Honda Prelude 2003 Owner'S Manual Download Page 199

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Identification Numbers

The Engine Number is stamped
into the engine block.

The Transmission Number is on a
label on top of the transmission.

ENGINE NUMBER

Technical Information

MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER

Main Menu

Table of Contents

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Summary of Contents for Prelude 2003

Page 1: ...reak in your new vehicle and how to load luggage and other cargo Driving 107 The proper way to start the engine shift the transmission and park plus towing a trailer Maintenance 127 The Maintenance Sc...

Page 2: ...Please make sure the manual stays with the car if you sell it The next owner will find it just as helpful Several other booklets in the glove box explain the warranties that protect your Honda We sugg...

Page 3: ...y alert symbol and one of three words DANGER WARNING 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...

Page 4: ...ow the Driver s Airbag Works 12 How the Passenger s Airbag Works 13 How the SRS Indicator Light Works 14 System Service 14 System Service Precautions 15 Additional Safety Information 16 Seat back Posi...

Page 5: ...nd door locks also play a role in occupant 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 d...

Page 6: ...ger children All infants and small children must be properly restrained in child safety seats see page 18 A pregnant woman needs to wear a seat belt to protect herself and her unborn child see page 8...

Page 7: ...r 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 while it keeps some tension on the...

Page 8: ...nd insert it into the buckle Tug on the belt to make sure the latch is securely locked 2 Check that the belt is not twisted 3 Position the lap portion of the belt as low as possible across your hips n...

Page 9: ...men Protecting the mother is the best way to protect her unborn child Therefore a pregnant woman should wear a properly positioned seat belt whenever she drives or rides in a car When using the seat b...

Page 10: ...and wear Check that the latches work smoothly and the lap shoulder belts retract easily Any belt not in good condition or not working properly should be replaced If a seat belt is worn during a crash...

Page 11: ...ls in Canada also includes a front passenger s airbag The main components in your SRS are An airbag in the steering wheel U S Si 4WS and VTEC models and Canadian SR 4WS and SR V models An airbag in th...

Page 12: ...ag you need to wear a seat belt The reasons are Airbags only inflate in severe frontal collisions They offer no protection in rear impacts side impacts rollovers or moderate frontal collisions An airb...

Page 13: ...powder This is normal it is caused by the inflation of the airbag To do its job the airbag inflates with considerable force So while it can reduce serious injuries and even save your life the airbag m...

Page 14: ...s airbag will inflate at the same time as the driver s airbag This airbag is quite large and inflates with considerable force It can seriously hurt an adult who is not in the proper position and wear...

Page 15: ...e light comes on or flashes while you are driving System Service Your supplemental restraint system is virtually maintenance free There are no parts you can safely service You must have the system ser...

Page 16: ...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 17: ...on 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 in...

Page 18: ...driving An unrestrained pet can interfere with your ability to drive the car In a crash or sudden stop loose pets or cages can be thrown around inside the car and hurt you or your passengers It is als...

Page 19: ...belt You must use a locking clip with a lap shoulder belt For cars with passenger airbags we strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger seat If the airbag inflates it...

Page 20: ...otor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 FMVSS 213 or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards Look for the manufac turer s statement of compliance on the box and seat Use a seat of the right size Make sure th...

Page 21: ...TEC models and Canadian SR 4 WS and SR V models We strongly recommend that you do not put an infant seat in the front passenger s seat In a severe frontal collision the inflating airbag can hit the in...

Page 22: ...e a booster seat Several styles of 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 manufac...

Page 23: ...h the latch plate Un buckle the seat belt 4 Install the locking clip as shown Position the clip as close as possible to the latch plate 5 Insert the latch plate into the buckle Push and pull on the ch...

Page 24: ...ance CA 90501 2746 Canadian Cars The anchor plate and mounting hardware for a top tether are supplied with the car When installing make sure the toothed washer is on the bottom of the bolt The supplie...

Page 25: ...re 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 a...

Page 26: ...ng 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 open op...

Page 27: ...it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles it may order a recall and remedy campaign However NHTSA can not become involved in individual problems between you your dealer or American H...

Page 28: ...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 29: ...Instrument Panel Brightness 41 Turn Signals 41 Windshield Wipers 42 Windshield Washers 42 Steering Wheel Adjustment 43 Steering Wheel Controls 44 Cruise Control 44 Horn 47 Keys and Locks 47 Keys 47 Ig...

