Honda 1996 Civic Coupe Owner'S Manual Download Page 138

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Cooling System

8. Put the cap on the radiator, only

tighten it to the first stop. Start the
engine and let it run until it warms
up (the radiator cooling fan comes
on at least twice).

9. Turn off the engine. Check the

level in the radiator, add coolant if
needed. Install the radiator cap,
tighten it fully.

10. Fill the reserve tank to the MAX

mark. Install the reserve tank cap.

Maintenance

RESERVE TANK

Removing the radiator cap

while the engine is hot can
cause the coolant to spray out,
seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and

radiator cool down before
removing the radiator cap.

Main Menu

Table of Contents

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Summary of Contents for 1996 Civic Coupe

Page 1: ...e and how to load luggage and other cargo Driving 99 The proper way to start the engine shift the transmission and park plus towing a trailer Maintenance 119 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when yo...

Page 2: ...refer to it at any time Several warranties protect your new Honda Read the warranty booklet thoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rights and responsibilities Maintaining yo...

Page 3: ...or CAUTION These mean You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don t follow instructions You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don t follow instructions You CAN be HURT if you don t follow ins...

Page 4: ...sh 12 Important Facts About Airbags 13 How the Driver s Airbag Works 14 How the Passenger s Airbag Works 15 How the SRS Indicator Light Works 16 System Service 16 System Service Precautions 17 Additio...

Page 5: ...ng the seat back can decrease the effec tiveness of your seat belt Head restraints can help protect your neck and head especially during rear end impacts Door locks help keep your doors from being acc...

Page 6: ...rger children All infants and small children must be properly restrained in child safety seats see page 20 A pregnant woman needs to wear a seat belt to protect herself and her unborn child see page 1...

Page 7: ...belt that goes over your shoulder across your chest and across your hips Each lap shoulder belt has an emergency locking retractor In normal driving the retractor lets you move freely in your seat whi...

Page 8: ...elts properly Wearing a Lap Shoulder Belt Before putting on the seat belt move the driver s seat as far back as is practical while still allowing you to maintain full control of the vehicle Make sure...

Page 9: ...that the belt is not twisted 3 Position the lap portion of the belt as low as possible across your hips not across your stomach This lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash 4 Pull up o...

Page 10: ...sh the red PRESS button on the buckle Guide the belt across your body to the door pillar After you exit the vehicle make sure the seat belt is out of the way and will not get closed in the door Wearin...

Page 11: ...elt to adjust for a snug but comfortable fit To unlatch the belt push the red PRESS button on the buckle Advice for Pregnant Women Protecting the mother is the best way to protect her unborn child The...

Page 12: ...ety you should check the condition of your seat belts regularly Pull out each belt fully and look for frays cuts burns and wear Check that the latches work smoothly and the lap shoulder belts retract...

Page 13: ...tem Emergency backup power in case your car s electrical system is disconnected in a crash What Happens In a Crash If you ever have a severe frontal collision the sensors will detect rapid deceleratio...

Page 14: ...deflate only once They cannot protect you during any additional impacts that can occur during a crash sequence Injuries including fatal injuries can occur in a severe collision even if seat belts are...

Page 15: ...sions or other injuries To reduce the possibility of injury you should always sit back as far from the steering wheel as is practical while still maintaining full vehicle control After the bag complet...

Page 16: ...nt seat passenger who is not in the proper position and wearing the seat belt properly Front seat passengers should move the seat as far back as practical and sit well back in the seat We strongly rec...

Page 17: ...the airbag may not work when needed in an accident Take the car to your dealer promptly for diagnosis and service System Service Your supplemental restraint system is virtually maintenance free There...

Page 18: ...r car that you have a supplemental restraint system Failure to follow the procedures and precautions in the official Honda service manual could result in personal injury or damage to the system Scrapp...

Page 19: ...tion from the seat belts If you recline a seat back you reduce the protective capability of your seat belt The farther a seat back is reclined the greater the risk that you will slide under the belt i...

Page 20: ...njure his knees For information on loading cargo see page 98 Driving with Pets Loose pets can be a hazard while you are driving An unrestrained pet can interfere with your ability to drive the car In...

Page 21: ...ever possible you secure your child s infant or toddler seat in the center position of the rear seat with the lap belt We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger s...

Page 22: ...r seat Important Safety Reminders Never hold a baby or child on your lap when riding in a car If you are wearing your seat belt the violent forces created during a crash will tear the child from your...

Page 23: ...of a lap shoulder belt A child whose seat is not properly secured to the car can be endangered in a crash To properly route a seat belt through a child seat follow the seat maker s instructions If you...

Page 24: ...Restraining a Child Who Weighs Between 9 and 18 kg 20 and 40 Ibs Toddler seats are designed for children who weigh between 9 and 18 kg 20 and 40 Ibs The preferred place to put a toddler seat is in th...

Page 25: ...f booster seats are available We recommend a design that allows the child to use the car s lap shoulder belt Whichever style you select follow the booster seat manufacturer s instructions Securing a C...

Page 26: ...t retract easily pull it out and check for twists or kinks Using Child Restraints with Tethers Your Honda has three attachment points for tether style child seats Select the attachment point you want...

