Acura 2000 TL Owner's Manual
Acura 2000 TL Owner's Manual

Acura 2000 TL Owner's Manual

Honda 2000 tl
Table of Contents

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2000 TL Online Reference Owner's Manual
Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference.
For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.
Your Vehicle at a Glance....................................................................................................................
Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls.................................................................................................................
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features .............................................................................................
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving..................................................................................................................................
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving ..............................................................................................................................................
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance .....................................................................................................................................
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.
Appearance Care..............................................................................................................................
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs.
Taking Care of the Unexpected ......................................................................................................
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Technical Information.....................................................................................................................
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index......................................................................................................................................................
A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
Contents
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Summary of Contents for Acura 2000 TL

  • Page 1: Table Of Contents

    2000 TL Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. Contents For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com. Owner's Identification Form Introduction ............................i A Few Words About Safety.........................
  • Page 2: Owner's Identification Form

    The information and specifications included ADDRESS in this publication were in affect at the time STREET of approval for printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change specifications or CITY STATE/PROVINCE...
  • Page 3: Introduction

    Main Menu Introduction Congratulations ! Your selection of a 2000 Acura 3.2 TL was a wise As you read this manual, you will investment. It will give you years of driving pleasure. find information that is preceded by symbol. This One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Acura is to read information is intended to help you this manual.
  • Page 4: A Few Words About Safety

    Main Menu A Few Words About Safety A Few Words About Safety Your safety, and the safety of others, You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms, Your safety, and the safety of others, You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms, is very important.
  • Page 5: Your Vehicle At A Glance

    Main Menu Your Car at a Glance MIRROR AIRBAGS CONTROLS (P.9, 43) (P.98) POWER DOOR LOCK SWITCH (P.77) DIGITAL CLOCK (P. 100) POWER WINDOW CLIMATE CONTROL SWITCHES (P.110, 118) (P.95) AUDIO SYSTEM (P.123) TRUNK RELEASE BUTTON FUEL FILL DOOR HOOD RELEASE AUTOMATIC (P.82) HANDLE...
  • Page 6 Main Menu Your Car at a Glance HAZARD WARNING TRACTION CONTROL HEADLIGHTS/ WINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS LIGHTS TURN SIGNALS (P.65) (P.175) (P.63, 65) (P.67) MOONROOF SWITCH (P.96) INSTRUMENT PANEL BRIGHTNESS (P.64) TILT ADJUSTMENT REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER (P.68) (P.67) CRUISE CONTROL HORN (P.69) (P.62)
  • Page 7 Main Menu...
  • Page 8: Driver And Passenger Safety

    Main Menu Driver and Passenger Safety 2. Adjust the Front Seats..12 This section gives you important Protecting Small Children...32 information about how to protect 3. Adjust the Seat-Backs..Protecting Larger Children..35 4. Adjust the Head Restraints..Using Child Seats with yourself and your passengers.
  • Page 9: Important Safety Precautions

    Main Menu Table of Contents Important Safety Precautions Be Aware of Airbag Hazards Control Your Speed You'll find many safety recommendations throughout this While airbags can save lives, they Excessive speed is a major factor in section, and throughout this manual. can cause serious or fatal injuries to crash injuries and deaths.
  • Page 10: Your Car's Safety Features

    Main Menu Table of Contents Your Car's Safety Features Your car is equipped with many features that work together to protect you and your passengers during a crash. Some safety features do not require any action on your part. These include a strong steel framework that forms a safety cage around the passenger compartment;...
  • Page 11: Seat Belts

    Main Menu Table of Contents Your Car's Safety Features Seat Belts In addition, most states and all • Help keep you from being thrown Canadian provinces require you to For your safety, and the safety of against the inside of the car and wear seat belts.
  • Page 12: Airbags

    Main Menu Table of Contents Your Car's Safety Features Airbags • Airbags offer no protection in rear impacts, rollovers, or minor frontal or side collisions. • Airbags can pose serious hazards. To do their job, airbags must inflate with tremendous force and speed.
  • Page 13: Seats & Seat-Backs

    Main Menu Table of Contents Your Car's Safety Features Seats & Seat-Backs Head Restraints What you should do: Move the front Your car's seats are designed to keep seats as far back as possible, and Head restraints can help protect you you in a comfortable, upright keep adjustable seat-backs in an from whiplash and other injuries.
  • Page 14: Pre-Drive Safety Checklist

    Main Menu Table of Contents Your Car's Safety Features Pre-Drive Safety Checklist • Front seat occupants are sitting The rest of this section gives more To make sure you and your upright and as far back as possible detailed information about how you passengers get the maximum from the steering wheel and can maximize your safety.
  • Page 15: Protecting Adults

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults Introduction 2.Adjust the Front Seats The following pages provide instructions on how to properly protect the driver and other adult occupants. Your car has a door monitor light on These instructions also apply to the instrument panel to indicate children who have outgrown child when a specific door is not tightly...
  • Page 16: Adjust The Seat-Backs

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults To reduce the chance of injury, wear Most shorter drivers can get far your seat belt properly, sit upright enough away from the steering with your back against the seat, and wheel and still reach the pedals. move the seat as far back as possible However, if you are concerned about from the steering wheel while still...
  • Page 17: Adjust The Head Restraints

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults 4.Adjust the Head Restraints Reclining a seat-back so that the shoulder part of the belt no longer rests against the occupant's chest Improperly positioning head restraints reduces their reduces the protective capability of effectiveness and you can be the belt.
  • Page 18: Fasten And Position The Seat Belts

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults 5.Fasten and Position the Seat If necessary, pull up on the belt again Belts to remove any slack from the Insert the latch plate into the buckle, shoulder part, then check that the belt rests across the center of your then tug on the belt to make sure the chest and over your shoulder.
  • Page 19 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults If the seat belt touches or crosses If a seat belt does not seem to work your neck, or if it crosses your arm as it should, it may not protect the instead of your shoulder, you need to occupant in a crash.
  • Page 20: Adjust The Steering Wheel

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults 6.Adjust the Steering Wheel 7.Maintain a Proper Sitting In addition, an occupant who is out of Position position in the front seat can be After all occupants have adjusted seriously or fatally injured by their seats and put on seat belts, it is striking interior parts of the car, or very important that they continue to...
  • Page 21: Advice For Pregnant Women

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults Advice for Pregnant Women Pregnant women should also sit Remember, to get the best upright and as far back as possible protection from your car's airbags and other safety features, you must from the steering wheel or sit properly and wear your seat belt dashboard.
  • Page 22: Additional Safety Precautions

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults Additional Safety Precautions • Do not place hard or sharp objects • Do not attach hard objects on or between yourself and a front near a front door. If a side airbag • Two people should never use the airbag.
  • Page 23: Protecting Children

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children All Children Must Be Restrained Each year, many children are injured Children who are unrestrained or killed in vehicle crashes because or improperly restrained can be they are either unrestrained or not seriously injured or killed in a properly restrained.
  • Page 24: Children Should Sit In The Back Seat

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Children Should Sit in the Back The Passenger's Front Airbag Small Children Seat Poses Serious Risks to Children Placing a forward-facing child seat in According to accident statistics, Front airbags have been designed to the front seat of a vehicle equipped children of all ages and sizes are help protect adults in a moderate to...
  • Page 25 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children U.S. Models Canadian Models To remind you of the passenger's To remind you of the front airbag front airbag hazards, and that hazards, your car has warning labels children must be properly restrained on the driver's and front passenger's in the back seat, your car has visors.
  • Page 26: If You Must Drive With Several Children

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children If You Must Drive with Several If a Child Requires Close Additional Safety Precautions Children Attention • Use childproof door locks to Many parents say they prefer to put Your car has three seating positions prevent children from opening the an infant or small child in the front in the back seat where children can...
  • Page 27: General Guidelines For Using Child Seats

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children • Do not leave children alone in your General Guidelines for Using Child Seats vehicle. Leaving children without adult supervision is illegal in most The following pages give general states and Canadian provinces, guidelines for selecting and installing and can be very hazardous.
  • Page 28 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children 3. The child seat should fit the Before purchasing a child seat, we vehicle seating position (or recommend that parents test the positions) where it will be used. child seat in the specific vehicle seating position (or positions) where they intend to use the seat.
  • Page 29 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Front Passenger's Seat Placing a Child Seat This page briefly summarizes Acura's Infants: Never in the front seat, due recommendations on where to place to the front airbag hazard. rear-facing and forward-facing child seats in your car.
  • Page 30 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Installing a Child Seat To provide security during normal 3. Secure the child in the child seat. driving maneuvers as well as during Make sure the child is properly After selecting a proper child seat, a collision, we recommend that strapped in the child seat and a good position to install the seat,...
  • Page 31: Protecting Infants

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Protecting Infants Rear-Facing Child Seat Placement In this car, a rear-facing child seat Placing a rear-facing child seat can be placed in any seating position in the front seat can result in in the back seat, but not in the front serious injury or death if the seat.
  • Page 32 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Rear-Facing Child Seat Installation The lap/shoulder belts in the back seats have a locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat. The following pages provide instructions and tips on how to secure a rear-facing child seat with this type of seat belt.
  • Page 33 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children To deactivate the locking mechanism and remove a child seat, unlatch the buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let the belt fully retract. 4. After confirming that the belt is 5. Push and pull the child seat locked, grab the shoulder part of forward and from side to side to the belt near the buckle and pull...
  • Page 34 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Rear-Facing Child Seat Installation When properly installed, a rear- Additional Precautions for Infants facing child seat may prevent the Tips • Never hold an infant on your lap. driver or a front-seat passenger from If you are not wearing a seat belt moving the seat as far back as in a crash, you could be thrown...
  • Page 35: Protecting Small Children

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Protecting Small Children We also recommend that a small child stay in the child seat as long as possible, until the child reaches the Improperly placing a forward- weight or height limit for the seat. facing child seat in the front seat can result in serious injury Child Seat Placement...
  • Page 36 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Child Seat Installation The lap/shoulder belts in the back and front passenger seating positions have a locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat. The following pages provide instructions and tips on how to secure a forward-facing child seat with this type of seat belt.
  • Page 37 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children To deactivate the locking mechanism in order to remove a child seat, unlatch the buckle, unroute the seat belt, and let the belt fully retract. 4. After confirming that the belt is 5. Push and pull the child seat locked, grab the shoulder part of forward and from side to side to the belt near the buckle and pull...
  • Page 38: Protecting Larger Children

