Introduction .........................................................................................................................................

A Few Words About

Safety................................................................................................................. ii

Important Handling

Information..................................................................................................... iii

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......................................................................................................................................................

Service Information Summary

A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

Contents

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Table of Contents

Chapters

Table of Contents

Summary of Contents for Honda Element 2003

Page 1 2003 Element 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 ............................A Few Words About Safety.........................
Page 2 The information and specifications included CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/ in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. Honda Motor Co., POSTAL CODE Ltd. reserves the right, however, to V. I. N. discontinue or change specifications or...
Page 3 This One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Honda is to information is intended to help you read this manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls and avoid damage to your Honda, other convenience items.
Page 4 Main Menu A Few Words About Safety Your safety, and the safety of others, You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms, is very important. And operating this including: vehicle safely is an important Safety Labels on the vehicle.
Page 5: Important Handling Information
Main Menu Important Handling Information Your Element has higher ground clearance than a passenger vehicle designed for use only on pavement. Higher ground clearance has many advantages for off-highway driving. It allows you to travel over bumps, obstacles, and rough terrain. It also provides good visibility so you can anticipate problems earlier. These advantages come at some cost.
Page 6: Your Vehicle At A Glance
Main Menu Your Vehicle at a Glance INDICATORS (P.65) POWER DOOR MIRROR CONTROLS AUDIO SYSTEM (P.106) GAUGES (P.72) LOCK SWITCH (P.126, 137) (P.87) POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.103) HEATING/COOLING HOOD RELEASE CONTROLS HANDLE (P.118) (P.160) PARKING BRAKE (P.111) A/T model is shown.
Page 7 Main Menu Your Vehicle at a Glance HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS WINDSHIELD SHIFT LEVER (P.76, 77) WIPERS/WASHERS (P.176, 179) (P.78, 79) REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER (P.81) HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS HORN (P.81) CRUISE CONTROL (P.153) TILT ADJUSTMENT (P.82) A/T model is shown. To use the horn, press the center pad of the steering wheel.
Page 8 Main Menu...
Page 9: Table Of Contents
Main Menu Driver and Passenger Safety This section gives you important 2. Adjust the Front Seats ... Protecting Small Children ..information about how to protect 3. Adjust the Seat-Backs .... Protecting Larger Children ..yourself and your passengers. It 4.
Page 10: Important Safety Precautions
Main Menu Table of Contents Important Safety Precautions You’ll find many safety Be Aware of Airbag Hazards Control Your Speed 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 11: Your Vehicle's Safety Features
Main Menu Table of Contents Your Vehicle’s Safety Features Your vehicle is equipped with many (10) 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 12: Seat Belts
Main Menu Table of Contents Your Vehicle’s Safety Features These safety features are designed Seat Belts Why Wear Seat Belts to reduce the severity of injuries in a For your safety, and the safety of Seat belts are the single most crash.
Page 13 Main Menu Table of Contents Your Vehicle’s Safety Features Help keep you from being thrown Of course, seat belts cannot against the inside of the vehicle completely protect you in every and against other occupants. crash. But in most cases, seat belts Not wearing a seat belt properly increases the chance of serious can reduce your risk of serious...
Page 14: Airbags
Main Menu Table of Contents Your Vehicle’s Safety Features Airbags The most important things you need to know about your airbags are: Airbags do not replace seat belts. They are designed to supplement the seat belts. Airbags offer no protection in rear impacts, rollovers, or minor frontal or side collisions.
Page 15: Seats & Seat-Backs
Main Menu Table of Contents Your Vehicle’s Safety Features Move the front Seats & Seat-Backs What you should do: Door Locks Your vehicle’s seats are designed to seats as far back as possible, and Keeping your doors locked reduces keep you in a comfortable, upright keep adjustable seat-backs in an the chance of being thrown out of position so you can take full...
