Honda 1990 Civic Hatchback Owner'S Manual Download Page 26

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Buckling the Rear Seat Belts

In the rear seat, there are two one-piece combination lap/shoulder

belts and a center lap belt.

The seat-backs and seat belts provide best restraint when the

occupants are sitting well back and straight up in the seat.

The right and left rear seat belts are one-piece combination lap/

shoulder belts with an emergency locking retractor designed to lock

only during a sudden stop or impact. Otherwise, they allow you
some freedom of movement in the seat.

NOTE:

The emergency locking system of the rear seat belts will also be
activated if you pull the belt too fast. If this happens, release the

belt slightly then pull it out more slowly.

1 .Take hold of the tongue plate and pull the belt across your lap. Be

sure the belt is not twisted or caught on anything.

Pull the belt across your lap

Too high

Take up slack

TONGUE PLATE

Keep below hip bone

2. Push the tongue plate into the buckle until it clicks locked.

Position the belt across your lap, not your abdomen, as low on

your hips as possible.

Avoid placing the lap belt across your abdomen. In the event of a
collision, the pressure of the belt on the abdomen may increase
the extent of injury.

(cont'd)

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Summary of Contents for 1990 Civic Hatchback

Page 1: ...hould know before driving your car Starting Driving 54 What gas to use how to change gears etc Maintenance 68 The Required Maintenance Schedule and some items you can service Emergency Service 103 Changing a flat jump starting towing Specifications 113 Dimensions weights and capacities Consumer Information 119 Reporting Safety Detects warranty service vehicle identification numbers etc Index 128 G...

Page 2: ...blication were in effect at the time of approval for printing Honda Motor Co Ltd reserves the right however to discontinue or change specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any CITY STATE V I N DELIVERY DATE DEALER NAME ADDRESS ZIP CODE Date sold to original retail purchaser DEALER NO ZIP CODE STATE CITY OWNER S SIGNATURE DEALER S SIGNATURE obligation whatever Mai...

Page 3: ...s are not followed means hazards or unsafe practices which could cause minor personal injury or product or property damage NOTE gives helpful information Break in Period During the first 600 miles 1 000 km of driving avoid full throttle starts and cruising for extended periods at a constant speed NOTE This break in procedure also applies to exchanged or overhauled engines During and after the brea...

Page 4: ... up Write down the numbers stamped on your keys and keep the information in your wallet or purse in case you ever need to have duplicates made The keys are double edged so you can insert them in the locks with either edge up Door Locks Hatchback You can lock the doors by pushing the tabs forward Sedan You can lock the doors by pushing the tabs down The doors must be unlocked before you can open th...

Page 5: ...d and unlocked by operating the master door lock switch MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH In addition the passenger doors will lock automatically when the lock tab on the driver s door is pushed down or when the driver s door is locked from the outside with the key UNLOCK LOCK UNLOCK LOCK Main Menu ...

Page 6: ...ockwise The trunk lid opener lever is lockable with the master key MASTER KEY Keep the hatch trunk lid closed while driving to keep poisonous carbon monoxide exhaust fumes out of the interior prolonged exposure can cause unconsciousness that may lead to death Child Proof Door Locks Sedan The child proof door locks are designed to prevent accidental opening of the rear doors To activate the locks p...

Page 7: ... your engine is running at its most economical Gasoline Containing Alcohol If you decide to use a gasoline containing alcohol gasohol be sure its octane rating is at least as high as that recommended for unleaded gasoline There are two types of gasohol that containing ethanol and that containing methanol Do not use gasohol that contains more than 10 ethanol Do not use gasoline containing methanol ...

Page 8: ...Cap Gasoline is extremely flammable and is explosive under certain conditions Perform this operation in a well ventilated area with the engine stopped Do not smoke or allow open flames or sparks in the area or where gasoline is stored The fuel filler door is opened by pulling up on the lever at the left side of the driver s seat The door will lock automatically when closed push it until it clicks ...

Page 9: ...eight to a minimum by removing unnecessary items from the luggage area Whenever possible use fresh air from the dash vents to keep cool when driving open windows or use of the optional air conditioning both affect fuel economy Keep the tires adjusted to the recommended pressure Tire Pressure measured cold STD Hatchback front 240 kPa 35 psi rear 220 kPa 32 psi DX Hatchback front 220 kPa 32 psi rear...

Page 10: ...he key while the car is in motion the steering wheel can lock causing a loss of directional control and an accident could result I ACCESSORY position In this position the accessory circuit is on but the ignition circuit is off If the key is difficult to turn from the 0 to the I position turn the steering wheel slightly to relieve pressure on the lock II ON position This is the normal running posit...

Page 11: ... within 15 seconds or starts but fails to continue to run push the accelerator pedal halfway and hold it there while cranking the engine Once the engine starts release the accelerator gradually as the engine speeds up 3 If it doesn t start within 15 seconds push the accelerator pedal down to the floor and hold it there while cranking in order to clear flooding Try step 2 again Cold Weather at High...

Page 12: ...uring night hours and bad weather Follow at a safe distance don t tailgate Get off the highway when you are tired stop and take a rest When stopping for repairs Park the car well off the road Turn on the hazard warning flasher Use flares or other warning devices to warn other motorists After parking your car Apply the parking brake and shift to first gear if equipped with manual transmission or PA...