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Protecting Larger Children Additional Precautions for Small Children When a child reaches the • Never hold a small child on your recommended weight or height limit Allowing a larger child to sit lap. If you are not wearing a seat for a forward-facing child seat, the improperly in the front seat can belt in a crash, you could be...
  • Page 39 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children However, if the belt touches or Do not put any accessories on a seat Checking Seat Belt Fit crosses the child's neck, the child belt. Devices intended to improve needs to use a booster seat. occupant comfort or reposition the shoulder part of a seat belt, severely compromise the protective capability...
  • Page 40 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children A child may continue using a booster When Can a Larger Child Sit in Front Using a Booster Seat seat until the tops of the ears are The National Highway Traffic Safety even with the top of the seat-back. A Administration and Transport child of this height should be tall Canada recommend that all children...
  • Page 41 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children • Of course, children vary widely. And Maturity Check that the child's seat belt is while age may be one indicator of properly positioned and secured. To safely ride in front, a child must when a child can safely ride in the be able to follow the rules, including •...
  • Page 42: Using Child Seats With Tethers

    Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Using Child Seats with Tethers Your car has three tether anchorage Attach the tether strap hook to the points on the rear shelf for securing tether anchorage point and tighten a tether-style child seat to the car. the strap according to the child seat maker's instructions.
  • Page 43: Additional Information About Your Seat Belts

    Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Seat Belts Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt To unlock the belt, push the red Your seat belt system includes lap/ PRESS button on the buckle. shoulder belts in all five seating Guide the belt across your body to positions.
  • Page 44 Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Seat Belts All seat belts have an emergency If the shoulder part of the belt is See page for instructions on how locking retractor. In normal driving, pulled all the way out, the locking to wear the lap/shoulder belt properly.
  • Page 45: Seat Belt Maintenance

    Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Seat Belts Seat Belt Maintenance If a seat belt is worn during a crash, For safety, you should check the you should have your dealer inspect Not checking or maintaining condition of your seat belts regularly. the belt, and replace it if necessary.
  • Page 46: Additional Information About Your Front Airbags

    Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Front Airbags • How Your Front Airbags Work SRS Components An indicator light on the instrument panel that alerts you to Your Supplemental Restraint System a possible problem with the (SRS) includes: system (see page 45).
  • Page 47 Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Front Airbags During a frontal crash, your seat After a crash, you may see what belts help restrain your lower body looks like smoke. This is actually and torso. Your airbag provides a powder from the airbag's surface.
  • Page 48: How The Srs Indicator Light Works

    Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Front Airbags How the SRS Indicator Light However, if the light comes on at any Works other time, you should have the system checked by your dealer. For The purpose of the SRS Ignoring the SRS indicator light example: indicator light is to alert...
  • Page 49: Side Airbags

    Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Side Airbags How Your Side Airbags Work Your car is equipped with side To get the best protection from the airbags for the driver and a front side airbags, front seat occupants seat passenger.
  • Page 50: How The Side Airbag Indicator Light Works

    Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Side Airbags How The Side Airbag Indicator A front seat passenger should not The SRS indicator light will Light Works use a cushion or other object as a come on if there is a backrest.
  • Page 51: Airbag Service

    Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Airbags Airbag Service Additional Safety Precautions • Do not cover or replace front seat- • Your front and side airbag systems Do not attempt to deactivate your back covers without consulting an are virtually maintenance-free, and airbags.
  • Page 52: Carbon Monoxide Hazard

    Main Menu Table of Contents Carbon Monoxide Hazard Your vehicle's exhaust contains With the trunk lid open, air flow can carbon monoxide gas. You should pull exhaust gas into your car's interior and create a hazardous have no problem with carbon Carbon monoxide gas is toxic.
  • Page 53: Safety Labels

    Main Menu Table of Contents Safety Labels SUN VISOR These labels are in the locations shown. They warn you of potential US models hazards that could cause serious injury. Read these labels carefully. DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur • Children 12 and under can be kited by the air bag If a label comes off or becomes hard •...
  • Page 54: Instruments And Controls

    Main Menu Instruments and Controls Instrument Panel Brightness ..64 This section gives information about Driver's Lumbar Support... the controls and displays that Turn Signals......Head Restraints...... contribute to the daily operation of Windshield Wipers....65 Center Console Armrest....92 your Acura. All the essential controls Windshield Washers.....
  • Page 55: Control Locations

    Main Menu Table of Contents Control Locations DIGITAL CLOCK CLIMATE CONTROL MIRROR (P.100) (P. 110, 118) CONTROLS (P.98) POWER DOOR LOCK AUDIO SYSTEM SWITCH (P.123) (P.77) POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.96) TRUNK RELEASE BUTTON (P.82) FUEL FILL DOOR HOOD RELEASE HANDLE HANDLE (P.148) (P.147)
  • Page 56: Indicator Lights

    Main Menu Table of Contents Indicator Lights The instrument panel has many LOW OIL HIGH BEAM INDICATOR CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR indicators to give you important PRESSURE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT INDICATOR information about your car. SYSTEM INDICATOR MALFUNCTION SEAT BELT IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM REMINDER INDICATOR INDICATOR...
  • Page 57 Main Menu Table of Contents Indicator Lights U.S. Parking Brake and Seat Belt Reminder Light Low Oil Pressure Indicator Brake System Indicator This indicator lights when you turn The engine can be severely damaged Canada the ignition switch ON (IT). It is a if this light flashes or stays on when reminder to you and your passengers the engine is running.
  • Page 58 Main Menu Table of Contents Indicator Lights Supplemental Restraint U.S. Anti-lock Brake System Traction Control System (ABS) Indicator (TCS) Indicator System Indicator This indicator has three functions: This indicator lights when you turn Canada the ignition switch ON (II). If it comes on at any other time, it 1.
  • Page 59 Main Menu Table of Contents Indicator Lights Turn Signal and "Daytime Running Door-open Indicator Lights" Indicator Hazard Warning Indicators Canadian models only This indicator lights when you turn The left or right turn signal light blinks when you signal a lane change the ignition switch to ON (II) with or turn.
  • Page 60 Main Menu Table of Contents Indicator Lights Immobilizer System Cruise Control Indicator Washer Level Indicator CRUISE CONTROL Indicator This lights when you set the cruise This indicator comes on for a few Canadian models only seconds when you turn the ignition control.
  • Page 61 Main Menu Table of Contents Gauges Odometer TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER TRIP METER FUEL GAUGE TEMPERATURE GAUGE 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 U.S. federal law and Canadian provincial regulations to disconnect, reset, or alter the odometer with the intent to change...
  • Page 62 Main Menu Table of Contents Gauges Trip Meter There are two trip meters: Trip A Outside Temperature Indicator and Trip B. Switch between these This indicator displays the outside displays by pressing the Select temperature in Fahrenheit in U.S. button repeatedly. Each trip meter models, and in Centigrade in SELECT works independently, so you can...
  • Page 63 Main Menu Table of Contents Gauges Temperature Gauge Fuel Gauge Maintenance Required Indicator This shows the temperature of the This shows how much fuel you have. engine's coolant. During normal It is most accurate when the car is on operation, the pointer should rise level ground.
  • Page 64 Main Menu Table of Contents Gauges Your dealer will reset this indicator For the first 6,000 miles (9,600 km) after completing the scheduled after the Maintenance Required SELECT BUTTON Indicator is reset, it will come on for maintenance. If this maintenance is two seconds when you turn the done by someone other than your ignition switch ON (II).
  • Page 65: Controls Near The Steering Wheel

    Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel The two levers on the steering TRACTION HEADLIGHTS/ WINDSHIELD REAR WINDOW column contain controls for driving CONTROL TURN SIGNALS WIPERS/WASHERS DEFOGGER features you use most often. The left lever controls the turn signals, headlights, and high beams.
  • Page 66 Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel Headlights If you leave the lights on with the To flash the high beams, pull the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) turn signal lever back lightly, then or LOCK (0), you will hear a release it.
  • Page 67 Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel Automatic Lighting Off Feature Daytime Running Lights Instrument Panel Brightness (Canadian Models) The Automatic Lighting Off feature turns off the headlights, parking With the headlight switch off, the high beam headlights come on with lights, taillights, side marker lights, reduced brightness when you turn license plate lights and instrument...
  • Page 68 Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel Turn Signals Windshield Wipers To signal a lane change, push lightly on the turn signal lever in the proper direction and hold it. The lever will return to the center position as soon as you release it.
  • Page 69 Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel In intermittent, the wipers operate every few seconds. The sweep interval will change slightly with speed; getting shorter as you drive faster. In low speed and high speed, the wipers run continuously. You can vary how often the wipers To operate the wipers in mist mode, sweep the windshield by turning the...
  • Page 70 Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel Hazard Warning Rear Window Defogger Windshield Washers Push the red button to the right of The rear window defogger will clear To clean the windshield, pull back on the wiper control lever. The washers the clock to turn on the hazard fog, frost, and thin ice from the spray until you release the lever.
  • Page 71 Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel Steering Wheel Adjustment Make sure the rear window is clear and you have good visibility before See page for important safety starting to drive. information about how to properly position the steering wheel. The defogger and antenna wires on the inside of the rear window can be Make any steering wheel adjustment...
  • Page 72 Main Menu Table of Contents Steeling Wheel Controls Cruise Control Using the Cruise Control Cruise control allows you to maintain a set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h) Improper use of the cruise without keeping your foot on the control can lead to a crash. accelerator pedal.
  • Page 73: Steering Wheel Controls

    Main Menu Table of Contents Steering Wheel Controls The cruise control may not hold the Changing the Set Speed set speed when you are going up and You can increase the set cruising RESUME/ down hills. If your speed increases speed in any of these ways: accel going down a hill, use the brakes to...
  • Page 74 Main Menu Table of Contents Steering Wheel Controls Even with the cruise control turned You can decrease the set cruising Cancelling the Cruise Control on, you can still use the accelerator speed in any of these ways: pedal to speed up for passing. After •...
  • Page 75 Main Menu Table of Contents Steering Wheel Controls Remote Audio Controls When you push the CANCEL button, Pressing the Cruise Control Master or tap the brake pedal, the CRUISE Switch turns the system completely AUDIO/CH CONTROL light on the instrument off and erases the previous cruising BUTTON panel will go out and the car will...
  • Page 76: Keys And Locks

    Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Keys • The valet key works only in the Do not drop the keys or set heavy ignition and the door locks. You can objects on them. MASTER VALET KEY keep the trunk, trunk pass-through NUMBER KEY (GREY) •...
  • Page 77 Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Immobilizer System The system may not recognize your This indicator will also blink several The Immobilizer System protects key's coding if another immobilizer times when you turn the ignition your car from theft. A properly- key or other metal object is near the switch from ON (ID to ACCESSORY coded master or valet key must be...
  • Page 78 Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Ignition Switch LOCK (0) - You can insert or As required by the FCC: This device complies with Part 15 of the remove the key only in this position. FCC rules. Operation is subject to the To switch from ACCESSORY to following two conditions: (1) This device LOCK, you must push the key in...
  • Page 79 Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks START (III) - Use this position ACCESSORY (I) - In this position, You will hear a reminder beeper if only to start the engine. The switch you leave the key in the ignition you can operate the audio system and the accessory power socket.
  • Page 80 Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Power Door Locks Lockout Prevention Each door also has a lock tab on the top. To lock any door when getting If you forget and leave the key in the MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH out of the car, push the lock tab ignition switch, Lockout Prevention down and close the door.
  • Page 81 Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Remote Transmitter When you push the UNLOCK button The ceiling light (if the ceiling light once, only the driver's door unlocks. switch is in the center position) will LOCK The remaining doors unlock when come on when you press the BUTTON you push the button a second time.
  • Page 82 Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks To open the trunk, push the Trunk You cannot lock or unlock the doors Panic Mode Release button for approximately with the remote transmitter if any Panic mode allows you to remotely one second.
  • Page 83 Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Replacing the Battery BATTERY When the remote transmitter's battery begins to get weak, it may take several pushes on the button to lock or unlock the doors, and the LED will not light. Replace the battery as soon as possible.
  • Page 84 Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Childproof Door Locks Transmitter Care As required by the FCC: Avoid severe shock to the trans- This device complies with Part 15 of the LEVER mitter, such as dropping or throwing FCC rules. Operation is subject to the it.
  • Page 85 Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Trunk TRUNK MAIN SWITCH TRUNK RELEASE BUTTON TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE You can open the trunk in three To close the trunk, press down on To protect items in the trunk when ways: the trunk lid.
  • Page 86 Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Glove Box 2. Lock the glove box with the master key. Make sure the trunk An open glove box can cause pass-through cover is locked (see serious injury to your passenger page 92). in a crash, even if the passenger is wearing the seat 3.
  • Page 87: Homelink Universal Transmitter

    Main Menu Table of Contents HomeLink Universal Transmitter Important Safety Precautions The HomeLink Universa l The HomeLink transmitter stores Transmitter built into your car ca n Always refer to the operating the code in a permanent memory. instructions and safety information be programmed to operate remotely- There should be no need to retrain that came with your garage door...
  • Page 88 Main Menu Table of Contents HomeLink Universal Transmitter Training the Transmitter Before you begin — If you just took delivery of your vehicle and have not Before you can use the HomeLink Universal Transmitter to operate trained any of the buttons in the devices around your home, it must HomeLink transmitter before, you "learn"...
  • Page 89 Main Menu Table of Contents HomeLink Universal Transmitte Training With a Rolling Code Canadian Owners: still does not work, you may have a System The remote control you are training variable or rolling code garage from may stop transmitting after tw o door opener.
  • Page 90 Main Menu Table of Contents HomeLink Universal Transmitter It may be helpful to have someone 4. Press and release the button on TRAINING BUTTON assist you with this procedure. the HomeLink transmitter. (The same button you trained with the 1. Make sure you have properly "Training the Transmitter"...
  • Page 91 Main Menu Table of Contents HomeLink Universal Transmitter Retraining a Button 5. Release both buttons. The As required by the FCC: transmitter, should now be trained To train an already programmed This device complies with Part 15 of the transmitter button to operate a new to operate the device.
  • Page 92: Seat Adjustments

    Main Menu Table of Contents Seat Adjustments Driver's Seat Full Power Adjustments See pages — for important safety information and warnings about how to properly position seats and seat-backs. The two power seat adjustment switches are on the outside edge of the seat bottom.
  • Page 93 Main Menu Table of Contents Seat Adjustments Front Passenger's Seat Adjustments Adjust the seat-back angle by Pull the center of the horizontal switch up to raise the seat. Push it pushing the rear switch in the down to lower the seat. direction you want to move.
  • Page 94 Main Menu Table of Contents Seat Adjustments Driver's Lumbar Support Head Restraints The head restraints help protect you and your passengers from whiplash and other injuries. They are most effective when you adjust them so the back of the occupant's head rests against the center of the restraint.
  • Page 95 Main Menu Table of Contents Seat Adjustments Center Console Armrest Rear Seat Armrest Trunk Pass-through Cover KNOB The rear seat armrest is located at The pass-through cover can be The center console armrest can be moved forward and backward. the center of the rear seat. Pivot it opened from either side;...
  • Page 96 Main Menu Table of Contents Seat Adjustments Never drive with this cover open and Make sure all items in the trunk and those extending through the pass- the trunk lid open. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on through are secured. page 49. For security, this cover can be locked and unlocked only with the master key.
  • Page 97: Seat Heaters

    Main Menu Table of Contents Seat Heaters The HI or LO indicator lights and Follow these precautions whenever remains lit until you turn it off by you use the seat heaters: pushing the opposite side of the • switch lightly. The indicator will turn Use the HI setting only to heat the off.
  • Page 98: Power Windows

    Main Menu Table of Contents Power Windows Your car's windows are electrically- powered. Turn the ignition switch to Closing a power window on ON (II) to raise or lower any window. someone's hands or fingers can cause serious injury. Each door has a switch that controls its window.
  • Page 99 Main Menu Table of Contents Power Windows, Moonroof Moonroof The master control panel also con- The MAIN switch controls power to tains these extra features: the passengers' windows. With this switch off, the passengers' windows AUTO - To open the driver's cannot be raised or lowered.
  • Page 100 Main Menu Table of Contents Moonroof, Mirrors Mirrors To tilt up the back of the moonroof, The moonroof has a key-off delay. You can still open and close the press and hold the center button moonroof for up to ten minutes after ).
  • Page 101 Main Menu Table of Contents Mirrors Adjusting the Power Mirrors SELECTOR SWITCH SENSORINDICATOR AUTO SWITCH ADJUSTMENT SWITCH Adjust the outside mirrors with the The inside mirror can automatically 3. Push the appropriate edge of the adjustment switch on the driver's darken to reduce glare.
  • Page 102: Mirrors, Parking Brake

    Main Menu Table of Contents Mirrors, Parking Brake Parking Brake NOTICE HEATED MIRROR BUTTON Driving the car with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles. PARKING BRAKE PEDAL The outside mirrors are heated to re- To apply the parking brake, push the move fog and frost.
  • Page 103: Digital Clock

    Main Menu Table of Contents Digital Clock Cars without Navigation System You can use R to quickly set the time The digital clock displays the time to the nearest hour. If the displayed with the ignition switch in any time is before the half hour, pressing position.
  • Page 104 Main Menu Table of Contents Console Compartment, Coin Box Console Compartment Coin Box LEVER LEVER COIN BOX CONSOLE COMPARTMENT To open the console compartment, You can put small items in the tray The coin box is located under the pull up on the left lever and lift the located in the console compartment audio system.
  • Page 105 Main Menu Table of Contents Armrest Storage Compartments These storage compartments can also be used as ashtrays. Make sure you remove any flammable materials from the compartment before using it as an ashtray. Small, lidded storage compartments To remove a storage compartment are located in the armrest of the for emptying, open the lid, then front passenger's door, and in the...
  • Page 106: Beverage Holder

    Main Menu Table of Contents Beverage Holder The inner liner can be removed if The rear seat also has a beverage To open the beverage holder, push on the button. The beverage holder you want to hold a larger cup. holder in the center armrest.
  • Page 107 Main Menu Table of Contents Sun Visor, Vanity Mirror Vanity Mirror Sun Visor Make sure you put the sun visor back in place when you are getting into or out of the car. Do not use the sun visor extension over the rear view mirror.
  • Page 108 Main Menu Table of Contents Sunglasses Holder, Accessory Power Sockets Accessory Power Sockets Sunglasses Holder To open the sunglasses holder, push Some larger styles of sunglasses To use an accessory power socket, may not fit in the holder. on the front edge. It will unlatch and pull the cover down.
  • Page 109 Main Menu Table of Contents Accessory Power Sockets, Interior Lights Ceiling Light Spotlights COVER ACCESSORY POWER SOCKET DOOR ACTIVATED These sockets are intended to supply The ceiling light has a three-position Turn on the spotlight by pushing the power for 12 volt DC accessories switch.
  • Page 110 Main Menu Table of Contents Interior Lights, CD Holder Courtesy Lights CD Holder IGNITION SWITCH LIGHT DOOR LIGHT Each door has a courtesy light. This You can store up to four CDs in the Lift the lid to reach the storage trays. light comes on when you open the CD holder.
  • Page 111 Main Menu...
  • Page 112: Comfort And Convenience Features

    Main Menu Comfort and Convenience Features The climate control system in your Climate Control System....Operating the Cassette Player........Acura provides a comfortable driving 3.2 TL without Navigation System Fully-automatic Operation.... Tape Search Functions.... environment in all weather condi- Semi-automatic Operation.... Caring for the Cassette tions.
  • Page 113: Climate Control System

    Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System The automatic climate control CENTER VENTS DRIVER'S-SIDE VENT system in your Acura picks the proper combination of air condi- tioning, heating, and ventilation to maintain the interior temperature you select. The system also adjusts the fan speed and air flow levels.
  • Page 114 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System PASSENGER'S-SIDE VENT REAR VENTS DIAL TABS Comfort and Convenience Features...
  • Page 115 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System 3.2 TL without Navigation System TEMPERATURE FULL AUTO FAN CONTROL DIAL Fully-automatic Operation CONTROL DIAL DISPLAY To put the Automatic Climate Control in fully-automatic mode, press the AUTO button and set the fan control dial to AUTO, then set the desired temperature by turning the temperature control dial.
  • Page 116 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System Pressing the OFF button shuts the TEMPERATURE AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON climate control system completely CONTROL DIAL off. Keep the system completely off only for short periods. To keep stale air and mustiness from collecting, you should have the fan running at all times.
  • Page 117 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System Recirculation Button MODE BUTTON FAN CONTROL DIAL This button controls the source of the air going into the system. When the indicator above this button is lit, air from the car's interior is sent through the system again (Recircula- tion mode).
  • Page 118 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System The main air flow is divided between the floor vents and de- froster vents at the base of the wind- shield. The main air flow comes from the floor vents. The main air flow is divided between the dashboard vents and the floor vents.
  • Page 119 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System button directs the main air flow to the windshield for faster defrosting. It also overrides any MODE selection you may have made. When you select , the A/C turns on automatically and the system selects Fresh Air mode.
  • Page 120 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System Sunlight Sensor/Temperature Sensor TEMPERATURE SENSOR SUNLIGHT SENSOR The climate control system has two sensors. A sunlight sensor is located in the top of the dashboard and a temperature sensor is next to the steering column.
  • Page 121 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System 3.2 TL with Navigation System TEMPERATURE BUTTON Fully-automatic Operation To put the Automatic Climate OFF BUTTON Control in fully-automatic mode, press the AUTO button. Then set AUTO BUTTON the desired temperature by pressing either side of the TEMP button: to raise the temperature above the displayed value, or...
  • Page 122 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System Semi-automatic Operation You can manually select various TEMPERATURE BUTTONS functions of the Climate Control system when it is in FULL AUTO. All other features remain auto- matically controlled. Some of these functions appear in the Navigation System display.
  • Page 123 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System Recirculation Button This button controls the source of the air going into the system. When the indicator above this button is lit, air from the vehicle's interior is sent RECIRCULATION BUTTON through the system again (Recircula- MODE ICONS tion mode).
  • Page 124 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System The main air flow is divided between the floor vents and de- froster vents at the base of the wind- shield. The main air flow comes from the floor vents. The main air flow is divided between the dashboard vents and the floor vents.
  • Page 125 Main Menu Table of Contents Climate Control System button directs the main air flow to the windshield for faster defrosting. It also overrides any MODE selection you may have made. When you select , the A/C turns on automatically, the system selects Fresh Air mode, and the fan speed increases.
  • Page 126: Audio System

    Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System AM/FM/Cassette/CD Stereo Audio System Your Acura's audio system provides clear reception on both AM and FM bands, while the preset buttons allow you to easily select your favorite stations. The anti-theft feature will disable the system if it is disconnected from the vehicle's battery.
  • Page 127 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Operating the Radio PWR/VOL KNOB PRESET BUTTONS TUNE KNOB The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) to operate the audio system. Turn the system on by pushing the PWR/ VOL knob.
  • Page 128 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System SCAN - The SCAN function You can use any of four methods to To store a frequency: find radio stations on the selected samples all the stations with strong band: TUNE, SEEK, SCAN or the signals on the selected band.
  • Page 129 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System AUTO SELECT - If you are A. SEL INDICATOR traveling far from home and can no longer receive the stations you preset, you can use the Auto Select feature to find stations in the local area.
  • Page 130 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System If you do not like the stations Auto TUNE KNOB Select has stored, you can store other frequencies in the preset buttons. Use the TUNE, SEEK, or SCAN function to find the desired frequencies, then store them in the selected preset buttons as described previously.
  • Page 131 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Adjusting the Sound BASS/FADER TREBLE/BALANCE Balance/Fader — These two CONTROL CONTROL controls adjust the strength of the sound coming from each speaker. The Balance control adjusts the side- to-side strength, while the Fader control adjusts the front-to-back strength.
  • Page 132 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Audio System Lighting Stations must use these exact go off and the sound will fade You can use the instrument panel frequencies. It is fairly common for completely as you get out of range of brightness control knob to adjust the stations to round-off the frequency in the station's signal.
  • Page 133 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System As required by the FCC: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Radio reception can be affected by Radio signals, especially on the FM band, are deflected by large objects atmospheric conditions such as such as buildings and hills.
  • Page 134 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Operating the CD Player You operate the CD player with the same controls used for the radio. CD SLOT SKIP BUTTONS With the system on, insert the disc into the CD slot. Push the disc in halfway, the drive will pull it in the rest of the way and begin to play.
  • Page 135 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System REPEAT - To activate the Repeat If you turn the system off while a CD You can use the SKIP buttons while is playing, either with the PWR/VOL a disc is playing to select passages feature, press and release the Repeat knob or by turning off the ignition, and change tracks.
  • Page 136 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Operating the CD Changer To select a different disc, press the When you switch back to CD mode, (Optional) appropriate preset button (1—6). If the system selects the same unit (in- A Compact Disc changer is available you select an empty slot in the dash or changer) that was playing magazine, the changer will, after...
  • Page 137 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Protecting Compact Discs Handle a CD by its edges; never To clean a disc, use a clean soft cloth. A new CD may be rough on the Wipe across the disc from the center touch either surface.
  • Page 138 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System CD Player Error Indications Indication Cause Solution If you see an error indication in the display while operating the CD player, find the cause in the chart to FOCUS/CLV Error Press the EJECT button and pull out the disc. the right.
  • Page 139 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System CD Changer Error Indications Indication Cause Solution If you see an error indication in the display while in CD mode, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you Disc-changer Consult your Acura dealer. cannot clear the error indication, malfunction.
  • Page 140 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Operating the Cassette Player FF BUTTON The cassette system features Dolby B* noise reduction, automatic PLAY DOLBY BUTTON sensing of chromium-dioxide (CrO2) BUTTON BUTTON tape, and autoreverse for continuous play. Make sure the tape opening on the cassette is facing to the right, then insert the cassette most of the way into the slot.
  • Page 141 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Tape Search Functions The tape direction indicator will light If you turn the system off while a to show you which side of the tape is playing, either with the PWR/ With a cassette playing, you can use VOL knob or by turning off the cassette is playing.
  • Page 142 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System REPEAT - The Repeat function SKIP — The skip function allows The SKIP and REPEAT functions continuously replays the current use silent periods on the tape to find you to find the beginning of a song song or passage.
  • Page 143 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Caring for the Cassette Player Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes. When they are not in use, store The cassette player picks up dirt and Cassettes longer than that use cassettes in their cases to protect oxides from the tape.
  • Page 144 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Remote Audio Controls The top and bottom buttons adjust If you are playing a cassette, use the the volume up or down AUDIO/CH button to advance to the AUDIO/CH Press the proper button and hold it next selection.
  • Page 145 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Theft Protection If your vehicle's battery is discon- You will have to store your favorite Your vehicle's audio system will nected or goes dead, the audio stations in the Preset buttons after disable itself if it is disconnected system will disable itself.
  • Page 146: Security System

    Main Menu Table of Contents Security System The security system helps to protect With the system set, you can still SECURITY SYSTEM LIGHT your vehicle and valuables from theft. open the trunk with the remote The horn sounds and a combination transmitter without triggering the of headlights, parking lights, side alarm.
  • Page 147 Main Menu...
  • Page 148: Before Driving

    Main Menu Before Driving Before you begin driving your Acura, Break-in Period..... you should know what gasoline to Gasoline......use, and how to check the levels of Service Station Procedures..important fluids. You also need to Filling the Fuel Tank....know how to properly store luggage Opening the Hood....
  • Page 149 Main Menu Table of Contents Break-in Period, Gasoline Break-in Period Gasoline In Canada, some gasolines contain Your Acura is designed to operate on an octane-enhancing additive called Help assure your car's future premium unleaded gasoline with a reliability and performance by paying MMT.
  • Page 150 Main Menu Table of Contents Service Station Procedures Filling the Fuel Tank Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel. • Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away. • Handle fuel only outdoors.
  • Page 151 Main Menu Table of Contents Service Station Procedures Opening the Hood 4. Stop filling the tank after the fuel 5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on, nozzle automatically clicks off. Do tighten it until it clicks several HOOD RELEASE HANDLE times.
  • Page 152 Main Menu Table of Contents Service Station Procedures If you can open the hood without lifting the hood latch handle, or LATCH the hood latch handIe moves stiffly or does not spring back as before, the mechanism should be cleaned and lubricated (see page 215).
  • Page 153 Main Menu Table of Contents Service Station Procedures Oil Check DIPSTICK 2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean 3. Insert it all the way back in its tube. Check the engine oil level every time you fill the car with fuel. Wait a few cloth or paper towel.
  • Page 154 Main Menu Table of Contents Service Station Procedures Refer to Owner Maintenance Engine Coolant Check Checks on page for information RESERVE TANK on checking other items in your Acura. UPPER MARK LOWER MARK 4. Remove the dipstick again and Look at the coolant level in the check the level.
  • Page 155: Fuel Economy

    Main Menu Table of Contents Fuel Economy Driving Habits The condition of your car and your A cold engine uses more fuel than a driving habits are the two most warm engine. It is not necessary to You can improve fuel economy by important things that affect the fuel "warm-up"...
  • Page 156: Accessories And Modifications

    Main Menu Table of Contents Accessories and Modifications Modifying your car, or installing of your car, or even cause the some non-Acura accessories, can airbags to deploy. make your car unsafe. Before you Improper accessories or make any modifications or add any modifications can affect your Before installing any accessory: accessories, be sure to read the...
  • Page 157 Main Menu Table of Contents Accessories and Modifications • Modifications In addition, any modifications that Do not attach hard objects on or decrease ground clearance increase near a front door. If a side airbag Do not remove any original the chance of undercarriage parts inflates, a cup holder or other hard equipment or modify your car in any object attached on or near the...
  • Page 158: Carrying Cargo