Page 30: ...UDIO SYSTEM P 75 84 HOOD RELEASE HANDLE P 101 DOOR LOCK SWITCH P 49 POWER WINDOW SWITCH P 57 DIGITAL CLOCK P 62 HEATING COOLING CONTROL P 68 MIRROR CONTROLS P 60 FUEL FILL DOOR RELEASE P 100 TRUNK REL...

Page 31: ...that they are working The instru ment panel should look like the illustration If an indicator does not light during this test it cannot alert you if that system develops a prob lem Have the dealer che...

Page 32: ...ntrols CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR LOW FUEL INDICATOR ANTI LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TRUNK OPEN INDICATOR DOOR OPEN INDICATOR PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTE...

Page 33: ...tor lights when the oil pressure in the engine drops low enough to cause damage It should light when the ignition is ON II and go out after the engine starts If this light comes on when the engine is...

Page 34: ...gnition ON II and goes off after the engine starts If it comes on at any other time there is a problem in the ABS If this happens stop the car in a safe place and turn off the engine Reset the system...

Page 35: ...WS light If it does not go off or comes back on again while driving take the car to your dealer to have the system checked The 4WS system is disabled with this light on The rear wheels are locked stra...

Page 36: ...illuminated indicator bars to show the engine coolant s temperature range Under normal driving conditions you will see one of the bars at the display s midpoint In more severe driving conditions such...

Page 37: ...windshield wipers The controls on the dashboard to the left of the steering column are for the sunroof cruise control and instrument panel brightness The lever on the underside of the steering column...

Page 38: ...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 39: ...up as far as it will go to return the fuel and temperature gauges to their daytime brightness Turn Signals Signal a turn or lane change with this lever Push down on the lever to signal a left turn and...

Page 40: ...wipers run continuously 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 Wind...

Page 41: ...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 42: ...ions 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 movement Using the Cruise Contr...

Page 43: ...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 P...

Page 44: ...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 45: ...ear seat trunk access The valet key only works the ignition and the door locks You can keep the trunk trunk release handle and rear seat trunk access locked when you leave your car and valet key at a...

Page 46: ...In this position you can operate the audio system and cigarette lighter ON II This is the normal key position when driving All features and accessories on the car are usable Several of the lights on t...

Page 47: ...s door pull the door handle and push the lock tab in Release the handle then close the door The doors can also be locked and unlocked from the outside with the key Power Door Locks Available on U S S...

Page 48: ...nition the master door lock switches are disabled If you try to lock the driver s door by pushing in the lock tab the tabs on both doors immediately pop up Trunk You can open the trunk in two ways Pul...

Page 49: ...ther person the valet key Seat Adjustments 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 th...

Page 50: ...t back forward pull up on the release lever This lever is on the side of each seat back You can also tilt the seat back forward by pulling up the seat back angle adjustment lever Instruments and Contr...

Page 51: ...e memory Lumbar Support Vary the lumbar support by moving the lever on the right side of the seat back Fine Adjustment of Seat back Angle Adjust the seat back angle to the desired position with the ad...

Page 52: ...range You will then have to readjust the angle to your preference Seat Heaters Available only on SR 4 WS and SR V models in Canada Both front seats are equipped with seat heaters The ignition must be...

Page 53: ...side the trunk pull the release loop under the rear shelf To lock the seat back upright push it firmly against the rear shelf Make sure it is latched in place by pulling on the top of the seat Make su...

Page 54: ...l clear fog frost and thin ice from the window Push the defogger button to turn it on and off The light in the button lights to show the defogger is on If you do not turn it off the defogger will shut...

Page 55: ...elease the switch when the window gets to the position you want The master control panel also con tains these extra features AUTO To open the driver s window fully push the window switch firmly down a...

Page 56: ...en minutes after you turn off the igni tion Opening either front door can cels the delay function You must turn the ignition ON II again before you can raise or lower the windows Sunroof Use the switc...

Page 57: ...you can damage the sunroof panel or motor Mirrors Keep the inside and outside mirrors clean and adjusted for best visibili ty Be sure to adjust the mirrors before you start driving The inside mirror h...

Page 58: ...he mirror right or left up or down 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...

Page 59: ...Brake To apply the parking brake pull the lever up fully To release it pull up slightly push the button and lower the lever The parking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parki...

Page 60: ...I To set the clock 1 Turn the ignition switch ON II to display the time 2 To set the hour turn the knob toward H counterclockwise and hold it until the hour advances to the desired hour Instruments an...

Page 61: ...lf hour pressing the knob sets the clock forward to the beginning of the next hour For example 1 06 would RESET backward to 1 00 1 52 would RESET forward to 2 00 Vanity Mirror To use the vanity mirror...