Page 13: ...ver at the outside edge of the seat and leaning forward or back Release the lever and let the seat lock into place when it reaches the desired angle Seat belts are most effective when the driver and passenger are sitting up straight and well back in each seat RELEASE LEVER Do not adjust the driver s seat while the car is moving the seat could move suddenly causing loss of vehicle control To reduce...

Page 14: ...ling up to the recommended position To lower them slide the button next to the restraint s height bar while pushing the restraint down The rear head restraints have also several height positions Adjust so the top of the restraint is approximately level with the tops of your ears That relative position may reduce injury due to whiplash in an accident If a head restraint must be removed for cleaning...

Page 15: ...possible to carry long objects inside the car The rear seat back can also be released from inside the trunk by pulling the release When closing the rear seat trunk access push the seat back firmly into place then pull on the top of the seat back to make sure it is secure Passengers or pets must not sit on the folded portion of the rear seat Make sure any luggage or cargo within the trunk or extend...

Page 16: ...o must not exceed the total weight limit on the label Except STD Hatchback Do not store any items on the shelf behind the rear seat they may become dangerous projectiles in a collision Hatchback only Make sure the seat back latches engage securely when the seat back is returned to its normal position When transporting luggage or other cargo do not pile it higher than the front seats This precautio...

Page 17: ...of a collision occupants not wearing seat belts could be seriously or fatally injured Make sure you and all your passengers ALWAYS put on the seat belts before driving away CAUTION Be careful the seat belts are not damaged by catching or entangling in the door or seat mechanism NOTE The front seat belt restraint system is different on the car you use See pages 11 through 14 for the automatic passi...

Page 18: ...t in the seat Always wear the lap belt in addition to the shoulder belt for full protection The shoulder belt portion should remain permanently latched Operation 1 Enter the car and close the door completely Move the seat a comfortable distance from the steering wheel sit as straight up as possible and well back in the seat 2 Turn the ignition ON The shoulder belt buckle will move to its rear lock...

Page 19: ... tongue plate of the lap belt and pull it from its retractor Be sure the belt is not twisted or caught on anything NOTE If pulled too fast the belt will lock If this happens allow the belt to retract then pull it out more slowly 4 Push the tongue plate into the buckle until it clicks locked Position the belt across your lap not your abdomen as low on your hips as possible Pull the belt across your...

Page 20: ...ravel to its off position when the key is removed from the ignition 3 The shoulder belt buckle will also release and travel to its off position when the door is opened Emergency Belt Release The shoulder belt should always remain buckled In case of an emergency however the shoulder belt can be released from the shoulder belt buckle by pushing the button Relatch the shoulder belt before operating t...

Page 21: ...le moves from its front off position to its rear locked position Automatic Shoulder Belt Malfunction Indicator The warning light will flash and the beeper will sound rapidly if either shoulder belt buckle stops before completing its full cycle see page 111 for normal operation NOTE If the shoulder belt s tensioner mechanism locks and prevents the buckle from moving fully forward when you want to g...

Page 22: ...it again more slowly Operation 1 Enter the car and close the door completely If the door is not closed completely the belt will not function properly the warning light on the instrument panel will come on and the beeper will sound when the ignition switch is in the ON position See page 17 Never drive the car with the doors ajar The doors must be closed completely for the front seat belts to functi...

Page 23: ...rm or out of position Such use could increase the chance and amount of injury in an accident Never use one belt for more than one person child or adult Comfort clips sold on the open market are not recommended since they could impair the function and safety of the belts Emergency Belt Release The front belts should remain permanently latched However an emergency release button is provided as shown...

Page 24: ...T UNLATCHED WARNING LIGHT Warning Light Indicators Either Door Open The warning light will come on if either door is open The beeper will sound for approximately six seconds while the light is ON Confirm which door is open and close the door completely If either door is opened while the car is being driven the beeper and all four warning lights will come on Stop the car immediately and close which...

Page 25: ...ight will come on if the passenger s belt is not securely latched the beeper will sound for approximately six seconds Relatch the belt the light should go off If the lights and beeper do not function at all or if they come on even with the belts latched and doors fully closed it indicates a malfunction in the front seat belt system In the event of a collision severe personal injury could result Th...

Page 26: ...mergency locking system of the rear seat belts will also be activated if you pull the belt too fast If this happens release the belt slightly then pull it out more slowly 1 Take hold of the tongue plate and pull the belt across your lap Be sure the belt is not twisted or caught on anything Pull the belt across your lap Too high Take up slack TONGUE PLATE Keep below hip bone 2 Push the tongue plate...

Page 27: ...o fit snugly but comfortably when buckled A slack belt will greatly reduce the protection afforded to the wearer Hold the tongue plate perpendicular to the belt as shown To shorten pull the end of the belt away from the tongue plate To lengthen pull the tongue plate Push the tongue plate into the buckle until it clicks locked Position the belt across your lap not your abdomen as low on your hips a...

Page 28: ...otection against injury All states now have laws which require that small children must be seated in a child passenger seat restraint system Check local laws Before buying a particular child restraint system make sure it fits your car seat and seat belts and fits your child Follow all the instructions that come with the system Children should never ride unrestrained in an automobile Never use an i...

Page 29: ...attachment points specifically for a rear seat mounted child restraint system which uses a top tether The tether attachment points are located on the rear panel beside the taillight bulb inspection cover The automatic lap shoulder restraint system at the front passenger seat cannot be used to secure a child restraint system Instead an optional lap belt must be installed specifically for securing a...

