shiftlever out of Park if the normalmethod of pushing on the brakepedal does not work.

1. Set the Parking brake.

2. Remove the key from the ignitionswitch.

3. Put a cloth on the edge of the ShiftLock Release slot cover next tothe shift lever.Use a small flat-tipped screwdriveror small metal plate (neither areincluded in the tool kit) to removethe cover. Carefully pry off theedge of the cover.

4. Insert the key in the Shift LockRelease slot.

5. Push down on the key and movethe shift lever out of Park toNeutral.

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT

6. Remove the key from the ShiftLock Release slot, then reinstallthe cover. Make sure the notch onthe cover is on the right side.Depress the brake pedal andrestart the engine.

If you need to use the Shift LockRelease, it means your car isdeveloping a problem. Have the carchecked by your Acura dealer.

Driving

Parking

Always use the parking brake whenyou park your car. The indicator onthe instrument panel shows that theparking brake is not fully released; itdoes not indicate that the parkingbrake is firmly set. Make sure theparking brake is set firmly or yourcar may roll if it is parked on anincline.

Set the parking brake before you putthe transmission in Park. This keepsthe car from moving and puttingpressure on the parking mechanismin the transmission — making iteasier to move the shift lever out ofPark when you want to drive away.

If the car is facing uphill, turn thefront wheels away from the curb.

If the car is facing downhill, turn thefront wheels toward the curb.

Make sure the parking brake is fullyreleased before driving away.Driving with the parking brakepartially set can overheat or damagethe rear brakes.

Parking TipsMake sure the moonroof and thewindows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

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

Lock the doors with the key or theremote transmitter. Check theindicator on the driver's door toverify that the security system isset.

Never park over dry leaves, tallgrass, or other flammablematerials. The three way catalyticconverter gets very hot, and couldcause these materials to catch onfire.

Driving

The Braking System

Your Acura is equipped with discbrakes at all four wheels. A powerassist helps reduce the effort neededon the brake pedal. The ABS helpsyou retain steering control whenbraking very hard.

Put your foot on the brake pedal onlywhen you intend to brake. Restingyour foot on the pedal keeps thebrakes applied lightly, causing themto build up heat. Heat build-up canreduce how well your brakes work. Italso keeps your brake lights on allthe time, confusing drivers behindyou.

Constant application of the brakeswhen going down a long hill buildsup heat and reduces their effective-ness. Use the engine to assist thebrakes by downshifting to a lowergear and taking your foot off theaccelerator pedal.

Check your brakes after drivingthrough deep water. Apply thebrakes moderately to see if they feelnormal. If not, apply them gently andfrequently until they do. Since alonger distance is needed to stopwith wet brakes, be extra cautiousand alert in your driving.

Brake Wear IndicatorsAll four brakes have audible brakewear indicators.When the brake pads need replacing,you will hear a distinctive metallic"screeching" sound when you applythe brakes. If you do not have thebrake pads replaced, they will beginscreeching all the time.

Your brakes may sometimes squealor squeak when you apply themlightly. Do not confuse this with thebrake wear indicators. They make avery audible "screeching."

Driving

The Braking System

Brake System DesignThe hydraulic system that operatesthe brakes has two separate circuits.Each circuit works diagonally acrossthe car (the left-front brake isconnected with the right-rear brake,etc.). If one circuit should develop aproblem, you will still have brakingat two wheels.

Front

Anti-lock BrakesYour car has an Anti-lock BrakeSystem (ABS) as standardequipment. ABS helps to prevent thewheels from locking up and skiddingduring hard braking, allowing you toretain steering control.

When the front tires skid, you losesteering control; the car continuesstraight ahead even though you turnthe steering wheel. The ABS helps toprevent lock-up and helps you retainsteering control by pumping thebrakes rapidly; much faster than aperson can do it.

The ABS also balances the front-torear braking distribution accordingto vehicle loading.

You should never pump thebrake pedal, this defeats thepurpose of the ABS. Let the ABSwork for you by always keeping firm,steady pressure on the brake pedalas you steer away from the hazard.This is sometimes referred to as"stomp and steer."

You will feel a pulsation in the brakepedal when the ABS activates, andyou may hear some noise. This isnormal, it is the ABS rapidlypumping the brakes.

Activation varies with the amount oftraction your tires have. On drypavement, you will need to press onthe brake pedal very hard before youactivate the ABS. However, you mayfeel the ABS activate immediately ifyou are trying to stop on snow or ice.

Driving

The Braking System

Important Safety RemindersABS does not reduce the time ordistance it takes to stop the car, itonly helps with steering controlduring braking. You should alwaysmaintain a safe following distancefrom other vehicles.

ABS will not prevent a skid thatresults from changing directionabruptly, such as trying to take acorner too fast or making a suddenlane change. Always drive at a safe,prudent speed for the road andweather conditions.

ABS cannot prevent a loss ofstability. Always steer moderatelywhen you are braking hard. Severeor sharp steering wheel movementcan still cause your car to veer intooncoming traffic or off the road.

A vehicle with ABS may require alonger distance to stop on loose oruneven surfaces, such as gravel orsnow, than a vehicle without anti-lock. Slow down and allow a greaterdistance between vehicles underthose conditions.

ABS Indicator

U.S. indicator shown

The ABS is self-checking. If anythinggoes wrong, the ABS indicator onthe instrument panel comes on (seepage 56 ). This means the anti-lock

function of the braking system hasshut down. The brakes still work likea conventional system without anti-lock, providing normal stoppingability. You should have the dealerinspect your car as soon as possibleif this light stays on after you startthe engine, or comes on whiledriving.

Driving

CONTINUED

ABS INDICATOR*

The Braking System

If the ABS indicator and the brakesystem indicator come on together,and the parking brake is fullyreleased, the front-to-rear brakingdistribution system may also shutdown.

Test your brakes as instructed onpage 289 . If the brakes feel normal,drive slowly and have your carrepaired by your dealer as soon aspossible. Avoid sudden hard brakingwhich could cause the rear wheels tolock up and possibly lead to a loss ofcontrol.

The VSA system indicator may comeon along with the ABS indicator ifthere is a problem with the anti-lockbrake system.

Driving

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System

The Vehicle Stability Assist systemhelps to stabilize the vehicle duringcornering if the car turns more orless than desired. It also assists youin maintaining traction whileaccelerating on loose or slipperyroad surfaces. It does this byregulating the engine's output, andby selectively applying braking.

When VSA activates, you may noticethat the engine does not respond tothe accelerator in the same way itdoes at other times. You will also seethe VSA Activation Indicator blink.

The VSA system cannot enhance thecar's driving stability in all situationsand does not control your vehicle'sentire braking system. It is still yourresponsibility to drive and corner atreasonable speeds and to leave asufficient margin of safety.

VSA Activation Indicator

When VSA activates, you will see theVSA Activation indicator blink.

Driving

CONTINUED

VSA ACTIVATION INDICATOR


VSA System Indicator

The VSA system indicator (see page56 ) comes on and stays on whenthere is a problem with the VSAsystem.

If the VSA indicator comes on whiledriving, pull to the side of the roadwhen it is safe and turn off theengine. Reset the system byrestarting the engine, and watch theVSA system indicator. If theindicator remains on, or comes backon while driving, have the VSAsystem inspected by your Acuradealer.

If the indicator does not come onwhen the ignition switch is turnedON (II), there may be a problemwith the VSA system. Have yourdealer inspect your car as soon aspossible.

Without VSA, your car will havenormal braking and cornering ability,but it will not have VSA traction andstability enhancement.

VSA Off Switch

This switch is under the left vent.Press it to turn the Vehicle StabilityAssist system on and off.

When VSA is off, the VSA ActivationIndicator light comes on as areminder. Pressing the switch againturns the system back on.

Driving

VSA SYSTEM INDICATOR


VSA is turned on every time youstart the engine, even if you turned itoff the last time you drove the car.

VSA and Tire SizesDriving with varying tire or wheelsizes may cause the VSA tomalfunction. When replacing tires,make sure they are of the same sizeand type as your original tires (seepage 247).

Deactivate the VSA system if youneed to drive with the compact sparetire installed (see page 272 ).

If you install winter tires, make surethey are the same size as those thatwere originally supplied with yourcar. Exercise the same cautionduring winter driving as you would ifyour car was not equipped with VSA.

Driving

Driving in Bad Weather

Rain, fog, and snow conditionsrequire a different driving techniquebecause of reduced traction andvisibility. Keep your car well-maintained and exercise greatercaution when you need to drive inbad weather. The cruise controlshould not be used in theseconditions.

Driving Technique — Always driveslower than you would in dryweather. It takes your car longer toreact, even in conditions that mayseem just barely damp. Applysmooth, even pressure to all thecontrols. Abrupt steering wheelmovements or sudden, hard appli-cation of the brakes can cause loss ofcontrol in wet weather. Be extracautious for the first few miles(kilometers) of driving while youadjust to the change in drivingconditions. This is especially true insnow. A person can forget somesnow-driving techniques during thesummer months. Practice is neededto relearn those skills.

Exercise extra caution when drivingin rain after a long dry spell. Aftermonths of dry weather, the firstrains bring oil to the surface of theroadway, making it slippery.

Driving

Driving in Bad Weather

Visibility — Being able to seeclearly in all directions and beingvisible to other drivers are importantin all weather conditions. This ismore difficult in bad weather. To beseen more clearly during daylighthours, turn on your headlights.

Inspect your windshield wipers andwashers frequently. Keep the wind-shield washer reservoir full of theproper fluid. Have the windshieldwiper blades replaced if they start tostreak the windshield or leave partsunwiped. Use the defroster and airconditioning to keep the windowsfrom fogging up on the inside (seepages 128 and 133).

Traction — Check your tiresfrequently for wear and properpressure. Both are important inpreventing "hydroplaning" (loss oftraction on a wet surface). In thewinter, mount snow tires on all fourwheels for the best handling.

Watch road conditions carefully,they can change from moment tomoment. Wet leaves can be as slip-pery as ice. "Clear" roads can havepatches of ice. Driving conditionscan be very hazardous when theoutside temperature is near freezing.The road surface can becomecovered with areas of water puddlesmixed with areas of ice, so yourtraction can change without warning.

Be careful when downshifting. Iftraction is low, you can lock up thedrive wheels for a moment and causea skid.

Be very cautious when passing, orbeing passed by other vehicles. Thespray from large vehicles reducesyour visibility, and the wind buffetingcan cause you to lose control.

Driving

Towing a Trailer

Your Acura has been designedprimarily to carry passengers andtheir cargo. You can use it to tow atrailer if you carefully observe theload limits, use the proper equipment,and follow the guidelines in thissection.

Load Limits

Total Trailer Weight: The totalweight of the trailer andeverything loaded in it must notexceed 2,000 Ibs (900 kg). Towinga load that is too heavy canseriously affect your car'shandling and performance. It canalso damage the engine anddrivetrain.

Tongue Load: The weight thatthe tongue of a fully-loaded trailerputs on the hitch should beapproximately 10 percent of thetrailer weight. Too little tongueload can make the trailer unstableand cause it to sway. Too muchtongue load reduces front-tiretraction and steering control.

Driving

Towing a Trailer

To achieve a proper tongue load,start by loading 60 percent of theload toward the front of the trailerand 40 percent toward the rear, thenre-adjust the load as needed.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating(GVWR):The total weight of the vehicle, alloccupants, all cargo, and thetongue load must not exceed:4,830 Ibs (2,190 kg)

Gross Axle Weight Rating(GAWR):The total weight of the vehicle, alloccupants, all cargo, and thetongue load must not exceed:

2,570 Ibs (1,165 kg)on the front axle

2,260 Ibs (1,025 kg)on the rear axle

Checking LoadsThe best way to confirm that vehicleand trailer weights are within limitsis to have them checked at a publicscale.

Using a suitable scale or a specialtongue load gauge, check the tongueload the first time you set up atowing combination (a fully-loadedvehicle and trailer), then recheck thetongue load whenever the conditionschange.

Driving

Exceeding load limits orimproperly loading your vehicleand trailer can cause a crash inwhich you can be seriouslyinjured or killed.

Check the loading of yourvehicle and trailer carefullybefore starting to drive.

Magesh

Towing a Trailer

Towing Equipment andAccessoriesTowing can require a variety ofequipment, depending on the size ofyour trailer, how it will be used, andhow much load you are towing.

Discuss your needs with your trailersales or rental agency, and follow theguidelines in the rest of this section.Also make sure that all equipment isproperly installed and that it meetsfederal, state, province, and localregulations.

HitchesAny hitch used on your vehicle mustbe properly bolted to the underbody.

Safety ChainsAlways use safety chains. Make surethey are secured to both the trailerand hitch, and that they cross underthe tongue so they can catch thetrailer if it becomes unhitched.Leave enough slack to allow thetrailer to turn corners easily, but donot let the chains drag on the ground.

Trailer BrakesAcura recommends that any trailerhaving a total weight of 1,000 Ibs(450 kg) or more be equipped withits own electric or surge-type brakes.

If you choose electric brakes, besure they are electronically actuated.Do not attempt to tap into yourvehicle's hydraulic system. Nomatter how successful it may seem,any attempt to attach trailer brakesto your vehicle's hydraulic systemwill lower braking effectiveness andcreate a potential hazard.

Driving

Towing a Trailer

Trailer LightsYour vehicle has a trailer lightingconnector located in the trunk by theleft taillight. To use the connector,undo the fastener on the left side ofthe trunk lining. Refer to thedrawing in this page for the wiringcolor code and purpose of each pin.

If you use a converter, you can getthe connector and pins that matewith the connector in your vehiclefrom your Acura dealer.

Since lighting and wiring vary intrailer type and brand, you shouldalso have a qualified mechanic installa suitable connector between thevehicle and the trailer.

RIGHT TURN SIGNAL(GREEN/YELLOW)

BRAKE LIGHT(GREEN/WHITE)

TAILLIGHT(RED/BLACK)

CONTINUED

Driving

GROUND(BLACK)

BACK-UP LIGHT(GREEN/BLACK)

LEFT TURN SIGNAL(PINK/BLUE)

Towing a Trailer

Additional Trailer EquipmentMany states and Canadian provincesrequire special outside mirrors whentowing a trailer. Even if they don't,you should install special mirrors ifyou cannot clearly see behind you, orif the trailer creates a blind spot.

Ask your trailer sales or rentalagency if any other items arerecommended or required for yourtowing situation.

Pre-Tow ChecklistWhen preparing to tow, and beforedriving away, be sure to check thefollowing:

The vehicle has been properlyserviced, and the tires, brakes,suspension, and cooling systemare in good operating condition.

All weights and loads are withinlimits (see pages 196 and 197 ).

The hitch, safety chains, and anyother attachments are secure.

All items on and in the trailer areproperly secured and cannot shiftwhile you drive.

The lights and brakes on yourvehicle and the trailer are workingproperly.

Your vehicle tires and spare areproperly inflated (see page 244 ),and the trailer tires and spare areinflated as recommended by thetrailer maker.

Driving

Towing a Trailer

Driving Safely With a TrailerThe added weight, length, andheight of a trailer will affect yourvehicle's handling and performance,so driving with a trailer requiressome special driving skills andtechniques.

For your safety and the safety ofothers, take time to practice drivingmaneuvers before heading for theopen road, and follow the guidelinesdiscussed below.

Towing Speeds and GearsDrive slower than normal in alldriving situations, and obey postedspeed limits for vehicles with trailers.Use the D4 position when towing atrailer on level roads. D3 is theproper shift lever position to usewhen towing a trailer in hilly terrain.(See "Driving on Hills" in the nextcolumn for additional gearinformation.)

Making Turns and BrakingMake turns more slowly and widerthan normal. The trailer tracks asmaller arc than your vehicle, and itcan hit or run over something thevehicle misses. Allow more time anddistance for braking. Do not brake orturn suddenly as this could cause thetrailer to jackknife or turn over.

Driving on HillsWhen climbing hills, closely watchyour temperature gauge. If it nearsthe red (Hot) mark, turn the airconditioning off, reduce speed and, ifnecessary, pull to the side of theroad to let the engine cool.

If the automatic transmission shiftsfrequently between 3rd and 4thgears while going up a hill, shift toD3.