    Main Menu Table of Contents Carrying Cargo Your car has several convenient CONSOLE COMPARTMENT FRONT DOOR POCKET storage areas so you can stow cargo safely. The glove box, and the pockets in the front doors and seat-back, are designed for small, lightweight items. The trunk is intended for larger, heavier items.
  • Page 159 Main Menu Table of Contents Carrying Cargo Load Limit Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment The maximum load for your car is • 850 lbs (395 kg). Overloading or improper Store or secure all items that could loading can affect handling and be thrown around and hurt This figure includes the total weight stability and cause a crash in...
  • Page 160 Main Menu Table of Contents Carrying Cargo Carrying Cargo in the Trunk or on • If you can carry any items on a Cargo Net a Roof Rack roof rack, be sure the total weight CARGO NET of the rack and the items does not •...
  • Page 161 Main Menu...
  • Page 162: Driving

    Main Menu Driving This section gives you tips on Preparing to Drive....starting the engine under various Starting the Engine....conditions, and how to operate the Starting in Cold Weather automatic transmission. It also at High Altitude....includes important information on Automatic Transmission...
  • Page 163: Preparing To Drive

    Main Menu Table of Contents Preparing to Drive You should do the following checks 5. Check the adjustment of the seat 10. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). and adjustments every day before Check the indicator lights in the (see page 12). instrument panel.
  • Page 164: Starting The Engine

    Main Menu Table of Contents Starting the Engine 1. Apply the parking brake. 6. If the engine still does not start, 2. Push the accelerator pedal half- press the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and hold it there while starting the engine.
  • Page 165: Automatic Transmission

    Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission Shift Lever Position Indicator Your Acura's transmission has five The "D " indicator comes on for a forward speeds, and is electronically few seconds when you turn the controlled for smoother shifting. It ignition switch ON (II).
  • Page 166 Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission Shift Lever Positions To shift from: Do this: To select the Sequential SportShift mode, slide the shift lever toward the P toR Press the brake pedal, then SHIFT LEVER left from the "D "...
  • Page 167 Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission Reverse (R) - To shift to Reverse Park (P) - This position mechani- from Park, see the explanation under cally locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or Park. To shift to Reverse from starting the engine.
  • Page 168 Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission Neutral (N) - Use Neutral if you Sequential SportShift Mode - With " position, you the shift lever in "D need to restart a stalled engine, or if can select the Sequential SportShift it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling.
  • Page 169 Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission When you accelerate away from a The transmission remains in the The transmission may automatically stop, the transmission will start in selected gear (5,4,3). There is no downshift from the higher gear to first gear and then automatically automatic downshift when you push the lower gear under the following...
  • Page 170 Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission Downshifting gives you more power If the car speed slows to below the when climbing or provides engine redline of the selected lower gear To shift from Speed range braking when going down a steep hill. position while the indicator is flashing, the transmission will under 60 mph...
  • Page 171 Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission Second (2) — This position locks Drive (D ) — These positions For faster acceleration when in D , you can get the , except when you or D the transmission in second gear. It are similar to D select the D position, only the first...
  • Page 172 Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Release First (1) - With the lever in this Engine Speed Limiter position, the transmission locks in If you exceed the maximum speed This allows you to move the shift First gear. for the gear you are in, the engine lever out of Park if the normal speed will enter into the tachometer's...
  • Page 173 Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission 6. Remove the screwdriver from the shift lock release slot, then install a new cover. Depress the brake pedal and restart the engine. If you need to use the Shift Lock Release, it means your car is developing a problem.
  • Page 174 Main Menu Table of Contents Parking Parking Tips Always use the parking brake when If the car is facing uphill, turn the • you park your car. The indicator on front wheels away from the curb. Make sure the moonroof and the the instrument panel shows that the windows are closed.
  • Page 175: The Braking System

    Main Menu Table of Contents The Braking System Brake Wear Indicators Your Acura is equipped with disc Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds brakes at all four wheels. A power All four brakes have audible brake up heat and reduces their effective- assist helps reduce the effort needed wear indicators.
  • Page 176 Main Menu Table of Contents The Braking System Brake System Design Anti-lock Brakes You should never pump the brake pedal, this defeats the The hydraulic system that operates Your car has an Anti-lock Brake the brakes has two separate circuits. System (ABS) as standard purpose of the ABS.
  • Page 177 Main Menu Table of Contents The Braking System ABS cannot prevent a loss of Important Safety Reminders ABS Indicator ABS does not reduce the time or stability. Always steer moderately distance it takes to stop the ABS INDICATOR when you are braking hard. Severe vehicle, it only helps with steering or sharp steering wheel movement control during braking.
  • Page 178: Traction Control System

    Main Menu Table of Contents Traction Control System Your Acura is equipped with a You should still install winter tires on Traction Control System (TCS) to your vehicle during the winter. Make assist you in maintaining traction sure to use the same size originally while driving slowly on loose or supplied with vehicle.
  • Page 179 Main Menu Table of Contents Traction Control System TCS ON/OFF Switch TCS Indicator Deactivate the system by pressing the TCS On/Off switch. The TCS The TCS indicator comes on or indicator light comes on as a flashes under the following condi- reminder.
  • Page 180 Main Menu Table of Contents Traction Control System If the TCS indicator comes on while This indicator will come on along driving, pull to the side of the road with the ABS indicator if there is a when it is safe and turn off the problem in the anti-lock brake system (see ABS Indicator on page engine.
  • Page 181: Driving In Bad Weather

    Main Menu Table of Contents Driving in Bad Weather Driving Technique — Always drive Exercise extra caution when driving slower than you would in dry in rain after a long dry spell. After weather. It takes your car longer to months of dry weather, the first react, even in conditions that may rains bring oil to the surface of the...
  • Page 182 Main Menu Table of Contents Driving in Bad Weather Visibility — Being able to see Traction — Check your tires frequently for wear and proper clearly in all directions and being pressure. Both are important in visible to other drivers are important preventing "hydroplaning"...
  • Page 183: Towing A Trailer

    Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer Load Limits Your Acura has been designed To achieve a proper tongue load, • Total Trailer Weight: The total primarily to carry passengers and start by loading 60 percent of the their cargo. You can use it to tow a weight of the trailer and load toward the front of the trailer trailer if you carefully observe the...
  • Page 184 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer • Checking Loads Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The best way to confirm that vehicle The total weight of the vehicle, all Exceeding load limits or and trailer weights are within limits occupants, all cargo, and the improperly loading your vehicle is to have them checked at a public...
  • Page 185 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer Towing Equipment and Hitches Safety Chain Accessories Any hitch used on your vehicle must Always use a safety chain. Make be properly bolted to the underbody. Towing can require a variety of sure that it is secured to both the equipment, depending on the size of trailer and hitch, and that it crosses...
  • Page 186 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer Trailer Brakes Trailer Lights Honda recommends that any trailer GROUND LEFT TURN SIGNAL BACK-UP LIGHT having a total weight of 1,000 lbs (BLACK) (GREEN/BLUE) (GREEN/BLACK) (450 kg) or more be equipped with its own electric or surge-type brakes.
  • Page 187 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer Pre-Tow Checklist • Additional Trailer Equipment The lights and brakes on your Many states and Canadian provinces When preparing to tow, and before vehicle and the trailer are working require special outside mirrors when driving away, be sure to check the properly.
  • Page 188 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer Driving Safety With a Trailer Making Turns and Braking If you must stop when facing uphill, The added weight, length, and Make turns more slowly and wider use the foot brake or parking brake. height of a trailer will affect your than normal.
  • Page 189 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer Parking Handling Crosswinds and Buffeting Crosswinds and air turbulence Follow all normal precautions when caused by passing trucks can disrupt parking, including putting the transmission in Park and firmly your steering and cause trailer setting the parking brake.
  • Page 190: Maintenance

    Main Menu Maintenance .........188 This section explains why it is Maintenance Safety Battery.......... important to keep your car well Important Safety Precautions..189 Wiper Blades......maintained and to follow basic Maintenance Schedule......Air Conditioning System....maintenance safety precautions. Maintenance Record......Air Conditioning Filter....Owner Maintenance Checks....
  • Page 191: Maintenance Safety

    Main Menu Table of Contents Maintenance Safety Regularly maintaining your car is the This section includes instructions for Some of the most important safety best way to protect your investment. simple maintenance tasks, such as precautions are given here. However, Proper maintenance is essential to checking and adding oil.
  • Page 192 Main Menu Table of Contents Maintenance Safety Important Safety Precautions Read the instructions before you Before you begin any maintenance, begin, and make sure you have the make sure your car is parked on tools and skills required. level ground and that the parking brake is set.
  • Page 193: Maintenance Schedule

    Main Menu Table of Contents Maintenance Schedule Which Schedule to Follow: The Maintenance Schedule specifies The services and time or distance how often you should have your car intervals shown in the maintenance Service your car according to the serviced and what things need schedule assume you will use your time and mileage periods on one of attention.
  • Page 194 Main Menu Table of Contents Maintenance Schedule Your authorized Acura dealer knows We recommend the use of Genuine According to state and federal your car best and can provide Acura parts and fluids whenever you regulations, failure to perform competent, efficient service. have maintenance done.
  • Page 195: Canadian Owners

    Main Menu Table of Contents U.S. Owners Service at the indicated miles x 1,000 distance or time — whichever km x 1,000 Follow the Normal Conditions comes first. months Maintenance Schedule if the Replace engine oil Replace every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months severe driving conditions •...
  • Page 196 Main Menu Table of Contents Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C as required for each distance/time interval. Follow this schedule if the severe driving conditions described in the Severe Conditions Schedule on the next page do not apply.
  • Page 197 Main Menu Table of Contents U.S. Owners miles x 1,000 Service at the indicated distance or time — whichever km x 1,000 Follow the Severe Conditions months comes first. Maintenance Schedule if you Replace engine oil and oil filter Replace every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months drive your vehicle MAINLY Check engine oil and coolant Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop...
  • Page 198 Main Menu Table of Contents Use this schedule if your vehicle is MAINLY driven in any of the following Severe Conditions, or normally driven in Canada; otherwise use the Normal Schedule. Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C, D as required for each distance/time. Severe Conditions: 3,750 mi/6,000 km/- Do items in A.
  • Page 199 Main Menu Table of Contents 82,500 mi/132,000 km/5½ vrs Do items in A, B. Check parking brake adjustment. 86,250 mi/138,000 km/- Do items in A. Lubricate all hinges, locks and latches. 90,000 mi/144,000 km/6 vrs Replace brake fluid. Do items in A, B, C, D. •...
  • Page 200 Main Menu Table of Contents Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules) You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page 192) or severe conditions (page 194). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle. 3,750 mi 33,750 mi Signature or dealer stamp...
  • Page 201 Main Menu Table of Contents Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules) 63,750 mi 93,750 mi Signature or dealer stamp mi/km Signature or dealer stamp mi/km 150,000 km 102,000 km Date Date 67,500 mi 97,500 mi mi/km mi/km 108,000 km 156,000 km (or 4½...
  • Page 202: Owner Maintenance Checks