Page 16: Pre-Drive Safety Checklist
Main Menu Table of Contents Your Vehicle’s Safety Features Head restraints are properly Pre-Drive Safety Checklist To make sure you and your adjusted (see page passengers get the maximum protection from your vehicle’s safety All doors and the tailgate are features, check the following each closed and locked (see page time before you drive away:...
Page 17: Protecting Adults
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults Introduction Your vehicle also has a Adjust the Front Seats The following pages provide tailgate and hatch open instructions on how to properly indicator light on the instrument protect the driver and other adult panel to indicate when the tailgate or occupants.
Page 18 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. Sitting too close to a front move the seat away from the airbag can result in serious...
Page 19: Adjust The Seat-Backs
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults A front passenger should also adjust Adjust the Seat-Backs the seat-back to an upright position, but as far from the dashboard as Reclining the seat-back too far possible. A passenger who sits too can result in serious injury or close to the dashboard could be death in a crash.
Page 20: Adjust The Head Restraints
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults Adjust the Head Restraints Properly adjusted head restraints will help protect occupants from whiplash and other crash injuries. Improperly positioning head restraints reduces their See page for how to adjust the effectiveness and you can be seriously injured in a crash.
Page 21: Fasten And Position The Seat Belts
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults Fasten and Position the Seat If necessary, pull up on the shoulder Belts belt again to remove any slack from Insert the latch plate into the buckle, the shoulder belt, then check that then tug on the belt to make sure the the belt rests across the center of belt is securely latched.
Page 22 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults If the seat belt touches or crosses Never place the shoulder portion of a RELEASE BUTTONS your neck, or if it crosses your arm lap/shoulder belt under your arm or instead of your shoulder, you need to This could cause behind your back.
Page 23 Anyone using a seat belt that is belt. not working properly can be seriously injured or killed. Have your Honda dealer check the belt as soon as possible. Driver and Passenger Safety...
Page 24: Adjust The Steering Wheel
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults Adjust the Steering Wheel 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 vehicle, very important that they continue to...
Page 25: Advice For Pregnant Women
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults Remember, to get the best Advice for Pregnant Women Pregnant women should also sit protection from your vehicle’s upright and as far back as possible airbags and other safety features, from the steering wheel or you must sit properly and wear your dashboard.
Page 26: Additional Safety Precautions
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults Additional Safety Precautions Two people should never use the Do not place hard or sharp objects If they do, they Never let passengers ride in the same seat belt. between yourself and a front could be very seriously injured in a Carrying hard or sharp cargo area or on top of a folded-...
Page 27 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Adults On models with side airbags, do not attach hard objects on or near If a side airbag a front door. inflates, a cup holder or other hard object attached on or near the door could be propelled inside the vehicle and hurt someone.
Page 28: Protecting Children
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children All Children Must Be Restrained Each year, many children are injured or killed in vehicle crashes because Children who are unrestrained or improperly restrained can be they are either unrestrained or not properly restrained. In fact, vehicle seriously injured or killed in a crash.
Page 29: 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 Additional Precautions to Parents Seat Poses Serious Risks to Children Never hold an infant or child on If you are not wearing a According to accident statistics, Front airbags have been designed to your lap.
Page 30 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Infants Small Children Larger Children Never put a rear-facing child seat in Placing a forward-facing child seat in Children who have outgrown child the front seat of a vehicle equipped the front seat of a vehicle equipped seats are also at risk of being injured with a passenger’s front airbag.
Page 31 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 vehicle has warning children must be properly restrained labels on the driver’s and front in the back seat, your vehicle has passenger’s visors.
Page 32: If You Must Drive With Several Children
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children If You Must Drive with Several Have the child sit upright and well If a Child Requires Close Children back in the seat (see page Attention Your vehicle has two seating Many parents say they prefer to put positions in the back seat where Make sure the seat belt is properly an infant or small child in the front...
Page 33: Additional Safety Precautions
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Additional Safety Precautions General Guidelines for Using Lock all doors and the hatch when Children Child Seats Do not leave children alone in your your vehicle is not in use. Leaving children without who play in vehicles can The following pages give general vehicle.