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

When driving down hills, reduceyour speed and shift down to 2ndgear. Do not "ride" the brakes, andremember it will take longer to slowdown and stop when towing a trailer.

CONTINUED

Driving

Towing a Trailer

Handling Crosswinds and BuffetingCrosswinds and air turbulencecaused by passing trucks can disruptyour steering and cause trailerswaying. When being passed by alarge vehicle, keep a constant speedand steer straight ahead. Do not tryto make quick steering or brakingcorrections.

Backing UpAlways drive slowly and havesomeone guide you when backing up.Grip the bottom of the steeringwheel; then turn the wheel to the leftto get the trailer to move to the left,and turn the wheel right to move thetrailer to the right.

ParkingFollow all normal precautions whenparking, including putting thetransmission in Park and firmlysetting the parking brake. Also, placewheel chocks at each of the trailer'stires.

Driving

Maintenance

This section explains why it isimportant to keep your car wellmaintained and to follow basicmaintenance safety precautions.

This section also includesMaintenance Schedules for normaldriving and severe driving conditions,a Maintenance Record, and instruc-tions for simple maintenance tasksyou may want to take care ofyourself.

If you have the skills and tools to per-form more complex maintenancetasks on your Acura, you may wantto purchase the Service Manual. Seepage 319 for information on how toobtain a copy, or see your Acuradealer.

Maintenance Safety....................... 204Important Safety Precautions.. 205

Maintenance Schedule.................. 206Required Maintenance Record.... 213Owner Maintenance Checks........ 215Fluid Locations............................... 216Engine Oil...................................... 217

Adding Oil................................... 217Recommended Oil.................... 217Synthetic Oil.............................. 218Additives.................................... 218Changing the Oil and Filter...... 219

Cooling System.............................. 221Adding Engine Coolant............. 221Replacing Engine Coolant........ 223

Windshield Washers..................... 227Automatic Transmission Fluid..... 228Differential Oil.............................. 229Brake Fluid.................................... 230

Brake System............................. 230Power Steering............................... 230Hood Latch.................................... 231Air Cleaner Element...................... 231Spark Plugs..................................... 233

Replacement.............................. 233Specifications............................ 236

Battery............................................ 236Wiper Blades.................................. 239Air Conditioning System............... 241Air Conditioning Filter.................. 242Drive Belts...................................... 242Timing Belt..................................... 243Tires................................................ 243

Inflation..................................... 243Inspection................................... 245Maintenance............................... 246Tire Rotation.............................. 246Replacing Tires and Wheels .... 247Wheels and Tires....................... 248Winter Driving........................... 248

Snow Tires............................ 249Tire Chains............................. 249

Lights.............................................. 250Replacing Bulbs......................... 252

Storing Your Car............................ 261

Maintenance

Maintenance Safety

Regularly maintaining your car is thebest way to protect your investment.Proper maintenance is essential toyour safety and the safety of yourpassengers. It will also reward youwith more economical, trouble-freedriving and help reduce air pollution.

This section includes instructions forsimple maintenance tasks, such aschecking and adding oil. Any serviceitems not detailed in this sectionshould be performed by an Acuratechnician or other qualifiedmechanic.

Some of the most important safetyprecautions are given here. However,we cannot warn you of everyconceivable hazard that can arise inperforming maintenance. Only youcan decide whether or not youshould perform a given task.

Maintenance

Improperly maintaining this caror failing to correct a problembefore driving can cause acrash in which you can beseriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspectionand maintenancerecommendations andschedules in this owner'smanual.

Failure to properly followmaintenance instructions andprecautions can cause you tobe seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the proceduresand precautions in this owner'smanual.

Magesh

Magesh

Maintenance Safety

Important Safety PrecautionsBefore you begin any maintenance,make sure your car is parked onlevel ground and that the parkingbrake is set. Also, be sure the engineis off. This will help to eliminateseveral potential hazards:

Carbon monoxide poisoningfrom engine exhaust. Be surethere is adequate ventilationwhenever you operate the engine.

Burns from hot parts. Let theengine and exhaust system coolbefore touching any parts.

Injury from moving parts. Donot run the engine unless in-structed to do so.

Read the instructions before youbegin, and make sure you have thetools and skills required.

To reduce the possibility of fire orexplosion, be careful when workingaround gasoline or batteries. Use acommercially available degreaser orparts cleaner, not gasoline, to cleanparts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, andflames away from the battery and allfuel-related parts.

You should wear eye protection andprotective clothing when workingnear the battery or when usingcompressed air.

Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule

The Maintenance Schedule specifieshow often you should have your carserviced and what things needattention. It is essential that you haveyour car serviced as scheduled toretain its high level of safety,dependability, and emissions controlperformance.

The services and time or distanceintervals shown in the maintenanceschedule assume you will use yourcar as normal transportation forpassengers and their possessions.You should also follow theserecommendations:

Avoid exceeding your car's loadlimit. This puts excess stress onthe engine, brakes, and manyother parts of your car. The loadlimit is shown on the label on thedriver's doorjamb.

Operate your car on reasonableroads within the legal speed limit.

Drive your car regularly over adistance of several miles(kilometers).

Always use unleaded gasoline withthe proper octane rating (see page168).

Which Schedule to Follow:Service your car according to thetime and mileage periods on one ofthe Maintenance Schedules on thefollowing pages. Select the schedulefor "Severe Conditions" if most ofyour driving is done under one ormore of the conditions listed on thatpage. Otherwise, follow the schedulefor "Normal Conditions."

Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule

Your authorized Acura dealer knowsyour car best and can providecompetent, efficient service.However, service at a dealer is notmandatory to keep your warrantiesin effect. Maintenance may be doneby any qualified service facility orperson who is skilled in this type ofautomotive service. Keep all thereceipts as proof of completion, andhave the person who does the workfill out the Maintenance Record.Check your warranty booklet formore information.

We recommend the use of genuineHonda parts and fluids whenever youhave maintenance done. These aremanufactured to the same high-quality standards as the originalcomponents, so you can be confidentof their performance and durability.

U.S. Vehicles:Maintenance, replacement orrepair of emissions controldevices and systems may be doneby any automotive repairestablishment or individual usingparts that are "certified" to EPAstandards.

According to state and federalregulations, failure to performmaintenance on the items markedwith # will not void your emissionswarranties. However, Acurarecommends that all maintenanceservices be performed at therecommended time or mileageperiod to ensure long-term reliability.

Maintenance

U.S. OwnersFollow the Normal ConditionsMaintenance Schedule if thesevere driving conditionsspecified in the SevereConditions MaintenanceSchedule do not apply.

NOTE: If you onlyOCCASIONALLY drive under a"severe" condition, you shouldfollow the Normal ConditionsMaintenance Schedule.

Canadian OwnersFollow the MaintenanceSchedule for Severe Conditions.

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page 207.

Maintenance

Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C as required for each distance/time interval.U.S. Owners — Refer to page 208 to determine which schedule to use.Canadian Owners — Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, lastcolumn, page 207.

NOTE:

Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop.

Maintenance

page 246

U.S. OwnersFollow the Severe ConditionsMaintenance Schedule if youdrive your car MAINLY underone or more of the followingconditions:

Driving less than 5 miles (8km) per trip or, in freezingtemperatures, driving lessthan 10 miles (16 km) per trip.Driving in extremely hot[over 90°F (32°C) ] conditions.Extensive idling or longperiods of stop-and-go driving.Trailer towing, driving with aroof rack, or driving inmountainous conditions.Driving on muddy, dusty, orde-iced roads.

Canadian OwnersFollow the MaintenanceSchedule for Severe Conditions.

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page 207 .

* 1 : See Timing Belt on page 243 for replacement information under special driving conditions.

* 2 : See Air Conditioning Filter on page 242 for replacement information under special driving conditions.

Maintenance

Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C, D, E as required for each distance/time.U.S. Owners — Refer to page 210 to determine which schedule to use.Canadian Owners — Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

* 1 : See Timing Belt on page 243 for replacement information under special driving conditions.

* 2 : See Air Conditioning Filter on page 242 for replacement information under special drivingconditions.

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page 207 .

NOTE :


Maintenance

CONTINUED

page 246

* 1 : See Timing Belt on page 243 for replacement information underspecial driving conditions.

* 2 : See Air Conditioning Filter on page 242 for replacementinformation under special driving conditions.

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, lastcolumn, page 207.

NOTE:


Maintenance

Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page 208) or severeconditions (page 210 ). Keep the receipts for all work done on your car.

Maintenance

CONTINUED

Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

Maintenance

Owner Maintenance Checks

You should check the followingitems at the specified intervals. Ifyou are unsure of how to performany check, turn to the page given.

Engine oil level — Check everytime you fill the fuel tank. Seepage 171.

Engine coolant level — Check theradiator reserve tank every timeyou fi l l the fuel tank. See page 172 .

Windshield washer fluid — Checkthe level in the reservoir monthly.If weather conditions cause you touse the washers frequently, checkthe reservoir each time you stopfor fuel. See page 227 .

Automatic transmission — Checkthe fluid level monthly. See page228.

Brakes — Check the fluid levelmonthly. See page 230 .

Tires — Check the tire pressuremonthly. Examine the tread forwear and foreign objects. See page245.

Lights — Check the operation ofthe headlights, parking lights,taillights, high-mount brake light,turn signals, brake lights, andlicense plate lights monthly. Seepage 250.

Maintenance

Fluid Locations

AUTOMATICTRANSMISSIONFLUID DIPSTICK(Yellow loop)

POWER STEERINGFLUID(Red cap)

RADIATOR CAP

BRAKE FLUID(Gray cap)

ENGINE OILFILL CAP

ENGINECOOLANTRESERVOIR

WASHER FLUID(Blue cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK(Orange loop)

Maintenance

Engine Oil

Adding Oil

To add oil, unscrew and remove theengine oil fill cap on top of the leftvalve cover. Pour in the oil, andreplace the engine oil fill cap.Tighten it securely. Wait a fewminutes and recheck the oil level. Donot fill above the upper mark; youcould damage the engine.

Recommended OilOil is major contributor to yourengine's performance and longevity.Always use a premium-gradedetergent oil displaying the APICertification Seal. This seal indicatesthe oil is energy conserving, and thatit meets the American PetroleumInstitute's latest requirements. It ishighly recommended that you useHonda Motor Oil in your vehicle foras long as you own it.

Make sure the API Certification Sealsays "For Gasoline Engines."

API CERTIFICATION SEAL

CONTINUED

Maintenance

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

Engine Oil

The numbers on the container's labeltell you the oil's viscosity or weight.Select the oil for your car accordingto this chart.

An oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 ispreferred for optimum fuel economyand year-round protection in yourAcura. You may use a 10W-30 oil ifthe temperature in your area nevergoes below 20°F(—7°C).

Synthetic OilYou may use a synthetic motor oil ifit meets the same requirementsgiven for conventional motor oil: itdisplays the API Certification Seal,and it is the proper weight as shownon the chart. When using syntheticoil, you must follow the oil and filterchange intervals given in themaintenance schedule.

AdditivesYour Acura does not need any oiladditives. Purchasing additives forthe engine or transmission will notincrease your car's performance orlongevity. It only increases the costof operating your car.

Maintenance

Ambient Temperature

Engine Oil

Changing the Oil and FilterAlways change the oil and filteraccording to the time and distance(miles/kilometers) recommenda-tions in the maintenance schedule.The oil and filter collect contami-nants that can damage your engine ifthey are not removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requiresspecial tools and access fromunderneath the car. The car shouldbe raised on a service station-typehydraulic lift for this service. Unlessyou have the knowledge and properequipment, you should have thismaintenance done by a skilledmechanic.

1. Run the engine until it reachesnormal operating temperature,then shut it off.

2. Open the hood and remove theengine oil fill cap. Remove the oildrain bolt and washer from thebottom of the engine. Drain the oilinto an appropriate container.

3. Remove the oil filter and let theremaining oil drain. A specialwrench (available from your Acuradealer) is required to remove thefilter.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

OIL DRAIN BOLT

WASHER

OIL FILTER

Engine Oil

4. Install a new oil filter according toinstructions that come with it.

5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt,then reinstall the drain bolt.Tighten it to:33 lbf.ft (44 N.m , 4.5 kgf.m)

6. Refill the engine with the recom-mended oil.Engine oil change capacity(including filter):4.9 US qt (4.6 , 4.0 Imp qt)

7. Replace the engine oil fill cap.Start the engine. The oil pressureindicator light should go out withinfive seconds. If it does not, turn offthe engine and reinspect yourwork.

8. Let the engine run for severalminutes and check the drain boltand oil filter for leaks.

9. Turn off the engine, let it sit forseveral minutes, then check the oillevel. If necessary, add oil to bringthe level to the upper mark on thedipstick.

Improper disposal of engine oil can beharmful to the environment. If youchange your own oil, please dispose ofthe used oil properly. Put it in a sealedcontainer and take it to a recyclingcenter. Do not discard it in a trash binor dump it on the ground.

Maintenance

NOTICE

Cooling System

Adding Engine Coolant

If the coolant level in the reservetank is at or below the MIN line, addcoolant to bring it up to the MAX line.Inspect the cooling system for leaks.This coolant should always be amixture of 50 percent antifreeze and50 percent water. Never add straightantifreeze or plain water.

Always use Honda All SeasonAntifreeze/Coolant Type 2. Thiscoolant is pre-mixed with 50 percentantifreeze and 50 percent water. Itdoes not require any additionalmixing.

If it is not available, you may useanother major-brand non-silicatecoolant as a temporary replacement.Make sure it is a high-quality coolantrecommended for aluminum engines.However, continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result incorrosion, causing the coolingsystem to malfunction or fail. Havethe cooling system flushed andrefilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

If the reserve tank is completelyempty, you should also check thecoolant level in the radiator.

1. Make sure the engine and radiatorare cool.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

RESERVE TANK

Removing the radiator capwhile the engine is hot cancause the coolant to spray out,seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine andradiator cool down beforeremoving the radiator cap.

Magesh

Cooling System

2. Turn the radiator rap counter-clockwise, without pressing downon it, until it stops. This relievesany pressure remaining in thecooling system.

3. Remove the radiator cap bypushing down and turningcounterclockwise.

4. The coolant level should be up tothe base of the filler neck. Addcoolant if it is low.

5. Put the radiator cap back on.Tighten it fully.

6. Pour coolant into the reserve tank.Fill it to halfway between the MAXand MIN marks. Put the cap backon the reserve tank.

Do not add any rust inhibitors orother additives to your car's coolingsystem. They may not be compatiblewith the coolant or engine compo-nents.

Maintenance

RADIATOR CAP

RESERVE TANK

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Cooling System

Replacing Engine CoolantThe cooling system should becompletely drained and refilled withnew coolant according to the timeand distance recommendations inthe maintenance schedule. Only useHonda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. Use of any non-Honda coolant or plain water canresult in corrosion and deposits inthe cooling system.

Draining the coolant requires accessto the underside of the car. Unlessyou have the tools and knowledge,you should have this maintenancedone by a skilled mechanic.

1. Turn the ignition ON (II). Turnthe heater temperature controldial to maximum heat (climatecontrol to 90°F/32°C). Turn offthe ignition. Open the hood. Makesure the engine and radiator arecool to the touch.

2. Remove the radiator cap.

3. Loosen the drain plug on thebottom of the radiator. Thecoolant will come out through thehole in the splash cover.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

DRAIN PLUG

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Cooling System

4. On the right side of the engineblock, remove the clip with a plier,and then remove the drain cap.

5. Remove the reserve tank from itsholder by pulling it straight up.Drain the coolant, then put thetank back in its holder.

6. When the coolant stops draining,tighten the drain plug at thebottom of the radiator.

Put the drain cap back in placetightly, then reinstall the clip onthe drain cap securely.

Maintenance

CLIP

DRAIN CAP RESERVE TANK CAP

RESERVE TANK HOLDER

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Cooling System

7. Remove the two bolts and thethree nuts with a 7/16 in (10 mm)wrench, then remove the enginecover.

8. Loosen the bleeder bolt on top ofthe engine.

9. Pour Honda All SeasonAntifreeze/Coolant Type 2 intothe radiator up to the base of thefiller neck. This coolant is amixture of 50 percent antifreezeand 50 percent water. Pre-mixingis not required.The cooling system capacity is:1.61 US gal (6.1 , 1.34 Imp gal)

10.Tighten the bleeder bolt whencoolant comes out in a steadystream with no bubbles.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

BOLTS

NUTS BLEEDER BOLT

Cooling System

11.Fill the reserve tank to the MAXmark. Install the reserve tank cap.