Page 62: ...r console Open the ashtray by swinging the upper edge of the lid down To remove the ashtray for emptying open it then lift up and out Use the ashtray only for cigarettes cigars and other smoking mater...

Page 63: ...en either front door In the ON far right position the interior light stays on continuously Ignition Switch Light Available on Si Si 4 WS and VTEC models in the U S and on SR SR 4WS and SR V models in...

Page 64: ...Each Control Does 70 How to Use the System 71 Controlling Air Flow Direction 71 Ventilation 71 To Cool 72 To Dehumidify and Defog with A C 73 To Heat 74 To Defrost 74 To Turn Everything off 74 Audio S...

Page 65: ...ning it can be installed at any time Please contact your dealer for more information Air conditioning is optional on S model The direction of airflow from the vents in the center of the dash board and...

Page 66: ...Heating and Cooling Comfort and Convenience Features SIDE DEFROSTER VENT Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 67: ...cator in the switch lights when the A C is ON MODE BUTTONS REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER BUTTON RECIRCULATION BUTTON TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER Recirculation Button This button controls the source of air going...

Page 68: ...gine coolant to warm the air If the engine is cold it will be sever al minutes before you feel warm air circulating The air conditioning system does not depend on engine temperature It can produce col...

Page 69: ...eaches a com fortable temperature close the windows and set the system for cooling as described above The air conditioning places an extra load on the engine Watch the engine coolant temperature gauge...

Page 70: ...utside temperature is above 32 F 0 C 1 Set the fan to a medium speed 2 Turn on the air conditioning 3 Select any desired mode button is usually best 4 Adjust the temperature control lever so the mixtu...

Page 71: ...Select the Recirculation mode and 3 Open the side defroster vents 4 Set the fan and temperature controls to maximum These settings direct all the air flow to the defroster vents at the base of the wi...

Page 72: ...lent sound reproduction The system also senses when a metal or chromium dioxide CrO2 tape is being played and adjusts accord ingly The cassette player features auto reverse for continuous play Dolby n...

Page 73: ...radio is off You can use the Balance control to turn off the radio panel illumina tion even with the radio on Push the control knob so it pops out then pull it out slightly further Check this control...

Page 74: ...turns off and the anten na retracts when you turn the igni tion switch to LOCK 0 Adjust the volume by turning the ON VOL knob Select the band you want to listen to by pressing the AM FM button You wi...

Page 75: ...d it to go to a frequency that is far away The frequency display will begin to count rapidly It will stop counting when you release the bar The SEEK function searches the band for stations with a stro...

Page 76: ...u want for that station Press the button and hold it until you hear a beep 4 Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total of six stations each on AM and FM Once that station s frequency is stored simply press...

Page 77: ...he AM band are assigned frequencies at least 10 kilohertz apart 530 540 550 Those on the FM band are assigned frequencies at least 0 2 megahertz apart 87 9 88 1 88 3 Stations must use these exact freq...

Page 78: ...automati cally reverse direction when it reaches the end of the cassette If the cassette is a metal or chromium dioxide CrO2 tape you will see METAL displayed The system automatically adjusts for the...

Page 79: ...n fast forward or rewind it automatically stops that function reverses direction and begins to play Press the REPEAT button to replay the current passage The light in the button illuminates as a remin...

Page 80: ...eriods on the tape to find the end of a selection These features may not work satisfacto rily on tapes that have almost no gap between songs a high noise level between songs or silent peri ods in the...

Page 81: ...cellent sound reproduction The system also senses when a metal or chromium dioxide CrO2 tape is being played and adjusts accord ingly The Anti theft feature disables the system if it is disconnected f...

Page 82: ...he radio is off You can use the Balance control to turn off the radio panel illumina tion even with the radio on Push the control knob so it pops out then pull it out slightly further Check this contr...

Page 83: ...em turns off and the anten na retracts when you turn the igni tion switch to LOCK 0 Adjust the volume by turning the ON OFF VOL knob Select the band you want to listen to by pressing the AM or FM1 FM2...

Page 84: ...gle increment push and release the TUNE SEEK switch The SEEK function searches the band for stations with a strong sig nal Depending on which way you push the TUNE SEEK switch the system searches up o...

Page 85: ...sired station 3 Pick the Preset button you want for that station Press the button 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 t...

Page 86: ...l all the available presets If this is the case you will see a 0 displayed when you press any Preset button that does not have a station stored AUTO SELECT does not erase the stations you have manuall...