Page 34 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Selecting a Child Seat To provide proper protection, a child seat should meet three requirements: The child seat should meet safety The child seat should standards. meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS 213) or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 (CMVSS 213).
Page 35: Driver And Passenger Safety
However, Honda is confident that one or more child seat models can fit and be properly installed in all recommended seating positions in your vehicle.
Page 36 Placing a Child Seat Front Passenger’s Seat This page briefly summarizes Never in the front seat, due Infants: Honda’s recommendations on where to the front airbag hazard. to place rear-facing and forward- facing child seats in your vehicle. Not recommended, Small children: due to the front airbag hazard.
Page 37 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children To provide security during normal Installing a Child Seat Secure the child in the child seat. After selecting a proper child seat, driving maneuvers as well as during Make sure the child is properly and a good position to install the seat, a collision, we recommend that strapped in the child seat...
Page 38: Protecting Infants
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Protecting Infants Rear-Facing Child Seat Placement In this vehicle, a rear-facing child seat can be placed in any seating Placing a rear-facing child seat in the front seat can result in position in the back, but not in the front seat.
Page 39 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 40 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. After confirming that the belt is 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 41 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children When properly installed, a rear- Rear-Facing Child Seat Installation facing child seat may prevent the Tips driver or a front-seat passenger from moving the seat as far back as recommended (see page ). Or it may prevent them from locking the seat-back in the desired upright position (see page...
Page 42: Protecting Small Children
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Of the different seats available, we Protecting Small Children Child Seat Placement recommend those that have a five- In this vehicle, the best place to point harness system as shown. install a forward-facing child seat is in one of the seating positions in the We also recommend that a small back seat.
Page 43 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Child Seat Installation The lap/shoulder belts in the back and front passenger seating positions Improperly placing a forward- facing child seat in the front have a locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat. seat can result in serious injury or death if the front airbags The following pages provide...
Page 44 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children After the belt has retracted, tug on it. If the belt is locked, you will not be able to pull it out. If you can pull the belt out, it is not locked and you will need to repeat these steps.
Page 45 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. Push and pull the child seat forward and from side to side to verify that it is secure enough to stay upright during normal driving maneuvers.
Page 46: Protecting Larger Children
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Protecting Larger Children Checking Seat Belt Fit When a child reaches the recommended weight or height limit Allowing a larger child to sit for a forward-facing child seat, the improperly in the front seat can child should sit in the back seat on a result in injury or death if the booster and wear a lap/shoulder belt.
Page 47 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children If the shoulder part of the belt rests Do not let a child wear a seat belt Using a Booster Seat over the child’s collarbone and across the neck or over the stomach. against the center of the chest, and This could result in serious neck and the lap belt rests over the child’s...
Page 48 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children If a child who uses a booster must Of course, children vary widely. And When Can a Larger Child Sit in Front ride in front, move the vehicle seat The National Highway Traffic Safety while age may be one indicator of as far to the rear as possible, and be Administration and Transport...
Page 49 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children If you decide that a child can safely Supervise the child. Even mature Physical Size Physically, a child must be large ride up front, be sure to: children sometimes need to be enough for the lap/shoulder belt to reminded to fasten the seat belts properly fit over the hips, chest, and Carefully read the owner’s manual...
Page 50: Using Child Seats With Tethers
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Using Child Seats with Tethers COVERS TETHER ANCHORAGE POINT Your vehicle has two tether The tether anchorage points are Remove the head restraint where anchorage points on the ceiling near located under plastic covers. Select you want to place the child seat.
Page 51: Using Latch
Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Make sure the removed head Using LATCH restraints are secured in the cargo MARKS area. Reinstall the head restraints when the child seat is removed. LOWER ANCHORS Attach the attaching clip to the Your vehicle is equipped with tether anchorage point as shown in LATCH (Lower Anchors and...
Page 52 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Rigid type Flexible type To install a LATCH-compatible child Put the child seat in the rear left Follow the child seat maker’s seat: or right vehicle seat and attach the instructions for any additional child seat to the lower anchors advice on adjusting or tightening Remove the plastic cover by...
