Honda 1997 Civic Hatchback Owner'S Manual Download Page 80

Page: 80 / 202

Service Station Procedures

Oil Check

Check the engine oil level every time

you fill 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 it all the way back in its tube.

Before Driving

DIPSTICK

Main Menu

Table of Contents

▲

▼

Summary of Contents for 1997 Civic Hatchback

Page 1: ...cle and how to load luggage and other cargo Driving 89 The proper way to start the engine shift the transmission and park plus towing a trailer Maintenance 107 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when...

Page 2: ...nd responsibilities Maintaining your vehicle according to the schedules given in this manual helps to keep your driving trouble free while it preserves your investment When your vehicle needs maintena...

Page 3: ...important safety information in a variety of forms including on the vehicle preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of three signal words or such as Important Safety Reminders or Important Safety Pr...

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: ...safety For example reclining 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...

Page 6: ...d larger 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 pa...

Page 7: ...der Belt This style of seat belt has a single 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 r...

Page 8: ...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 the seat back...

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: ...ty 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 e...

Page 13: ...ossi ble problem with the system 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...

Page 14: ...y 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 worn proper...

Page 15: ...brasions or other injuries To reduce the possibility of injury you should always sit back as far from the steering wheel as 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: ...re driving If you see any of these indications 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 restra...

Page 18: ...ags to inflate inadver tently possibly injuring someone very seriously Tell anyone who works on your car that you have a supplemental restraint system Failure to follow the procedures and precautions...

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: ...for example he could injure his knees For information on loading cargo see page 88 Driving with Pets Loose pets can be a hazard while you are driving An unrestrained pet can interfere with your abilit...

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: ...uld use a booster 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...

Page 23: ...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 use a lap shoulder belt be sur...

Page 24: ...he 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 restrain...

Page 25: ...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 26: ...gine only long enough to move the car out of the garage With the hatch open air flow can pull exhaust gas into your car s interior and create a hazardous condition If you must drive with the hatch ope...

Page 27: ...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 RADIATOR...

Page 28: ...ear the Steering Wheel 40 Headlights 41 Daytime Running Lights 41 Instrument Panel Brightness 42 Turn Signals 42 Windshield Wipers 43 Windshield Washers 43 Rear Window Wiper and Washer 44 Hazard Warni...

Page 29: ...Locations Instruments and Controls HATCH RELEASE HANDLE P 47 FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE P 82 HOOD RELEASE HANDLE P 83 AUDIO SYSTEM DIGITAL CLOCK P 66 71 HEATING COOLING CONTROL P 58 Main Menu Table of Co...

Page 30: ...an indicator does not light during this test it cannot alert you if that system develops a problem Have the dealer check your car for burned out bulbs or other problems The U S instrument panel is sh...

Page 31: ...few seconds but the light stays on until you do Both the light and the beeper stay off if you fasten your seat belt before turning on the ignition The U S instrument panel is shown Differences for the...

Page 32: ...mes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition ON II and when the ignition switch is turned to START III If this light comes on at any other time there is a problem in the ABS If this happens tak...

Page 33: ...ou turn on the Hazard Warning switch both turn signal lights blink All turn signals on the outside of the car should flash High Beam Indicator This light comes on with the high beam headlights See pag...

Page 34: ...ometer 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 provincial regul...

Page 35: ...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 36: ...hen the distance driven since the last scheduled maintenance nears 7 500 miles 12 000 km the indicator will turn yellow If you exceed 7 500 miles 12 000 km the indicator will turn red Your dealer will...

Page 37: ...als headlights and high beams The right lever controls the windshield washers and wipers The rear window defogger switch is on the dashboard to the right of the center air vents Instruments and Contro...

Page 38: ...u hear a click then let go The blue high beam indicator will light see page 36 To flash the high beams pull the turn signal lever back lightly then release it The high beams will come on and go off Th...

Page 39: ...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 40: ...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 41: ...e hazard warning lights four way flashers This causes all four outside turn signals and both indicators in the instrument panel to flash Use the hazard warning lights if you need to park in a dangerou...