    Main Menu Table of Contents Owner Maintenance Checks • Tires — Check the tire pressure You should check the following • Engine oil level — Check every items at the specified intervals. If time you fill the fuel tank. See monthly.
  • Page 203: Fluid Locations

    Main Menu Table of Contents Fluid Locations ENGINE OIL BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap) FILL CAP ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop) AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop) WASHER FLUID (Blue cap) COOLANT RESERVOIR POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap) RADIATOR CAP Maintenance...
  • Page 204: Engine Oil

    Always use a premium-grade deter- container. gent oil. It is highly recommended that you use Genuine Honda Motor A fuel-efficient oil is recommended Oil in your vehicle for as long as you for your Acura. This is shown on the own it.
  • Page 205 Main Menu Table of Contents Engine Oil The API Service label also tells you The oil container may also display The SAE numbers tell you the oil's the service classification of the oil. the API Certification seal. Make sure viscosity or weight. Select the oil for Always use an oil that is labeled "API it says "For Gasoline Engines."...
  • Page 206 Main Menu Table of Contents Engine Oil Synthetic Oil Additives Changing the Oil and Filter Your Acura does not need any oil You may use a synthetic motor oil if Always change the oil and filter additives. Purchasing additives for it meets the same requirements according to the time and distance the engine or transmission will not...
  • Page 207 Main Menu Table of Contents Engine Oil 4. Install a new oil filter according to WASHER DRAIN BOLT OIL FILTER instructions that come with it. 5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten it to: 29 lbf-ft (39N-m, 4.0 kgf-m) 3.
  • Page 208 Main Menu Table of Contents Engine Oil NOTICE 7. Replace the engine oil fill cap. 6. Refill the engine with the recom- Start the engine. The oil pressure mended oil. indicator light should go out within Engine oil change capacity Improper disposal of engine oil can be (including filter): five seconds.
  • Page 209: Cooling System

    Make sure it is a high-quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. However, continued use of any non- Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/ RESERVE TANK coolant as soon as possible.
  • Page 210 Main Menu Table of Contents Cooling System 3. Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning RADIATOR CAP Removing the radiator cap counterclockwise. while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you. Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.
  • Page 211 Only use Genuine Honda Antifreeze/Coolant. 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.
  • Page 212 Main Menu Table of Contents Cooling System DRAIN PLUG RESERVE TANK CAP RESERVE TANK DRAIN BOLT HOLDER 3. Loosen the drain plug on the 4. Remove the reserve tank from its 1. Turn the ignition ON (II). Turn bottom of the radiator. The holder by pulling it straight up.
  • Page 213 Main Menu Table of Contents Cooling System 6. Tighten the drain bolt at the rear of the engine cylinder block securely. Tightening torque: 7 Ibf-ft(10N-m,1.0kgf-m) 7. Mix the recommended antifreeze with an equal amount of purified or distilled water in a clean container.
  • Page 214 Main Menu Table of Contents Cooling System 11.Start the engine and hold it at 15.If necessary, fill the reserve tank 1,500 rpm until the radiator to the MAX mark. Install the cooling fan comes on at least twice. reserve tank cap. Then stop the engine.
  • Page 215: Windshield Washers

    Main Menu Table of Contents Windshield Washers NOTICE Check the level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly Do not use engine antifreeze or a during normal usage. In bad weather, vinegar/water solution in the when you use the washers often, check the level every time you stop windshield washer reservoir.
  • Page 216: Transmission Fluid

    UPPER MARK quality. Have the transmission LOWER MARK drained and refilled with Honda ATF as soon as it is convenient. DIPSTICK Check the fluid level with the engine 3. Insert the dipstick all the way into 6.
  • Page 217: Brake Fluid

    The brake fluid should be replaced fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement. However, according to the time and distance the use of any non-Honda brake fluid recommendations in the mainte- can cause corrosion and decrease nance schedule.
  • Page 218 Have the power steering system flushed and refilled with Honda PSF as soon as possible. A low power steering fluid level can indicate a leak in the system. Check the fluid level frequently and have...
  • Page 219: Air Cleaner Element

    Main Menu Table of Contents Air Cleaner Element The air cleaner element should be BOLTS cleaned or replaced according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule. Cleaning (Severe Conditions) Clean the air cleaner element by blowing compressed air through it in the opposite direction to normal air flow.
  • Page 220: Spark Plugs

    Main Menu Table of Contents Spark Plugs The spark plugs in your car should Replacement be replaced according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule. 1. Remove the cover on the front 3. Disconnect the wire connector from the ignition coil by pushing cylinder bank by turning the two on the lock tab and pulling on the...
  • Page 221 Main Menu Table of Contents Spark Plugs 4. Use a wrench to remove the 6. Put the new spark plug into the 7. Torque the spark plug. (If you do hexagon socket head cap bolt socket; then screw it into the hole. not have a torque wrench, tighten holding the ignition coil.
  • Page 222 Main Menu Table of Contents Spark Plugs NOTICE Specifications: 8. Install the ignition coil. Reinstall the hexagon socket head cap bolt. PZFR5F-11 Tighten the spark plugs carefully. A NGK: PKJ16CR-L11 spark plug that is too loose can 9. Push the wire connector onto the DENSO: overheat and damage the engine.
  • Page 223 Main Menu Table of Contents Battery Check the condition of your car's Check the battery terminals for TEST INDICATOR WINDOW corrosion (a white or yellowish battery monthly. You should check powder). To remove it, cover the the color of the test indicator window, terminals with a solution of baking and for corrosion on the terminals.
  • Page 224 Main Menu Table of Contents Battery If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damage to the car's The battery gives off explosive electrical system. hydrogen gas during normal operation. A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.
  • Page 225 Main Menu Table of Contents Battery NOTICE If your car's battery is disconnected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. The next time you turn Charging the battery with the cables on the radio you will see "Code" in connected can seriously damage your the frequency display.
  • Page 226: Wiper Blades

    Main Menu Table of Contents Wiper Blades Check the condition of the wiper WIPER ARMS blades at least every six months. Look for signs of cracking in the rubber, or areas that are getting hard. Replace the blades if you find these signs, or they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.
  • Page 227 Main Menu Table of Contents Wiper Blades 6. Slide the new wiper blade into the BLADE BLADE holder until the tabs lock. 7. Slide the wiper blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place. 8. Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield.
  • Page 228: Air Conditioning System

    Main Menu Table of Contents Air Conditioning System Your car's air conditioning is a sealed If the air conditioning does not get as AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER system. Any major maintenance, cold as before, have your dealer such as recharging, should be done check the system.
  • Page 229 Main Menu Table of Contents Air Conditioning Filter, Drive Belts Air Conditioning Filter Drive Belts Power steering belt: The air conditioning filter removes 0.51 -0.65 in (13.0-16.5 mm) POWER STEERING BELT pollen and dust that is brought in from the outside through the heating If you see signs of wear or looseness, and cooling system.
  • Page 230 Main Menu Table of Contents Timing Belt, Tires Timing Belt Tires To safely operate your car, your tires The timing belt should normally be Using tires that are excessively replaced at the intervals shown in must be the proper type and size, in worn or improperly inflated can good condition with adequate tread, the maintenance schedule.
  • Page 231 Main Menu Table of Contents Tires Inflation Use a gauge to measure the air If you check the pressure when the Keeping the tires properly inflated pressure at least once a month. Even tires are hot (the car has been driven tires that are in good condition may provides the best combination of several miles), you will see readings...
  • Page 232 Main Menu Table of Contents Tires Inspection Recommended Tire Pressures for Cold Tire Pressure Tire Size Normal Driving for Normal Driving Every time you check inflation, you P205/60R1691V 32 psi (220 kPa , The following chart shows the should also examine the tires for 2.2 kgf/cm recommended cold tire pressures for damage, foreign objects, and wear.
  • Page 233 Main Menu Table of Contents Tires Maintenance Make sure the installer balances the INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS In addition to proper inflation, wheels when you have new tires correct wheel alignment helps to installed. This increases riding decrease tire wear. If you find a tire comfort and tire life.
  • Page 234 Main Menu Table of Contents Tires Replacing Tires and Wheels Tire Rotation When shopping for replacement tires, you may find that some tires The tires that came with your car Front Front are "directional." This means they were selected to match the perform- are designed to rotate only in one ance capabilities of the car while direction.
  • Page 235 Main Menu Table of Contents Tires Wheels and Tires The ABS works by comparing the Wheel: speed of the wheels. When replacing 16x61/2JJ Installing improper tires on your tires, use the same size originally car can affect handling and supplied with the car. Tire size and Tire: stability.
  • Page 236 Main Menu Table of Contents Tires Winter Driving original equipment tires. You should When installing traction devices, Tires that are marked "M+S" or drive cautiously even when the roads follow the manufacturer's "All Season" on the sidewall have an are clear. Check with the tire dealer instructions and mount them as all-weather tread design.
  • Page 237 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Check the operation of your car's HEADLIGHT HIGH BEAM TURN SIGNAL/SIDE MARKER LIGHT exterior lights at least once a month. A burned out bulb can create an unsafe condition by reducing your car's visibility and the ability to signal your intentions to other drivers.
  • Page 238 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Check the following: BACK-UP LIGHT HIGH-MOUNT BRAKE LIGHT • Headlights (low and high beam) • Parking lights • Taillights • Brake lights TURN SIGNAL • High-mount brake light LIGHT • Turn signals • Back-up lights •...
  • Page 239 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Replacing a Headlight Bulb NOTICE BULB The low beam headlight bulbs are a type of high voltage discharge tube. Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot High voltage can remain in the when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch circuit even with the light switch off on the glass can cause the bulb to and the key removed.
  • Page 240 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Replacing Front Turn Signal and 3. Remove the bulb by turning it Side Marker Light Bulbs approximately one-quarter turn counterclockwise. 1. If you are changing the bulb on the driver's side, start the engine, 4.
  • Page 241 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Replacing Rear Bulbs 5. Remove the burned out bulb from the socket by pushing it in and CARGO NET MOUNTING turning counterclockwise until it BUTTON unlocks. 6. Install the new bulb in the socket. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.
  • Page 242 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights 4. Pull the bulb straight out of its 8. Put the fastener in the hole on the socket side of the trunk lining and push Push the new bulb straight into on the center until it locks (the the socket until it bottoms.
  • Page 243 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Replacing a High-mount Brake Replacing a Rear License Bulb Replacing Bulbs in the Interior Light Bulb Lights The ceiling light, door light and vanity mirror light come apart the same way, but they do not use the same type of bulb.
  • Page 244 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights 1. Remove the lens by carefully CEILING LIGHT SPOTLIGHT prying on the edge of the lens with a fingernail file or a small flat-tip screwdriver. Do not pry on the edge of the housing around the lens.
  • Page 245 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights DOOR LIGHT SUN VISOR LIGHT Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb TRUNK LIGHT 1. Open the trunk. Pull down the trunk light cover. 2. Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its metal tabs. 3.
  • Page 246: Storing Your Car