Page 30: ...ure the child seat It will not give enough protection to the child seat and the child on it The optional lap belt is for a child seat only Do not use it for any other purpose When the child restraint system is not in use remove it from the car or secure it with the seat belt to keep it from becoming a projectile in the event of an accident NOTE See your Honda dealer for installation of the optiona...

Page 31: ... Children could be endangered in a crash if their child restraints are not properly secured Follow the child seat manufacturer s instructions when installing the seat Your Honda automobile is equipped with attachment points specifically for a rear seat mounted child restraint system which uses a top tether The tether attachment points are located on the rear tray just behind the rear seat back Whe...

Page 32: ...sure the buckles retractors tongue plates guides and anchors all work properly Don t let anything get inside the buckle or the retractor it could cause latch or retractor failure Cleaning The belts should always be kept clean and dry wet or damp belts can cause rewinding problems To clean the belts pull them all the way out of their retractors and use warm water and a mild soap then let them air d...

Page 33: ...atchback and LX EX Sedan HAZARD WARNING LIGHT SWITCH POWER MIRROR ADJUSTMENT SWITCH LX EX Sedan IGNITION SWITCH GLOVE BOX HEATING COOLING CONTROL PANEL CIGARETTE LIGHTER Except for STD Hatchback ASHTRAY PANEL BRIGHTNESS CONTROL DIAL HORN BUTTON LIGHT SWITCH TURN SIGNAL HI LO BEAM SWITCH FUSE BOX HOOD RELEASE HANDLE Main Menu ...

Page 34: ...GE TRIP METER TRIP METER RESET BUTTON STD DX Hatchback and DX Sedan SHIFT LEVER POSITION INDICATOR Automatic Trans only SPEEDOMETER ODOMETER COOLANT TEMPERATURE GAUGE FUEL GAUGE SHIFT LEVER POSITION INDICATOR Automatic Trans only FUEL GAUGE TRIP METER TRIP METER RESET BUTTON Main Menu ...

Page 35: ...ng of the RED ZONE indicates the maximum allowable engine R P M Do not run the engine with the tachometer indicator needle in the RED ZONE Fuel Gauge FUEL TANK CAPACITY 45 11 9 US gal 9 9 Imp gal As a convenience the gauge continues to show the same fuel level as when the ignition was last on After refueling the gauge will slowly change to the new fuel level when the ignition is switched on When t...

Page 36: ...n Signal Hazard Warning Indicator Lights When the turn signal lever is pushed for left or right turns the appropriate green indicator arrow on the instrument panel will blink along with the signal Turning on the hazard warning switch will make all four turn signals and both arrows blink see page 36 and 37 Headlight High Beam Indicator Light This blue indicator light will go on whenever the high be...

Page 37: ...rectly an oil level indicator CAUTION Running the engine while the oil pressure warning light is on constantly may cause immediate and severe engine damage Charging System Warning Light The charging system warning light comes on when there is a problem with the electrical charging system or when the ignition switch is turned on with the engine not running If the light comes on while driving stop t...

Page 38: ...hen the ignition switch is turned to III If the light goes on at any other time it means the brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir is too low add fluid and have your dealer check for leaks and brake pad wear immediately See page 84 Hatchback Seat Belt Reminder Light The seat belt reminder light comes on for about six seconds when the ignition switch is turned on see pages 13 and 17 Ha...

Page 39: ...n all the way down and hold it while adjusting the steering wheel to the desired position Push down 2 To lock the steering wheel hold it in the desired position and pull the lever all the way up Do not adjust the steering wheel position white driving After adjusting the steering wheel position make sure it is securely locked in place by rocking it up and down slightly Pull up Main Menu ...

Page 40: ...of the wipers The wipers will return to the rest position and the motor will shut off as soon as you release the lever Push down Windshield Washer Pull the wiper switch lever toward you to turn on the washer Check the washer fluid regularly especially during bad weather or whenever the washer has been in frequent use PULL WASHER FLUID RESERVOIR WINDSHIELD WASHER RESERVOIR CAPACITY 2 5 2 6 US qt 2 ...

Page 41: ...k Switch to ON to activate the rear wiper Turn and hold the switch one more step clockwise to to activate the washer and wiper or turn and hold the switch one step counter clockwise from O F F to activate to washer only The rear washer uses the same fluid reservoir as the front washer WASHER Rear Window Defogger Push the switch to turn the defogger on or off The indicator will light when the defog...

Page 42: ...y or night position The outside mirror can be adjusted by moving the knob on the inside of the driver s door DAY NIGHT ADJUSTMENT TAB On the LX EX Sedan With the ignition switch in the I I position move the main switch to L for driver s side or R for passenger s side then use the adjustment switch to adjust the mirror to the correct angle After the mirrors have been adjusted return the main switch...

Page 43: ...than usual or does not light up at all check for a burned out bulb or fuse LEFT TURN Headlights Turn the light switch to the first position for taillights side marker lights position lights license plate lights and instrument panel lights Turn to the second position to add the headlights FIRST POSITION Turn SECOND POSITION High Beam Low Beam Switch The headlights may be switched between low beam a...

Page 44: ... again to turn the system off Panel Brightness Control When the light switch is in either of the two ON positions the intensity of the instrument lights can be adjusted by turning the panel brightness control dial Interior Light The interior light has a three position switch The light is off all the time in the OFF position In the middle position it goes on only when a door is opened In the ON pos...

Page 45: ... The luggage area light has a two position switch In the first position it is OFF all the time in the second position it goes ON only when the hatch or trunk lid is opened Sedan The trunk compartment light goes on when the trunk lid is opened Hatchback ON OFF Main Menu ...