Page 42: ...ning the glass always wipe side to side Keys Your car comes with two identical keys They fit all the locks on your car Ignition Doors Hatch You should have received a key number plate with your set of...

Page 43: ...rate the audio system and the accessory power socket ON II This is the normal key position when driving All features and accessories on the car are usable Several of the lights on the instru ment pane...

Page 44: ...and close the door To lock the driver s door pull the door handle and push the lock tab in Release the handle thenclosethedoor The doors can also be locked and unlocked from the outside with the key...

Page 45: ...ts Adjust the seat before you start driving To adjust the seat forward and backward pull up on the lever under the seat cushion s front edge Move the seat to the desired position and release the lever...

Page 46: ...ush the restraint down To remove a head restraint for cleaning or repair pull it up as far as it will go Push the release button and pull the restraint out of the seat back Instruments and Controls Re...

Page 47: ...ded you can still carry a passenger in the back seat To unlatch either side of the seat back pull up on the release tab Move the seat belt out of the way and fold the seat back down To lock the seat b...

Page 48: ...r line up the mounting rods with the slots then push clown on the cover until it clips into place Make sure it is securely latched so it will not come loose while you are driving Mirrors Keep the insi...

Page 49: ...arking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parking brake is fully released see page 35 Driving the car with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles Glove...

Page 50: ...uid 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 can scald you or your passengers Spilled liquids can also dam...

Page 51: ...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 upper edge...

Page 52: ...as a three position switch In the OFF position the light does not come on In the center position the interior light comes on when you open either door In the ON position the interior light stays on co...

Page 53: ...to the operating instructions that came with it Heating and Cooling 58 What Each Control Does 58 How to Use the System 60 To Turn Everything Off 65 Audio System 66 Operating the Radio 66 Adjusting the...

Page 54: ...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 55: ...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 56: ...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 57: ...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 58: ...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 59: ...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 60: ...and turns on 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 wi...

Page 61: ...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 62: ...ilable You can use any of three methods to find radio 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...

Page 63: ...utton and hold it until 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 bu...

Page 64: ...g the MODE button Adjust 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 lik...

Page 65: ...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 66: ...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 67: ...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 68: ...en 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 turn the syste...

Page 69: ...passage currently playing it will automatically go into rewind When it senses the beginning of the same song or passage the system returns to PLAY mode It will continue to repeat this same program unt...

Page 70: ...e 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 71: ...s 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 the...

Page 72: ...can use the TUNE SEEK bar to select tracks within 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...

Page 73: ...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 74: ...see an error indication in the display while operating the CD changer find the cause in the chart to the right If you cannot clear the error indication take the car to your Honda dealer Comfort and C...

Page 75: ...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 80 Gasoline 80 Oxygenated Fuels 80 Driving in Foreign Cou...

Page 76: ...and engine deposits Using gasoline containing lead will damage your car s emission controls This contributes to air pollution In Canada some gasolines contain an octane enhancing additive called MMT...

Page 77: ...o another brand 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...

Page 78: ...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 tighten it until it clicks If you do not prop...

Page 79: ...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 hole...

Page 80: ...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 81: ...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 122 for information on adding th...

Page 82: ...y driving moderately Rapid acceler ation abrupt cornering and hard braking use more fuel Always drive in the highest gear that allows the engine to run and acceler ate smoothly Depending on traffic co...

Page 83: ...ling and stability Your car has several computer controlled systems including the SRS system and the engine s fuel injection Strong electronic inter ference can affect their operation Electronic commu...

Page 84: ...as how much it weighs Make sure you load cargo so it will not shift while driving Items stored in the cargo area should be stored as far forward as possible Do not place items on the cargo area cover...

Page 85: ...ne 91 Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude 91 5 speed Manual Transmission 92 Recommended Shift Points 93 Maximum Speeds 93 Automatic Transmission 94 Shift Lever Position Indicator 94 Shift Lever...

Page 86: ...u may be carrying with you inside are stored properly or fastened down securely 5 Check the adjustment of the seat see page 48 6 Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors see page 51 7 Ma...