Page 87: ...on the AM band are assigned frequencies at least 10 kilohertz apart 530 540 550 Those on the FM band are assigned frequencies at least 0 2 megahertz apart 87 9 88 1 88 3 Stations must use these exact...

Page 88: ...direction when it reaches the end of the cassette If the cassette is a metal or chromium dioxide CrO2 tape you will see MTL displayed The system automatically adjusts for the special frequency charact...

Page 89: ...the end of the cassette while in fast forward or rewind it automatically stops that function reverses direction and begins to play Press the REPEAT button to replay the current passage The light in th...

Page 90: ...in the display as the tape fast forwards When the system senses a silent period on the tape it goes back to PLAY mode The REPEAT and TMS functions use silent periods on the tape to find the end of a s...

Page 91: ...probably defective and should not be inserted again You may have a cassette suddenly stop playing reverse directions once or twice and then eject This is normally an indication the tape is wound uneve...

Page 92: ...ies of your audio system s code number with your car Keep one of these copies at home and the other in your wallet or a con cealed place in the car If your car s battery is discon nected or goes dead...

Page 93: ...his section will help you If you plan to add any accessories to your car please read the information in this section first Break in Period 98 Gasoline 98 Oxygenated Fuels 98 Driving in Foreign Countri...

Page 94: ...This contributes to air pollution and can void certain parts of your warranty S model Use an unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 86 or higher Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause a pers...

Page 95: ...ubber and plastic parts of your fuel system If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms try another service station or switch to another brand of gasoline Fuel system damage or perfor mance probl...

Page 96: ...de of the door as shown 4 Stop 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...

Page 97: ...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 98: ...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 99: ...t Engine Coolant Check 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 139 for inform...

Page 100: ...tion abrupt cornering and hard braking use more fuel Always drive in the highest gear that allows the engine to run and accelerate smoothly Depending on traffic conditions try to maintain a constant s...

Page 101: ...sories can adversely affect your car s han dling and stability Your car has several computer controlled systems including the SRS system the engine s fuel injection and the Anti lock brake system Stro...

Page 102: ...tal weight of cargo you can load in or on the car With four occupants driver and three passengers the maximum recommended weight for cargo is 45 kg 100 Ibs Where you store this cargo and how well you...

Page 103: ...Starting the Engine 109 5 speed Manual Transmission 109 Automatic Transmission 109 Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude 110 5 speed Manual Transmission 111 Recommended Shift Points 111 Maximum S...

Page 104: ...ed down securely 4 Check the adjustment of the seat see page 51 5 Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors see page 59 6 Check the adjustment of the steering wheel see page 43 7 Make sur...

Page 105: ...the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race 6 If the engine still does not start press the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting in order to clear flooding As befor...

Page 106: ...arting in Cold Weather at High Altitude Above 2 400 meters 8 000 feet An engine is harder to start in cold weather The thinner air found at high altitude above 2 400 meters 8 000 feet adds to the prob...

Page 107: ...hift into one 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...

Page 108: ...ine speed will enter into the tachometer s red zone If this occurs you may feel the engine cut in and out This is caused by a limiter in the engine s computer controls The engine will run normally whe...

Page 109: ...Shift Lever Positions This display is on the instrument panel It shows you the position of the shift lever It also indicates a possible problem in the transmis sion if the D4 indicator light flashes...

Page 110: ...Lock Release on page 116 Reverse R To shift to Re verse from Park see the explana tion under Park To shift to Re verse from Neutral come to a com plete stop and then shift Press the release button bef...

Page 111: ...p hills Use second gear when start ing out on a slippery surface or in deep snow It will help reduce wheelspin Whenever you move the shift lever to a lower gear the transmission downshifts only if the...

Page 112: ...ch 3 Insert 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 fr...

Page 113: ...y to see if they feel normal If not apply them gently and frequently until they do Since a longer distance is needed to stop with wet brakes be extra cautious and alert in your driving Brake Wear Indi...

Page 114: ...rake System ABS as standard equipment ABS helps you maintain steering control It does this by helping you to prevent the wheels from locking up and skidding The ABS is always On It requires no special...

Page 115: ...m to work inconsistently A car with ABS may require a longer distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces than an equivalent car without Anti lock The ABS cannot make up for road conditions or bad jud...

Page 116: ...rn off the engine They also return to straight ahead if you sit still for more than two minutes with the engine running They return to steering mode as soon as you move the steering wheel or start to...

Page 117: ...r To be seen more clearly during day light hours turn on your headlights Inspect your windshield wipers and washers frequently Keep the wind shield washer reservoir full of the proper fluid Replace th...