12.Check the level in the radiator,add coolant if needed.

13.Install the engine cover. Firsttighten the two bolts on the frontof the engine cover, then tightenthe three nuts on the engine cover.Tightening torque:7 lbf.ft (10 N.m , 1.0 kgf.m)

14.Install the radiator cap, andtighten it to the first stop.

15.Start the engine and let it run untilthe radiator cooling fan comes onat least twice. Then stop theengine.

16.Remove the radiator cap. Pourcoolant into the. radiator up to thebase of the filler neck and into thereserve tank up to the MAX mark.

17.Start the engine and hold it at1,500 rpm until the cooling fancomes on. Turn off the engine.Check the coolant level in theradiator and add coolant if needed.

18.Install the radiator cap, andtighten it fully.

19.If necessary, fill the reserve tankto the MAX mark. Install thereserve tank cap.

Maintenance

Fill up to here FILLER NECK RESERVE TANK

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Windshield Washers

Check the level in the windshieldwasher reservoir at least monthlyduring normal usage. In bad weather,when you use the washers often,check the level every time you stopfor fuel.

The windshield washer reservoir islocated behind the driver's sideheadlight.

Check the reservoir's fluid level byremoving the cap and looking at thefloat. It should be up to the top of theneck. If the float is at the bottom ofthe neck, the reservoir is nearlyempty.

Fill the reservoir with a good-qualitywindshield washer fluid. Thisincreases the cleaning capability andprevents freezing in cold weather.

Do not use engine antifreeze or avinegar/water solution in thewindshield washer reservoir.

Antifreeze can damage your ear's paint,while a vinegar/water solution candamage the windshield washer pump.

Use only commercially-availablewindshield washer fluid.

When you refill the reservoir, cleanthe edges of the windshield wiperblades with windshield washer fluidon a clean cloth. This will help tocondition the blade edges.

Maintenance

FLOAT

NOTICE

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Check the fluid level with the engineat normal operating temperature.

1. Park the car on level ground. Shutoff the engine.

2. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop)from the transmission and wipe itwith a clean cloth.

3. Insert the dipstick into thetransmission. Make sure the notchin the rubber cap fits in thedipstick guide and that you pushthe dipstick in all the way.

4. Remove the dipstick and checkthe fluid level. It should bebetween the upper and lowermarks.

5. If the level is below the lowermark, add fluid into the tube tobring it to the upper mark. Alwaysuse Honda ATF-Z1 (AutomaticTransmission Fluid). If it is notavailable, you may use aDEXRON® III automatictransmission fluid as a temporaryreplacement. However, continueduse can affect shift quality. Havethe transmission flushed andrefilled with Honda ATF-Z1 assoon as it is convenient.

To thoroughly flush thetransmission, the technicianshould drain and refill it withHonda ATF-Z1 (AutomaticTransmission Fluid), then drivethe vehicle a short distance. Dothis three times. Then drain andrefill the transmission a final time.

Maintenance

DIPSTICK GUIDE

DIPSTICK

UPPER MARKLOWER MARK

Automatic Transmission Fluid, Differential Oil

6. Insert the dipstick back in thetransmission. Make sure the notchfits in the dipstick guide and thedipstick is down all the way.

The transmission should be drainedand refilled with new fluid accordingto the time and distance recommen-dations in the maintenance schedule.

Differential Oil

Check the oil in the differential withthe car sitting level. Remove the oilfiller plug and check that the oil levelis up to the edge of the hole.

If it is not, slowly add oil until itstarts to run out of the hole. Reinstallthe filler plug and tighten it securely.

Use a SAE 90 or SAE 80W-90viscosity hypoid gear oil, API serviceclassified GL4 or GL5 only, in thedifferential.

ViscositySAE 90: above0°F(— 18°C)SAE 80W-90: below 0°F ( — 8°C)

The differential oil should be drainedand refilled with new oil according tothe time and distance recommenda-tions in the maintenance schedule.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

DRAIN PLUG FILLER PLUG

Correctlevel

Brake Fluid, Power Steering

Brake FluidCheck the fluid level in the brakefluid reservoir monthly.

The brake fluid should be replacedaccording to the time recommenda-tion in the maintenance schedule.

Always use Honda Heavy DutyBrake Fluid DOT 3. If it is notavailable, you should use only DOT 3or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealedcontainer, as a temporaryreplacement. However, the use ofany non-Honda brake fluid can causecorrosion and decrease the life of thesystem. Have the brake systemflushed and refilled with HondaHeavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 assoon as possible.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is notcompatible with your car's brakingsystem and can cause extensivedamage.

Brake System

The fluid level should be betweenthe MIN and MAX marks on the sideof the reservoir. If the level is at orbelow the MIN mark, your brakesystem needs attention. Have thebrake system inspected for leaks orworn brake pads.

Power Steering

You should check the fluid level inthe power steering reservoir at leastonce a year. Check the level whenthe engine is cold. Look at the sideof the reservoir. The fluid should bebetween the UPPER LEVEL andLOWER LEVEL. If it is below theLOWER LEVEL, add power steeringfluid to the UPPER LEVEL.

Maintenance

MAX MIN

UPPERLEVEL

LOWERLEVEL

Power Steering, Hood Latch, Air Cleaner Element

Always use Honda Power SteeringFluid. If it is not available, you mayuse another power steering fluid asan emergency replacement.However, continued use can causeincreased wear and poor steering incold weather. Have the powersteering system flushed and refilledwith Honda PSF as soon as possible.

A low power steering fluid level canindicate a leak in the system. Checkthe fluid level frequently and havethe system inspected as soon aspossible.

Turning the steering wheel to full leftor right lock and holding it there candamage the power steering pump.

Hood Latch

Clean the hood latch assembly with amild cleaner, then lubricate it with amultipurpose grease. Lubricate allthe moving parts (as shown),including the pivot. Follow the timeand distance recommendations inthe Maintenance Schedule. If youare not sure how to clean and greasethe latch, contact your Acura dealer.

Air Cleaner ElementThe air cleaner element should becleaned or replaced according to thetime and distance recommendationsin the maintenance schedule.

Cleaning (Severe Conditions)Clean the air cleaner element byblowing compressed air through it inthe opposite direction to normal airflow. If you do not have access tocompressed air (such as a servicestation), ask your Acura dealer to dothis service.

Follow the replacement procedurefor removal and reinstallation.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

NOTICE

PIVOTS

LATCHASSEMBLY

Air Cleaner Element

Replacement

The air cleaner element is inside theair cleaner housing on the passenger'sside of the engine compartment.

To replace it:

1. Unsnap the four clamps holdingthe air cleaner housing cover.

2. Remove the air cleaner housingcover. Do not disconnect the airintake tube from the air cleanerhousing cover.

3. Remove the old air cleanerelement.

4. Carefully clean the inside of theair cleaner housing with a damprag.

5. Place the new air cleaner elementin the air cleaner housing.

6. Reinstall the air cleaner housingcover, snap the four hold-downclamps back into place.

Maintenance

CLAMPS AIR CLEANERELEMENT

Spark Plugs

The spark plugs in your car are aspecial platinum-tipped design forlonger life. The spark plugs shouldbe replaced according to the timeand distance recommendations inthe maintenance schedule.

Replacement

1. Remove the two bolts and thethree nuts with a 7/16 inch (10mm) wrench, then remove theengine cover.

2. Remove the two bolts and the fournuts with a wrench and removethe tower bar. Then remove theA/C tube from the three clips.

3. Clean up any dirt and oil that havecollected around the ignition coils.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

BOLTS

NUTS NUTS BOLTS

NUTS

Spark Plugs

4. Disconnect the wire connectorfrom the ignition coil by pushingon the lock tab and pulling on theconnector. Pull on the plasticconnector, not the wires.

5. Use a wrench to remove the twobolts holding the ignition coil.Remove the ignition coil by pullingit straight out.

6. Remove the spark plug witha five-eighths inch (16 mm) sparkplug socket.

7. Put the new spark plug into thesocket; then screw it into the hole.Screw it in by hand so you do notcrossthread it.

Maintenance

IGNITION COIL CONNECTOR

LOCK TAB

BOLTS

IGNITION COIL

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Spark Plugs

8. Torque the spark plug. (If you donot have a torque wrench, tightenthe spark plug two-thirds of a turnafter it contacts the cylinder head.)Tightening torque:13 lbf.ft (18 N.m , 1.8 kgf.m)

Tighten the spark plugs carefully. Aspark plug that is too loose canoverheat and damage the engine.Overtightening can cause damage tothe threads in the cylinder head.

9. Install the ignition coil. Reinstallthe two hold-down bolts.

10.Push the wire connector onto theignition coil. Make sure it locks inplace.

11.Repeat this procedure for theother five spark plugs.

12.Put the A/C tube back in place.

13.Install the tower bar and tightenthe two bolts and the four nuts.Tightening torque:16 lbf.ft (22 N.m , 2.2 kgf.m)

14.Install the engine cover. Firsttighten the two bolts on the frontof the engine cover, then tightenthe three nuts on the engine cover.Tightening torque:7 lbf.ft (10 N.m , 1.0 kgf.m)

CONTINUED

Maintenance

NOTICE

Spark Plugs, Battery

Specifications:

NGK:DENSO:

PFR5L-11PK16PR-L11

Spark Plug Gap:0.043 in (1.1 mm )

BatteryCheck the condition of your car'sbattery monthly. You should checkthe color of the test indicator window,and for corrosion on the terminals.

Check the battery condition bylooking at the test indicator windowon the battery.The label on the battery explains thetest indicator's colors.

Maintenance

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

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Battery

Check the battery terminals forcorrosion (a white or yellowishpowder). To remove it, cover theterminals with a solution of bakingsoda and water. It will bubble up andturn brown. When this stops, wash itoff with plain water. Dry off thebattery with a cloth or paper towel.Coat the terminals with grease tohelp prevent future corrosion.

WARNING: Battery posts,terminals and related accessoriescontain lead and lead compounds.Wash hands after handling.

If the terminals are severely cor-roded, clean them with baking sodaand water. Then use a wrench toloosen and remove the cables fromthe terminals. Always disconnect thenegative (—) cable first and recon-nect it last. Clean the battery termi-nals with a terminal cleaning tool orwire brush. Reconnect and tightenthe cables, then coat the terminalswith grease.

If you need to connect the battery toa charger, disconnect both cables toprevent damage to the car'selectrical system.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

The battery gives off explosivehydrogen gas during normaloperation.

A spark or flame can cause thebattery to explode with enoughforce to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and aface shield, or have a skilledmechanic do the batterymaintenance.

Magesh

Battery

If your car's battery is disconnectedor goes dead, the engine's computerneeds to "relearn" the idle control.After replacing or recharging thebattery:

1. Make sure the climate control sys-tem is off.

2. Start the engine and let it run untilit warms up (the radiator coolingfan comes on at least twice), andlet it idle for five more minutes.

Your audio system will also disable it-self when the battery is disconnectedor goes dead. The next time you turnon the radio you will see "Code" inthe frequency display. Use the Pre-set buttons to enter the five-digitcode (see page 164 ).

Charging the battery with the cablesconnected can seriously damage yourcar's electronic controls. Detach thebattery cables before connecting thebattery to a charger.

Maintenance

NOTICE

Wiper Blades

Check the condition of the wiperblades at least every six months.Look for signs of cracking in therubber, or areas that are gettinghard. Replace the blades if you findthese signs, or they leave streaksand unwiped areas when used.

To replace the blade:

1. Turn the ignition ON (II), switchthe wipers to INT or — (lowposition), then turn the ignitionOFF when the wiper arm isapproximately midway in its travel.

2. Disconnect the blade assemblyfrom the wiper arm by pushing inthe lock tab. Hold it in while youpush the blade assembly towardthe base of the arm.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

WIPER ARMS LOCKTAB

Wiper Blades

3. Remove the blade from its holderby grasping the tabbed end of theblade. Pull firmly until the tabscome out of the holder.

4. Examine the new wiper blades. Ifthey have no plastic or metal rein-forcement along the back edge,remove the metal reinforcementstrips from the old wiper blade andinstall them in the slots along theedge of the new blade.

5. Slide the new wiper blade into theholder until the tabs lock.

6. Slide the wiper blade assemblyonto the wiper arm. Make sure itlocks in place.

7. Turn the ignition switch ON (II)and return the windshield wipersto their park position.

Maintenance

BLADE BLADE

REINFORCEMENT

Air Conditioning System

Your car's air conditioning is a sealedsystem. Any major maintenance,such as recharging, should be doneby a qualified mechanic. You can doa couple of things to make sure theair conditioning works efficiently.

Periodically check the engine'sradiator and air conditioningcondenser for leaves, insects, anddirt stuck to the front surface. Theseblock the air flow and reduce coolingefficiency. Use a light spray from ahose or a soft brush to remove them.

The condenser and radiator fins bendeasily. Only use a low-pressure sprayor soft-bristle brush to clean them.

Run the air conditioning at least oncea week during the cold weathermonths. Run it for at least tenminutes while you are driving at asteady speed with the engine atnormal operating temperature. Thiscirculates the lubricating oil con-tained in the refrigerant.

If the air conditioning does not get ascold as before, have your dealercheck the system. Recharge thesystem with Refrigerant HFC-134a(R-134a). (See Specifications on page302.)

Whenever you have the air conditioningsystem serviced, make sure the servicefacility uses a refrigerant recyclingsystem. This system captures therefrigerant for reuse. Releasingrefrigerant into the atmosphere candamage the environment.

Maintenance

NOTICE

NOTICE

AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER

Air Conditioning Filter, Drive Belts

Air Conditioning FilterThe air conditioning filter removespollen and dust that is brought infrom the outside through the climatecontrol system.

This filter should be replaced every30,000 miles (48,000 km) under nor-mal conditions. It should be replacedevery 15,000 miles (24,000 km) if youdrive primarily in urban areas thathave high concentrations of soot inthe air from industry and diesel-pow-ered vehicles. Replace it more oftenif air flow from the climate controlsystem becomes less than usual.Have the air conditioning filter re-placed by your Acura dealer.

Drive Belts The belts should have the following"play" or deflection.

Alternator belt:0.37 — 0.45 in (9.5 — 11.5 mm)

Compressor belt:0.31 — 0.43 in (8.0 — 11.0 mm)

Power steering belt:0.41 — 0.49 in (10.5 — 12.5 mm)

If you see signs of wear or looseness,have your dealer adjust or replacethe belts.

Maintenance

Check the condition of the threedrive belts. Examine the edges ofeach belt for cracks or fraying.

Check the tension of each belt bypushing on it with your thumbmidway between the pulleys.

ALTERNATOR BELT

POWER STEERINGBELT

COMPRESSOR BELT

Timing Belt, Tires

Timing BeltThe timing belt and balancer beltshould normally be replaced at theintervals shown in the maintenanceschedule.

Replace these belts at 60,000 miles(U.S.) or 100,000 km (Canada) if youregularly drive your car in one ormore of these conditions:

In very high temperatures(over 110°F, 43°C).In very low temperatures(under — 20°F, — 29°C).

TiresTo safely operate your car, your tiresmust be the proper type and size, ingood condition with adequate tread,and correctly inflated. The followingpages give more detailed informationon how and when to check airpressure, how to inspect your tiresfor damage and wear, and what to dowhen your tires need to be replaced.

InflationKeeping the tires properly inflatedprovides the best combination ofhandling, tread life and ridingcomfort. Underinflated tires wearunevenly, adversely affect handlingand fuel economy, and are morelikely to fail from being overheated.Overinflated tires can make your carride more harshly, are more prone todamage from road hazards, and wearunevenly.

We recommend that you visuallycheck your tires every day. If youthink a tire might be low, check itimmediately with a tire gauge.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Using tires that are excessivelyworn or improperly inflated cancause a crash in which you canbe seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in thisowner's manual regarding tireinflation and maintenance.