Page 27: ...e bolt The supplied anchor plate is designed only for mounting a child restraint Do not use it for any other purpose Storing a Child Seat When you are not using an infant seat or other child restraint...

Page 28: ...are going to be drinking make plans to ride with a friend who will not be drinking What if you find that you ve been drinking and cannot get a ride from a friend Find alternative transpor tation Call...

Page 29: ...only long enough to move the car out of the garage With the trunk lid open air flow can pull exhaust gas into your car s interior and create a hazardous condition If you must drive with the trunk lid...

Page 30: ...of potential hazards that could cause serious injury Read these labels carefully and don t remove them If a label comes off or becomes hard to read contact your Honda dealer for a replacement Driver a...

Page 31: ...41 Instrument Panel Brightness 42 Turn Signals 42 Windshield Wipers 43 Windshield Washers 43 Hazard Warning 44 Rear Window Defogger 44 Steering Wheel Adjustment 45 Steering Wheel Controls 46 Cruise C...

Page 32: ...MIRROR CONTROLS P 62 AUDIO SYSTEM DIGITAL CLOCK P 76 81 HEATING COOLING CONTROLS P 68 HOOD RELEASE HANDLE P 93 TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE P 55 FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE P 92 POWER WINDOW SWITCHES P 59 DOOR LOC...

Page 33: ...burned out bulbs or other problems The U S instrument panel is shown Differences for the Canadian model are noted in the text The HX model with manual transmission has an upshift indicator in this po...

Page 34: ...light and the beeper stay off if you fasten your seat belt before turning on the ignition Supplemental Restraint System Indicator See page 16 Differences in the indicators for Canadian models are note...

Page 35: ...level is low if it remains lit after you release the parking brake or comes on while driving This is normally due to worn brake pads Have your dealer check the braking system for worn pads or fluid l...

Page 36: ...by lighting to inform you of the most economical point to upshift your manual transmission You get the best fuel economy by driving in the highest gear practical for your road speed and by using ligh...

Page 37: ...the red zone Odometer The odometer shows the total dis tance your car has been driven It measures miles in U S models and kilometers in Canadian models It is illegal under federal law in the U S and...

Page 38: ...ows the temperature of the engine s coolant During normal operation the pointer should rise from the bottom white mark to about the middle of the gauge In severe driving conditions such as very hot we...

Page 39: ...n the distance driven since the last scheduled maintenance nears 12 000 km 7 500 miles the indicator will turn yellow If you exceed 12 000 km 7 500 miles the indicator will turn red Your dealer will r...

Page 40: ...dashboard to the right of the center air vents The controls under the left air vent are for the moonroof mirrors cruise control and instrument panel brightness The lever on the underside of the steer...

Page 41: ...lever until you hear a click then let go The blue high beam indicator will light see page 35 To flash the high beams pull back and hold the turn signal lever Release the lever and the high beams will...

Page 42: ...r Push down on the lever to signal a left turn and up to signal a right turn If you push it up or down all the way the turn signal continues to blink even when you release the lever It shuts off autom...

Page 43: ...ontinu ously To operate the wipers in mist mode push the control lever down The wipers run at high speed until you release the lever This gives you a quick way to clear the windshield Windshield Washe...

Page 44: ...will clear fog frost and thin ice from the window Push the defogger button to turn it on and off The light in the button lights to show the defogger is on If you do not turn it off the defogger will s...

Page 45: ...Move the steering wheel up or down to the desired position Position the wheel so you can see all the instrument panel gauges and warning lights Push the lever up to lock the steering wheel in that pos...

Page 46: ...e car under those conditions The cruise control as it operates moves the accelerator pedal You can damage your car s accelerator mechanism by resting your foot under the pedal and blocking the movemen...

Page 47: ...cruising speed release the button Push on the accelerator pedal Ac celerate to the desired cruising speed and press the SET decel button You can decrease the set cruising speed in either of two ways...

Page 48: ...panel will go out and the car will begin to slow down You can use the accelerator pedal in the normal way If you use the brake or clutch pedal to cancel cruise control the system retains the previous...

Page 49: ...you leave your car and valet key at a parking facility See Trunk page 55 You should have received a key number plate with your set of keys You will need this key number if you ever have to replace a l...

Page 50: ...test when you turn the ignition switch from ACCESSORY to ON see page 33 START III Use this position only to start the engine The switch returns to ON when you let go of the key You will hear a remind...

Page 51: ...r s door Push the switch down to lock both doors and up to unlock them Both doors lock when you push the lock tab on the driver s door in or lock the driver s door from the outside with the key Only t...

Page 52: ...er does not activate the locks stand next to the car and press either the Lock or Unlock button six times The door locks should then work If they do not check the LED on the transmitter as you press e...

Page 53: ...ORY I or ON II When the remote transmitter s battery begins to get weak it may take several pushes on the buttons to lock or unlock the doors and the LED will get dim Replace the battery as soon as po...

Page 54: ...not function properly Use the ring on the transmitter to attach it to your main key ring You could damage the transmitter if you try to use its ring as a key ring If you lose a transmitter you will ne...