Page 87: ...e way down and hold it there while starting in order to clear flooding As before keep the ignition key in the START III position for no more than 15 seconds Return to step 5 if the engine does not sta...

Page 88: ...ith the car moving Push down the clutch pedal and pause for a few seconds before shifting into Reverse or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment This stops the gears so they won t grind When...

Page 89: ...shift points are recommended Maximum Speeds The speeds in 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...

Page 90: ...ift Lever Position Indicator This indicator on the instrument panel shows which position the shift lever is in The D4 indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON II If it...

Page 91: ...pedal and keep 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...

Page 92: ...complete stop and then shift Press the release button before shifting into Reverse from Neutral Neutral N Use Neutral if you need to restart a stalled engine or if it is necessary to stop briefly with...

Page 93: ...stop Second gives you more power when climbing and increased engine braking when going down steep hills Use second gear when starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow It will help reduce whe...

Page 94: ...the 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...

Page 95: ...want to drive away If the vehicle is facing uphill turn the front wheels away from the curb If you have a manual transmission put it in first gear If the vehicle is facing downhill turn the front whee...

Page 96: ...ting to a lower gear and taking your foot off the accelerator pedal Check your brakes after driving through deep water Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal If not apply them gently a...

Page 97: ...ery hazardous You should have your car towed but if you must drive the car in this condition be extremely cautious Have your car repaired as soon as possible Anti lock Brakes The Anti lock Brake Syste...

Page 98: ...aking You should always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles ABS will not prevent a skid that results from changing direction abruptly such as trying to take a corner too fast or mak...

Page 99: ...thing 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 shut down The brakes still work like a conventional system w...

Page 100: ...ns This is especially true in snow A person can forget some snow driving techniques during the summer months Practice is needed to relearn those skills Exercise extra caution when driving in rain afte...

Page 101: ...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 102: ...Locations 117 Engine Oil 118 Adding Oil 118 Recommended Oil 118 Synthetic Oil 119 Additives 119 Changing the Oil and Filter 120 Cooling System 122 Adding Engine Coolant 122 Replacing Engine Coolant 12...

Page 103: ...ome of the most important safety precautions are given here However we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance Only you can decide whether or not you shoul...

Page 104: ...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 105: ...d limit This puts excess stress on the engine brakes and many other parts of your car The load limit is shown on the label on the driver s doorjamb Operate your car on reasonable roads within the lega...

Page 106: ...nd fluids whenever you have maintenance done These are manufactured to the same high quality standards as the original components so you can be confident of their performance and durability U S Cars M...

Page 107: ...f the severe driving conditions specified in the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule on the next page do not apply NOTE If you only OCCASIONALLY drive under a severe condition you should follow the...

Page 108: ...less than 10 miles 16 km per trip Driving in 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 D...

Page 109: ...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 110: ...Non Scheduled Maintenance Record Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or non scheduled maintenance on this page see page 113 Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 111: ...tank See page 85 Windshield washer fluid Check the level in the reservoir monthly If weather conditions cause you to use the washers frequently check the reservoir each time you stop for fuel See page...

Page 112: ...ellow loop ENGINE COOLANT RESERVOIR BRAKE FLUID Gray cap CLUTCH FLUID 5 speed Manual Transmission only Gray cap ENGINE OIL FILL CAP WASHER FLUID Blue cap POWER STEERING FLUID Red cap ENGINE OIL DIPSTI...

Page 113: ...Service label on the oil container A fuel efficient oil is recommended for your Honda This is shown on the API Service label by the words Energy Conserving or Energy Conserving II This oil is formulat...

Page 114: ...ynthetic Oil You may use a synthetic motor oil if it meets the same requirements given for conventional motor oil energy conserving a service classification of SJ or SH and the proper weight as shown...

Page 115: ...ce Unless you have the knowledge and proper equipment you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic 1 Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature then shut it off 2 Open...

Page 116: ...he engine and reinspect your work 8 Let the engine run for several minutes and check the drain bolt and oil filter for leaks 9 Turn off the engine let it sit for several minutes then check the oil lev...

Page 117: ...another major brand non silicate coolant as a temporary replacement Make sure it is a high quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines However continued use of any non Honda coolant can result i...