Magesh

Tires

Use a gauge to measure the airpressure at least once a month. Eventires that are in good condition maylose one to two psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1to 0.2 kgf/cm2) per month.Remember to check the spare tire atthe same time you check all theother tires.

Check the pressure in the tires whenthey are cold. This means the carhas been parked for at least threehours. If you have to drive the carbefore checking the tire pressure,the tires can still be considered"cold" if you drive less than 1 mile(1.6 km).

If you check the pressure when thetires are hot (the car has been drivenseveral miles), you will see readings4 to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4kgf/cm2) higher than the coldreading. This is normal. Do not letair out to match the specified coldpressure. The tire will beunderinflated.

You should get your own tirepressure gauge and use it wheneveryou check your tire pressures. Thiswill make it easier for you to tell if apressure loss is due to a tire problemand not due to a variation betweengauges.

Recommended Tire Pressures forNormal DrivingThe following chart shows therecommended cold tire pressures formost normal driving conditions andspeeds. Tire pressures for highspeed driving are the same as fornormal driving.

The compact spare tire pressure is:60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm2)

These pressures are also given onthe tire information label on thedriver's doorjamb.

Maintenance

Tires

Tubeless tires have some ability toself-seal if they are punctured.However, because leakage is oftenvery slow, you should look closelyfor punctures if a tire starts losingpressure.

InspectionEvery time you check inflation, youshould also examine the tires fordamage, foreign objects, and wear.You should look for:

Bumps or bulges in the tread orside of the tire. Replace the tire ifyou find either of these conditions.

Cuts, splits, or cracks in the sideof the tire. Replace the tire if youcan see fabric or cord.

Excessive tread wear.Your car's tires have wear indicatorsmolded into the tread. When thetread wears down to that point, youwill see a 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wideband running across the tread. Thisshows there is less than 1/16 inch(1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. Atire that is this worn gives very littletraction on wet roads. You shouldreplace the tire if you can see thetread wear indicator in three or moreplaces around the tire.

Maintenance

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

Tires

MaintenanceIn addition to proper inflation,correct wheel alignment helps todecrease tire wear. If you find a tireis worn unevenly, have your dealercheck the wheel alignment.

The tires were properly balanced bythe factory. They may need to berebalanced at some time before theyare worn out. Have your dealercheck the tires if you feel a consis-tent vibration while driving. A tireshould always be rebalanced if it isremoved from the wheel for repair.

Make sure the installer balances thewheels when you have new tiresinstalled. This increases ridingcomfort and tire life. Your car'soriginal tires were dynamic or "spin"balanced at the factory. For bestresults, have the installer perform adynamic balance.

Improper wheel weights can damageyour vehicle 's aluminum wheels. Useonly Genuine Acura wheel weights forbalancing.

Tire Rotation

To help increase tire life anddistribute wear more evenly, youshould have the tires rotated every7,500 miles (12,000 km). Move thetires to the positions shown in thechart each time they are rotated.

Maintenance

Front

NOTICE

(For Non-directionalTires and Wheels)

(For DirectionalTires and Wheels)

Front

Tires

When shopping for replacementtires, you may find that some tiresare "directional." This means theyare designed to rotate only in onedirection. If you use directional tires,they should be rotated only front-to-back.

Replacing Tires and WheelsThe tires that came with your carwere selected to match the perform-ance capabilities of the car whileproviding the best combination ofhandling, ride comfort, and long life.You should replace them with radialtires of the same size, load range,speed rating, and maximum cold tirepressure rating (as shown on thetire's sidewall). Mixing radial andbias-ply tires on your car can reduceits braking ability, traction, andsteering accuracy. It is best to replace all four tires at

the same time. If that is not possibleor necessary, then replace the twofront tires or the two rear tires as apair. Replacing just one tire canseriously affect your car's handling.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Installing improper tires on yourcar can affect handling andstability. This can cause a crashin which you can be seriouslyhurt or killed.

Always use the size and type oftires recommended in thisowner's manual.

Magesh

Tires

The ABS and VSA system work bycomparing the speed of the wheels.When replacing tires, use the samesize originally supplied with the car.Tire size and construction can affectwheel speed and may cause thesystem to work inconsistently.

If you ever need to replace a wheel,make sure you use an identical stylealuminum alloy wheel that originallycame on your Acura. Replacementwheels are available at your Acuradealer.

Wheels and TiresWheels:

16x7JJTires:

P215/60R16 94V

See page 304 for information aboutDOT Tire Quality Grading.

Winter DrivingTires that are marked "M + S" or"All Season" on the sidewall have anall-weather tread design. Theyshould be suitable for most winterdriving conditions. Tires withoutthese markings are designed foroptimum traction in dry conditions.They may not provide adequateperformance in winter driving.For the best performance in snowyor icy conditions, you should installsnow tires or tire chains. They maybe required by local laws undercertain conditions.

Maintenance

Tires

Snow TiresIf you mount snow tires on yourAcura, make sure they are radialtires of the same size and load rangeas the original tires. Mount snowtires on all four wheels to balanceyour car's handling in all weatherconditions. Keep in mind the tractionprovided by snow tires on dry roadsmay not be as high as your car'soriginal equipment tires. You shoulddrive cautiously even when the roadsare clear. Check with the tire dealerfor maximum speed recommen-dations.

Tire ChainsBecause your Acura has limited tireclearance, mount only SAE Class "S"cable-type traction devices on thefront tires. Use traction devices onlywhen required by driving conditionsor local laws. Make sure they are thecorrect size for your tires.

Metal link-type "chains" should notbe used. No matter how tight theyseem to be installed, they can comeinto contact with the body andsuspension, causing serious damage.

When installing cables, follow themanufacturer's instructions andmount them as tightly as you can.Drive slowly with them installed. Ifyou hear them coming in contactwith the body or chassis, stop andinvestigate. Make sure the cables areinstalled tightly, and that they arenot contacting the brake lines orsuspension.Remove them as soon as you begindriving on cleared roads.

Traction devices that are the wrongsize or improperly installed candamage your car's brake lines,suspension, body, and wheels. Stopdriving if they are hitting any part ofthe car.

Maintenance

NOTICE

Lights

Check the operation of your car'sexterior lights at least once a month.A burned out bulb can create anunsafe condition by reducing yourcar's visibility and the ability tosignal your intentions to otherdrivers.

Maintenance

HIGH BEAM HEADLIGHT LOW BEAM HEADLIGHT

FRONT FOG LIGHT TURN SIGNAL/PARKING LIGHT

SIDE MARKER LIGHT

Lights

Check the following:

Headlights (low and high beam)Fog lightsParking lightsTaillightsBrake lightsTurn signalsBack-up lightsHazard light functionLicense plate lightSide marker lightsHigh-mount brake lightDaytime running lights (Canadianmodels)

If you find any bulbs are burned out,replace them as soon as possible.Refer to the chart on page 303 todetermine what type of replacementbulb is needed.

Maintenance

HIGH-MOUNT BRAKE LIGHT TURN SIGNAL LIGHT

LICENSE PLATELIGHTS

STOP/TAIL LIGHTSBACK-UP LIGHT

Lights

Replacing a High Beam HeadlightBulbThe low beam headlight bulbs are atype of high voltage discharge tube.High voltage can remain in thecircuit even with the light switch offand the key removed. Because ofthis, you should not attempt toexamine or change a low beamheadlight bulb yourself. If a lowbeam headlight bulb fails, take thecar to your dealer to have it replaced.

Halogen bulbs are used for the highbeam headlight bulbs. Whenreplacing a high beam headlight bulb,handle it by its base and protect theglass from contact with your skin orhard objects. If you touch the glass,clean it with denatured alcohol and aclean cloth.

Halogen bulbs get very hot when lit. Oil,perspiration, or a scratch on the glasscan cause the bulb to overheat andshatter.

1. Open the hood.

2. Remove the electrical connectorfrom the bulb by pulling theconnector straight back.

3. Remove the rubber weather sealby pulling on the tab.

Maintenance

NOTICE

Lights

4. Unclip the end of the hold-downwire from its slot. Pivot it out ofthe way and remove the bulb.

5. Insert the new bulb into the hole,making sure the bulb is right sideup and the nubs on the bulb basefit in the indentations in theheadlight assembly. Pivot the hold-down wire back in place and clipthe end into the slot.

6. Install the rubber seal over theback of the headlight assembly.Make sure it is right side up; it ismarked

7. Push the electrical connector ontothe new bulb.Turn on the headlights to test thenew bulb.

Replacing a Fog Light BulbYour car uses halogen fog lightbulbs. See page 252 for informationon replacing a halogen bulb.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

WEATHER SEAL BULB

CONNECTOR HOLD-DOWN WIRE

Lights

1. Use a wrench to loosen the lightassembly's mounting bolt.

2. Remove the light assembly fromthe bumper.

3. Remove the electrical connectorfrom the bulb by pulling theconnector straight back.

4. Remove the rubber weather sealby pulling on the tab.

5. Unclip the end of the hold-downwire from its slot. Pivot the wireout of the way and remove thebulb.

6. Insert the new bulb into the hole,making sure the bulb is right sideup and the nubs on the bulb basefit in the indentations in the foglight assembly. Pivot the hold-down wire back in place and clipthe end into the slot.

7. Install the rubber seal over theback of the fog light assembly.Make sure it is right side up; it ismarked

8. Push the electrical connector ontothe new bulb. Turn on the frontfog lights to test the new bulb.

9. Put the light assembly into thebumper. Tighten the mountingbolt.

Maintenance

CONNECTOR

BOLT

WEATHER SEAL

BULBHOLD-DOWNWIRE

Lights

Replacing Front Turn Signal/Parking and Side Marker LightBulbs

1. If you are changing the bulb onthe driver's side, start the engine,turn the steering wheel all the wayto the right, and turn off theengine. If you are changing thebulb on the passenger's side, turnthe steering wheel to the left.

2. Use a flat-tipped screwdriver toremove the holding clip from theinner fender.

3. Pull the inner fender cover back.

4. Remove the socket from theheadlight assembly by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

5. To remove the front turn signal/parking light bulb, push it inslightly and turn itcounterclockwise. To remove theside marker bulb, pull it straightout of its socket.

6. Install the new bulb into thesocket.

7. Insert the socket back into theheadlight assembly. Turn itclockwise to lock it in place.

8. Test the lights to make sure thenew bulb is working.

9. Put the inner fender cover in place.Install the holding clip. Lock it inplace by pushing on the center.

Maintenance

HOLDING CLIP

Lights

Replacing Rear Bulbs

1. Open the trunk.Undo the fastener on the side ofthe trunk lining by pushing on thecenter of the fastener's head untilit pops in. Pull the lining back.

2. Determine which of the four bulbsis burned out: stop/taillights, back-up light, or turn signal.

3. Remove the socket by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

4. Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket.Push the new bulb straight intothe socket until it bottoms.

5. Reinstall the socket into the lightassembly by turning it clockwiseuntil it locks.


7. Reinstall the trunk lining. Makesure it is installed under the edgeof the trunk seal.

Maintenance

FASTENER

Lights

8. Reset the fastener by pushing onthe pointed end until it pops backalmost flush with the fingers onthe housing.

9. Put the fastener in the hole in theside of the trunk lining and pushon the center until it locks (thecenter is flush with the head).

Replacing a High-mount BrakeLight Bulb

1. Open the trunk and remove thesocket from the light assembly byturning it one-quarter turn counter-clockwise.

2. Remove the bulb by pushing it inslightly and turning it counter-clockwise.Install the new bulb in the socket.

3. Reinstall the socket. Turn itclockwise until it locks.


Maintenance

Lights

Replacing a Rear License PlateBulb

1. Remove the license light assemblyby carefully prying on the leftedge of the lens with a flat-tipscrewdriver and pulling theassembly out.

2. Remove the lens from the bulbholder by pulling the lens whilesqueezing the tabs on both sidesof the holder.

3. Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket. Push the new bulb in untilit bottoms in the socket.

4. Turn on the parking lights andcheck that the new bulb isworking.

5. Put the lens back on the bulbholder and push it until it latches.

6. Slide the right side of the lightassembly into the hole. Push onthe left side to latch the assemblyinto place.

Maintenance

LIGHT ASSEMBLY

BULB

BULB HOLDER

LENS

Lights

Replacing Bulbs in the InteriorCourtesy Lights

The courtesy lights in the doors androof come apart the same way. Theydo not use the same type of bulb.

1. Remove the lens by carefullyprying on the edge of the lens witha fingernail file or a small flat-tipscrewdriver. Do not pry on theedge of the housing around thelens.

Door light:Pry on the top middle of the lens.

Front ceiling light:Pry on the front edge of the lensin the middle.

Rear ceiling light:Pry on the rear edge of the lensin the middle. Remove the bulbcover by pulling it straight down.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

DOOR LIGHT FRONT REAR

Lights

2. Remove the bulb by pulling itstraight out of its metal tabs.

3. Push the new bulb into the metaltabs. Snap the lens back in place.

Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb

1. Remove the lens by carefullyprying on the edge of the lens inthe middle with a fingernail file ora small flat-tip screwdriver. Do notpry on the edge of the housingaround the lens.

2. Remove the bulb by pulling itstraight out of its metal tabs.

3. Push the new bulb into the metaltabs. Snap the lens back in place.

Maintenance

VANITY MIRROR LIGHTTRUNK

Storing Your Car

If you need to park your car for anextended period (more than onemonth), there are several things youshould do to prepare it for storage.Proper preparation helps preventdeterioration and makes it easier toget your car back on the road. Ifpossible, store your car indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter(see page 219).

Wash and dry the exteriorcompletely.

Clean the interior. Make sure thecarpeting, floor mats, etc. arecompletely dry.

Leave the parking brake off. Putthe transmission in Park.

Block the rear wheels.

If the car is to be stored for alonger period, it should besupported on jackstands so thetires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (ifthe car is being stored indoors).

Disconnect the battery.

Support the front wiper bladearms with a folded towel or rag sothey do not touch the windshield.

To minimize sticking, apply asilicone spray lubricant to all doorand trunk seals. Also, apply avehicle body wax to the paintedsurfaces that mate with the doorand trunk seals.

Cover the car with a "breathable"cover, one made from a porousmaterial such as cotton.Nonporous materials, such asplastic sheeting, trap moisture,which can damage the paint.

If possible, run the engine for awhile periodically (preferably oncea month).

If you store your car for 12 monthsor longer, have your Acura dealerperform the inspections called for inthe 24 months/30,000 miles (48,000km) maintenance schedule (NormalConditions) as soon as you take itout of storage (see page 208). Thereplacements called for in themaintenance schedule are notneeded unless the car has actuallyreached that time or mileage.

Maintenance

Appearance Care

Regular cleaning and polishing ofyour Acura helps to keep it "new"looking. This section gives you hintson how to clean your car andpreserve its appearance: the paint,brightwork, wheels and interior. Alsoincluded are several things you cando to help prevent corrosion.

Exterior Care.................................. 264Washing...................................... 264Waxing........................................265Aluminum Wheels..................... 265Paint Touch-up........................... 265

Interior Care................................... 266Carpeting.................................... 266Floor Mats.................................. 266Fabric.......................................... 267Vinyl............................................ 267Leather........................................ 267Seat Belts.................................... 267Wood Trim................................. 268Windows..................................... 268Air Fresheners........................... 268

Corrosion Protection..................... 269Body Repairs.................................. 270

Appearance Care

Exterior Care

WashingFrequent washing helps preserveyour car's beauty. Dirt and grit canscratch the paint, while tree sap andbird droppings can permanently ruinthe finish.

Wash your car in a shady area, not indirect sunlight. If the car is parked inthe sun, move it into the shade andlet the exterior cool down before youstart.

Only use the solvents and cleanersrecommended in this Owner'sManual.

Chemical solvents and strong cleanerscan damage the paint, metal, andplastic on your car.

Rinse the car thoroughly with coolwater to remove loose dirt.

Fill a bucket with cool water. Mixin a mild detergent, such asdishwashing liquid or a productmade especially for car washing.

Wash the car using the water anddetergent solution and a soft-bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth.Start at the top and work your waydown. Rinse frequently.

Check the body for road tar, treesap, etc. Remove these stains withtar remover or turpentine. Rinse itoff immediately so it does notharm the finish. Remember to re-wax these areas, even if the rest ofthe car does not need waxing.