Page 53 Main Menu Table of Contents Protecting Children Lower Universal Anchorage System Symbol Remove the head restraint (see Attach the attaching clip to the page tether anchor fitting and tighten Canadian model only the strap according to the child This symbol on rear or forward Make sure the removed head seat maker’s instructions.
Page 54: Additional Information About Your Seat Belts
Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Seat Belts To fasten the belt, insert the latch Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt Your seat belt system includes lap/ plate into the buckle, then tug on the shoulder belts in all four seating belt to make sure the buckle is positions.
Page 55 Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Seat Belts The seat belts in all seating positions except the driver’s have an additional locking mechanism that must be activated to secure a child seat. (See pages for instructions on how to secure child seats with this type of seat belt.) If the shoulder part of the belt is...
Page 56: Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners
Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Seat Belts Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners The tensioners are designed to The SRS indicator light will activate primarily in frontal collisions. come on if there is a The tensioners are independent of problem with your automatic seat the airbag system, so they can be belt tensioners (see page...
Page 57: Seat Belt Maintenance
U.S. Models For information on how to clean your Honda provides a lifetime warranty seat belts, see page on seat belts. Honda will repair or replace any seat belt component that fails to function properly during normal use. Please see your...
Page 58: Additional Information About Your Airbags
Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Airbags An indicator light on the SRS Components How Your Front Airbags Work Your Supplemental Restraint System instrument panel that alerts you to (SRS) includes: a possible problem with the system (see page Two front airbags.
Page 59 Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your 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 60: How Your Side Airbags Work
Main Menu Table of Contents Additional Information About Your Airbags How Your Side Airbags Work If you ever have a moderate to To get the best protection from the severe side impact, the sensors will side airbags, front seat occupants detect rapid deceleration and signal should wear their seat belts and sit the control unit to instantly inflate...
Page 61: How The Srs Indicator Light Works
See your Honda dealer as soon as possible. Driver and Passenger Safety...
Page 62: How The Side Airbag Cutoff Indicator Light Works
Although Honda does not encourage children to ride in the front, this system is designed to shut off the side airbag if a child leans sideways and the child’s head is in the side...
Page 63: Airbag Service
If rain or spilled water any airbag by yourself. This must soaks into a seat-back, it can be done by a Honda dealer or a prevent the side airbag system knowledgeable body shop. from working properly. The SRS indicator light alerts you to a problem.
Page 64: Carbon Monoxide Hazard
Main Menu Table of Contents Carbon Monoxide Hazard Your vehicle’s exhaust contains With the tailgate/hatch open, air carbon monoxide gas. You should flow can pull exhaust gas into your have no problem with carbon vehicle’s interior and create a Carbon monoxide gas is toxic. monoxide entering the vehicle in Breathing it can cause hazardous condition.
Page 65: Safety Labels
They warn you of potential U.S. models hazards that could cause serious injury. Read these labels carefully. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer for a replacement. Canadian models DASHBOARD U.S. models only U.S.
Page 66 Main Menu Table of Contents Safety Labels HOOD On models without side airbags On models with side airbags RADIATOR CAP Driver and Passenger Safety...
Page 67 Odometer/Trip Meter ....Front Seat Adjustments ..... contribute to the daily operation of Fuel Gauge ........Driver’s Seat Height your Honda. All the essential Temperature Gauge ....Adjustment ......controls are within easy reach. Controls Near the Steering Driver’s Seat Armrest ....
Page 68: Control Locations
Main Menu Table of Contents Control Locations POWER DOOR LOCK SWITCH MIRROR CONTROLS (P.106) AUDIO SYSTEM (P.126, 137) (P.87) POWER WINDOW SWITCHES (P.103) HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS (P.118) HOOD RELEASE HANDLE (P.160) PARKING BRAKE (P.111) A/T model is shown. Instruments and Controls...