Page 55: ...r cargo loading and weight limit information Keep the trunk lid closed at all times while driving to avoid damaging the lid and getting exhaust gas in the interior See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 2...

Page 56: ...position To change the angle of the seat back pull up on the lever on the outside of the seat bottom Move the seat back to the desired position and release the lever Let the seat back latch in the ne...

Page 57: ...Si model in Canada Push the passenger s seat back while pushing the release lever to tilt the seat back out of the way The entire seat will slide forward at the same time Head Restraints The front hea...

Page 58: ...access to the trunk Each side folds down sepa rately With only half the seat folded you can still carry a passenger in the back seat To fold down either side of the seat back from inside the car use...

Page 59: ...d and cause injury if you have to brake hard See Loading Cargo on page Never drive with the seat back folded down and the trunk lid open See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 28 Power Windows On HX and E...

Page 60: ...push the window switch down lightly and hold it The window will stop as soon as you release the switch The AUTO function only works to lower the driver s window To raise the window you must pull back...

Page 61: ...in below freezing temperatures or when it is covered with snow or ice you can damage the moonroof panel or motor Mirrors Keep the inside and outside mirrors clean and adjusted for best visibility Be s...

Page 62: ...r right left up or clown 4 When you finish move the selector switch to the center off position This turns off the adjustment switch so you can t move a mirror out of position by accidentally bumping t...

Page 63: ...ove Box Open the glove box by pulling the handle Close it with a firm push Instruments and Controls An open glove box can cause serious injury to your passenger in a crash even if the passenger is wea...

Page 64: ...arked If you place cups in the holder while driving the liquid may spill when you go over bumps or around corners Be careful when you are using the beverage holder A spilled liquid that is very hot ca...

Page 65: ...ptional Front and rear ashtrays are available as options The front ashtray fits in the beverage holder The rear ashtray fits in the rear of the center console Open the rear ashtray by swinging the upp...

Page 66: ...on when you open any door In the ON position the interior light stays on continuously U S DX HX Canada DX On cars with remote transmitter The interior light with the switch in the center position als...

Page 67: ...ns that came with it Air conditioning is standard on the EX model in the U S It is optional on other models Heating and Cooling 68 What Each Control Does 68 How to Use the System 70 To Turn Everything...

Page 68: ...speed which increases air flow Temperature Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the temperature of the air flow Air Conditioning A C Button This button turns the air condi tioning...

Page 69: ...ents in the dashboard and the floor vents Air flows from the floor vents Air flow is divided between the floor vents and the defroster vents at the base of the windshield Air flows from the defroster...

Page 70: ...is section covers how to set up the system controls for ventilation heating cooling dehumidifying and defrosting The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to generate hot and cold...

Page 71: ...ting and cooling system are at the base of the windshield Keep these clear of leaves and other debris Ventilation The flow through ventilation system draws in outside air circulates it through the int...

Page 72: ...ver is all the way to the left 3 Set the fan to maximum speed 4 Open the windows partially Select and Recirculation mode When the interior has cooled down to a more comfortable temperature close the w...

Page 73: ...re control lever so the mixture of heated and cooled air feels comfortable This setting is suitable for all driving conditions whenever the outside temperature is above 32 F 0 C To Defog and Defrost T...

Page 74: ...e and turns the A C 3 Switch the fan and temperature controls to maximum To rapidly remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield on very cold days first select the Recirculation mode Once the wind...

Page 75: ...roster vents For safety make sure you have a clear view through all the windows before driving away To Turn Everything Off To shut off the system temporarily slide the fan speed and temperature contro...

Page 76: ...stations on the selected band TUNE SEEK or the Preset buttons TUNE Use the TUNE SEEK bar to tune the radio to a desired frequency Press the right side to tune to a higher frequency or the left side t...

Page 77: ...il you hear a beep 4 Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total of six stations on AM and twelve on FM Once a station s frequency is stored simply press and release the proper preset button to tune to it Th...

Page 78: ...the Balance or Fader to your liking by turning the PWR VOL knob The indicator bars on the display show you the range Treble Bass Use these modes to adjust the tone to your liking Select TRE or BAS by...

Page 79: ...ny factors such as the distance from the station s transmitter nearby large objects and atmos pheric conditions A radio station s signal gets weaker as you get farther away from its transmitter If you...

Page 80: ...s is a main cause of poor radio reception in city driving Radio reception can be affected by atmospheric conditions such as thunderstorms high humidity and even sunspots You may be able to receive a d...

Page 81: ...up Press the CLOCK button again and the minutes numbers will begin blinking Use the Preset 5 or Preset 6 button to change the minutes to the correct value After you have set the clock press the CLOCK...

Page 82: ...R button When the system reaches the end of the tape it will automatically reverse direction and play the other side If you want to remove the cassette from the drive press the EJECT button If you tur...

Page 83: ...age currently playing it will automatically go into rewind When it senses the beginning of the same song or passage the system returns to PLAY mode It will continue to repeat this same program until y...

Page 84: ...se the cassette to jam in the player Never try to insert a warped or damaged cassette in the player When they are not in use store cassettes in their cases to protect them from dust and moisture Never...