Page 118: ...e 4 The coolant level 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 betwe...

Page 119: ...ires access 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...

Page 120: ...the recommended antifreeze with an equal amount of purified or distilled water in a clean container The cooling system capacity is With 5 speed manual transmission 3 1 0 82 US gal 0 68 Imp gal With au...

Page 121: ...n 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 and tighten it fully 10 Fill t...

Page 122: ...s fluid level by removing the cap and looking at the level gauge attached to the cap Fill the reservoir with a good quality windshield washer fluid This increases the cleaning capability and prevents...

Page 123: ...add fluid into the filler hole to bring it to the upper mark Always use Honda Premium Formula Automatic Transmission Fluid ATF If it is not available you may use a DEXRON III automatic transmission f...

Page 124: ...or oil with a viscosity of SAE 10W 30 or 10W 40 as a temporary replacement However motor oil does not contain the proper additives and continued use can cause stiffer shifting Replace as soon as conve...

Page 125: ...s braking system and can cause extensive damage Brake System The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir If the level is at or below the MIN mark your brake sy...

Page 126: ...use another power steering fluid as an emergency replacement However continued use can cause increased wear and poor steering in cold weather Have the power steering system flushed and refilled with...

Page 127: ...g in the 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...

Page 128: ...around the spark plug caps 2 Remove the spark plug cap by pulling it straight out 3 Remove the spark plug with a five eighths inch 16 mm spark plug socket 4 Put the new spark plug into the socket then...

Page 129: ...13 Ibf ft Tighten the spark plugs carefully 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 p...

Page 130: ...attery explains the test indicator s colors Check the battery terminals for corrosion a white or yellowish powder To remove it cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water It will bubb...

Page 131: ...nect the battery to a charger disconnect both cables to prevent damage to the car s electri cal system Charging the battery with the cables connected can seriously damage your car s electronic control...

Page 132: ...lace the blades if you find these signs or they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used To replace the blade 1 Raise the wiper arm off the windshield 2 Disconnect the blade assembly from the wiper a...

Page 133: ...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 134: ...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 normal oper...

Page 135: ...55 in On cars with Air Conditioning Compressor belt 7 5 9 5 mm 0 30 0 37 in If you see signs of wear or looseness have your dealer adjust or replace the belts Timing Belt The timing belt should normal...

Page 136: ...wear unevenly We recommend that you visually check your tires every day If you think a tire might be low check it immediately with a tire gauge Use a gauge to measure the air pressure at least once a...

Page 137: ...ue to a tire problem and not due to a variation between gauges Recommended Tire Pressures for Normal Driving The following chart shows the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving condi...

Page 138: ...nch 1 6 mm of tread left on the tire A tire that is this worn gives very little traction on wet roads You should replace the tire if you can see the tread wear indicator in three or more places around...

Page 139: ...res are directional This means they are designed to rotate only in one direction If you use directional tires they should be rotated only front to back Replacing Tires and Wheels The tires that came w...

Page 140: ...S See Tire Information on page 188 for additional information about tire and wheel size designations See page 189 for information about DOT Tire Quality Grading Winter Driving Tires that are marked M...

Page 141: ...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 142: ...as soon as possible Refer to the chart on page 187 to determine what type of replacement bulb is needed Headlight Aiming The headlights were properly aimed when your car was new You should check thei...

Page 143: ...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 144: ...rd objects If you touch the glass clean it with denatured alcohol and a clean cloth Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot when lit Oil perspiration or a scratch on the glass can cause the bulb to overh...

Page 145: ...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 sure it is right side up it is...

Page 146: ...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 147: ...n signal is burned out Remove the socket for that bulb by turning counterclock wise 4 Pull the bulb straight out of its socket Push the new bulb straight into the socket until it bottoms 5 Reinstall t...

Page 148: ...holding the brake light assembly On CX and CX GOP models first remove the caps by prying on the edge using a small flat tip screw driver 3 Remove the brake light assembly Remove the socket from the b...