Page 69: Indicator Lights
Main Menu Table of Contents Indicator Lights MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP SEAT BELT HIGH BEAM INDICATOR LOW FUEL INDICATOR (P.66, 292) REMINDER LIGHT (P.69) (P.69) (P.67) SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM INDICATOR (P.67) LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR (P.66, 290) TAILGATE AND HATCH OPEN INDICATOR (P.70) PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE SYSTEM...
Page 70 Main Menu Table of Contents Indicator Lights The instrument panel has many Malfunction Indicator U.S. Canada Parking Brake and indicators to give you important Lamp Brake System information about your vehicle. See page Indicator This light has two functions: Low Oil Pressure Indicator This indicator comes on when you The engine can be severely damaged...
Page 71 Main Menu Table of Contents Indicator Lights Seat Belt Reminder Light Supplemental Restraint Side Airbag Cutoff System Indicator Indicator This indicator lights when you turn This indicator lights when you turn Only on models equipped with side the ignition switch ON (II). It is a the ignition switch ON (II).
Page 72 Main Menu Table of Contents Indicator Lights Anti-lock Brake Immobilizer System System (ABS) Indicator Indicator This indicator comes on for a few Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Only on models equipped with ABS (see seconds when you turn the ignition Indicators switch ON (II).
Page 73 Main Menu Table of Contents Indicator Lights ‘‘Daytime Running High Beam Indicator Washer Level Indicator Lights’’ Indicator This light comes on with the high Canadian models only Canadian models only This indicator lights when you turn beam headlights. See page This light comes on when the the ignition switch to ON (II) with information on the headlight...
Page 74 Main Menu Table of Contents Indicator Lights Tailgate and Hatch Open Maintenance Required Between 8,000 miles (12,800 km) Indicator Indicator and 10,000 miles (16,000 km), this This light comes on if the tailgate or This indicator reminds you that it is indicator will light for two seconds the hatch is not closed tightly.
Page 75 Your dealer will reset this indicator after completing the scheduled maintenance. If this maintenance is done by someone other than your Honda dealer, reset the indicator as follows. Turn off the engine. Press and hold the select/reset button in the instrument panel, then turn the ignition switch ON (II).
Page 76: Gauges
Main Menu Table of Contents Gauges Speedometer U.S. Models This shows your speed in miles per TACHOMETER SPEEDOMETER FUEL GAUGE hour (mph). The smaller inner numbers are the speed in kilometers per hour (km/h). Canadian Models This shows your speed in kilometers per hour (km/h).
Page 77: Odometer/Trip Meter
Main Menu Table of Contents Gauges Odometer/Trip Meter To reset a trip meter, display it, and Fuel Gauge The odometer shows the total dis- then press and hold the Select/Reset This shows how much fuel you have. tance your vehicle has been driven. button until the number resets to It is most accurate when the vehicle It measures miles in U.S.
Page 78: Temperature Gauge
Main Menu Table of Contents Gauges Temperature Gauge This shows the temperature of the engine’s coolant. During normal operation, the pointer should rise from the bottom white mark to about the middle of the gauge. In severe driving conditions, such as very hot weather or a long period of uphill driving, the pointer may rise to the upper white zone.
Page 79: Controls Near The Steering Wheel
Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel The two levers on the steering HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS WINDSHIELD WIPERS/ SHIFT LEVER (A/T) column contain controls for driving (P.76, 77) WASHERS (P.179) features you use most often. The left (P.78, 79) lever controls the turn signals, headlights, and high beams.
Page 80: Headlights
Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel If you leave the lights on, you will Headlights hear a reminder tone when you open the driver’s door. The rotating switch on the left lever To flash the high beams, pull the controls the lights.
Page 81: Daytime Running Lights
Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel Daytime Running Lights Instrument Panel Brightness Turn Signals Canadian models only With the headlight switch off, the high beam headlights come on with reduced brightness when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II) and release the parking brake.
Page 82: Windshield Wipers
Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel To signal a lane change, push lightly Windshield Wipers In intermittent, the wipers operate on the turn signal lever in the proper every few seconds. In low speed and direction and hold it. The lever will high speed, the wipers run continu- return to the center position as soon ously.