Page 46: ... SET switch is the speed the Cruise Control will hold You can then fine tune the set speed by briefly holding and releasing the SET switch to decrease it a few mph or pushing the RESUME switch to slightly increase it To Cancel the Cruise Control Push the CRUISE CONTROL master switch and the indicator light will go off this also erases the memory of the set speed If you must temporarily disengage t...

Page 47: ...onally When you want to return to the set speed take your foot off the accelerator and coast without applying the brakes The Cruise Control automates the function of the accelerator pedal to maintain your car at a constant speed This can be a convenience on long trips but it can also be a danger if there are many other cars on the road or if the road is unfamiliar Pay strict attention to the respo...

Page 48: ...nt center of the hood by pushing the rubber tipped handle up Lift the hood and prop it open with the support rod To close take the support rod down and return it to its clip then lower the hood until it is approximately one foot from the closed position then let it drop Be sure the hood is securely latched before driving away SUPPORT ROD Pull to release Push up Main Menu ...

Page 49: ...e time on the clock is before the half hour pressing the RESET button will return the time to the previous hour If the time is beyond the half hour the RESET button will change the time to the next hour NOTE Be careful not to push the HOUR MIN or RESET buttons accidentally Pushing any of them will change the clock s time setting Glove Box Open by pushing the knob as shown Close with a firm push Do...

Page 50: ... by the passengers using the switch located on the passenger door When opening or closing a window push and hold the switch in either the up or down direction until the window reaches the desired position then release NOTE The driver s window can be opened fully without the driver having to hold the switch down simply by pushing the switch past the first stop Be sure before closing any window that...

Page 51: ...pring loaded plate inside To install reverse the removal procedure Rear Ashtray The rear ashtray is located at the end of the center console It is opened by pulling out the top edge To remove it open the ashtray and release its bottom edge by pulling up then out To install reverse the removal procedure CAUTION Do not use the ashtrays as trash containers use them only for extinguished cigarettes Pu...

Page 52: ...low through ventilation system can provide fresh air to the interior when the car is moving or stopped even with the windows closed NOTE For proper air flow the flow through vents must not be covered Keep the air inlet at the base of the windshield free of leaves or other debris AIR INLET AIR OUTLET You can adjust the controls to direct cool or warm outside air throughout the car for defogging win...

Page 53: ...m the outside by sliding the corner vent lever below it to the right and shutting it off from the heater and air conditioner system The louvers in the corner and center vents can be tilted up or down and right or left to change the direction of air flow CENTER VENTS SIDE DEFROSTER OUTLET CORNER VENT WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER OUTLETS CORNER VENT CORNER VENT LEVER REAR FLOOR OUTLETS Sedan only FRONT FLOO...

Page 54: ...ct outside air or recirculated inside air to and from the heater air conditioner and vents Temperature Control Dial Turn the dial clockwise to make air warmer with the function lever in any position Air Conditioner Switch optional With the fan on push the A C switch to operate the air conditioner the indicator light will come on Push the switch again to turn the air conditioner off cont d TEMPERAT...

Page 55: ...tion simply slide the lever to the position NOTE The windows may become fogged if the system is in the position for an extended period of time with the air conditioner off As soon as the interior is warmed slide the lever to the position How to Use the Controls To Ventilate Turn the temperature control dial counterclockwise slide the recirculation lever to the position and the function lever to th...

Page 56: ... lever to the position so inside air will recirculate to the air conditioner for maximum cooling When the interior has cooled sufficiently switch the fan to the desired speed then slide the recirculation lever to to direct fresh outside air to the air conditioner When using the air conditioner in heavy traffic or while driving up long hills watch the coolant temperature gauge if the needle moves n...

Page 57: ...ndows may become fogged if the system is in the position for an extended period of time As soon as the interior is warmed slide the lever to the position To Dehumidify with optional air conditioner Because an air conditioner dehumidifies as it works you can use it in cool or cold weather to help defog the windows Just switch the fan on push the A C button on select the desired function and adjust ...

Page 58: ...shield and side defroster vents Use the position only To Turn Everything OFF Slide all levers to the left turn the temperature control dial counterclockwise all the way and push the A C switch off NOTE This setting should only be used in cold weather for the first few minutes of driving to prevent cold air from blowing into the cabin Under normal operating conditions the fan should always be kept ...

Page 59: ...n the event of a collision or sudden application of the brakes severe personal injury could result To avoid the possibility of injury while closing the sunroof never allow any part of your body to extend through the opening CAUTION Operating the sunroof in severe cold or when it is covered with snow or ice may cause damage to the sunroof Sunshade As well as the sunroof there is a sliding sunshade ...

Page 60: ...rn the wrench counterclockwise until the roof closes and seats into its locked position about ten turns 4 Replace the plug Maintenance Periodically pour a little water down the front corner drain holes to make sure they are not plugged If they are free water should drop on the ground behind each front wheel CAUTION Do not put weight on the sunroof or force it open or closed you may damage the mech...

Page 61: ...e If you must drive under these conditions drive only with all windows fully open Do not drive with the hatch trunk yd open An open hatch trunk may draw exhaust gases into the passenger compartment If you must drive with the hatch trunk open drive only with all the windows wide open Do not run the engine in confined areas such as garages any longer than necessary to move the car in or out If you m...