Page 85: ...is section To operate the CD player or changer the ignition must be in ACCESSORY I or ON II CD Player Insert the disc into the CD slot Push the disc in halfway the drive will pull it in the rest of th...

Page 86: ...thin a disc If you press and release the TUNE SEEK bar the system will move to the beginning of a track Press the side to move to the beginning of the next track and the side to move to the beginning...

Page 87: ...ut of direct sunlight and extreme heat To clean a disc use a clean soft cloth Wipe across the disc from the center to the outside edge A new CD may be rough on the inner and outer edges The small plas...

Page 88: ...you see an error indication in the display while in CD mode find the cause in the chart to the right If you cannot clear the error indication take the car to your Honda dealer Comfort and Convenience...

Page 89: ...s This section will help you If you plan to add any accesso ries to your car please read the information in this section first Break in Period 90 Gasoline 90 Oxygenated Fuels 90 Driving in Foreign Cou...

Page 90: ...ent heavy metallic rapping noise in the engine that can lead to mechanical damage We recommend gasolines containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits Using gasoline...

Page 91: ...of gasoline Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel containing more than the percentages of oxygenates given above are not covered under warranty Drivi...

Page 92: ...top filling the tank after the fuel pump automatically clicks off Do not try to top off the tank leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes 5 Screw the fuel fill cap back on tight...

Page 93: ...e your hand to the left until you feel the hood latch handle Push this handle to the left until it releases the hood Lift the hood 3 Pull the support rod out of its clip and insert the end into the ho...

Page 94: ...l the car with fuel Wait at least two minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil 1 Remove the dipstick orange handle 2 Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel 3 Insert i...

Page 95: ...heck Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines If it is below the MIN line see Adding Engine Coolant on page 135 for information on adding th...

Page 96: ...drive in the highest gear practical for your speed and road conditions Gain the best fuel economy by using the upshift indicator if equipped to direct your shifting during acceleration see page 36 De...

Page 97: ...lity Your car has several computer controlled systems including the SRS system the engine s fuel injection and the Anti lock brake system Strong electronic inter ference can affect their operation Ele...

Page 98: ...upants driver and four passengers the maximum recom mended weight for cargo is 45 kg 100 Ibs Where you store this cargo and how well you secure it are just as important as how much it weighs Make sure...

Page 99: ...g the Engine 101 Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude 101 5 speed Manual Transmission 102 Recommended Shift Points 102 Maximum Speeds 103 Automatic Transmission 104 Shift Lever Positions 104 Maxi...

Page 100: ...ide are stored properly or fastened down securely 5 Check the adjustment of the seat see page 56 6 Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors see page 61 7 Check the adjustment of the stee...

Page 101: ...all the way down and hold it there while starting in order to clear flooding As before keep the ignition key in the START III position for no more than 15 seconds Return to step 5 if the engine does...

Page 102: ...of the forward gears for a moment This stops the gears so they won t grind You can get extra braking from the engine when slowing down by shifting to a lower gear This extra braking can help you maint...

Page 103: ...this table are the maximums for the given gears If you exceed these speeds the engine speed will enter into the tachometer s red zone If this occurs you may feel the engine cut in and out This is cau...

Page 104: ...operate your Honda s Continuously Variable Transmission CVT refer to the page 109 Shift Lever Positions This display is on the instrument panel It shows you the position of the shift lever The D4 indi...

Page 105: ...eep your foot off the accelerator pedal Park P This position mechani cally locks the transmission Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine To shift out of Park you must press on th...

Page 106: ...posi tion if you need to leave the car for any reason Press on the brake pedal when you are moving the shift lever from Neutral to another gear Drive D4 Use this position for your normal driving The t...

Page 107: ...w It will help reduce wheelspin Whenever you move the shift lever to a lower gear the transmission downshifts only if the engine s redline will not be exceeded in the lower gear Maximum Speeds The spe...

Page 108: ...key in the Shift Lock Release slot next to the shift lever 4 Push down on the key while you press the release button and move the shift lever out of Park to Neutral 5 Remove the key from the Shift Lo...

Page 109: ...of the shift lever The D indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON II If it flashes while driving in any shift position it indicates a possible problem in the transmis...

Page 110: ...pedal and press the release button on the side of the shift lever If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park see Shift Lock Release on page 108 You must also press...

Page 111: ...mis sion automatically adjusts to keep the engine at the best speed for driving conditions To help the engine warm up faster the transmis sion will select ratios that allow the engine to run at higher...

Page 112: ...Automatic Transmission CVT The CVT shifts automatically to maintain proper engine speed in any gear position Driving Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 113: ...y downshifting to a lower gear and taking your foot off the accelerator pedal Check your brakes after driving through deep water Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal If not apply the...

Page 114: ...he car Slow the car by downshifting to a lower gear and removing your foot from the accelerator pedal Pull to the side of the road as soon as it is safe Because of the longer stopping distance needed...

Page 115: ...pedal with the same force The ABS is self checking If anything goes wrong the ABS indicator on the instrument panel comes on see page 35 This means the Anti lock function of the braking system has sh...