Page 83: Windshield Washers
Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel Windshield Washers The wipers run at low speed while you’re pulling the lever, then complete one more sweep of the windshield after you release it. To operate the wipers in mist mode, To clean the windshield, pull back on push the control lever up from the the wiper control lever.
Page 84: Rear Window Wiper And Washer
Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel Rear Window Wiper and Washer To activate the rear windshield wiper, The rear window washer uses the rotate the switch to ‘‘ON’’. The wiper same fluid reservoir as the wind- operates every seven seconds after shield washer.
Page 85: Hazard Warning
Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel Hazard Warning Rear Window Defogger Make sure the rear window is clear and you have good visibility before starting to drive. The defogger wires on the inside of the rear window can be accidentally damaged.
Page 86: Steering Wheel Adjustment
Main Menu Table of Contents Controls Near the Steering Wheel Steering Wheel Adjustment Push the lever up to lock the See page for important safety steering wheel in that position. information about how to properly position the steering wheel. Make sure you have securely locked the steering wheel in place Make any steering wheel adjustment by trying to move it up and down.
Page 87: Keys And Locks
Do not drop the keys or set heavy When replacing keys, use only When replacing keys, use only objects on them. Honda-approved key blanks. Honda-approved key blanks. Keep the keys away from liquids. Your vehicle comes with two master If they get wet, dry them keys and a valet key.
Page 88: Immobilizer System
LOCK (0), remove the key, reinsert engine. it, and turn the switch to ON (II) again. If the system repeatedly does not recognize the coding of your key, contact your Honda dealer. Instruments and Controls...
Page 89: Ignition Switch
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. To switch from ACCESSORY to FCC rules.
Page 90 Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks If the front wheels are turned, the In this position, Use this position ACCESSORY (I) START (III) anti-theft lock may sometimes make you can operate the audio system only to start the engine. The switch it difficult to turn the key from and the accessory power sockets.
Page 91: Power Door Locks
Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Power Door Locks To lock the front passenger’s door when getting out the vehicle, push the lock tab down and close the door. To lock the driver’s door, remove the key from the ignition switch, pull the outside door handle and push the lock tab down or push the master switch down.
Page 92: Rear Doors
Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks All doors and the hatch lock when Rear Doors you push down the lock tab on the The Element has no center pillars driver’s door, or lock the driver’s between front and rear seats, and door from the outside with the key.
Page 93: Hatch
Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Hatch Lock the hatch by pushing down the lock tab on the driver’s door (see page ), or by using the master key in the driver’s door lock. Lock or unlock the hatch with the master door lock switch.
Page 94: Tailgate
Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks See page for information on Tailgate See page for information on cargo loading. Keep the hatch closed cargo loading. Keep the tailgate and at all times while driving to avoid the hatch closed at all times while damaging the hatch, and to prevent driving to avoid damaging them, and exhaust gas from getting into the...
Page 95: Glove Box
Main Menu Table of Contents Keys and Locks Glove Box An open glove box can cause serious injury to your passenger in a crash, even if the passenger is wearing the seat belt. Always keep the glove box closed while driving. Open the glove box by pulling the bottom of the handle.
Page 96: Seats
Main Menu Table of Contents Seats Front Seat Adjustments See pages for important safety information and warnings about how to properly position seats and seat-backs. Make all seat adjustments before you start driving. To adjust the seat forward and To change the angle of the seat-back, backward, pull up on the bar under pull up on the lever on the outside of the seat cushion’s front edge.
Page 97: Driver's Seat Height Adjustment
Main Menu Table of Contents Seats Driver’s Seat Height Adjustment Driver’s Seat Armrest To adjust the height of the driver’s On EX models seat, turn the dial on the outside of The driver’s seat has an armrest on the seat bottom. the side of the seat-back.
Page 98: Head Restraints
Main Menu Table of Contents Seats To remove a head restraint for Head Restraints See page for important safety cleaning or repair, pull it up as far as it will go. Push the release button, information and a warning about how to properly position the head restraints.