Page 62: ...electing reverse On 5 speed transmissions a safety lockout prevents accidental shifting straight from 5th to Reverse Avoid rapid acceleration or sudden deceleration when either or both driving wheels are on a slippery surface Decreased traction could cause loss of directional control Clutch Pedal Adjustment Clutch pedal free travel must be adjusted periodically to compensate for lining wear There ...

Page 63: ...ting the 4 or 5 Speed cont d Recommended Shift Speeds For best fuel economy and effective emission control shift at the speeds shown for your car DX Hatchback and Sedan Si Hatchback STD Hatchback Main Menu ...

Page 64: ...Maximum Allowable Speeds The speeds shown below are the maximum at which the car can be driven or downshifted in each gear without over revving the engine Main Menu ...

Page 65: ...rst and push the button then shift Push the button then shift Shift as desired Depress button Insert If you cannot shift out of Park with the brake pedal depressed and the ignition switch in the II position 1 Turn the ignition switch off and remove the key 2 Insert the key in the Shift Lock Release located to the right of the shift lever 3 Press and hold the key down then press the button on the s...

Page 66: ...ke an extra shift as the clutch engages CAUTION Shift into P only after the car has come to a complete stop Shift into or out of R only after the car has come to a complete stop Do not rev up the engine when the brake is on and the shift lever is in D4 D3 2 or R When stopped on a hill use the brakes to hold your position not the accelerator pedal Do not shift from N or P into D4 D3 2 or R when the...

Page 67: ...ly shift down according to load and engine speed This applies to both load and engine speed This applies to both D4 and D3 ranges 2 2nd Use 2nd gear for increased engine braking when driving downhill and increased power when driving uphill also for driving on slippery roads and freeing the car from mud or sand where 1st gear could provide too much power and cause skidding or wheel spin The maximum...

Page 68: ...k of maintenance will not be covered under warranty The Required Maintenance Schedule specifies all maintenance required to keep your car in peak operating condition Work should be done by an authorized Honda dealer but may be done by any qualified service facility or individual who is competent in this type of work Maintenance replacement or repair of emission control devices and systems may be d...

Page 69: ...3 Tires for correct pressures including spare inspect for cuts and uneven or excessive wear Rotate every 7 500 miles 12 000 km in the pattern shown on page 95 4 Steering for excessive play or vibration while driving 5 Exhaust system for leaks or loose mounts 6 Wipers for operation of windshield wipers and washer and condition of wiper blades 7 Seat belts for condition of fabric and buckles and ope...

Page 70: ...Maintenance Schedule and Records cont d Check oil and coolant level at each fuel stop Under severe driving conditions service those items twice as often See page 72 Main Menu ...

Page 71: ...Required Maintenance Record Have your servicing dealer record all Required Maintenance below Keep receipts for all work done on your car cont d Main Menu ...

Page 72: ...ving conditions include A Repeated short distance driving B Driving in dusty conditions C Driving in severe cold weather D Driving in areas using road salt or other corrosive materials E Driving on rough and or muddy roads R Replace I Inspect After inspection clean adjust repair or replace if necessary Non Scheduled Maintenance Record Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or ...

Page 73: ...Main Menu ...

Page 74: ...ions AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK ENGINE OIL FILLER CAP RADIATOR CAP ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK WASHER FLUID RESERVOIR CAP RADIATOR RESERVE TANK CAP POWER STEERING FLUID RESERVOIR BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR Main Menu ...

Page 75: ...e Add oil then check the level again Do not overfill 2 Reinstall the cap and twist clockwise until it stops CAUTION Be sure the oil filler cap is correctly replaced before starting the engine Engine oil is a major factor affecting the performance and service life of the engine you should use only a premium quality detergent oil labeled SG grade Some oil labels may also include additional designati...

Page 76: ...ne then shut it off 2 Remove the engine oil filler cap and drain bolt and drain the oil A warmed up engine and the oil in it are hot be careful not to burn yourself 3 Remove the oil filter and let the remaining oil drain out 4 Install a new filter according to instructions on or with the filter 5 Reinstall the drain bolt with a new washer and tighten it securely Refill the engine with the recommen...

Page 77: ...nt We suggest you take it in a sealed container to your local service station for reclamation Do not throw it in the trash or pour it on the ground CAUTION Used motor oil may cause skin cancer if repeatedly left in contact with the skin for prolonged periods Although this is unlikely unless you handle used oil on a daily basis it is still advisable to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water...

Page 78: ...h oil fluid levels in one procedure Change transmission oil fluid according to the Maintenance Schedule on page 70 Manual Remove the oil filler bolt beside the right axle Feel inside the bolt hole with your finger If the oil is up to the bottom edge of the hole the oil level is correct If it is not slowly add oil until it runs out of the hole then reinstall the bolt and tighten it securely with a ...

Page 79: ...using Remove the dipstick and wipe it off DIPSTICK UPPER LOWER Insert the dipstick and remove it The fluid level should be between the upper and lower marks If necessary add fluid and recheck Use only DEXRON II Automatic Transmission Fluid A T F when adding or changing fluid After checking the fluid level push the dipstick in securely AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID CHANGE CAPACITY 2 4 2 5 US qt 2 1 ...

Page 80: ...less than 50 coolant may not provide sufficient protection against corrosion and freezing Concentrations of greater than 60 coolant will impair cooling efficiency and are not recommended Low mineral drinking water or distilled water should be mixed with the antifreeze coolant Coolant loss should be replenished by a mixture containing the proper concentration of antifreeze and water Do not mix diff...