    Main Menu Table of Contents Storing Your Car If you need to park your car for an • Block the rear wheels. • Cover the car with a "breathable" extended period (more than one cover, one made from a porous month), there are several things you material such as cotton.
  • Page 247 Main Menu...
  • Page 248: Appearance Care

    Main Menu Appearance Care Regular cleaning and polishing of Exterior Care........your Acura helps to keep it "new" Washing........looking. This section gives you hints Waxing........on how to clean your car and Aluminum Wheels...... preserve its appearance: the paint, Paint Touch-up......
  • Page 249: Exterior Care

    Main Menu Table of Contents Exterior Care Washing • Rinse the car thoroughly with cool • When you have washed and rinsed Frequent washing helps preserve water to remove loose dirt. the whole exterior, dry it with a your car's beauty. Dirt and grit can chamois or soft towel.
  • Page 250 Main Menu Table of Contents Exterior Care Waxing Paint Touch-up should use a polish on your Acura if the finish does not have its original Your dealer has touch-up paint to Always wash and dry the whole car shine after using a wax. match your car's color.
  • Page 251: Interior Care

    Main Menu Table of Contents Interior Care Leather Carpeting Vinyl Vacuum the carpeting frequently to Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum Vacuum dirt and dust from the remove dirt. Ground-in dirt will make cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft leather frequently.
  • Page 252 Main Menu Table of Contents Interior Care Seat Belts NOTICE Dirt build-up in the loops of the seat belt anchors can cause the belts to LOOP retract slowly. Wipe the insides of The rear window defogger and the loops with a clean cloth antenna wires are bonded to the inside dampened in mild soap and warm of the glass.
  • Page 253: Corrosion Protection

    Main Menu Table of Contents Corrosion Protection • Two factors normally contribute to Many corrosion-preventive measures Use a high-pressure spray to clean are built into your Acura. You can the underside of your car. This is causing corrosion in your car: help keep your car from corroding especially important in areas that use road salt in winter.
  • Page 254: Body Repairs

    Main Menu Table of Contents Body Repairs Body repairs can affect your car's When reporting your collision to the resistance to corrosion. If your car insurance company, tell them you needs repairs after a collision, pay want Genuine Acura parts used in close attention to the parts used in the repair.
  • Page 255 Main Menu...
  • Page 256: Taking Care Of The Unexpected

    Main Menu Taking Care of the Unexpected Compact Spare Tire....This section covers the more- common problems that motorists Changing a Flat Tire....experience with their vehicles. It If Your Engine Won't Start.... gives you information about how to Nothing Happens or the safely evaluate the problem and what Starter Motor Operates to do to correct it.
  • Page 257: Compact Spare Tire

    Main Menu Table of Contents Compact Spare Tire Your car has a compact spare tire Follow these precautions whenever INDICATOR LOCATION MARK that takes up less space. Use this you are using the compact spare tire: spare tire as a temporary replace- •...
  • Page 258: Changing A Flat Tire

    Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire If you have a flat tire while driving, 3. Open the trunk. Raise the trunk HOOK TRUNK FLOOR stop in a safe place to change it. floor by lifting up on the back edge. To keep the trunk floor out of the Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder JACK...
  • Page 259 Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire JACK WHEEL NUTS 7. Turn the jack's end bracket 8. Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2 6. The jack is behind a cover in the right fender. Remove the cover by counterclockwise to loosen it, then turn with the wheel wrench.
  • Page 260 Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire EXTENSION WHEEL WRENCH JACKING POINT 10. Use the extension and wheel 11. Remove the wheel nuts and flat 9. Locate the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. It is wrench as shown to raise the tire.
  • Page 261 Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire BRAKE HUB 12. Before mounting the spare tire, 13. Put on the spare tire. Put the 14. Lower the car to the ground and wheel nuts back on finger-tight, wipe any dirt off the mounting remove the jack.
  • Page 262 Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire SPACER WING BOLT CONE 16. Remove the center cap before 15.Tighten the wheel nuts securely in 17. Place the flat tire face down in the the same crisscross pattern. Have storing the flat tire in the trunk spare tire well.
  • Page 263 Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire, If Your Engine Won't Start If Your Engine Won't Start 22. Unclip the hook from the trunk lid 20. Store the jack in its holder. Turn the jack's end bracket to lock it in and lower the trunk floor.
  • Page 264: If Your Engine Won't Start

    Main Menu Table of Contents If Your Engine Won't Start Nothing Happens or the Starter • • Check the transmission interlock. Turn the ignition switch to START Motor Operates Very Slowly The transmission must be in Park (III). If the headlights do not dim, or Neutral or the starter will not When you turn the ignition switch to check the condition of the fuses.
  • Page 265 Main Menu Table of Contents If Your Engine Won't Start, Jump Starting The Starter Operates Normally Jump Starting • Do you have fuel? Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) for a If your car's battery has run down, In this case, the starter motor's minute and watch the fuel gauge.
  • Page 266: Jump Starting

    Main Menu Table of Contents Jump Starting To jump start your car, follow these directions closely: 1. Open the hood and check the physical condition of the battery (see page 220). In very cold weather, check the condition of the electrolyte. If it seems slushy or like ice, do not try jump starting until it thaws.
  • Page 267 Main Menu Table of Contents Jump Starting 6. If the booster battery is in another 8. Once your car is running, discon- vehicle, have an assistant start nect the negative cable from your that vehicle and run it at a fast idle. car, then from the booster battery.
  • Page 268: If Your Engine Overheats

    Main Menu Table of Contents If Your Engine Overheats The pointer of your car's tempera- Your car can overheat for several 1. Safely pull to the side of the road. ture gauge should stay in the mid- reasons, such as lack of coolant or a Put the transmission in Neutral or range under most conditions.
  • Page 269 Main Menu Table of Contents If Your Engine Overheats reaches the middle of the tempera- 10. Start the engine and set the 4. If the temperature gauge stays at ture gauge, or lower, before check- the red mark, turn off the engine. temperature control dial to ing the radiator.
  • Page 270: Low Oil Pressure Indicator

    Main Menu Table of Contents Low Oil Pressure Indicator NOTICE 4. Start the engine and watch the oil LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR pressure indicator. If the light does not go out within ten seconds, Running the engine with low oil turn off the engine.
  • Page 271: Charging System Indicator

    Main Menu Table of Contents Charging System Indicator Immediately turn off all electrical By eliminating as much of the accessories: radio, heater, A/C, rear electrical load as possible, you can defogger, cruise control, etc. Try not drive several miles (kilometers) to use other electrically-operated before the battery is too discharged controls such as the power windows.
  • Page 272: Malfunction Indicator Lamp

    Main Menu Table of Contents Malfunction Indicator Lamp NOTICE If you have recently refueled your MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP car, the cause of this indicator coming on could be a loose or If you keep driving with the missing fuel fill cap. Check the cap malfunction indicator lamp on, you can and tighten it until it clicks several damage your car's emissions controls...
  • Page 273: Brake System Indicator

    Main Menu Table of Contents Brake System Indicator If it comes on at any other time, it Slow down by shifting to a lower indicates a problem with the car's gear, and pull to the side of the road brake system. In most cases, the when it is safe.
  • Page 274: Closing The Moonroof

    Main Menu Table of Contents Closing the Moonroof If the electric motor will not close SOCKET ROUND PLUG the moonroof, do the following: 1. Check the fuse for the moonroof motor (see page 276). If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same or lower rating.
  • Page 275 Main Menu Table of Contents Fuses All the electrical circuits in your car INTERIOR UNDER-HOOD have fuses to protect them from a short circuit or overload. These fuses are located in three fuse boxes. The interior fuse boxes are located The under-hood fuse box is located on each side of the dashboard.
  • Page 276 Main Menu Table of Contents Fuses Checking and Replacing Fuses If something electrical in your car stops working, the first thing you should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on pages and 276, or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that component.
  • Page 277 Main Menu Table of Contents Fuses NOTICE If you cannot drive the car without BLOWN fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the Replacing a fuse with one that has a same rating or a lower rating from higher rating greatly increases the one of the other circuits.
  • Page 278 Main Menu Table of Contents Fuses UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX Amps. Circuits Protected Amps. Circuits Protected 20 A Left Headlight 30 A Back Up, ACC Not Used 40 A Power Window Motor 20 A Right Headlight Spare Fuse 20 A 40 A Power Seat ABS F/S 20 A...
  • Page 279 Main Menu Table of Contents Fuses INTERIOR FUSE BOXES DRIVER'S SIDE PASSENGER'S SIDE Amps. Circuits Protected Amps. Circuits Protected Moonroof 15 A Fuel Pump 30 A 10 A 20 A Power Seat Recline 7.5 A Heater Control 20 A Heated Seat 7.5 A Mirror 20 A...
  • Page 280: Emergency Towing