Page 116: ...s is especially true in snow A person can forget some snow driving techniques during the summer months Practice is needed to relearn those skills Exercise extra caution when driving in rain after a lo...

Page 117: ...can be very hazardous when the outside temperature is near freezing The road surface can become covered with areas of water puddles mixed with areas of ice so your traction can change without warning...

Page 118: ...ions 129 Engine Oil 130 Checking Engine Oil 130 Adding Oil 130 Recommended Oil 131 Synthetic Oil 132 Additives 132 Oil and Filter Changes 132 Cooling System 135 Checking the Engine Coolant Level 135 A...

Page 119: ...the most important safety precautions are given in the next page However we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance Only you can decide whether or not you...

Page 120: ...haust system cool before touching any parts Injury from moving parts Do not run the engine unless in structed to do so Read the instructions before you begin and make sure you have the tools and skill...

Page 121: ...the engine brakes and many other parts of your car The load limit is shown on the label on the driver s doorjamb Operate your car on reasonable roads within the legal speed limit Drive your car regula...

Page 122: ...and fluids whenever you have maintenance done These are manufactured to the same high quality standards as the original components so you can be confident of their perfomance and durability U S Cars M...

Page 123: ...t page do not apply For Canadian Owners This Maintenance Schedule outlines the minimum required maintenance that you should perform to ensure the trouble free operation of your vehicle Due to regional...

Page 124: ...riving in extremely hot over 90 F 32 C conditions Extensive idling or long periods of stop and go driving Driving with a car top carrier or driving in mountainous conditions Driving on muddy dusty or...

Page 125: ...Required Maintenance Record Have your servicing dealer record all Required Maintenance below Keep receipts for all work done on your car Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 126: ...Non Scheduled Maintenance Record Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or non scheduled maintenance on this page see page 125 Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 127: ...he reservoir each time you stop for fuel See page 140 Automatic transmission including CVT Check the fluid level monthly See page 141 Brakes clutch and power steering Check the fluid level monthly See...

Page 128: ...PSTICK Yellow loop Including CVT COOLANT RESERVOIR BRAKE FLUID Gray cap 5 M T only CLUTCH FLUID Gray cap ENGINE OIL FILL CAP POWER STEERING FLUID Red cap WASHER FLUID Blue cap ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK Oran...

Page 129: ...out again and look at the oil level at the end of the dipstick If it is between the upper and lower marks the level is correct Add oil if the level is at or below the lower mark Adding Oil To add oil...

Page 130: ...rmulated to help your engine use less fuel The API Service label also tells you the service classification of the oil Always use an oil that says API Service SH This service rating may also include ot...

Page 131: ...e maintenance schedule Additives Your Honda does not need any oil additives Purchasing additives for the engine or transmission will not increase your car s performance or longevity It only increases...

Page 132: ...ottom of the engine Drain the oil into an appropriate container 3 Remove the oil filter and let the remaining oil drain A special wrench available from your Honda dealer is required to remove the filt...

Page 133: ...essure indicator light should go out within five seconds If it does not turn off the engine and reinspect your work 8 Let the engine run for several minutes and check the drain bolt and oil filter for...

Page 134: ...nti freeze Coolant The cooling system contains many aluminum compo nents that can corrode if an improper antifreeze is used Some antifreeze even though labeled as safe for aluminum parts may not provi...

Page 135: ...should be up to the base of the filler neck Add coolant 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 MAX and MIN mar...

Page 136: ...s to the underside of the car Unless you have the tools and knowledge you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic 1 Slide the heater temperature control lever to maximum heat Open the...

Page 137: ...ntifreeze with an equal amount of purified or distilled water in a clean container The cooling system capacity is With manual transmission 3 1 0 82 US gal 0 68 Imp gal With automatic transmission DX 3...

Page 138: ...eck the level in the radiator add coolant if needed Install the radiator cap tighten it fully 10 Fill the reserve tank to the MAX mark Install the reserve tank cap Maintenance RESERVE TANK Removing th...

Page 139: ...moving the cap and looking inside Fill the reservoir with a good quality windshield washer fluid This increases the cleaning capability and prevents freezing in cold weather Do not use engine antifree...

Page 140: ...er hole 5 If the level is below the lower mark add fluid into the filler hole to bring it to the upper mark Use Honda Premium Formula Automatic Transmission Fluid In an emergency you may use a Dexron...

Page 141: ...the filler bolt and tighten it securely If Honda MTF is not available you may use an API service SG or SH rated motor oil with a viscosity of SAE 10W 30 or 10W 40 temporarily Motor oil can cause incre...

Page 142: ...onda Brake Fluid or an equivalent from a sealed container that is marked DOT3 or DOT4 only Brake fluid marked DOT5 is not compatible with your car s braking system Clutch System The fluid should be be...

Page 143: ...LOWER LEVEL add power steering fluid to the UPPER LEVEL Using automatic transmission fluid or another brand of power steering fluid will damage the system Use only GENUINE HONDA Power Steering Fluid...