Page 81: ...ounterclockwise Add enough coolant to fill the radiator and reinstall the cap Be sure to tighten it securely Fill the reserve tank up to the MAX mark with the engine cold Maintenance 1 Check the freeze protection level of the coolant with a hydrometer 2 Keep the front of the radiator free of dirt and debris 3 Check hoses and hose clamps regularly Replacing Coolant Replace coolant at 36 months or 4...

Page 82: ...curely 6 Mix the recommended antifreeze with an equal amount of low mineral or distilled water and fill the reservoir to maximum as illustrated 7 Loosen the air bleed bolt in the thermostat housing then fill the radiator to the filler neck with the coolant mixture Tighten the bleed bolt as soon as coolant starts to run out in a steady stream without bubbles 8 With the radiator cap off start the en...

Page 83: ...stems if you suspect brake trouble Driving through deep water may affect the brakes Check their effectiveness by pressing the brake pedal gently If the car does not slow down at the normal rate continue gently applying the brakes while maintaining a safe speed until they dry out and normal performance returns Do not ride the brakes In other words don t put your foot on the brake pedal unless you i...

Page 84: ...ervoir periodically it should be between the MAX and MIN marks on the reservoir If the level is near the MIN mark add fluid to raise it to the MAX mark Do not overfill Use only brake fluid manufactured to DOT 3 or DOT 4 specifications see reservoir cap from a sealed container Follow the manufacturer s instructions printed on the can NOTE A low brake fluid level may be an indication of brake pad we...

Page 85: ... effort will be required particularly in sharp turns at low speed NOTE You may feel a slight clunk or knock when turning the wheel with the engine off This is a normal condition due to the design of the system RESERVOIR CAP Power Steering Fluid Check the power steering fluid level with the engine cold and the car parked on level ground Make sure the fluid level is between the upper and lower marks...

Page 86: ...he air filter cover Replace the filter Reinstall the cover and screws securely SCREWS FILTER Fuel Filters The fuel filter is located in the engine compartment on the right center of the firewall It should be replaced at 60 000 miles 96 000 km or 48 months whichever comes first or any time you suspect contaminated gas may have clogged it CAUTION Because the fuel system is under pressure the filter ...

Page 87: ...nect the spark plug cap then remove and discard the old plug 3 Check the gap of the new spark plugs before installation Plug gap should be 1 1 mm 0 04 in 4 Thread the new spark plug in by hand to prevent cross threading 5 After the plug seats against the cylinder head tighten 1 2 turn with a spark plug wrench to compress the washer 6 Reinstall the spark plug cap CAUTION The spark plugs must be sec...

Page 88: ...ab in then pushing the blade toward the base of the arm METAL SUPPORT 2 Firmly grasp the end of the blade rubber and pull until the tabs are free of the metal support TABS 3 Remove the metal retainers from the worn out blade rubber and put them in a new blade rubber RETAINERS 4 Insert the new blade rubber from the opposite side of the blade tabs and position the tabs in the metal support Press Loc...

Page 89: ...p sparks flames and cigarettes away Provide adequate ventilation when charging or using the battery in an enclosed space The battery contains sulfuric acid electrolyte Contact with skin or eyes may cause severe burns Wear protective clothing and a face shield If electrolyte gets on your skin flush with water If electrolyte gets in your eyes flush with water for at least 15 minutes and call a physi...

Page 90: ... listed inside the box Hatchback Sedan Sedan The fuses for automatic shoulder belt buckle motor are installed on the terminal of the battery If any of your car s lights accessories or controls don t work check their fuses If a fuse has blown the wire inside it will be burned through BLOWN FUSE REMOVER Pull down Main Menu ...

Page 91: ...rrected by a qualified Honda technician Never replace a fuse with anything but another fuse of the same or lower rating A higher capacity fuse could cause damage and even start a fire The main fuse and some primary fuses are installed on the right front fender beside the battery If the circuits from the battery are ever overloaded by a short in the system drawing too much current for example the m...

Page 92: ...Bulb Replacement NOTE See pages 115 and 118 for bulb specifications Front turn signal lights Front side marker and turn signal lights position lights License plate lights Back up lights Sedan Main Menu ...

Page 93: ...e marker turn signal brake taillights and back up lights Back up lights Hatchback only Hatchback Interior light Sedan Luggage area light except for STD Hatchback High mount brake lamp Hatchback Sedan Main Menu ...

Page 94: ...e a month including the spare Lower pressure than recommended lets the tread and sidewalls flex too much causing increased tire temperatures uneven wear and poor handling Pressure higher than recommended can make the tire too stiff increasing the chance of damage from road hazards and also causing uneven wear CAUTION Check tire pressure when the tires are cold After the car has been parked for mor...

Page 95: ...d drive at less than 19 mph 30km h on roads covered with snow or ice To minimize tire and chain wear avoid driving on cleared roads with chains installed CAUTION Improper installation or loose tire chains may damage your car s chassis and fenders NOTE Keep the manufacturer s installation instructions in your glove box for future reference Tire Rotation Tires may wear unevenly when used for a long ...

Page 96: ... on worn out or under inflated tires is very hazardous and will reduce braking effectiveness steering accuracy and traction When replacing tires use only the recommended tire size Wheel rim widths and offsets must be those recommended by American Honda Motor Co Inc Contact the Zone Office nearest you as shown on the inside of the back cover Tires and wheels other than those recommended may be unsa...