    Main Menu Table of Contents Emergency Towing NOTICE If your car needs to be towed, call a The tow Sling-type Equipment — truck uses metal cables with hooks professional towing service or, if you on the ends. These hooks go around belong to one, an organization that Improper towing preparation will provides roadside assistance.
  • Page 281 Main Menu Table of Contents Emergency Towing NOTICE If you decide to tow your car with all four wheels on the ground, make sure you use a properly-designed and Trying to lift or tow your car by the attached tow bar. Prepare the car for bumpers will cause serious damage.
  • Page 282: Technical Information

    Main Menu Technical Information The diagrams in this section give Identification Numbers....Oxygenated Fuels...... Specifications........ Driving in Foreign Countries....you the dimensions and capacities of DOT Tire Quality Grading.... Emissions Controls...... your Acura, and the locations of the identification numbers. The explana- Treadwear........
  • Page 283: Identification Numbers

    Main Menu Table of Contents Identification Numbers Your car has several identifying VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER numbers located in various places. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the 17-digit number your Acura dealer uses to register your car for warranty purposes. It is also necessary for licensing and insuring your car.
  • Page 284 Main Menu Table of Contents Identification Numbers The Engine Number is stamped into ENGINE NUMBER the engine block. It is on the front. The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER Technical Information...
  • Page 285: Specifications

    Main Menu Table of Contents Specifications Dimensions Capacities Length 192.9 in (4,900 mm) Engine Change* 1.48 US gal (5.6 l ,1.23 Imp gal) 70.3 in (1,785 mm) Width coolant Total 1.98 US gal (7.5 l ,1.65 Imp qal) Change Height 55.7 in (1,415 mm) Engine oil 108.1 in (2,745 mm)
  • Page 286 Main Menu Table of Contents Specifications Lights Engine Headlights* 12 V - 60 W(HB3) (High beam) Type Water cooled 4-stroke 12 V - 24/2.2 CP SOHC VTEC 6-cylinder (V6), Front turn signal/Side marker lights gasoline engine Rear turn signal lights 12V - 21 W Bore x Stroke 3.50 x 3.39 in (89.0 x 86.0 mm)
  • Page 287 Main Menu Table of Contents DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Cars) Treadwear Traction The tires on your car meet all U.S. Federal Safety Requirements. All The treadwear grade is a compara- The traction grades, from highest to tires are also graded for treadwear, tive rating based on the wear rate of lowest, are AA, A, B, and C.
  • Page 288 Main Menu Table of Contents DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Cars) Temperature Warning: The temperature grade for The temperature grades are A (the this tire is established for a tire that highest), B, and C, representing the is properly inflated and not over- tire's resistance to the generation of loaded.
  • Page 289: Oxygenated Fuels

    Main Menu Table of Contents Oxygenated Fuels The following are the U.S. EPA and If you notice any undesirable Some conventional gasolines are Canadian CGSB approved being blended with alcohol or an operating symptoms, try another percentages of oxygenates: ether compound. These gasolines service station or switch to another are collectively referred to as brand of gasoline.
  • Page 290: Driving In Foreign Countries

    Main Menu Table of Contents Driving in Foreign Countries If you are planning to take your Acura outside the U.S. or Canada, contact the tourist bureaus in the areas you will be traveling in to find out about the availability of unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating.
  • Page 291: Emissions Controls

    Main Menu Table of Contents Emissions Controls The Clean Air Act The burning of gasoline in your car's the crankcase back to the intake engine produces several byproducts. manifold. They are then drawn into The United States Clean Air Act* Some of these are carbon monoxide the engine and burned.
  • Page 292 Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Genuine Honda replacement parts or the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that System their equivalent for repairs. Using comes out the tailpipe.
  • Page 293: Three Way Catalytic Converter

    Main Menu Table of Contents Three Way Catalytic Converter • The three way catalytic converter Keep the engine tuned-up. contains platinum, palladium and • rhodium. These metals serve as Have your car diagnosed and catalysts, promoting chemical repaired if it is misfiring, back- reactions to convert the exhaust firing, continuing to run after you gasses without affecting the metals.
  • Page 294: Warranty And Customer Relations (U.s. And Canada)

    Main Menu Warranty and Customer Relations Customer Relations Information........ Canada Zone Office Map.... Warranty Coverages....Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Cars)........ Authorized Manuals...... Warranty and Customer Relations...
  • Page 295 Sendee Manager or General Client Services Office Date of purchase • Manager can help. Almost all American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Mileage on your vehicle • problems are solved in this way. 1919 Torrance Blvd. Your name, address, and tele-...
  • Page 296 Main Menu Table of Contents Canada Zone Office Map CUSTOMER RELATIONS RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTELE Honda Canada Inc. 715 Milner Avenue Toronto, ON M1B2K8 Tel: 1-888-9-ACURA-9 Fax: Toll-free 1-877-939-0909 Toronto (416)287-4776 Honda Canada Inc. National Office Warranty and Customer Relations...
  • Page 297: Warranty Coverages

    Main Menu Table of Contents Warranty Coverages U.S. Owners Seat Belt Limited Warranty — a seat Replacement Battery Limited belt that fails to function properly is Warranty — provides prorated Your new Acura is covered by these coverage for a replacement battery warranties: covered for the useful life of the purchased from an Acura dealer.
  • Page 298 Administration (NHTSA) in addition Transportation, Washington, involved in individual problems D.C. 20590. You can also obtain Co., Inc. between you, your dealer, or other information about motor American Honda Motor Co., Inc. vehicle safety from the Hotline. Warranty and Customer Relations...
  • Page 299 Main Menu Table of Contents This page left intentionally blank...
  • Page 300: Authorized Manuals (U.s. Only)

    Main Menu Table of Contents Authorized Manuals Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners should (U.S. only) contact diet authorized Acura dealer. The following publications covering the operation and ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-782-4356 servicing of your vehicle can be obtained from Helm (NOTE: For Credit Card Holder Orders Only) Incorporated, either by filling out the attached form or, for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone number...
  • Page 301: Authorized Manuals

    Main Menu Table of Contents Authorized Manuals Service Manual: NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, and also the name of the person to whose attention the shipment should This manual covers maintenance and recommended be sent. For purchases outside U.S.A. please write to the address shown procedures for repair to engine and chassis components.
  • Page 302: Index

    Main Menu Index How Your SRS Indicator Light Alcohol in Gasoline....Works........Antifreeze........Accessories and Modifications..SRS Components......Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) Accessories........Additional Information About Description....... Additional Safety Precaution..Your Seat Belts......Indicator Light...... 55, Modifications......Lap/Shoulder Belts..... Operation........ACCESSORY (Ignition Key Seat Belt Maintenance....
  • Page 303 Main Menu Index Before Driving........ Headlights........ Changing Engine Coolant..Belts, Seat........High-mount Brake Light....Charging System Indicator..54, Beverage Holder......License Plate Lights....Checking Automatic Transmission Body Repair........ Specifications......Brakes Spotlight........Fluid........Anti-lock System (ABS)....Turn Signal Lights....Battery Condition...... Break-in, New Linings....
  • Page 304 Main Menu Index Cold Weather, Starting in....Dimming the Headlights....Checking the Fuses....Compact Spare......Dipstick Low Oil Pressure Indicator..Console Compartment....Automatic Transmission....Malfunction Indicator Lamp..Consumer Information*....Engine Oil........Manually Closing Moonroof..Controls, Instruments and....Directional Signals...... Overheated Engine....Coolant Disabled, Towing Your Car If..
  • Page 305 Main Menu Index Octane Requirement....Headlights........Automatic Lighting Off....Oxygenated........ Fan, Interior....... 114, Tank, Filling the...... Daytime Running Lights....Features, Comfort and Fuses, Checking the....High Beam Indicator....Convenience......High Beams, Turning on....Filling the Fuel Tank...... Low Beams, Turning on....Filter Reminder Chime......
  • Page 306 Main Menu Index Immobilizer System......Important Safety Precautions..Indicator Lights, Instrument Label, Certification......Maintenance........Panel..........Lane Change, Signaling....Owner Maintenance Checks....Infant Restraint........Lap/Shoulder Belts......Record........Inflation, Proper Tire......Leaking of Exhaust into Car.... Required Indicator......Inside Mirror........Lights Safety........Inspection, Tire........
  • Page 307 Main Menu Index Rear Seat Armrest....Parking Over Things that Burn... PGM-FI System......Rear View Mirror....Polishing and Waxing....Rear Window Defogger....Octane Requirement, Gasoline....Power Reclining the Seat Backs..Odometer........Reminder Lights......Odometer, Trip......Door Locks........ Mirrors.......... Remote Transmitter...... Steering........
  • Page 308 Main Menu Index Safety Defects, Reporting*....Service Station Procedures.... SRS Components...... Safety Features........ Setting the Clock...... SRS Service......Shifting SRS Indicator........Airbags.......... The Automatic START (Ignition Key Position)..Door Locks.......... Starting the Engine...... Head Restraints........Transmission......In Cold Weather at High Seat Belts........
  • Page 309 Main Menu Index Taillights, Changing Bulbs in....Snow........Unleaded Gasoline......Upholstery Cleaning...... Taking Care of the Unexpected..Specifications......Used Oil, How to Dispose of... Tape Player........137 Tools, Tire Changing......Technical Descriptions Towing Driving in Foreign Countries..ATrailer........180 Emergency Wrecker....Emissions Control Systems..Traction Devices......
  • Page 310 Main Menu Index Washing........*: U.S. and Canada only Waxing and Polishing....Wheels Adjusting the Steering....Alignment and Balance....Compact Spare......Windows Cleaning........Operating the Power....Rear, Defogger......Windshield Cleaning........Wipers, Windshield Changing Blades......Operation........Worn Tires........Wrecker, Emergency Towing....
  • Page 311: Service Information Summary

    ATF (see page 215). 17.17 US gal (65.0 l , 14.30 Imp gal) Brake Fluid: Recommended Engine Oil: Genuine Honda DOT 3 Brake Fluid API Service SJ "Energy preferred, or a DOT 3 or DOT 4 Conserving" oil, SAE 5W-30 brake fluid as a temporary viscosity (see page 201).

This manual is also suitable for:

2000 3.2 tl

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