Page 144: ...engine compartment To replace it 1 Unsnap the four clips and remove the air cleaner housing cover 2 Remove the old air cleaner element Clean the inside of the air cleaner housing with a damp rag 3 Pla...

Page 145: ...p the two clips and remove the air cleaner housing cover 2 Remove the old air cleaner element Clean the inside of the air cleaner housing with a damp rag 3 Place the new air cleaner element in the air...

Page 146: ...ny dirt and oil around the spark plug caps 2 Remove the spark plug cap by pulling it straight out 3 Remove the spark plug with a 16 mm 5 8 inch spark plug socket 4 Put the new spark plug into the sock...

Page 147: ...y A spark plug that is too loose can overheat and damage the engine Overtightening can cause damage to the threads in the cylinder head 6 Install the spark plug cap 7 Repeat this procedure for the oth...

Page 148: ...cian or 911 Skin Remove contaminated clothing Flush the skin with large quantities of water Call a physician immediately Swallowing Drink water or milk Call your local Poison Control Center or a physi...

Page 149: ...t off with plain water Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent future corrosion If the terminals arc severely cor roded clean them with baking so...

Page 150: ...r s electronic controls Detach the battery cables before connecting the battery to a charger Maintenance The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation A spark or flame can cause...

Page 151: ...g hard Replace the blades if you find these signs or they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used To replace 1 Raise the wiper arm off the windshield 2 Disconnect the blade assembly from the wiper a...

Page 152: ...orcement along the back edge remove the metal reinforcement strips from the old wiper blade and install them in the slots along the edge of the new blade 5 Slide the new wiper blade into the holder un...

Page 153: ...t bristle brush to clean them Run the air conditioning at least once a week during the cold weather months Run it for at least ten minutes while you are driving at a steady speed with the engine at no...

Page 154: ...s have your dealer adjust or replace the belts Tires To safely operate your car your tires must be the proper type and size in good condition with adequate tread and correctly inflated The following p...

Page 155: ...car has been parked for at least three hours If you have to drive the car before checking the tire pressure the tires can still be considered cold if you drive less than 1 6 km 1 mile If you check th...

Page 156: ...er of these conditions Cuts splits or cracks in the side of the tire Replace the tire if you can see fabric or tread Excessive tread wear Your car s tires have wear indicators molded into the tread Wh...

Page 157: ...ld have the tires rotated every 12 000 km 7 500 miles Move the tires to the positions shown in the chart each time they are rotated When shopping for replacement tires you may find that some tires are...

Page 158: ...70R13 82S U S HX EX Canada Si P185 65R14 85S See Tire Information on page 207 for additional information about lire and wheel size designations See page 208 for information about DOT Tire Quality Gra...

Page 159: ...red by local laws Make sure the chains are the correct size for your tires Install them only on the front tires If metal chains are used they must be SAE class S Cable type traction devices can also b...

Page 160: ...as soon as possible Refer to the chart on page 205 to determine what type of replacement bulb is needed Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your car was new You should check their...

Page 161: ...he bubble should be centered underneath the longest scribe mark on the gauge 6 If either indicator is not aligned with its 0 mark as described an adjustment can be made using a Phillips head screwdriv...

Page 162: ...om contact with your skin or hard objects If you touch the glass clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth 1 Open the hood If you need to change the head light bulb on the driver s side remove...

Page 163: ...bulb into the hole making sure the tabs are in their slots Pivot the hold down wire back in place and clip the end into the slot 6 Install the rubber seal over the back of the headlight assembly Make...

Page 164: ...the inner fender cover off 4 Remove the socket from the headlight assembly by turning it one quarter turn counterclockwise 5 Remove the burned out bulb from the socket by pushing it in and turning co...

Page 165: ...d out stop taillight side marker light or turn signal 3 Remove the socket by turning it one quarter turn counterclockwise 4 Pull the bulb straight out of its socket Push the new bulb straight into the...

Page 166: ...e center is flush with the head Replacing Rear Bulbs in Trunk Lid 1 Open the trunk 2 Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws from the bulb holder Remove the holder from the taillight...

Page 167: ...stall the bulb holder assembly Install the screw and tighten it securely Replacing a High mount Brake Light Bulb 1 Open the trunk and remove the socket from the light assembly by turning it one quarte...

Page 168: ...rking lights and check that the new bulb is working 5 Reinstall the socket Turn it clock wise until it locks 6 Put the license light assembly in place Reinstall the two screws and tighten them securel...

Page 169: ...EX models in the U S and Si model in Canada 1 Remove the lens by carefully prying on the edge of the lens in the middle with a fingernail file or a small flat tip screwdriver Do not pry on the edge o...

Page 170: ...he car is being stored indoors Disconnect the battery Support the front wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield Apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door and...

Page 171: ...rance the paint bright work wheels and interior Also included are several things you can do to help prevent corrosion Exterior Care 174 Washing 174 Waxing 174 Aluminum Wheels 175 Paint Touch up 175 In...

Page 172: ...these stains with tar remover or turpentine Rinse it off immediately so it does not harm the finish Remember to re wax these areas even if the rest of the car does not need waxing When you have washed...