Page 118: ...exceed 450 kg 1 000 Ibs The tongue load should never exceed 50 kg 110 Ibs This is the amount of weight the trailer puts on the hitch when it is fully loaded As a rule of thumb the tongue load should...

Page 119: ...ghed Load the car and trailer as you normally would while tow ing and take them to a public scale Have them check the total weight and the weight at each axle then compare them to the specifications T...

Page 120: ...your car s hydraulic system no matter how successful it may seem will lower braking effectiveness and create a potential hazard Always use a safety chain when towing a trailer Connect the safety chain...

Page 121: ...r turbulence Towing a trailer puts an extra load on your car You should have your car serviced according to the Maintenance schedule under severe driving conditions on page 130 This extra load is magn...

Page 122: ...tic In addition place wheel chocks at each of the trailer s tires Backing up with a trailer is diffi cult and takes practice Drive slowly make small movements with the steering wheel and have someone...

Page 123: ...134 Engine Oil 135 Checking Engine Oil 135 Adding 135 Recommended Oil 136 Additives 137 Oil and Filter Changes 137 Cooling System 139 Checking the Engine Coolant Level 139 Adding Engine Coolant 140 Re...

Page 124: ...ent efficient service However service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect Mainte nance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in this type of...

Page 125: ...air cleaner element every 24 000 km 15 000 miles or 12 months and replace every 48 000 km 30 000 miles or 24 months under condition B or E Replace engine oil and oil filter every 6 000 km 3 750 miles...

Page 126: ...1 For cars sold in California this service is recommended only other areas it is required 2 Replace every 6 years or 96 000 km 60 000 miles whichever comes first 3 Thereafter replace every 2 years or...

Page 127: ...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 128: ...Non Scheduled Maintenance Record Record additional maintenance for severe driving conditions or non scheduled maintenance on this page see page 130 Maintenance Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 129: ...check the reservoir each time you stop for fuel See page 143 Automatic transmission Check the fluid level monthly See page 144 Brakes clutch and power steering Check the fluid level monthly See page...

Page 130: ...RESERVOIR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK Yellow loop 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 DIP...

Page 131: ...it 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 To add oil u...

Page 132: ...ur car accord ing to this chart Except US VTEC Canada SR V Ambient Temperature An oil with a viscosity of 5W 30 is preferred for improved fuel econo my and year round protection in your Honda You may...

Page 133: ...r Changes Always change the oil and filter according to the time and kilomet rage mileage recommendations in the maintenance schedule The oil and filter collect contaminants that can damage your engin...

Page 134: ...the drain bolt Tighten it to 40 N m 4 0 kg m 29 Ib ft 6 Refill the engine with the recom mended oil Engine oil capacity including filter US S Canada S 3 8 l 4 0 USqt 3 3 Imp qt US Si Si 4WS Canada SR...

Page 135: ...6 000 km 3 750 miles See page 130 for a description of severe driving conditions Cooling System Checking the Engine Coolant Level Check the level of the coolant by looking at the radiator reserve tan...

Page 136: ...ushing down and turning counterclockwise 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 th...

Page 137: ...ecom mended antifreeze Draining the coolant requires 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...

Page 138: ...equal amount of purified or distilled water in a clean container The cooling system capacity is With manual transmission US S Canada S 3 5 l 0 92 US gal 0 77 Imp gal US Si Si 4WS Canada SR SR 4WS 3 8...

Page 139: ...p the radiator cooling fan comes on at least twice 10 Turn off the engine Check the level in the radiator add coolant if needed Install the radiator cap tighten it fully 11 Fill the reserve tank to th...

Page 140: ...nd prevents freezing in cold weather Do not use engine antifreeze or a vinegar water solution in the windshield washer reservoir Antifreeze can damage your car s paint while a vinegar water solution c...

Page 141: ...The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid every 24 months or 48 000 km 30 000 miles whichever comes first 5 speed Manual Transmission Check the oil level a couple of mi nutes aft...

Page 142: ...id reservoir all models Clutch fluid reservoir Manual transmission only ABS reservoir Si Si 4WS and VTEC models in U S and SR SR 4WS and SR V models in Canada The brake fluid in the brake and Anti loc...

Page 143: ...a few minutes It should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir If it is at or below the MIN mark it may indicate a problem in the braking system Have the dealer inspect your ca...

Page 144: ...level in the power steering reservoir monthly Check the level when the engine is cold Look at the side of the reservoir The fluid should be between the UPPER LEVEL and LOWER LEVEL If it is below the L...