Page 149: ...ke light assembly Tighten the two screws securely Replacing a Rear License Bulb Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws holding the license plate light assembly to the bracket Pull th...

Page 150: ...them securely Replacing the Ceiling Light Bulb 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 edg...

Page 151: ...oors Disconnect the battery Support the front and rear wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield To minimize sticking apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door...

Page 152: ...e its appearance the paint brightwork wheels and interior Also included are several things you can do to help prevent corrosion Exterior Care 158 Washing 158 Waxing 159 Paint Touch up 159 Interior Car...

Page 153: ...d detergent such as dishwashing liquid or a product made especially for car washing Wash the car using the water and detergent solution and a soft bristle brush sponge or soft cloth Start at the top a...

Page 154: ...normally contain mild abrasives and solvents that remove the top layer of the finish You should use a polish on your Honda if the finish does not have its original shine after using a wax Cleaning tar...

Page 155: ...e it does 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...

Page 156: ...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 157: ...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 sheet m...

Page 158: ...o get going again If not you will also find instructions on getting your car towed Compact Spare Tire 164 Changing a Flat Tire 165 If Your Engine Won t Start 169 Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor O...

Page 159: ...me 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 y...

Page 160: ...Have all of the passengers get out of the car while you change the tire 3 Open the hatch Raise the cargo area floor by lifting up on the back edge 4 Take the tool kit from the spare tire well Remove t...

Page 161: ...he jacking point Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch 8 Use the extension and wheel wrench as shown to raise the car until the flat tire is off the ground 9 Remove the wheel nu...

Page 162: ...11 Put on the spare tire Put the wheel nuts back on finger tight then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub Do not try to tighten them f...

Page 163: ...pacer cone from the wing bolt turn it over and put it back on the bolt 16 Secure the flat tire by screwing the wing bolt back into its hole 17 Store the jack and tool kit back in the spare tire well 1...

Page 164: ...all the way to the floor or the starter will not operate With an automatic transmission it must be in Park or Neutral Turn the ignition switch to ON II Turn on the headlights and check their brightne...

Page 165: ...engine by using a booster battery Although this seems like a simple procedure you should take several precautions You cannot start a Honda with an automatic transmission by pushing or pulling it To j...

Page 166: ...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 167: ...e action 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 wa...

Page 168: ...ithout 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 and...

Page 169: ...u can safely get the car stopped 1 Safely pull off the road and shut off the engine Turn on the hazard warning indicators 2 Let the car sit for a minute Open the hood and check the oil level see page...

Page 170: ...fogger etc Try not to use other electrically operated controls such as the radio Keep the engine running and take extra care not to stall it Starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly By e...

Page 171: ...l cap if it is missing Tightening the cap will not make the indicator turn off immediately it takes three driving trips If the indicator remains on past three driving trips or the fuel cap was not loo...

Page 172: ...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 173: ...ontrol that component Check those fuses first but check all the fuses before deciding that a blown fuse is not the cause Replace any blown fuses and check the component s operation 1 Turn the ignition...

Page 174: ...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 as...

Page 175: ...Fuses INTERIOR FUSE BOX Taking Care of the Unexpected On Canadian models Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 176: ...Fuses UNDER HOOD FUSE BOX ABS FUSE BOX 1 U S model 2 Canadian model Taking Care of the Unexpected Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 177: ...s method of towing is attempted If your Honda cannot be transported by flat bed it should be towed with the front wheels off the ground If due to damage your car must be towed with the front wheels on...

Page 178: ...on 188 Tire Size Designation 188 Wheel Size Designation 188 Tire Speed Ratings 188 Tire Pressure Adjustment For High Speed Driving 189 DOT Tire Quality Grading 189 Treadwear 189 Traction 190 Temperatu...

Page 179: ...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 180: ...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 ENGINE NUMBER TRANSMISSION NUMBER Main Menu Table...

Page 181: ...e coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine Reserve tank capacity 0 4 0 11 US gal 0 09 Imp gal 2 DX model 3 Except DX model Technical Information Dimensions Weights Engine Capacitie...