Page 99: Rear Seat Access
Main Menu Table of Contents Seats After you return the seat cushion to Rear Seat Access the desired position, pull the seat- RELEASE LEVER back upright until it latches. Make sure the seat is fully latched before sitting in it. Although your vehicle has rear doors, the rear seat passengers can get out of the vehicle from the open front...
Page 100: Rear Seat-Back Adjustment
Main Menu Table of Contents Seats Rear Seat-back Adjustment SEAT-BACK ADJUSTMENT STRAP See pages for important safety information and warnings about how to properly position seats and seat-backs. Make all seat adjustments before you start driving. The seat-back angle of each rear seat can be adjusted separately.
Page 101: Reclining The Front Seats
Main Menu Table of Contents Seats Reclining the Front Seats You can recline the seat-backs on the Remove the head restraints from front seats to a fully flat position so the front seats (see page they are level with the rear seat Store the head restraints in the cushions, making a large cushioned side pockets of the cargo area.
Page 102 Main Menu Table of Contents Seats SEAT-BACK ANGLE ADJUSTMENT LEVER SLIDE BAR Adjust the front seats forward as Move the front seat backward Adjust the rear seat-back to the far as they will go. Pull up the seat- until it touches the rear seat. desired position.
Page 103: Folding The Rear Seats
Main Menu Table of Contents Seats Folding the Rear Seats RELEASE STRAP To create more cargo space, you can SEAT-BACK ADJUSTMENT STRAP fold up each rear seat to each side wall separately. Lower the head restraint to its lowest position. Pull the seat-back adjustment Pull the release strap on the seat strap at the inside edge of the seat...
Page 104 Main Menu Table of Contents Seats Reverse this procedure to return the GRAB RAIL SEAT SUPPORT rear seat to the upright position. When not in use, store the fastening strap hook in the fabric pocket on the bottom of the seat cushion. Make sure the seat is locked securely.
Page 105: Removing The Rear Seats
Main Menu Table of Contents Seats Removing the Rear Seats SEAT-BACK ADJUSTMENT STRAP RELEASE STRAP COVER Both seats can be removed to give Pull the release strap on the seat Remove the cover between the more cargo capacity. support to unlock the seat support. seat cushion and the side wall by pulling the tab and pulling the To remove a seat:...
Page 106 Main Menu Table of Contents Seats Reverse this procedure to reinstall the seat. Make sure the seat is LOCK LEVER STEEL HANDLE securely locked. Always remove an unsecured seat from the vehicle before driving. A seat that is not locked in place could be thrown about and cause injury in a sudden stop or crash.
Page 107: Power Windows
Main Menu Table of Contents Power Windows Your vehicle’s front windows are DRIVER’S WINDOW SWITCH electrically-powered. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) to raise or Closing a power window on lower either window. someone’s hands or fingers can cause serious injury. Each front door has a switch that controls its window.
Page 108 Main Menu Table of Contents Power Windows The master control panel also con- To open or close the driver’s window The MAIN switch controls power to tains these extra features: partially, push down or pull back on the passenger’s window. When you the window switch lightly and hold it.
Page 109: Rear Windows
To close the rear window pull the lever towards you, then push it If the power windows do not operate back. Make sure the window is fully properly after resetting, have your closed and locked. vehicle checked by a Honda dealer. Instruments and Controls...
Page 110: Mirrors
Main Menu Table of Contents Mirrors Adjusting the Power Mirrors ADJUSTMENT SWITCH SELECTOR SWITCH Keep the inside and outside mirrors clean and adjusted for best visibility. Push the appropriate edge of the On U.S. EX, and Canadian DX and EX Be sure to adjust the mirrors before models adjustment switch to move the...
Page 111: Skylight
Main Menu Table of Contents Skylight If you try to tilt up the skylight in below-f reezing temperatures, or when it is covered with snow or ice, you can damage it. Bef ore lif ting the skylight, make sure the roof of the vehicle is dry. Rain or remaining water af ter car-washing may get into the f rame of the skylight.
Page 112 Main Menu Table of Contents Skylight Removing and Storing the Skylight To remove the skylight: Push up the rear of the skylight. With the rear seats in their upright Turn off the engine, and set the Standing on the tailgate with the position, store the skylight, face parking brake.