Page 145: ...uch as a gas station ask your Honda dealer to do this service Follow the replacement procedure for removal and reinstallation The air cleaner element is inside the box on the passenger s side of the e...

Page 146: ...s Spark Plugs Except US VTEC Canada SR V The original spark plugs in your car need to be replaced every 2 years or 48 000 km 30 000 miles whichever comes first US VTEC Canada SR V The original spark p...

Page 147: ...a torque wrench tight en the spark plug one quarter turn after it contacts the cylinder head Tightening torque 18 N m 1 8 kg m 13 Ib ft Tighten the spark plugs carefully A spark plug that is too loose...

Page 148: ...ot climates or continuous high speed driving NGK ZFR6F 11 Nippondenso KJ20CR L11 US Si Si 4WS Canada SR SR 4WS Normal driving conditions NGK ZFR6F 11 Nippondenso KJ20CR L11 Hot climates or continuous...

Page 149: ...ediately Check the battery condition by looking at the test indicator window on the battery Blue Good condition Red Add distilled water White Charging necessary CONTINUED Maintenance TEST INDICATOR WI...

Page 150: ...aning tool or wire brush Reconnect and tighten the cables then coat the terminals with grease When reconnecting the positive terminal on manual transmission models make sure to place the cable securel...

Page 151: ...d 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 arm by...

Page 152: ...n forcement 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...

Page 153: ...itioning 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 operating temperature This circulates the...

Page 154: ...the belts Tires Check the inflation and condition of your car s tires at least once a month Inflation Check the pressure in the tires when they are cold This means the car has been parked for at least...

Page 155: ...with the best combi nation of riding comfort handling and tread life Underinflated tires wear unevenly reduce your car s handling and are more likely to fail because of higher temperatures Overinflat...

Page 156: ...res were properly balanced by the factory They may need to be rebalanced at some time before they are worn out Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving A tire...

Page 157: ...e at your Honda dealer Wheels and Tires Wheel S 14x5 5JJ Except S 15x6 5JJ Tire S 185 70R1487H Except S 205 55R1587V DOT Tire Quality Grading US Cars The tires on your car meet all U S Federal Safety...

Page 158: ...when 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 tempe...

Page 159: ...ginal equipment tires You should drive cautiously even when the roads are clear Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations Tire Chains Mount snow chains on your car when warranted by...

Page 160: ...eadlight Bulb Your car has two bulbs on each side four in total Make sure you are replacing the bulb that is burned out Your car uses halogen headlight bulbs When replacing a bulb handle it by its pla...

Page 161: ...the seating of the bulb s tabs if the ring will not return to its original position 7 Reinstall the harness connector on the bulb connector Make sure it locks in place Turn on the headlights to test...

Page 162: ...er Push the light assembly straight back 8 Install the mounting screw and tighten it securely Replacing a Front Side Marker Light Bulb 1 Use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the side marker assem...

Page 163: ...g screw Replacing a Front Turn Signal Light Bulb 1 Use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the turn signal assem bly s mounting screw 2 Remove the turn signal assembly from the bumper 3 Remove the b...

Page 164: ...nto the bumper slot Tighten the mounting screw Replacing a High mount Brake Light Bulb 1 Remove the cover by pulling it down and sliding it forward 2 Determine which bulb is burned out 3 Pull the bulb...

Page 165: ...em bly 3 Try the tail stoplights rear turn signals and back up lights to verify which bulb needs replac ing Remove that bulb from the socket by pushing it in slightly and turning it counterclockwise 4...

Page 166: ...mbly backwards 3 Remove the socket from the light assembly by turning it counterclockwise 4 Remove the bulb from the socket by pulling it straight out Install the new bulb Turn on the headlights to te...

Page 167: ...arking lights and check that the new bulb is working 5 Reinstall the cover and the lens Put the license light assembly in place Reinstall the two screws and tighten them securely Replacing Interior an...

Page 168: ...Lights 2 Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its metal tabs 3 Push the new bulb into the metal tabs Snap the lens back in place Maintenance TRUNK LIGHT Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 169: ...red for a longer period it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground Leave one window open slightly if the car is being stored indoors Disconnect the battery Cover the car with...

Page 170: ...rance the paint brightwork wheels and interior Also included are several things you can do to help prevent corro sion Exterior Care 176 Washing 176 Waxing 177 Aluminum Wheels 177 Paint Touch up 178 In...

Page 171: ...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 172: ...of its shine They 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...