Page 182: ...Specifications Technical Information For cars with ABS Air Conditioning Lights Battery Fuses Alignment Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 183: ...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 184: ...ral Safety Requirements All tires are also graded for treadwear traction and temperature perform ance according to Department of Transportation DOT standards The following explains these gradings Trea...

Page 185: ...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 186: ...ion summarizes how the emission controls work Scheduled maintenance is on page 112 In Canada Honda vehicles comply with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards CMVSS for Emissions valid at the tim...

Page 187: ...nject under all operat ing conditions Ignition Timing Control System This system constantly adjusts the ignition timing reducing the amount of HC CO and NOx produced Three Way Catalytic Converter The...

Page 188: ...t on fire any com bustible materials that come near it Park your car away from high grass dry leaves or other flammables A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution and can...

Page 189: ...Relations Customer Relations Information 196 U S Zone Office Map 197 Canada Zone Office Map 198 Warranty Coverages 199 Reporting Safety Defects U S Cars 200 Authorized Manuals 201 Warranty and Custome...

Page 190: ...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 191: ...period with 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...

Page 192: ...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 193: ...g 58 Maintenance 139 Usage 58 Air Outlets Vents 60 Air Pressure Tires 141 Alcohol and Drugs 27 Alcohol in Gasoline 80 Antifreeze 122 Anti lock Brakes ABS Indicator Light 35 103 Operation 101 Anti thef...

Page 194: ...Changer 76 CD Player 75 Certification Label 184 Chains 146 Change Oil How to 120 When to 112 Changing a Flat Tire 165 Changing Engine Coolant 124 Charging System Indicator 35 175 Checking Automatic T...

Page 195: ...on 92 Drive Belts 140 Driving 89 Economy 86 In Bad Weather 104 In Foreign Countries 81 Economy Fuel 86 Emergencies on the Road 163 Battery Jump Starting 170 Changing a Flat Tire 165 Charging System In...

Page 196: ...s 41 High Beam Indicator 36 High Beams Turning on 41 Low Beams Turning on 41 Replacing Halogen Bulbs 149 Turning on 41 Head Restraints 49 Heating and Cooling 58 High Altitude Starting at 91 High Low B...

Page 197: ...ng 41 Turn Signal 42 Loading Cargo 88 LOCK Ignition Key Position 46 Locks Anti theft Steering Column 46 Fuel Fill Door 82 Glove Box 52 Hatch 47 Low Coolant Level 85 Low Fuel Indicator 36 Lower Gear Do...

Page 198: ...ring 131 Pregnancy Using Seat Belts 10 Proper Seat Belt Usage 7 Radiator Overheating 172 Radio Cassette Sound System 66 Rear End Towing 182 Rear Lights Bulb Replacement 152 Rear Seat Access 50 Rear Se...

Page 199: ...stem 66 Spare Tire Inflating 164 Specifications 187 Spark Plugs Replacing 133 Specifications Charts 186 Speedometer 37 SRS Indicator 16 35 START Ignition Key Position 46 Starting the Engine 91 In Cold...

Page 200: ...leaning 161 Unexpected Taking Care of the 163 Uniform Tire Quality Grading 189 Unleaded Gasoline 80 Upholstery Cleaning 160 Used Oil How to Dispose of 121 Vehicle Capacity Load 88 Vehicle Dimensions 1...

Page 201: ...Wipers Windshield Changing Blades 137 Operation 43 Worn Tires 143 Wrecker Emergency Towing 182 U S and Canada only Index Main Menu...

Page 202: ...ended Engine Oil API SJ or SH grade Energy Conserving or Energy Conserving II oil SAE 5W 30 viscosity Tire Pressure measured cold Front 210 kPa 2 1 kgf cm 2 30 psi Rear 200 kPa 2 0 kgf cm 2 29 psi Spa...

Search results

Summary of Contents for 1997 Civic Hatchback

Reviews:

Related manuals for 1997 Civic Hatchback

Brands by name

Popular brands

Honda 1997 Civic Hatchback, Owner'S Manual

Search results

Summary of Contents for 1997 Civic Hatchback

Reviews:

Related manuals for 1997 Civic Hatchback

Brands by name

Popular brands