Page 173: ...nd rinse them thoroughly The wheels have a protective clear coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing Using harsh chemicals including some commercial wheel cleaners or stiff brushes c...

Page 174: ...oes not bleach or stain the fabric Follow the instructions that come with the cleaner Vinyl Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum cleaner Wipe the vinyl with a soft cloth dampened in a solution of mild s...

Page 175: ...best to use a solid type Some liquid air fresheners contain chemi cals that may cause parts of the interior trim and fabric to crack or discolor If you use a liquid air freshener make sure you fasten...

Page 176: ...rs after a collision pay close attention to the parts used in the repair and the quality of the work Make sure the repair facility uses genuine Honda replacement body parts Some companies make sheetme...

Page 177: ...may be able to get going again If not you will also find instructions on getting your car towed Compact Spare Tire 180 Changing a Flat Tire 181 If Your Engine Won t Start 186 Nothing Happens 186 The S...

Page 178: ...ome road sur faces than the regular tire Use greater caution while driving on this tire Do not mount snow chains on the compact spare The wheel of the compact spare tire is designed especially to fit...

Page 179: ...0 2 Put the transmission in Park automatic or Reverse manual Set the parking brake Have your passengers get out of the vehicle 3 Open the trunk Raise the trunk floor by lifting up on the back edge 4 T...

Page 180: ...ng point nearest the tire you need to change It is pointed to by an arrow molded into the underside of the body Place the jack under the jacking point Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of t...

Page 181: ...d scratch the wheel if you put it face down On DX and EX models in the U S and DX find Si in Canada Do not attempt to forcibly pry the wheel cover off with a screwdriver or other tool The wheel cover...

Page 182: ...is firmly against the hub Do not try to tighten them fully 13 Lower the car to the ground and remove the jack 14 Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern Have the wheel nut torq...

Page 183: ...tire by screwing the wing bolt back into its hole 18 Store the jack in the trunk with the end bracket on the left side Turn the jack s end bracket to lock it in place Store the tool kit 19 Store the w...

Page 184: ...starter will not operate With an automatic transmission it must be in Park or Neutral Turn the ignition switch to ON II Turn on the headlights and check their brightness If the headlights are very dim...

Page 185: ...ery Although this seems like a simple procedure there are several precautions you should take Follow the directions closely You cannot start a Honda with an automatic transmission by pushing or pullin...

Page 186: ...e to any other part of the engine 5 If the booster battery is in another car have an assistant start that car and run it at a fast idle 6 Start your car If the starter motor still operates slowly chec...

Page 187: ...ion 1 Safely pull to the side of the road Put the transmission in neutral or park and set the parking brake Turn off the heating and cooling system and all other accessories Turn on the hazard warning...

Page 188: ...without pushing down to the first stop This releases any remaining pressure in the cooling system After the pressure releases push down on the cap and turn it until it comes off 10 Start the engine an...

Page 189: ...e as soon as you can safely get the car stopped 1 Safely pull off the road and shut off the engine 2 Let the car sit for a minute Open the hood and check the oil level see page 130 Although oil level...

Page 190: ...ruise control etc Try not to use other electrically operated controls such as the power windows Keep the engine running and take extra care not to stall it Starting the engine will discharge the batte...

Page 191: ...ut excessive emissions Continued operation may cause serious engine damage If this indicator light comes on have your car checked by the dealer as soon as possible Drive moderately until the dealer ha...

Page 192: ...blows immediately or the moonroof motor still does not operate you can close the moonroof manually 3 Get the tool kit out of the trunk 4 Use a screwdriver or coin to remove the round plug in the cent...

Page 193: ...nterior fuse box is underneath the dashboard on the driver s side Remove the fuse box lid by swinging the lid down and pulling it straight out of its hinges The under hood fuse box is located in the e...

Page 194: ...es control that component Check those fuses first but check all the fuses before deciding that is not the cause Replace any blown fuses and check the component s operation 1 Turn the ignition switch t...

Page 195: ...y socket or radio If you replace the blown fuse with a spare fuse that has a lower rating it might blow out again This does not indicate anything wrong Replace the fuse with one of the correct rating...

Page 196: ...Fuses INTERIOR FUSE BOX On Canadian cars Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 197: ...Fuses UNDER HOOD FUSE BOX ABS FUSE BOX Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 198: ...with hooks on the ends These hooks go around parts of the frame or suspension and the cables lift that end of the car off the ground Your car s suspension and body can be seriously damaged if this me...

Page 199: ...Tire Size Designation 207 Wheel Size Designation 207 Tire Speed Ratings 207 Tire Pressure Adjustment For High Speed Driving 208 DOT Tire Quality Grading 208 Treadwear 208 Traction 209 Temperature 209...

Page 200: ...nsuring your car The easiest place to find the VIN is on a plate fastened to the top of the dashboard You can see it by looking through the windshield on the driver s side It is also on the Certificat...

Page 201: ...ion Numbers The Engine Number is stamped into the engine block The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission Technical Information TRANSMISSION NUMBER ENGINE NUMBER Main Menu Table...