Page 173: ...he touch up paint on small chips and scratches More extensive damage should be repaired by a professional Examine the chip or scratch closely before repairing it If it does not go down to bare metal c...

Page 174: ...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 mild...

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

Page 176: ...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 sheetmetal pieces that seem...

Page 177: ...le to get going again If not you will also find instructions on getting your car towed Compact Spare Tire 184 Changing a Flat Tire 185 If Your Engine Won t Start 190 Nothing Happens 190 The Starter Op...

Page 178: ...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 179: ...n the ignition to LOCK 0 2 Put the transmission in Park automatic or Reverse manual Set the parking brake 3 Open the trunk Raise the trunk floor by lifting up on the back edge 4 Take the tool kit out...

Page 180: ...cover by turning the handle clockwise then pulling on the cover 7 Turn the jack s end bracket counterclockwise to loosen it then remove the jack 8 Loosen the four wheel nuts 1 2 turn with the wheel wr...

Page 181: ...Make sure the jacking point tab is resting on the jack notch 10 Use the extension and wheel wrench as shown to raise the car until the flat tire is off the ground 11 Remove the wheel nuts and flat tir...

Page 182: ...th 13 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...

Page 183: ...k well 17 Remove the spacer cone from the wing bolt turn it over and put it back on the bolt 18 Secure the flat tire by screwing the wing bolt back into its hole 19 Store the jack in its holder with t...

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 di...

Page 185: ...there are several precau tions you should take Follow the directions closely You cannot start a Honda with an automatic transmision by pushing or pulling it To jump start your car 1 Open the hood and...

Page 186: ...le 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 che...

Page 187: ...neutral or Park and set the parking brake Turn off the climate control and all other accessories Turn on the hazard warning indicators 2 If you see steam and or spray coming from under the hood turn o...

Page 188: ...n the cooling system After the pressure releases push down on the cap and turn it until it comes off 10 Start the engine and set the temperature control lever to maximum Add coolant to the radiator up...

Page 189: ...hood and check the oil level see page 135 Although oil level and oil pressure are not directly connected an engine that is very low on oil can loose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuve...

Page 190: ...t 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 battery rapidly By eliminatin...

Page 191: ...tch the indicator light If it stays on have your car checked by the dealer as soon as possible Drive moderately until the dealer has inspected the problem Avoid full throttle acceleration and driving...

Page 192: ...f the new fuse blows immediately or the sunroof motor still does not operate you can close the sunroof manually 3 Get the tool kit out of the trunk 4 Pry off the round plug in the center of the headli...

Page 193: ...d in two fuse boxes The underhood fuse box is located in the engine compartment next to the battery To open push the tab as shown The interior fuse box is underneath the dashboard on the driver s side...

Page 194: ...he component s operation 1 Turn the ignition switch to LOCK 0 Make sure the head lights and all other accessories are off 2 Remove the cover from the fuse box 3 Check each of the large fuses in the un...

Page 195: ...ower rating it might blow out again This does not indicate anything wrong Replace the fuse with one of the correct rating as soon as you can Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly...

Page 196: ...ion and body can be seriously damaged if this method of towing is attempted If your Honda cannot be trans ported by flat bed it should be towed with the front wheels off the ground If due to damage yo...

Page 197: ...cation Numbers 204 Specifications 206 Anti lock Brake System 208 Supplemental Restraint System 209 Four Wheel Steering 210 Emission Controls 211 The Clean Air Act 211 Crankcase Emission Control System...

Page 198: ...ur ing 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 Certificati...

Page 199: ...ine Number is stamped into the engine block The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission ENGINE NUMBER Technical Information MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBE...

Page 200: ...Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine Reserve tank capacity 0 6 l 0 16 US gal 0 13 Imp gal 3 US Si Si 4WS Canada SR SR 4WS 4 US VTEC Canada SR V 5 Excluding the o...

Page 201: ...Specifications 1 S 2 Except S Technical Information Main Menu Table of Contents...

Page 202: ...ur wheels When the control unit detects a wheel locking up it energizes the appropriate solenoid in the modulator solenoid unit There are three solenoids one for each front wheel and one for the rear...

Page 203: ...burns instantaneously The gas produced by the burning propellant inflates the airbag instantly The airbag is vented so it stays inflated for only an instant and does not block the driver s vision Smok...

Page 204: ...The angle of countersteer increases as the angle of the front wheels in creases to a maximum counter steer angle of six degrees This improves response when parallel parking or making sharp turns Abov...