When you have washed and rinsedthe whole exterior, dry it with achamois or soft towel. Letting itair-dry will cause dulling and waterspots.

As you dry the car, inspect it forchips and scratches that could allowcorrosion to start. Repair them withtouch-up paint (see page 265 ).

Appearance Care

NOTICE

Exterior Care

WaxingAlways wash and dry the whole carbefore waxing it. You should waxyour car, including the metal trim,whenever water sits on the surfacein large patches. It should form intobeads or droplets after waxing.

You should use a quality liquid orpaste wax. Apply it according to theinstructions on the container. Ingeneral, there are two types ofproducts:

Waxes — A wax coats the finish andprotects it from damage by exposureto sunlight, air pollution, etc. Youshould use a wax on your Acurawhen it is new.

Polishes — Polishes and cleaner/waxes can restore the shine to paintthat has oxidized and lost some of itsshine. They normally contain mildabrasives and solvents that removethe top layer of the finish. You

should use a polish on your Acura ifthe finish does not have its originalshine after using a wax.

Cleaning tar, insects, etc. withremovers also takes off the wax.Remember to re-wax those areas,even if the rest of the car does notneed waxing.

Aluminum WheelsClean your Acura's aluminum alloywheels as you do the rest of theexterior. Wash them with the samesolution, and rinse them thoroughly.

The wheels have a protective clear-coat that keeps the aluminum fromcorroding and tarnishing. Usingharsh chemicals, including somecommercial wheel cleaners, or stiffbrushes can damage this clear-coat.Only use a mild detergent and softbrush or sponge to clean the wheels.

Paint Touch-upYour dealer has touch-up paint tomatch your vehicle's color. The colorcode is printed on a sticker on thedriver's doorjamb. Take this code toyour dealer so you are sure to getthe correct color.

Inspect your car frequently for chipsor scratches in the paint. Repairthem right away to prevent corrosionof the metal underneath. Use thetouch-up paint only on small chipsand scratches. More extensive paintdamage should be repaired by aprofessional.

Appearance Care

Interior Care

CarpetingVacuum the carpeting frequently toremove dirt. Ground-in dirt will makethe carpet wear out faster.Periodically shampoo the carpet tokeep it looking new. Use one of thefoam-type carpet cleaners on themarket. Follow the instructions thatcome with the cleaner, applying itwith a sponge or soft brush. Keepthe carpeting as dry as possible bynot adding water to the foam.

Floor Mats

The Genuine Acura driver's floormat that came with your car wasdesigned to be hooked over the floormat anchor. This keeps the floor matfrom sliding forward and possiblyinterfering with the pedals.

If you remove the floor mat, makesure to re-anchor it when you put itback in your car.

If you replace it, use a genuine Acurafloor mat that is designed to be usedwith the floor mat anchor in your car.

If you use a non-Acura floor mat inthe driver's footwell, make sure itfits properly and that it can be usedwith the floor mat anchor.

Do not put additional floor mats ontop of the anchored mat, otherwisethe additional mats may slideforward and interfere with the pedals.

Appearance Care

Interior Care

FabricVacuum dirt and dust out of thematerial frequently. For generalcleaning, use a solution of mild soapand lukewarm water, letting it air dry.To clean off stubborn spots, use acommercially-available fabric cleaner.Test it on a hidden area of the fabricfirst, to make sure it does not bleachor stain the fabric. Follow theinstructions that come with thecleaner.

VinylRemove dirt and dust with a vacuumcleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a softcloth dampened in a solution of mildsoap and water. Use the samesolution with a soft-bristle brush onmore difficult spots. You can also usecommercially-available spray orfoam-type vinyl cleaners.

LeatherVacuum dirt and dust from theleather frequently. Pay particularattention to the pleats and seams.Clean the leather with a soft clothdampened with clear water, thenbuff it with a clean, dry cloth. Iffurther cleaning is needed, use asoap specifically for leather, such assaddle soap. Apply this soap with adamp, soft cloth. Wipe down andbuff as described above.

Seat Belts

If your seat belts get dirty, you canuse a soft brush with a mixture ofmild soap and warm water to cleanthem. Do not use bleach, dye, orcleaning solvents. They can weakenthe belt material. Let the belts air-dry before you use the car.

CONTINUED

Appearance Care

LOOP

Interior Care

Dirt build-up in the loops of the seatbelt anchors can cause the belts toretract slowly. Wipe the insides ofthe loops with a clean clothdampened in mild soap and warmwater or isopropyl alcohol.

Wood TrimClean the wood trim with a soft clothdipped in clear water and wipe it drywith another soft cloth. Soap mayleave a film that dulls the finish.

WindowsClean the windows, inside and out,with a commercially-available glasscleaner. You can also use a mixtureof one part white vinegar to ten partswater. This will remove the haze thatbuilds up on the inside of thewindows. Use a soft cloth or papertowels to clean all glass and clearplastic surfaces.

The rear window defogger andantenna wires are bonded to the insideof the glass. Wiping vigorously up-and-down can dislodge and break thesewires. When cleaning the rear window,use gentle pressure and wipe side-to-side.

Air FreshenersIf you want to use an air freshener/deodorizer in the interior of your car,it is best to use a solid type. Someliquid air fresheners contain chemi-cals that may cause parts of theinterior trim and fabric to crack ordiscolor.

If you use a liquid air freshener,make sure you fasten it securely so itdoes not spill as you drive.

Appearance Care

NOTICE

Corrosion Protection

Two factors normally contribute tocausing corrosion in your car:

1. Moisture trapped in body cavities.Dirt and road salt that collects inhollows on the underside of thevehicle stays damp, promotingcorrosion in that area.

2. Removal of paint and protectivecoatings from the exterior andunderside of the car.

Many corrosion-preventive measuresare built into your Acura. You canhelp keep your car from corrodingby performing some simple periodicmaintenance:

Repair chips and scratches in thepaint as soon as you discover them.

Inspect and clean out the drainholes in the bottom of the doorsand body.

Check the floor coverings fordampness. Carpeting and floormats may remain damp for a longtime, especially in winter. Thisdampness can eventually causethe floor panels to corrode.

Use a high-pressure spray to cleanthe underside of your car. This isespecially important in areas thatuse road salt in winter. It is also agood idea in humid climates andareas subject to salt air. Be carefulof the ABS wheel sensors andwiring at each wheel.

Have the corrosion-preventivecoatings on the underside of yourcar inspected and repairedperiodically.

Appearance Care

Body Repairs

Body repairs can affect your car'sresistance to corrosion. If your carneeds repairs after a collision, payclose attention to the parts used inthe repair and the quality of thework.

Make sure the repair facility usesGenuine Acura replacement bodyparts. Some companies make sheetmetal pieces that seem to duplicatethe original Acura body parts, butare actually inferior in fit, finish, andcorrosion resistance. Once installed,they do not give the same high-quality appearance.

When reporting your collision to theinsurance company, tell them youwant Genuine Acura parts used inthe repair. Although most insurersrecognize the quality of originalparts, some may try to specify thatthe repairs be done with otheravailable parts. You should investi-gate this before any repairs havebegun.

Take your car to your authorizedAcura dealer for inspection after therepairs are completed. Your dealercan make sure that quality materialswere used, and that corrosion-preventive coatings were applied toall repaired and replaced parts.

Appearance Care

Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more-common problems that motoristsexperience with their vehicles. Itgives you information about how tosafely evaluate the problem and whatto do to correct it. If the problem hasstranded you on the side of the road,you may be able to get going again.If not, you will also find instructionson getting your car towed.

Compact Spare Tire....................... 272Changing a Flat Tire ..................... 273If Your Engine Won't Start........... 278

Nothing Happens or theStarter Motor Operates

Very Slowly......................... 278The Starter Operates

Normally................................. 279Jump Starting................................. 280If Your Engine Overheats............. 283Low Oil Pressure Indicator.......... 285Charging System Indicator........... 286Malfunction Indicator Lamp ........ 287Brake System Indicator................ 289Closing the Moonroof................... 290Fuses............................................... 291

Checking and Replacing........... 292Emergency Towing....................... 296


Compact Spare Tire

Your car has a compact spare tirethat takes up less space. Use thisspare tire as a temporary replace-ment only. Get your regular tirerepaired or replaced and put it backon your car as soon as you can.

Check the inflation pressure of thecompact spare tire every time youcheck the other tires. It should beinflated to:60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm2 )

Follow these precautions wheneveryou are using the compact spare tire:

Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h)under any circumstances.

This tire gives a harsher ride andless traction on some road sur-faces than the regular tire. Usegreater caution while driving onthis tire.

Do not mount snow chains on thecompact spare.

The wheel of the compact sparetire is designed especially to fityour car. Do not use your sparetire on another vehicle unless it isthe same make and model.

Turn off the VSA system (seepage 192 ).Driving with the compact sparetire may activate the VSA system.

The compact spare tire has a shortertread life than a regular tire. Replaceit when you can see the tread wearindicator bars. The replacementshould be the same size and designtire, mounted on the same wheel.The compact spare tire is notdesigned to be mounted on a regularwheel, and the compact wheel is notdesigned for mounting a regular tire.


INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

Changing a Flat Tire

If you have a flat tire while driving,stop in a safe place to change it.Stopping in traffic or on the shoulderof a busy road is dangerous. Driveslowly along the shoulder until youget to an exit or an area to stop thatis far away from the traffic lanes.

1. Park the car on firm, level, andnon-slippery ground away fromtraffic. Put the transmission inPark. Apply the parking brake.

2. Turn on the hazard warning lightsand turn the ignition switch toLOCK (0). Have all thepassengers get out of the car whileyou change the tire.

3. Open the trunk. Raise the trunkfloor by lifting up on the back edge.To keep the trunk floor out of theway, attach the hook into the slotin the trunk lid.

4. Take the tool kit out of the trunk.

5. Unscrew the wing bolt and takethe spare tire out of its well.

CONTINUED


The car can easily roll off thejack, seriously injuring anyoneunderneath.

Follow the directions forchanging a tire exactly, andnever get under the car when itis supported only by the jack.

TRUNK FLOOR HOOK

JACK SPARE TIRE TOOL KIT

Magesh


6. Turn the jack's end bracketcounterclockwise to loosen it, thenremove the jack by lifting itstraight up.

7. Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2turn with the wheel wrench.

8. Locate the jacking point nearestthe tire you need to change. It ispointed to by a mark moldedinto the underside of the body.Place the jack under the jackingpoint. Turn the end bracketclockwise until the top of the jackcontacts the jacking point. Makesure the jacking point tab isresting in the jack notch.


JACKINGPOINT

WHEEL WRENCH

JACK


9. Use the extension and wheelwrench as shown to raise thevehicle until the flat tire is off theground.

10.Remove the wheel nuts and flattire. Temporarily place the flat tireon the ground with the outsidesurface of the wheel facing up.You could scratch the wheel if youput it face down.

11.Before mounting the spare tire,wipe any dirt off the mountingsurface of the wheel and hub witha clean cloth. Wipe the hubcarefully, it may be hot fromdriving.

CONTINUED


EXTENSION

WHEELWRENCH BRAKE HUB


12.Put on the spare tire. Put thewheel nuts back on finger-tight,then tighten them in a crisscrosspattern with the wheel wrenchuntil the wheel is firmly againstthe hub. Do not try to tightenthem fully.

13.Lower the car to the ground andremove the jack.

14.Tighten the wheel nuts securely inthe same crisscross pattern. Havethe wheel nut torque checked atthe nearest automotive servicefacility.Tighten the wheel nuts to:80 lbf.ft (108 N.m , 11 kgf.m)



15.Remove the spacer basket fromthe trunk well.

16.Remove the center cap beforestoring the flat tire in the trunkwell.

17.Place the flat tire face down in thespare tire well.

18.Wrap the spacer cone and sparetire wing bolt with cloth or paperand store them in the trunk well.

CONTINUED


SPACER BASKET CENTER CAP WING BOLT

FLAT TIRE RING SPACERCONE

Changing a Flat Tire, If Your Engine Won't Start

19.Slip the hole at the top of the jackover the bracket in the trunk well.Turn the jack's end bracket to lockit in place. Store the tool kit backin its place.

20.Unclip the hook from the trunk lidand lower the trunk floor.

21.Store the center cap and spacerbasket in the trunk. Make sure thecenter cap will not get scratchedor damaged.

22.Close the trunk lid.

If Your Engine Won't StartDiagnosing why your engine won'tstart falls into two areas, dependingon what you hear when you turn thekey to START (III):

You hear nothing, or almostnothing. The engine's startermotor does not operate at all, oroperates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motoroperating normally, or the startermotor sounds like it is spinningfaster than normal, but the enginedoes not start up and run.

Nothing Happens or the StarterMotor Operates Very SlowlyWhen you turn the ignition switch toSTART (III), you do not hear thenormal noise of the engine trying tostart. You may hear a clicking soundor series of clicks, or nothing at all.Check these things:

Your car has the ImmobilizerSystem. You should use aproperly-coded master or valet keyto start the engine (see page 78).A key that is not properly codedwill cause the immobilizer systemindicator in the dash panel to blinkrapidly.

Check the transmission interlock.The transmission must be in Parkor Neutral or the starter will notoperate.


Loose items can fly around theinterior in a crash and couldseriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack and toolssecurely before driving.

Magesh

If Your Engine Won't Start

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).Turn on the headlights and checktheir brightness. If the headlightsare very dim or don't light at all,the battery is discharged. SeeJump Starting on page 280 .

Turn the ignition switch to START(III). If the headlights do not dim,check the condition of the fuses. Ifthe fuses are OK, there is proba-bly something wrong with theelectrical circuit for the ignitionswitch or starter motor. You willneed a qualified technician todetermine the problem. (SeeEmergency Towing on page 296 .)

If the headlights dim noticeably orgo out when you try to start theengine, either the battery is dis-charged or the connections arecorroded. Check the condition ofthe battery and terminal connec-tions (see page 236). You canthen try jump starting the car froma booster battery (see page 280).

The Starter Operates NormallyIn this case, the starter motor'sspeed sounds normal, or even fasterthan normal, when you turn theignition switch to START (III), butthe engine does not run.

Are you using the proper startingprocedure? Refer to Starting theEngine on page 181.

Do you have fuel? Turn theignition switch to ON (II) for aminute and watch the fuel gauge.The low fuel level warning lightmay not be working, so you werenot reminded to fill the tank.

There may be an electricalproblem, such as no power to thefuel pump. Check all the fuses(see page 292).

If you find nothing wrong, you willneed a qualified technician to findthe problem. See EmergencyTowing on page 296 .


Jump Starting

If your car's battery has run down,you may be able to start the engineby using a booster battery. Althoughthis seems like a simple procedure,you should take several precautions.

You cannot start your Acura bypushing or pulling it.

To jump start your car, follow thesedirections closely:

1. Open the hood and check thephysical condition of the battery(see page 236). In very coldweather, check the condition ofthe electrolyte. If it seems slushyor like ice, do not try jump startinguntil it thaws.


A battery can explode if you donot follow the correct procedure,seriously injuring anyonenearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames,and smoking materials awayfrom the battery.

Magesh

Jump Starting

If a battery sits in extreme cold, theelectrolyte inside can freeze.Attempting to jump start with a frozenbattery can cause it to rupture.

2. Turn off all the electrical acces-sories: climate control, stereosystem, lights, etc.Put the transmission in Neutral orPark and set the parking brake.

3. Connect one jumper cable to thepositive ( + ) terminal on yourAcura's battery. Connect the otherend to the positive ( + ) terminalon the booster battery.

4. Connect the second jumper cableto the negative ( — ) terminal onthe booster battery. Connect theother end to the ground wire onthe right side of the engine asshown. Do not connect this jumpercable to any other part of theengine.

5. If the booster battery is in anothervehicle, have an assistant startthat vehicle and run it at a fast idle.


CONTINUED

NOTICE

Jump Starting

6. Start your car. If the starter motorstill operates slowly, check thejumper cable connections to makesure they have good metal-to-metal contact.

7. Once your car is running, discon-nect the negative cable from yourcar, then from the booster battery.Disconnect the positive cable fromyour car, then the booster battery.