Page 97: ...sily damaged do not bend them with the high water pressure or brush Compressor Drive Belt Check the compressor belt tension monthly during periods when you use the air conditioner a lot If the engine has been running some engine components may be hot enough to burn you When pushed with 98 N 22 Ib of force midway between the compressor drive pulley and the engine crankshaft pulley the belt should d...

Page 98: ...side of the compressor and to verify that the system is functional If the air conditioner is not cooling properly it may indicate an undercharged system Have your dealer check the system for leaks then evacuate and charge the system with refrigerant 12 Charging quantity 850 950 g 30 1 33 6 oz CAUTION Prolonged use of an undercharged system may damage the compressor Main Menu ...

Page 99: ...tally along the wires not up and down Dry the windows with a lint free cloth or paper towel Keep all the windows clean for maximum visibility Exterior Care Washing Rinse all loose dirt off the car by spraying it with lukewarm or cold water Do not use hot water Wash using a soft bristle brush sponge or cloth with water containing a mild detergent such as a liquid dishwashing detergent Remove oil ta...

Page 100: ...in holes become clogged Water which seeps under or soaks floor mats will subject floor sections to prolonged wetness or dampness Road dirt or sand which collects and fills recesses on the underside of the car retains moisture long after the rest of the car has dried The removal of paint and undercoating by stones gravel and minor accidents immediately exposes metal to air and moisture Rusting is i...

Page 101: ...ear suspension inside rear wheel housing and under rear bumper After washing your car or after heavy rain check for leaks While checking for leaks lift the floor mats in the passenger cargo and spare tire areas and check beneath them Water can collect in these areas and remain unseen for prolonged periods Dry any wet areas of your car s interior Remove and dry wet floor mats Have leaks repaired as...

Page 102: ...nditions may apply There is no assurance that imitation parts will equal the fit and finish of Genuine Honda sheet metal parts and in our experience they often do not There is no assurance that imitation parts will resist corrosion as well as Genuine Honda sheet metal parts Imitation sheet metal parts are not covered by the Honda Limited Warranty To ensure your continued satisfaction with your Hon...

Page 103: ...there is a leak more rapidly check its pressure often and add air gradually if it needs any The COMPACT spare tire has a different tire size air pressure requirement tread life and maximum speed rating than the four regular tires on your car Disregarding these warnings may result in tire failure loss of vehicle control and possible injury to vehicle occupants Do not exceed 50 mph 80 km h under any...

Page 104: ... COMPACT spare tire and wheel set was designed especially for your car do not use it on any other vehicle do not install any other tire on this wheel which is not identical to the original in size and construction and do not use the COMPACT spare tire on any other wheel Because the COMPACT spare is smaller in size and higher in air pressure than a regular tire it will ride more harshly with less g...

Page 105: ...ARE JACK COMPACT SPARE 2 Remove the spare tire 3 Place blocks in front and back of the wheel diagonally opposite the tire you are changing 4 Use the lug wrench jack handle to loosen the wheel lug nuts counterclockwise one half turn Follow tire changing preparations and procedures carefully to reduce the possibility of injury The jack is designed for changing tires only STAND CLEAR DO NOT get under...

Page 106: ... on the end of the jack and install the lug wrench jack handle Turn the lug wrench jack handle clockwise until the tire is slightly off the ground JACK HANDLE EXTENSION LUG WRENCH JACK HANDLE 7 Remove the center cap by turning the lock to 90 Center cap EX Sedan 8 Remove the lug nuts wheel cover and wheel Wheel cover Si Hatchback and LX EX Sedan 9 Install the spare tire and install the lug nuts han...

Page 107: ...verify the torque as soon as possible 12 Repair or replace the damaged tire as soon as you can then reinstall it in its original position on the car and put the spare back in the car CAUTION Always stow the jack tools and tire securely to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles in an accident 13 Secure the tire and the spacer as shown in the illustration COMPACT SPARE DAMAGED TIRE TIGHTEN...

Page 108: ...tart until the fluid thaws CAUTION If jumper cables are connected backwards the car s main fuse may blow 1 Turn off all lights heater and other electrical loads set parking brake and shift transmission to Neutral or Park 2 Use one cable to connect the positive terminal of the booster battery to the positive terminal of the dead battery 3 Use the other cable to connect the negative terminal of the ...

Page 109: ...ge 78 79 and tow with the transmission in neutral N and the ignition key in the I position CAUTION To avoid serious damage on automatic transmission cars first start the engine and shift to D4 then to N and shut the engine off If the engine does not run or the transmission cannot be shifted while the engine is running the car must be transported on flat bed equipment Check local regulations for to...

Page 110: ...nd allow the wheels to spin freely at high speed Severe transmission damage may result if the wheels are allowed to spin for more than a few seconds DO NOT try to free a car with automatic transmission from snow etc by rocking the car alternately between forward and reverse gears Severe transmission damage may result from shifting into gear with the wheels moving Main Menu ...

Page 111: ...der belt buckle motor that does not work LEFT MOTOR RIGHT MOTOR 3 If the fuse has blown replacing it with a new fuse of the same amperage should allow the shoulder belt buckle motor to work However if the fuse hasn t blown or if a new fuse did not solve the problem remove the fuse and operate the motor manually BLOWN CAUTION Always remove the fuse before manually operating the shoulder belt buckle...

Page 112: ...ocket and turn it counterclockwise until the shoulder belt buckle reaches its rear locked position WRENCH EXTENSION WRENCH WRENCH GRIP NOTE After the manual operation make sure that the seat belt warning light is off and the shoulder belt buckle is seated properly in its locked position 6 Replace the cover on the center pillar 7 Reinstall the fuse the fuse remover and both fuse box covers Main Men...