Page 202: ...that remaining in the engine Reserve tank capacity 0 4 0 11 US gal 0 09 Imp gal 2 DX 3 U S HX EX Canada Si 4 Excluding the oil remaining in the engine 5 Canadian Cars 6 U S HX CVT 1 DX 2 U S HX EX Can...

Page 203: ...Information 1 Without moonroof 2 With moonroof 1 DX 2 U S HX EX Canada Si 3 U S DX HX Canada DX 4 U S EX Canada Si 5 DX with ABS 6 U S HX with ABS EX with ABS Canada Si with ABS page 198 page 199 Mai...

Page 204: ...While driving the ABS control unit monitors the pulse frequencies from the four wheels When the control unit detects a wheel locking up it energizes the solenoids in the modulator unit for that wheel...

Page 205: ...a numerical code associated with the maximum load the tire can carry S Speed Rating Symbol See the speed rating chart in this section for additional information Wheel Size Designation Wheels are also...

Page 206: ...meet all U S Federal Safety Requirements All tires are also graded for treadwear traction and temperature perform ance according to Department of Transportation DOT standards The following explains th...

Page 207: ...hen tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life and excessive temper...

Page 208: ...ion summarizes how the emission controls work Scheduled maintenance is on page 124 In Canada Honda vehicles comply with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards CMVSS for Emissions valid at the tim...

Page 209: ...ount of HC CO and NOx produced Exhaust Gas Recirculation EGR System Only on HX model The Exhaust Gas Recirculation EGR system lakes some of the exhaust gas and routes it back into the intake manifold...

Page 210: ...ls that come near it Park your car away from high grass dry leaves or other flammables U S EX Canada Si A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution and can impair your engin...

Page 211: ...Relations Warranty Coverages 214 Customer Relations Information 215 U S Zone Office Map 216 Canada Zone Office Map 217 Reporting Safety Defects U S Cars 218 Authorized Manuals 219 Warranty and Custome...

Page 212: ...no mileage limit Accessory Limited Warranty Genuine Honda Accessories are covered under this warranty Time and mileage limits depend on the type of accessory and other factors Please read your warran...

Page 213: ...ou are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership s management contact your Honda Customer Relations Zone Office Refer to the U S and Canadian Zone Office maps on the following pages When y...

Page 214: ...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 Hond...

Page 215: ...l 45 Airbag SRS 12 Air Cleaner 145 Air Conditioning 68 Maintenance 154 Usage 68 Air Outlets Vents 70 Air Pressure Tires 156 Normal Driving 156 High Speed Driving 208 Alcohol and Drugs 27 Alcohol in Ga...

Page 216: ...es Jump Starting With 187 Capacities Chart 204 Carbon Monoxide Hazard 28 Cargo Loading 98 Cassette Player Care 84 Operation 82 CAUTION Explanation of ii CD Changer 85 CD Changer Player 85 Certificatio...

Page 217: ...ed Towing Your Car If 200 Disc Brake Wear Indicators 113 Disposal of Used Oil 134 Doors Locking and Unlocking 50 Power Door Locks 51 DOT Tire Quality Grading 208 Downshifting 5 speed Manual Transmissi...

Page 218: ...gency Wrecker 200 Fuel 90 Fill Door and Cap 92 Gauge 38 Octane Requirement 90 Oxygenated 90 Reserve Indicator 36 Tank Filling the 92 Fuses Checking the 195 Gas Mileage Improving 96 Gasohol 91 Gasoline...

Page 219: ...terior Cleaning 176 Interior Light 66 Introduction i Jacking up the Car 182 Jack Tire 182 Jump Starting 187 Keys 49 Label Certification 202 Lane Change Signaling 42 Lap Belt 7 Lap Shoulder Belts 6 Lea...

Page 220: ...ning the Hood 93 Opening the Trunk 55 Operation in Foreign Countries 91 Outside Mirrors 61 Overheating Engine 189 Steering 144 Windows 59 Pregnancy Using Seat Belts 10 Proper Seat Belt Usage 7 Radiato...

Page 221: ...the Clock 81 Shifting The Automatic Transmission 105 TheCVT 113 The 5 speed Manual Transmission 102 Shift Lever Position Indicator 104 Shift Lock Release 108 Side Marker Lights Bulb Replacement in 16...

Page 222: ...ns 205 Technical Information 208 Technical Information 201 Tools Tire Changing 181 Torn Seat Belts 11 Towing A Trailer 117 By Emergency Wrecker 200 Transmission Checking Fluid Level Automatic 141 Chec...

Page 223: ...he Fluid Level 140 Operation 43 Washing 174 Waxing and Polishing 174 Wheels Adjusting the Steering 45 Alignment and Balance 157 Compact Spare 180 Wrench 182 Windows Cleaning 177 Operating the Power 59...

Page 224: ...cold DX Front Rear 220 kPa 2 2 kgf cm2 32 psi U S HX EX Canada Si Front 210 kPa 2 1 kgf cm2 30 psi Rear 200 kPa 2 0 kgf cm2 29 psi Spare Tire Pressure 415 kPa 4 15 kgf cm2 60 psi Automatic Transmissi...

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Honda 1996 Civic Coupe, Owner'S Manual

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