Keep the ends of the jumper cablesaway from each other and any metalon the car until all are disconnected.Otherwise, you may cause anelectrical short.


BOOSTER BATTERY

If Your Engine Overheats

The pointer of your car's tempera-ture gauge should stay in the mid-range under most conditions. It maygo higher if you are driving up a longsteep hill on a very hot day. If itclimbs to the red mark, you shoulddetermine the reason.

Driving with the temperature gaugepointer at the red mark can causeserious damage to your engine.

Your car can overheat for severalreasons, such as lack of coolant or amechanical problem. The onlyindication may be the temperaturegauge climbing to or above the redmark. Or you may see steam orspray coming from under the hood.In either case, you should takeimmediate action.

1. Safely pull to the side of the road.Put the transmission in Neutral orPark and set the parking brake.Turn off the climate control and allother accessories. Turn on thehazard warning indicators.

2. If you see steam and/or spraycoming from under the hood, turnoff the engine.

3. If you do not see steam or spray,leave the engine running andwatch the temperature gauge. Ifthe high heat is due to overloading(climbing a long, steep hill on ahot day with the A/C running, forexample), the engine should startto cool down almost immediately.If it does, wait until the tempera-ture gauge comes down to the mid-point then continue driving.

CONTINUED


NOTICE

Steam and spray from anoverheated engine canseriously scald you.

Do not open the hood if steamis coming out.

Magesh

If Your Engine Overheats

4. If the temperature gauge stays atthe red mark, turn off the engine.

5. Wait until you see no more signsof steam or spray, then open thehood.

6. Look for any obvious coolant leaks,such as a split radiator hose.Everything is still extremely hot,so use caution. If you find a leak, itmust be repaired before youcontinue driving (see EmergencyTowing on page 296 ).

7. If you don't find an obvious leak,check the coolant level in theradiator reserve tank (see page172 ). If the level is below theMIN mark, add coolant to halfwaybetween the MIN and MAX marks.

8. If there was no coolant in thereserve tank, you may also have toadd coolant to the radiator. Let theengine cool down until the pointer

reaches the middle of the tempera-ture gauge, or lower, before check-ing the radiator.

9. Using gloves or a large heavycloth, turn the radiator capcounterclockwise, without pushingdown, to the first stop. Thisreleases any remaining pressure inthe cooling system. After thepressure releases, push down onthe cap and turn it until it comesoff.

10.Start the engine and set thetemperature control dial tomaximum (climate control toFULL AUTO at 90°F/32°C). Addcoolant to the radiator up to thebase of the filler neck. If you donot have the proper coolantmixture available, you can addplain water. Remember to havethe cooling system drained andrefilled with the proper mixture assoon as you can.

11. Put the radiator cap back ontightly. Run the engine and watchthe temperature gauge. If it goesback to the red mark, the engineneeds repair. (See EmergencyTowing on page 296 .)

12.If the temperature stays normal,check the coolant level in theradiator reserve tank. If it hasgone down, add coolant to theMAX mark. Put the cap back ontightly.


Removing the radiator capwhile the engine is hot cancause the coolant to spray out,seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine andradiator cool down beforeremoving the radiator cap.

Magesh

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

This indicator should light when theignition switch is ON (II), and go outafter the engine starts. It shouldnever come on when the engine isrunning. If it starts flashing, itindicates that the oil pressuredropped very low for a moment, thenrecovered. If the indicator stays onwith the engine running, it showsthat the engine has lost oil pressureand serious engine damage ispossible. In either case, you shouldtake immediate action.

Running the engine with low oilpressure can cause serious mechanicaldamage almost immediately. Turn offthe engine as soon as you can safely getthe car stopped.

1. Safely pull off the road and shutoff the engine. Turn on the hazardwarning indicators.

2. Let the car sit for a minute. Openthe hood and check the oil level(see page 171). Although oil leveland oil pressure are not directlyconnected, an engine that is verylow on oil can lose pressure duringcornering and other drivingmaneuvers.

3. If necessary, add oil to bring thelevel back to the full mark on thedipstick (see page 217 ).

4. Start the engine and watch the oilpressure indicator. If the lightdoes not go out within ten seconds,turn off the engine. There is amechanical problem that needs tobe repaired before you cancontinue driving. (See EmergencyTowing on page 296 .)


LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR

NOTICE

Charging System Indicator

This indicator should come on whenthe ignition switch is ON (II), and goout after the engine starts. If itcomes on brightly when the engineis running, it indicates that thecharging system has stoppedcharging the battery.

Immediately turn off all electricalaccessories: radio, climate control,rear defogger, cruise control, etc.Try not to use other electrically-operated controls such as the powerwindows. Keep the engine runningand take extra care not to stall it.Starting the engine will dischargethe battery rapidly.

By eliminating as much of theelectrical load as possible, you candrive several miles (kilometers)before the battery is too dischargedto keep the engine running. Drive toa service station or garage whereyou can get technical assistance.


CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

This indicator comes on for a fewseconds when you turn the ignitionswitch ON (II). If it comes on at anyother time, it indicates one of theengine's emissions control systemsmay have a problem. Even thoughyou may feel no difference in yourcar's performance, it can reduceyour fuel economy and cause yourcar to put out excessive emissions.Continued operation may causeserious damage.

If you have recently refueled yourcar, the cause of this indicatorcoming on could be a loose ormissing fuel fill cap. Check the capand tighten it until it clicks severaltimes. Replace the fuel fill cap if it ismissing. Tightening the cap will notmake the indicator turn offimmediately; it takes at least threedriving trips.

If the indicator remains on past threedriving trips, or the fuel cap was notloose or missing, have the carchecked by the dealer as soon aspossible. Drive moderately until thedealer has inspected the problem.Avoid full-throttle acceleration anddriving at high speed.

You should also have the dealerinspect your car if this indicatorcomes on repeatedly, even though itmay turn off as you continue driving.

If you keep driving with themalfunction indicator lamp on, you candamage your car's emissions controlsand engine. Those repairs may not becovered by your car's warranties.


MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP NOTICE

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Readiness CodesYour car has certain "readinesscodes" that are part of the on-boarddiagnostics for the emissionssystems. In some states, part of theemissions testing is to make surethese codes are set. If they are notset, the test cannot be completed.

If your car's battery has beendisconnected or gone dead, thesecodes are erased. It takes severaldays of driving under variousconditions to set the codes again.

If possible, do not take your car for astate emissions test until thereadiness codes are set. See StateEmissions Testing on pages 311 and312.


Brake System Indicator

The Brake System Indicatornormally comes on when you turnthe ignition switch ON (II). It is areminder to check the parking brake.It comes on and stays lit if you do notfully release the parking brake.

If it comes on at any other time, itindicates a problem with the car'sbrake system. In most cases, theproblem is a low fluid level in thebrake fluid reservoir. Press lightly onthe brake pedal to see if it feelsnormal. If it does, check the brakefluid level the next time you stop at aservice station (see page 230 ). If thefluid level is low, take the car to yourdealer and have the brake systeminspected for leaks or worn brakepads.

However, if the brake pedal does notfeel normal, you should takeimmediate action. Because of thebrake system's dual-circuit design, aproblem in one part of the systemwill still give you braking at twowheels. You will feel the brake pedalgo down much farther before the carbegins to slow down, and you willhave to press harder on the pedal.The distance needed to stop will bemuch longer.

Slow down by shifting to a lowergear, and pull to the side of the roadwhen it is safe. Because of thelonger distance needed to stop, it ishazardous to drive the car. Youshould have it towed, and repaired assoon as possible. (See EmergencyTowing on page 296 .)

If you must drive the car a shortdistance in this condition, driveslowly and cautiously.

If the ABS indicator and the VSAsystem indicator come on with thisindicator, have the car inspected byyour dealer immediately.


BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*

"U.S. indicator shown

Closing the Moonroof

If the electric motor will not closethe moonroof, do the following:

1. Check the fuse for the moonroofmotor (see page 292). If the fuseis blown, replace it with one of thesame or lower rating.

2. Try closing the moonroof. If thenew fuse blows immediately or themoonroof motor still does notoperate, you can close themoonroof manually.

3. Get the moonroof wrench out ofthe tool kit in the trunk.

4. Remove the lens from the rearceiling light (see page 259).

5. Remove the plug in the center ofthe rear ceiling light.

6. Insert the moonroof wrench intothe socket behind this plug. Turnthe wrench until the moonroof isfully closed.

7. Remove the wrench. Replace theplug and lens.


PLUG

SOCKET

Fuses

All the electrical circuits in your carhave fuses to protect them from ashort circuit or overload. Thesefuses are located in two fuse boxes.

The interior fuse box is underneaththe dashboard on the driver's side.To open it, turn the knob as shown.

The under-hood fuse box is locatedin the engine compartment next tothe battery. To open it, push the tabas shown.


INTERIOR

KNOB

UNDER-HOOD TAB

Fuses

Checking and Replacing FusesIf something electrical in your carstops working, the first thing youshould check for is a blown fuse.Determine from the chart on pages294 and 295 , or the diagram on the

fuse box lid, which fuse or fusescontrol that component. Check thosefuses first, but check all the fusesbefore deciding that a blown fuse isnot the cause. Replace any blownfuses and check the component'soperation.

1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK(0). Make sure the headlights andall other accessories are off.

2. Remove the cover from the fusebox.

FUSE

3. Check each of the large fuses inthe under-hood fuse box bylooking through the top at the wireinside. Removing these fusesrequires a Phillips-head screw-driver.

4. Check the smaller fuses in theunder-hood fuse box and all thefuses in the interior fuse box bypulling out each fuse with the fusepuller provided in the door of theinterior fuse box.


BLOWN

FUSEPULLER

Fuses

5. Look for a burned wire inside thefuse. If it is burned, replace it withone of the spare fuses of the samerating or lower.

If you cannot drive the car withoutfixing the problem, and you do nothave a spare fuse, take a fuse of thesame rating or a lower rating fromone of the other circuits. Make sureyou can do without that circuittemporarily (such as the cigarettelighter or radio).

If you replace the blown fuse with aspare fuse that has a lower rating, itmight blow out again. This does notindicate anything wrong. Replace thefuse with one of the correct rating assoon as you can.

Replacing a fuse with one that has ahigher rating greatly increases thechances of damaging the electricalsystem. If you do not have a replace-ment fuse with the proper rating for thecircuit, install one with a lower rating.

6. If the replacement fuse of thesame rating blows in a short time,there is probably a seriouselectrical problem in your car.Leave the blown fuse in thatcircuit and have your car checkedby a qualified mechanic.

If the radio fuse is removed, theaudio system will disable itself. Thenext time you turn on the radio youwill see "Code" in the frequencydisplay. Use the Preset buttons toenter the five-digit code (see page164).


CONTINUED

BLOWNNOTICE

Fuses

UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX


Fuses

INTERIOR FUSE BOX

* 1 : On Canadian models


Emergency Towing

If your car needs to be towed, call aprofessional towing service or, if youbelong to one, an organization thatprovides roadside assistance. Nevertow your car behind another vehiclewith just a rope or chain. It is verydangerous.

There are three popular types ofprofessional towing equipment.

Flat-bed Equipment — The operatorloads your car on the back of a truck.This is the best way to transportyour Acura.

Wheel-lift Equipment — The towtruck uses two pivoting arms that gounder the tires (front or rear) and liftthem off the ground. The other twotires remain on the ground. This isan acceptable way to tow yourAcura.

Sling-type Equipment — The towtruck uses metal cables with hookson the ends. These hooks go aroundparts of the frame or suspension andthe cables lift that end of the car offthe ground. Your car's suspensionand body can be seriously damaged.This method of towing isunacceptable.

If your Acura cannot be transportedby flat-bed, it should be towed bywheel-lift equipment with the frontwheels off the ground. If, due todamage, your car must be towedwith the front wheels on the ground,do the following.

Release the parking brake.Shift the transmission to Neutral.

Improper towing preparation willdamage the transmission. Follow theabove procedure exactly. If you cannotshift the transmission or start theengine, your car must be transportedwith the front wheels off the ground.

With the front wheels on the ground,it is best to tow the car no fartherthan 50 miles (80 km), and keep thespeed below 35 mph (55 km/h).


NOTICE

Emergency Towing

If you decide to tow your car with allfour wheels on the ground, makesure you use a properly-designed andattached tow bar. Prepare the car fortowing as described above, and leavethe ignition switch in Accessory (I)so the steering wheel does not lock.Make sure the radio and any itemsplugged into the accessory powersocket are turned off so they do notrun down the battery.

The steering system can be damaged ifthe steering wheel is locked. Leave theignition switch in Accessory (I), andmake sure the steering wheel turnsfreely before you begin towing.

Trying to lift or tow your car by thebumpers will cause serious damage.The bumpers are not designed tosupport the car's weight.


NOTICE

NOTICE

Technical Information

The diagrams in this section giveyou the dimensions and capacities ofyour Acura, and the locations of theidentification numbers. It alsoincludes information you shouldknow about your vehicle's tires andemissions control systems.

Identification Numbers................. 300Specifications................................. 302DOT Tire Quality Grading

(U.S. Cars).............................. 304Treadwear.................................. 304Traction.......................................304Temperature.............................. 305

Oxygenated Fuels.......................... 306Driving in Foreign Countries....... 307

Emissions Controls........................ 308The Clean Air Act...................... 308Crankcase Emissions Control

System.....................................308Evaporative Emissions Control

System..................................... 308Onboard Refueling Vapor

Recovery................................. 308Exhaust Emissions Controls.... 309

PGM-FI System..................... 309Ignition Timing Control

System.................................309Exhaust Gas Recirculation

(EGR) System.................... 309Three Way Catalytic

Converter............................309Replacement Parts..................... 309

Three Way Catalytic Converter... 310State Emissions Testing............... 311


Identification Numbers

Your car has several identifyingnumbers located in various places.

The Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) is the 17-digit number yourAcura dealer uses to register yourcar for warranty purposes. It is alsonecessary for licensing and insuringyour car. The easiest place to findthe VIN is on a plate fastened to thetop of the dashboard. You can see itby looking through the windshieldon the driver's side. It is also on theCertification label attached to thedriver's doorjamb, and is stamped onthe engine compartment bulkhead.The VIN is also provided in bar codeon the Certification label.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

CERTIFICATION LABEL


Identification Numbers

The Engine Number is stamped intothe engine block. It is on the frontleft, below the valve cover.

The Transmission Number is on alabel on top of the transmission.

TRANSMISSION NUMBER

ENGINE NUMBER


Specifications

* 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in theengine.Reserve tank capacity:0.172 US gal (0.65 l , 0.143 Imp gal)

* 2 : Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.


Specifications


page 236

"' Low beam headlight bulbs are a type of high voltage discharge tube(D2R).

page 295

page 294

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Cars)

The tires on your car meet all U.S.Federal Safety Requirements. Alltires are also graded for treadwear,traction, and temperature perform-ance according to Department ofTransportation (DOT) standards.The following explains thesegradings.

Uniform Tire Quality GradingQuality grades can be found whereapplicable on the tire sidewallbetween the tread shoulder and themaximum section width. Forexample:

Treadwear 200Traction AATemperature A

DOT Quality GradesAll passenger car tires must conformto Federal Safety Requirements inaddition to these grades.

TreadwearThe treadwear grade is a compara-tive rating based on the wear rate ofthe tire when tested under controlledconditions on a specified governmenttest course. For example, a tiregraded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on thegovernment course as a tire graded100. The relative performance oftires depends upon the actual condi-tions of their use, however, and maydepart significantly from the normdue to variations in driving habits,service practices and differences inroad characteristics and climate.

Traction — AA, A, B, CThe traction grades, from highest tolowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Thosegrades represent the tire's ability tostop on wet pavement as measuredunder controlled conditions onspecified government test surfacesof asphalt and concrete. A tiremarked C may have poor tractionperformance.

Warning: The traction gradeassigned to this tire is based onstraight-ahead braking traction tests,and does not include acceleration,cornering, hydroplaning, or peaktraction characteristics.


DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Cars)

Temperature — A, B, CThe temperature grades are A (thehighest), B, and C, representing thetire's resistance to the generation ofheat and its ability to dissipate heatwhen tested under controlledconditions on a specified indoorlaboratory test wheel. Sustained hightemperature can cause the materialof the tire to degenerate and reducetire life, and excessive temperaturecan lead to sudden tire failure. Thegrade C corresponds to a level ofperformance which all passenger cartires must meet under the FederalMotor Vehicle Safety Standard No.109. Grades B and A representhigher levels of performance on thelaboratory test wheel than theminimum required by law.

Warning: The temperature grade forthis tire is established for a tire thatis properly inflated and not over-loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-tion, or excessive loading, eitherseparately or in combination, cancause heat buildup and possible tirefailure.


Oxygenated Fuels

Some conventional gasolines arebeing blended with alcohol or anether compound. These gasolinesare collectively referred to asoxygenated fuels. To meet clean airstandards, some areas of the UnitedStates and Canada use oxygenatedfuels to help reduce emissions.

If you use an oxygenated fuel, besure it is unleaded and meets theminimum octane rating requirement.

Before using an oxygenated fuel, tryto confirm the fuel's contents. Somestates/provinces require thisinformation to be posted on thepump.

The following are the U.S. EPA andCanadian CGSB approvedpercentages of oxygenates:

ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol)You may use gasoline containing upto 10 percent ethanol by volume.Gasoline containing ethanol may bemarketed under the name "Gasohol."

MTBE (Methyl Tertiary ButylEther)You may use gasoline containing upto 15 percent MTBE by volume.

METHANOL (methyl or woodalcohol)Your vehicle was not designed to usefuel that contains methanol.Methanol can corrode metal parts inthe fuel system, and also damageplastic and rubber components. Thisdamage would not be covered byyour warranties.

If you notice any undesirableoperating symptoms, try anotherservice station or switch to anotherbrand of gasoline.

Fuel system damage or performanceproblems resulting from the use ofan oxygenated fuel containing morethan the percentages of oxygenatesgiven above are not covered underwarranty.


Driving in Foreign Countries


If you are planning to take yourAcura outside the U.S. or Canada,contact the tourist bureaus in theareas you will be traveling in to findout about the availability of unleadedgasoline with the proper octanerating.

If unleaded gasoline is not available,be aware that using leaded gasolinein your Acura will affect perfor-mance and fuel mileage, and damageits emissions controls. It will nolonger comply with U.S. andCanadian emissions regulations, andwill be illegal to operate in NorthAmerica. To bring your car back intocompliance will require the replace-ment of several components, such asthe oxygen sensors and the threeway catalytic converter. These re-placements are not covered underwarranty.

Emissions Controls

The burning of gasoline in your car'sengine produces several byproducts.Some of these are carbon monoxide(CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) andhydrocarbons (HC). Gasolineevaporating from the tank alsoproduces hydrocarbons. Controllingthe production of NOx, CO, and HCis important to the environment.Under certain conditions of sunlightand climate, NOx and HC react toform photochemical "smog." Carbonmonoxide does not contribute tosmog creation, but it is a poisonousgas.

The Clean Air ActThe United States Clean Air Act*sets standards for automobileemissions. It also requires thatautomobile manufacturers explain toowners how their emissions controlswork and what to do to maintainthem. This section summarizes howthe emissions controls work.Scheduled maintenance is on page208.

* In Canada, Acura vehicles complywith the Canadian Motor VehicleSafety Standards (CMVSS) forEmissions valid at the time they aremanufactured.

Crankcase Emissions ControlSystemYour car has a Positive CrankcaseVentilation System. This keepsgasses that build up in the engine'scrankcase from going into theatmosphere. The Positive CrankcaseVentilation valve routes them from

the crankcase back to the intakemanifold. They are then drawn intothe engine and burned.

Evaporative Emissions ControlSystemAs gasoline evaporates in the fueltank, an evaporative emissionscontrol canister filled with charcoaladsorbs the vapor. It is stored in thiscanister while the engine is off. Afterthe engine is started and warmed up,the vapor is drawn into the engineand burned during driving.

Onboard Refueling VaporRecoveryThe Onboard Refueling VaporRecovery (ORVR) system capturesthe fuel vapors during refueling. Thevapors are adsorbed in a canisterfilled with activated carbon. Whiledriving, the fuel vapors are drawninto the engine and burned off.


Emissions Controls

Exhaust Emissions ControlsThe exhaust emissions controlsinclude four systems: PGM-FI,Ignition Timing Control, ExhaustGas Recirculation and Three WayCatalytic Converter. These foursystems work together to control theengine's combustion and minimizethe amount of HC, CO, and NOx thatcomes out the tailpipe. The exhaustemissions control systems areseparate from the crankcase andevaporative emissions controlsystems.

PGM-FI SystemThe PGM-FI System uses sequentialmultiport fuel injection.It has three subsystems: Air Intake,Engine Control, and Fuel Control.The Powertrain Control Module(PCM) uses various sensors todetermine how much air is goinginto the engine. It then controls howmuch fuel to inject under all operat-ing conditions.

Ignition Timing Control SystemThis system constantly adjusts theignition timing, reducing the amountof HC, CO and NOx produced.

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)SystemThe Exhaust Gas Recirculation(EGR) system takes some of theexhaust gas and routes it back intothe intake manifold. Adding exhaustgas to the air/fuel mixture reducesthe amount of NOx produced whenthe fuel is burned.

Three Way Catalytic ConverterThe three way catalytic converter isin the exhaust system. Throughchemical reactions, it converts HC,CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaustto carbon dioxide (CO2), dinitrogen(N2), and water vapor.

Replacement PartsThe emissions control systems aredesigned and certified to work to-gether in reducing emissions tolevels that comply with the Clean AirAct. To make sure the emissionsremain low, you should use only newGenuine Acura replacement parts ortheir equivalent for repairs. Usinglower quality parts may increase theemissions from your car.


Three Way Catalytic Converter

The three way catalytic convertercontains precious metals that serveas catalysts, promoting chemicalreactions to convert the exhaustgasses without affecting the metals.The catalytic converter is referred toas a three-way catalyst, since it actson HC, CO, and NOx. A replacementunit must be an original Acura partor its equivalent.

The three way catalytic convertermust operate at a high temperaturefor the chemical reactions to takeplace. It can set on fire any com-bustible materials that come near it.Park your car away from high grass,dry leaves, or other flammables.

A defective three way catalyticconverter contributes to air pollution,and can impair your engine's per-formance. Follow these guidelines toprotect your car's three way catalyticconverter.

Always use unleaded gasoline.Even a small amount of leadedgasoline can contaminate thecatalyst metals, making the threeway catalytic converter ineffective.

Keep the engine tuned-up.

Have your car diagnosed andrepaired if it is misfiring, back-firing, stalling, or otherwise notrunning properly.


THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER

State Emissions Testing

Testing of Readiness CodesIf you take your vehicle for a stateemissions test shortly after thebattery has been disconnected orgone dead, it may not complete thetest. This is because of certain"readiness codes" that must be set inthe on-board diagnostics for theemissions systems. These codes areerased when the battery isdisconnected, and set again onlyafter several days of driving under avariety of conditions.

If the testing facility determines thatthe readiness codes are not set, youwill be requested to return at a laterdate to complete the test. If you mustget the vehicle re-tested within thenext two or three days, you cancondition the vehicle for re-testingby doing the following.

Make sure the gas tank is nearly,but not completely, full (around3/4).

Make sure the vehicle has beenparked with the engine off for 8hours or more.

Make sure the ambienttemperature is between 20° and95° F.

Without touching the acceleratorpedal, start the engine and let itidle for 20 seconds.

Keep the vehicle in Park(automatic transmission). Increasethe engine speed to 2,000 rpm andhold it there until the temperaturegauge rises to at least 1/4 of thescale (approximately 3 minutes).

CONTINUED


State Emissions Testing

Select a nearby lightly traveledmajor highway where you canmaintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph(80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20minutes. Drive on the highway inD4 (A/T). Do not use the cruisecontrol. When traffic allows, drivefor 90 seconds without moving theaccelerator pedal. (Vehicle speedmay vary slightly; this is okay.) Ifyou cannot do this for acontinuous 90 seconds because oftraffic conditions, drive for at least30 seconds, then repeat it twomore times (for a total of 90seconds).

Then drive in city/suburbantraffic for at least 10 minutes.When traffic conditions allow, letthe vehicle coast for severalseconds without using theaccelerator pedal or the brakepedal.

If the testing facility determines thereadiness codes are still not set, seeyour Acura dealer.


Warranty and Customer Relations

Customer RelationsInformation................................. 314

Canada Zone Office Map.............. 315Warranty Coverages..................... 316Reporting Safety Defects

(U.S. Vehicles)...........................317Authorized Manuals...................... 319


Customer Relations Information

Acura dealership personnel aretrained professionals. They shouldbe able to answer all your questions.If you encounter a problem that yourdealership does not solve to yoursatisfaction, please discuss it withthe dealership's management. TheService Manager or GeneralManager can help. Almost allproblems are solved in this way.

If you are dissatisfied with thedecision made by the dealership'smanagement, contact the AcuraCustomer Relations Office.

U.S. Owners:Acura Automobile Division

Client Services OfficeAmerican Honda Motor Co., Inc.

1919 Torrance Blvd.Torrance, CA 90501-2746

or telephone: (800) 382-2238

In Puerto Rico and the U.S. VirginIslands:

Vortex Motor Corp.Bella InternationalP.O. Box 190816

San Juan, PR 00919-0816(787) 250-4327

Canadian Owners:Refer to the Canadian Zone OfficeMap on the next page.

When you call or write, please giveus this information:

Vehicle Identification Number(see page 300)Name and address of the dealerwho services your carDate of purchaseMileage on your carYour name, address, and tele-phone numberA detailed description of theproblemName of the dealer who sold thecar to you


Canada Zone Office Map

CUSTOMER RELATIONSRELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTELE

Honda Canada Inc.715 Milner AvenueToronto, ONM1B 2K8

Tel: 1-888-9-ACURA-9

Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909Toronto (416) 287-4776


Warranty Coverages

U.S. OwnersYour new Acura is covered by thesewarranties:

New Vehicle Limited Warranty — your new vehicle, except forcovers the battery, emissions controlsystems and accessories, againstdefects in materials andworkmanship.

Emissions Control Systems DefectsWarranty and EmissionsPerformance Warranty — these twowarranties cover your vehicle's emis-sions control systems. Time, mileage,and coverage are conditional. Pleaseread the warranty manual for exactinformation.

Original Equipment Battery LimitedWarranty — this warranty gives upto 100 percent credit toward areplacement battery.

Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seatbelt that fails to function properly iscovered for the useful life of thevehicle.

Rust Perforation Limited Warranty— all exterior body panels arecovered for rust-through from theinside for the specified time periodwith no mileage limit.

Accessory Limited Warranty —Genuine Acura Accessories arecovered under this warranty. Timeand mileage limits depend on thetype of accessory and other factors.Please read your warranty manualfor details.

Replacement Parts LimitedWarranty — covers all GenuineAcura replacement parts againstdefects in materials and workman-ship.

Replacement Battery LimitedWarranty — provides proratedcoverage for a replacement batterypurchased from an Acura dealer.

Replacement Muffler LifetimeLimited Warranty — providescoverage for as long as the pur-chaser of the muffler owns thevehicle.

Restrictions and exclusions apply toall these warranties. Please read the2001 Acura Warranty Informationbooklet that came with your car forprecise information on warrantycoverages. Your Acura's originaltires are covered by theirmanufacturer. Tire warrantyinformation is in a separate booklet.

Canadian OwnersPlease refer to the 2001 WarrantyManual that came with your car.


Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

If you believe that your vehicle has adefect which could cause a crash orcould cause injury or death, youshould immediately inform theNational Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) in additionto notifying Acura AutomobileDivision, American Honda Motor Co.,Inc.

If NHTSA receives similar com-plaints, it may open an investigation,and if it finds that a safety defectexists in a group of vehicles, it mayorder a recall and remedy campaign.However, NHTSA cannot becomeinvolved in individual problemsbetween you, your dealer, or AcuraAutomobile Division, AmericanHonda Motor Co., Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may eithercall the Auto Safety Hotline toll-freeat 1-800424-9393 (or 366-0123 inWashington D.C. area) or write to:NHTSA, U.S. Department ofTransportation, Washington,D.C. 20590. You can also obtainother information about motorvehicle safety from the Hotline.


Authorized Manuals

Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals(U.S. only)The following publications covering the operation andservicing of your vehicle can be obtained from HelmIncorporated, either by filling out the attached form or,for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone numberon the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below,contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit,Michigan 48207, or call 1-800-782-4356.

Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners shouldcontact their authorized Acura dealer.

By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can

pay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to

Helm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.

61SZ305

61SZ305EL

61SZ330

31SZ3650

31SZ3750

Authorized Manuals

P.O. BOX 07280 DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207 1-800-782-4356

Service Manual:This manual covers maintenance and recommendedprocedures for repair to engine and chassis components.It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simpleenough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under-stand.

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:This manual complements the Service Manual byproviding in-depth troubleshooting information for eachelectrical circuit in your vehicle.

Body Repair Manual:This manual describes the procedures involved in thereplacement of damaged body parts.

These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.

Index

Accessories and Modifications.... 174Accessories................................. 174Additional Safety Precautions.. 175Modifications............................. 175

ACCESSORY (Ignition KeyPosition)........................................ 80

Accessory Power Socket.............. 115Additives, Engine Oil..................... 218Airbag (SRS).......................... 9, 43, 45Air Cleaner Element...................... 231Air Conditioning Filter.................. 242Air Conditioning System............... 122

Maintenance............................... 241Usage..................................124, 129

Air Outlets (Vents)........................ 122Air Pressure, Tires........................ 243Alarm, Anti-theft............................ 164Alcohol in Gasoline........................ 306Aluminum Wheels, Cleaning........ 265Antifreeze....................................... 221Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

Indicator................................ 56, 189Operation.................................... 188

Anti-theft, Audio System............... 164

Anti-theft Steering ColumnLock...............................................80

Anti-theft System........................... 165Appearance Care........................... 263Armrest............................................. 97Ashtrays.......................................... 117Audio Controls, Remote................ 163Audio System................................. 136Automatic Climate Control

System......................................... 122Automatic Lighting.......................... 64Automatic Seat Belt

Tensioners.................................... 41Automatic Speed Control................ 73Automatic Transmission............... 182

Capacity, Fluid........................... 302Checking Fluid Level................228Shifting........................................ 182Shift Lever Position Indicator.. 182Shift Lever Positions................. 182Shift Lock Release..................... 185

BatteryCharging System

Indicator............................ 54, 286Jump Starting............................. 280Maintenance............................... 236Specifications............................. 303

Before Driving............................... 167Belts, Seat..................................... 8, 40Beverage Holder............................ 112Body Repair.................................... 270Brakes

Anti-lock System (ABS)............ 188Break-in, New Linings .............. 168Bulb Replacement..................... 256Fluid............................................229Parking........................................ 109System Indicator.................. 54, 289Wear Indicators......................... 187

Braking System.............................. 187Break-in, New Car......................... 168Brightness Control, Instruments... 66Brights, Headlights......................... 63

CONTINUED

Index

Bulb ReplacementBack-up Lights........................... 256Brake Lights............................... 256Ceiling Lights............................. 259Courtesy Lights......................... 259Fog Lights.................................. 253Front Side Marker Lights......... 255Headlights.................................. 252High-mount Brake Light.......... 257License Plate Lights.................. 258Specifications............................. 303Trunk Light................................ 260Tum Signal Lights..................... 255

Bulbs, Halogen............................... 252

Cancel Button................................... 75Capacities Chart............................. 302Carbon Monoxide Hazard.............. 49Carrying, Cargo............................. 176Cassette Player

Care............................................. 156Operation............................ 141, 153

CAUTION, Explanation of............... ii

CD Changer................... 144, 157, 159Ceiling Lights................................. 118Certification Label......................... 300Chains............................................. 249Changing Oil

How to......................................... 219When to....................................... 208

Changing a Flat Tire..................... 273Changing Engine Coolant............. 223Charging System Indicator.... 54, 287Checklist, Before Driving............. 180Child Safety...................................... 20Child Seats........................................ 24

Tether Anchorage Point............. 39Childproof Door Locks................... 85Cigarette Lighter........................... 116Cleaner. Air.................................... 231Cleaning