Page 113: ...chback 1 Excluding the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine 0 4 0 11 US gal 0 09 Imp gal 2 Excluding the oil remaining in the engine but including that remaining in the oil filter cont d Main Menu ...

Page 114: ...Specifications Hatchback cont d page 87 Main Menu ...

Page 115: ...Main Menu ...

Page 116: ...s Sedan 1 Excluding the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine 0 4 0 11 US gal 0 09 Imp gal 2 Excluding the oil remaining in the engine but including that remaining in the oil filter Main Menu ...

Page 117: ... cont d page 87 Main Menu ...

Page 118: ...Specifications Sedan cont d Main Menu ...

Page 119: ...ovided in bar code on the Certification label Hatchback Sedan VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER CERTIFICATION LABEL CERTIFICATION LABEL AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER ENGINE NUMBER The Engine Number is stamped on the right front side of the engine block The Transmission Number appears on a label on the top edge of the transmission where it attach...

Page 120: ...ell on the government course as a tire graded 100 The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use however and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate Traction The traction grades from highest to lowest are A B and C and they represent the tire s ability to stop...

Page 121: ...e temperature can lead to sudden tire failure The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No 109 Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law The tire temperature grade is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overlo...

Page 122: ... in writing the operation and maintenance of their emission control systems Maintenance instructions are included on pages 68 73 the operation of each system is explained on the following pages Replacement Parts The emission control systems on your new Honda were designed built and certified to conform with the Federal regulations implementing the Clean Air Act Honda recommends only the use of new...

Page 123: ...ke Electronic Control and Fuel Control thus allowing more accurate control of air fuel ratios under all operating conditions The Electronic Control Unit ECU detects the amount of air drawn into the cylinders and determines the amount of fuel to be injected to provide the optimum air fuel ratio for all engine needs Ignition Timing Control System This system automatically controls the ignition timin...

Page 124: ... explained on page 54 CAUTION The converter can be overheated and damaged if it s fed too much unburned fuel mixture from the engine so Don t push or tow the car to start it if the battery is dead jump start the car as shown on page 108 Don t turn the key off while the engine is running above idle speed Don t change the ignition timing or remove any emission control parts Use only the spark plugs ...

Page 125: ...u should review the matter with that dealership s Service Manager This will normally resolve your problem If it does not resolve your problem you should appeal the decision with the owner of the dealership Please bear in mind that your problem will likely be resolved at the dealership using the dealer s facilities equipment and personnel So it is very important that your initial contact be with th...

Page 126: ...y open an investiga tion and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles it may order a recall and remedy campaign However NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you your dealer or American Honda Motor Co Inc To contact NHTSA you may either call the Auto Safe ty Hotline toll free at 1 800 424 9393 or 366 0123 in Washington D C area or write to NHTSA U S Depa...

Page 127: ... most mechanically inclined owners to understand An Electrical Troubleshooting Manual is also available for your car This manual complements the Service Manual by providing in depth troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit in your car You can purchase these manuals through your Honda dealer s Parts Department Main Menu ...

Page 128: ...pecification Hatchback 115 Specification Sedan 118 Buzzer See Beeper System Capacities Hatch back 113 Capacities Sedan 116 Care and Cleaning 99 Catalytic Converter 124 Certification Label 119 Chains Tires 95 Check Engine Warning Light 31 Child Proof Door Locks 5 Child Restraint System 21 Cigarette Lighter 44 Clock 42 Clutch Pedal Adjustment 61 Compact Spare Tire 103 Coolant Temperature Gauge 28 Co...

Page 129: ...h 5 Hatch Trunk open Indicator Light 31 Hazard Warning System 37 Headlights Flasher 36 High Beam Indicator 29 High Beam Low Beam Switch 36 Switch 36 Headlight High Beam Indicator Light 29 Head Restraints 7 Heating 50 High Beam Indicator Light 29 Switch 36 Hood Latch 41 Identification Numbers 119 Ignition Keys 3 Switch 57 Indicator Lights 29 Inflation Pressures Tire 94 Instrument Panel 26 Instrumen...

Page 130: ...5 Transmission Oil Fluid 78 Operation In Foreign Countries 55 Panel Brightness Control 37 Parking Brake 42 Passive Belt 10 PGM FI Check Engine Warning Light 31 System 124 Power Door Locks 4 Mirrors 35 Steering 85 Windows 43 Pregnant Women 25 Pressures Tire Inflation 94 Preventive Service 101 Radiator Coolant 80 Rear Seat 8 Rearview Mirrors 35 Rear Window Defogger 34 Rear Window Wiper 34 Reminder L...

Page 131: ...53 Maintenance 53 Operation 52 Sunshade 52 Tachometer 28 Temperature Gauge Coolant 28 Tilt Steering 32 Tire Air Pressure 94 Balancing 96 Chains 95 Chaning a Flat Tire 105 COMPACT Spare 103 DOT Tire Quality Grades 120 Inflation Pressures 94 Requirement 94 Rotation 95 Snow Tire 95 Spare Tire 103 Specification Hatchback 114 Specification Sedan 117 Tools 105 Towing 109 Transmission Capacity 79 Identif...

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Summary of Contents for 1990 Civic Hatchback

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Honda 1990 Civic Hatchback, Owner'S Manual, Page: 26 / 131

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Summary of Contents for 1990 Civic Hatchback

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