Page 205: ...tion summarizes how the emission con trols work Scheduled maintenance is on page 129 In Canada Honda vehicles comply with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards CMVSS for Emissions valid at the t...

Page 206: ...timing reducing the amount of HC CO and NOx produced Exhaust Gas Recirculation EGR The Exhaust Gas Recirculation EGR system takes some of the exhaust gas and routes it back into the intake manifold A...

Page 207: ...can set on fire any com bustible materials that come near it Park your car away from high grass dry leaves or other flamma bles A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution a...

Page 208: ...ranty and Customer Relations Warranty Coverages 216 Customer Relations Information 217 U S Zone Office Map 218 Canada Zone Office Map 219 Authorized Manuals 221 Warranty and Customer Relations Main Me...

Page 209: ...y 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 warranty manual for details Repl...

Page 210: ...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 211: ...er Ln Suite 200 Gaithersburg Maryland 20878 301 990 2020 Southeastern Zone 1500 Morrison Parkway Alpharetta Georgia 30201 770 442 2045 North Central Zone 601 Campus Drive Suite A 9 Arlington Heights I...

Page 212: ...l Zone Honda Canada Inc 126 Milner Avenue Scarborough Ontario M1S 3R2 416 299 3400 Quebec Zone Honda Canada Inc 1750 rue Eifiel Boucherville Quebec J4B 7W1 514 655 6161 Atlantic Zone Honda Canada Inc...

Page 213: ...to the year shown below contact Helm Incorporated P O Box 07280 Detroit Michigan 48207 or call 1 800 782 4356 Valid only for sales within the U S Canadian owners should contact thier authorized Honda...

Page 214: ...enance and recommended procedures for repair to engine and chassis components It is written for the Journeyman mechanic but is simple enough for most mechanically inclined owners to understand Electri...

Page 215: ...Alcohol and Drugs 24 Alcohol in Gasoline 98 Antifreeze 139 Anti lock Brakes ABS Description 208 Indicator Light 34 119 Operation 118 Anti theft Steering Column Lock 48 Appearance Care 175 Ashtray 64...

Page 216: ...lant 140 Charging System Light 33 196 Check Engine Light 34 197 Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid 144 Battery Condition 152 Brake Fluid 146 Clutch Fluid 148 Engine Belts 158 Engine Coolant 139 Eng...

Page 217: ...my Fuel 104 Emergencies on the Road 183 Battery Jump Starting 191 Changing a Flat Tire 185 Charging System Light 196 Check Engine Light 197 Checking the Fuses 200 Low Oil Pressure Light 195 Malfunctio...

Page 218: ...quirement 98 Oxygenated 98 Tank Filling the 100 Fuses Checking the 200 Gas Mileage Improving 104 Gasohol 98 Gasoline 98 Filter 150 Gauge 38 Octane Requirement 98 Tank Filling the 100 Gas Station Proce...

Page 219: ...elts 6 Leaking of Exhaust into Car 25 Lighter Cigarette 63 Lights Bulb Replacement 164 Indicator 31 Parking 40 Turn Signal 41 Loading Cargo 106 LOCK Ignition Key Position 48 Locks Anti theft Steering...

Page 220: ...hings that Burn 213 PGM FI System 212 Polishing and Waxing 177 Power Door Locks 49 Mirrors 60 Steering 148 Windows 57 Pregnancy Using Seat Belts 8 Proper Seat Belt Usage 6 Radiator Overheating 193 Rad...

Page 221: ...de Marker Lights Bulb Replacement in 166 Signaling Turns 41 Snow Tires 163 Solvent type Cleaners 176 Sound System 75 Spare Tire Inflating 184 Specifications 207 Spark Plugs Replacing 150 Specification...

Page 222: ...evel Automatic 144 Checking Fluid Level Manual 145 Fluid Selection 145 Identification Number 204 Shifting the Automatic 113 Shifting the Manual 111 Treadwear 161 Trip Meter 37 Trunk 50 Opening the 50...

Page 223: ...43 Alignment and Balance 160 Compact Spare 184 Wrench 186 Windows Cleaning 180 Operating the Power 57 Rear Defogger 56 Windshield Cleaning 42 Defroster 74 Wipers Windshield Changing Blades 155 Operat...

Page 224: ...rving II oil SAE 5W 30 viscosity US VTEC Canada SR V API SG grade Energy Conserving II oil SAE 10W 30 viscosity Engine Oil Capacity including filter US S Canada S 3 8 l 4 0 US qt 3 3 Imp qt US Si Si 4...

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Honda Prelude 2003, Owner'S Manual

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