Aluminum Wheels..................... 265Carpeting.................................... 266Exterior....................................... 264Fabric.......................................... 266Interior........................................ 266Leather........................................ 266Seat Belts.................................... 266Vinyl............................................ 266

Windows..................................... 267Wood Trim................................. 267

Climate Control System................ 122Clock, Setting the.......................... 109Code, Audio System...................... 164CO in the Exhaust......................... 308Coin Box......................................... 113Cold Weather, Starting in............. 181Compact Spare............................... 272Console Compartment.................. 113Consumer Information*................ 314Controls, Instruments and.............. 51Coolant

Adding......................................... 221Checking..................................... 172Proper Solution.......................... 221Replacing.................................... 223Temperature Gauge.................... 60

CoiTosion Protection..................... 269Courtesy Lights............................. 119Crankcase Emissions Control

System......................................... 308Cruise Control Operation............... 73Customer Relations Office........... 314

Index

DANGER, Explanation of................. iiDashboard.................................... 2, 52Daytime Running Lights................. 65Defects, Reporting Safety............. 317Defogger, Rear Window................. 71Defrosting the Windows.......128, 132Differential Oil............................... 229Dimensions..................................... 302Dimming the Headlights................ 63Dipstick

Automatic Transmission........... 228Engine Oil................................... 171

Directional Signals........................... 66Disc Brake Wear Indicators......... 187Disposal of Used Oil...................... 220Doors

Locking and Unlocking............... 81Lockout Prevention..................... 82Monitor Light............................... 57Power Door Locks....................... 81

DOT Tire Quality Grading........... 304Drive Belts...................................... 242Driver and Passenger Safety............ 5

Driving............................................ 179Economy..................................... 173In Bad Weather.......................... 194In Foreign Countries................. 307

Driving Position MemorySystem......................................... 101

Economy, Fuel............................... 173Emergencies on the Road............. 271

Battery, Jump Starting.............. 280Brake System Indicator............ 289Changing a Flat Tire................. 273Charging System Indicator...... 286Checking the Fuses................... 292Low Oil Pressure Indicator...... 285Malfunction Indicator Lamp.... 287Manually Closing Moonroof.... 290Overheated Engine................... 283

Emergency Brake.......................... 109Emergency Flashers....................... 70Emergency Towing....................... 296Emissions Controls........................ 308Emissions Testing,State............... 311

EngineBelts............................................. 242Coolant Temperature Gauge ..... 60Malfunction Indicator

Lamp................................. 55, 287Oil Pressure Indicator......... 54, 285Oil. What Kind to Use............... 217Overheating................................ 283Specifications............................. 303Speed Limiter............................. 184Starting........................................ 181

Engine Speed Limiter.................... 184Ethanol in Gasoline....................... 306Evaporative Emissions Controls.. 308Exhaust Fumes................................ 49Exhaust Gas Recirculation

System......................................... 309Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat

Belts by.........................................18Exterior, Cleaning the................... 264

Fabric, Cleaning............................. 266

CONTINUED

Index

Fan, Interior.......................... 126, 131Features, Comfort and

Convenience............................... 121Filling the Fuel Tank..................... 169Filters

Air Cleaner................................. 231Air Conditioning........................ 242Oil................................................ 219

Flashers, Hazard Warning.............. 70Flat Tire, Changing a.................... 273Fluids

Automatic Transmission........... 228Brake........................................... 229Differential................................. 229Power Steering........................... 230Windshield Washer................... 227

FM Stereo RadioReception........................... 137, 147

Fog Lights......................................... 67Foreign Countries, Driving in...... 307Four-way Flashers........................... 70Front Airbags.............................. 9, 43Fuel.................................................. 168

Fill Door and Cap....................... 169Gauge............................................ 60Octane Requirement................. 168

Oxygenated................................ 306Reserve Indicator......................... 57Tank, Filling the......................... 169

Fuel Mileage, Improving............... 173Fuses, Checking the...................... 292

Gasohol........................................... 306Gasoline.......................................... 168

Fuel Reserve Indicator................ 57Gauge............................................ 60Octane Requirement................. 168Tank, Filling the......................... 169

Gas Station Procedures................. 169Gauges.............................................. 58

Engine Coolant Temperature .... 60Fuel................................................ 60Speedometer................................ 58Tachometer.................................. 58

GAWR (Gross Axle WeightRating)........................................ 197

Gearshift Lever Positions............. 182Glass Cleaning............................... 268Glove Box......................................... 88

GVWR (Gross Vehicle WeightRating)........................................ 197

Halogen Headlight Bulbs.............. 252Hazard Warning Flashers............... 70Headlights

Automatic Lighting..................... 64Daytime Running Lights............. 65High Beam Indicator................... 57Lights On Indicator..................... 55Reminder Chime.......................... 63Replacing Halogen Bulbs......... 252Turning on.................................... 63

Head Restraints............................... 96Heating and Cooling...................... 122High Altitude, Starting at.............. 181High-Low Beam Switch .................. 63High-mount Brake Light............... 257HomeLink Universal

Transmitter.................................. 89Hood Latch..................................... 231Hood, Opening the........................ 170Horn................................................... 62Hydroplaning.................................. 195

Index

Identification Number, Vehicle.... 300Ignition

Keys............................................... 77Switch............................................ 80Timing Control System............. 309

Immobilizer System......................... 78Important Safety Precautions.......... 6Indicators, Instrument

Panel.............................................. 53Infant Restraint................................ 28Infant Seats....................................... 28

Tether Anchorage Points........... 39Inflation, Proper Tire .................... 243Inside Mirror.................................... 99Inspection. Tire.............................. 245Instrument Panel............................. 53Instrument Panel Brightness......... 66Interior Cleaning............................ 267Introduction......................................... i

Jacking up the Car......................... 274Jack, Tire........................................ 274

Jump Starting................................. 280

Keys................................................... 77

Label, Certification........................ 300Lane Change. Signaling.................. 66Lap/Shoulder Belt........................... 40Learning Key.................................... 78Leather, Cleaning.......................... 266Lights On Indicator......................... 55Lighter, Cigarette.......................... 116Lights

Bulb Replacement..................... 252Ceiling......................................... 118Courtesy...................................... 119Indicator........................................ 53Parking.......................................... 63Turn Signal................................... 66

Load Limit...................................... 177LOCK (Ignition Key Position)....... 80Locks

Anti-theft Steering Column........ 80

Childproof Door........................... 85Fuel Fill Door............................. 169Glove Box..................................... 88Power Door.................................. 81Trunk............................................ 86Trunk Pass-through Cover......... 98

Low Coolant Level......................... 172Low Fuel Indicator.......................... 57Low Oil Pressure Indicator.... 54, 285Lubricant Specifications

Chart........................................... 302Luggage.......................................... 176

Maintenance................................... 203Owner Maintenance Checks.... 215Record................................. 213 - 214Required Indicator....................... 61Safety........................................... 204Schedule.............................. 208 - 212

Malfunction Indicator Lamp.. 55, 287Memory, Driving Position............ 101Meters, Gauges................................ 58

CONTINUED

Index

Melhanol in Gasoline.................... 306Mirrors, Adjusting........................... 99Moonroof........................................ 107

Closing Manually....................... 290Operation.................................... 107

Neutral Gear Position.................... 183New Vehicle Break-in ................... 168NOTICE, Explanation of.................... iNumbers, Identification................ 300

Octane Requirement, Gasoline.... 168Odometer.......................................... 59Odometer, Trip................................ 59Oil

Change, How to......................... 219Change, When to....................... 208Checking Engine....................... 171Pressure Indicator............... 54, 285Selecting Proper Viscosity

Chart....................................... 218ON (Ignition Key Position)............ 80

Onboard Refueling VaporRecovery..................................... 308

Opening the Trunk.......................... 86Operation in Foreign Countries... 307Outside Mirrors............................... 99Outside Temperature Indicator..... 59Overheating, Engine..................... 283Owner Maintenance Checks........ 215Oxygenated Fuels.......................... 306

Paint Touch-up............................... 265Panel Brightness Control............... 66Park Gear Position......................... 183Parking............................................ 186Parking Brake................................ 109Parking Brake and Brake

System Indicator.................. 54, 289Parking Lights.................................. 63Parking Over Things that Bum... 310PGM-FI System.............................. 309Polishing and Waxing................... 265Pre-Drive Safety Checklist............. 11Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts.......... 18

Protecting Adults............................. 12Additional Safety Precautions.... 19Advice for Pregnant Women...... 18

Protecting Children......................... 20Protecting Infants........................ 28Protecting Larger Children........ 35Protecting Small Children.......... 32Using Child Seats with

Tethers...................................... 39

Radiator Overheating.................... 283Radio/Cassette Sound System.... 136Readiness Codes............................ 288Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement... 254Rear Seat Armrest........................... 98Rear Ventilation............................. 134Rear View Mirror............................. 99Rear Window Defogger.................. 71Reclining the Seat Backs................ 95Reminder Lights.............................. 53Remote Transmitter........................ 82Replacement Information

Air Cleaner Element.................. 231Air Conditioning Filter.............. 242

Index

Engine Coolant........................... 223Engine Oil and Filter................. 219Fuses........................................... 292Light Bulbs................................. 252Schedule..................................... 206Spark Plugs................................. 233Tires............................................ 247Wiper Blades.............................. 239

Replacing Seat Belts After aCrash............................................. 42

Reserve Tank, Engine Coolant.... 172Reverse Gear Position................... 183Rotation, Tire................................. 246

Safety Belts......................................... 8Safety Defects, Reporting*.......... 317Safety Features.................................. 7

Airbags............................................9Door Locks................................... 10Head Restraints........................... 10Seat Belts........................................ 8Seats & Seat-Backs...................... 10

Safety Labels, Location of.............. 50Safety Messages................................ ii

Seat Belts...................................... 8, 40Additional Information................ 40Advice for Pregnant Women...... 18Automatic Seat BeltTensioner.. 41Child Seat Anchor Plate.............. 39Cleaning...................................... 267Lap/Shoulder Belt....................... 40Maintenance................................. 42Reminder Light and

Beeper................................. 40, 54Replacement................................. 42System Components.................... 40Use During Pregnancy................ 18Wearing a Lap/Shoulder Belt.... 15

Seat Heaters................................... 103Seat Position Memory................... 101Seats, Adjusting the......................... 94Security Alarm System ................. 165Serial Number................................ 300Service Intervals............................ 208Service Manual*............................ 319Service Station Procedures.......... 169Setting the Clock........................... 109Shifting the Automatic

Transmission.............................. 182Shift Lever Position Indicator...... 182

Shift Lock Release......................... 185Side Airbags..................................... 45

How The Side Airbag IndicatorLight Works............................. 47

How Your Side Airbags Work.... 45Side Marker Lights, Bulb

Replacement in.......................... 255Signaling Turns................................ 66Ski Sleeve........................................ 104Snow Tires...................................... 249Solvent-type Cleaners.................... 264Sound System................................. 136Spare Tire

Inflating....................................... 272Specifications............................. 303

Spark Plugs, Replacing................. 233Specifications Charts..................... 302Speed Control................................... 73Speedometer.................................... 58Spotlights........................................ 118

COAT/M/FA)

Index

SRS, Additional Information........... 43Additional Safety Precautions.... 48Automatic Seal Belt

Tensioners...................................41How the SRS indicator Works... 46How Your Airbags Work...... 43, 45SRS Components......................... 43SRS Service.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 48

SRS Indicator.............................. 46, 55START (Ignition Key Position)..... 80Starting the Engine........................ 181

In Cold Weather at HighAltitude................................... 181

With a Dead Battery................. 280State Emissions Testing........... 311

Steam Coming from Engine......... 283Steering Wheel

Adjustments................................. 71Anti-theft Column Lock.............. 80Position Memory....................... 101

Stereo Sound System .................... 136Storing Your Car............................ 261Sun Visor......................................... 114Sunglasses Holder......................... 114

Supplemental RestraintSystem............................. 9, 43, 45

Service Precautions..................... 48Servicing....................................... 48SRS Indicator.......................... 46, 55System Components.................... 43Tensioners, Seat Belts................ 41

Synthetic Oil................................... 218

Tachometer...................................... 58Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....... 256Taking Care of the Unexpected ..271Tape Player............................ 141, 156Technical Descriptions

DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 304Emissions Control Systems...... 308Oxygenated Fuels...................... 306Three Way Catalytic

Converter................................ 310Temperature Gauge........................ 60Tensioners, Seat Bel ts ................... .... 41Tether Anchorage Points............... 39Theft Deterrent System................ 165Theft Protection............................. 164

Three Way Catalytic Converter... 310Time, Setting the........................... 109Timing Belt..................................... 243Tire Chains..................................... 249Tire, How to Change a Flat.......... 273Tires................................................ 243

Air Pressure............................... 244Balancing.................................... 246Checking Wear.......................... 245Compact Spare........................... 272DOT Tire Quality Grading....... 304Inflation....................................... 243Inspection................................... 245Maintenance............................... 246Replacing.................................... 247Rotating....................................... 246Snow............................................ 249Specifications............................. 303

Tools,Tire Changing.................... 273Tom Seat Belts................................ 42Towing

A Trailer...................................... 196By Emergency Wrecker ...........296

TransmissionChecking Fluid Level,

Automatic............................... 228

Index

Fluid Selection............................ 228Identification Number............... 301Shifting the Automatic.............. 182

Treadwear...................................... 304Trip Meter........................................ 59Trunk................................................. 86

Emergency Trunk Opener......... 87Opening the.................................. 86Open Monitor Light.................... 57

Turn Signals..................................... 66

Underside. Cleaning...................... 269Unexpected, Taking Care

of the........................................... 271Uniform Tire Quality Grading..... 304Unleaded Gasoline......................... 168Upholstery Cleaning...................... 267Used Oil, How to Dispose of........ 220

Vanity Mirror................................. 114Vehicle Capacity Load .................. 177Vehicle Dimensions....................... 302

Vehicle Identification Number..... 300Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)

System..................................... 191VSA System Indicator........ 56, 192VSA Activation Indicator.... 56, 191VSA Off Switch.......................... 192

Vehicle Storage.............................. 261Ventilation...................................... 122VIN.................................................. 300Vinyl Cleaning................................ 267Viscosity, Oil................................... 218

WARNING, Explanation of.............. iiWarning Labels, Location of.......... 50Warranty Coverages*................... 316Washer, Windshield

Checking the Fluid Level......... 227Operation...................................... 70

Washing.......................................... 264Waxing and Polishing................... 265Wheels

Adjusting the Steering................ 71Alignment and Balance............. 246Cleaning Aluminum Alloys....... 265

Compact Spare........................... 272Wrench....................................... 274

WindowsCleaning...................................... 267Operating the Power................. 106Rear, Defogger............................ 71

WindshieldCleaning........................................ 68Defroster............................ 128, 133Washers........................................ 70

Wipers, WindshieldChanging Blades........................ 239Operation...................................... 68

Wood Trim..................................... 267Worn Tires..................................... 245Wrecker, Emergency Towing...... 296

* U.S. and Canada only

Service Information Summary

Gasoline:Premium unleaded gasoline,pump octane number of 91 orhigher.

Fuel Tank Capacity:18.0 US gal (68 l ,15.0 Imp gal)

Recommended Engine Oil:API Service SJ "EnergyConserving" oil, SAE 5W-30viscosity (see page 217 ).

Oil change capacity (includingfilter):

4.9 US qt (4.6 l , 4.0 Imp qt)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:Honda ATF-Z1 (AutomaticTransmission Fluid) preferred, ora DEXRON® lll ATF as atemporary replacement (see page228).

Power Steering Fluid:Honda Power Steering Fluidpreferred, or another brand ofpower steering fluid as atemporary replacement. Do notuse ATF (see page 230 ).

Brake Fluid:Honda Heavy Duty Brake FluidDOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 orDOT 4 brake fluid as a temporaryreplacement (see page 230 ).

Tire Pressure (measured cold):Front/Rear:29 psi (200 kPa , 2.0 kgf/cm2)

Spare Tire Pressure:60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm2)

2001 RL Online Reference Owner's Manual...

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Transcript of 2001 RL Online Reference Owner's Manual...