Page 113 Main Menu Table of Contents Skylight An unsecured skylight can be thrown about and cause serious injury in a sudden stop or crash. Make sure to store the skylight in its bag, and secure the bag to the hooks on the cargo area floor.
Page 114: Beverage Holders
Main Menu Table of Contents Beverage Holders Be careful when you are using the beverage holder. A spilled liquid that is very hot can scald you or your passengers. Spilled liquids can also damage the upholstery, seat material, and electrical components in the interior.
Page 115: Parking Brake
Main Menu Table of Contents Parking Brake PARKING BRAKE LEVER Driving the vehicle with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles. To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up fully. To release it, pull up slightly, push the button, and lower the lever.
Page 116: Ceiling Pocket
Main Menu Table of Contents Ceiling Pocket, Coin Tray Ceiling Pocket The back of the ceiling pocket lid Coin Tray has a pen and card holder. Use the ceiling pocket to store small items only. Storing heavy objects will damage the bottom net. To open the coin tray, pull the lid On EX model To open the ceiling pocket, push on...
Page 117: Accessory Power Sockets
Main Menu Table of Contents Accessory Power Sockets These sockets are intended to supply power for 12 volt DC accessories that are rated 120 watts or less (10 amps). To power an accessory, the ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II). They will not power an automotive type cigarette lighter element.
Page 118: Interior Lights
Main Menu Table of Contents Interior Lights Ceiling Light If you leave any door open with the Spotlights key not in the ignition switch, the ceiling light will go off after three minutes. The ceiling light (with the switch in the center position) comes on when you remove the key from the ignition switch.
Page 119: Cargo Area Light
Main Menu Table of Contents Interior Lights Cargo Area Light Ignition Switch Light IGNITION SWITCH LIGHT HATCH ACTIVATED The cargo area light has a three- The ignition switch light comes on position switch. In the OFF position, when you unlock the driver’s door, the light does not come on.
Page 120 Main Menu...
Page 121 Main Menu Comfort and Convenience Features Heating and Cooling ..... Audio System (EX model) ... What Each Control Does ..AM/FM/CD Audio System ..How to Use the System .... Operating the Radio ....To Turn Everything Off ..Adjusting the Sound ....
Page 122: Heating And Cooling
Main Menu Table of Contents Heating and Cooling Proper use of the Heating and FAN CONTROL TEMPERATURE MODE CONTROL DIAL Cooling system can make the DIAL CONTROL DIAL interior dry and comfortable, and keep the windows clear for the best visibility.
Page 123 Main Menu Table of Contents Heating and Cooling EX models The system automatically turns on the A/C and switches to Recirculation mode. Air flows from the center and side vents in the dashboard. Air flows from the center and side vents in the dashboard. Air flow is divided between the vents in the dashboard and the floor vents.
Page 124 Main Menu Table of Contents Heating and Cooling Vent Controls DRIVER’S SIDE VENT PASSENGER’S SIDE VENT CENTER VENTS Close Close Open Open The direction of air flow from the To adjust the air flow from each side vents in the center and each side of vent, move the tab in the center of the dashboard is adjustable.
Page 125: How To Use The System
Main Menu Table of Contents Heating and Cooling How to Use the System FAN CONTROL TEMPERATURE MODE CONTROL This section covers how to set up the DIAL CONTROL DIAL DIAL system controls for ventilation, heating, cooling, dehumidifying, and defrosting. The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to generate hot and cold air.
Page 126 Main Menu Table of Contents Heating and Cooling To Cool with A/C EX models TEMPERATURE MODE CONTROL FAN CONTROL Turn on the A/C by pressing the CONTROL DIAL DIAL DIAL button. The light in the button comes on when a fan speed is selected.
Page 127 Main Menu Table of Contents Heating and Cooling Air conditioning places an extra load To Heat To Heat and Dehumidify with Air on the engine. Watch the engine To warm the interior: Conditioning coolant temperature gauge (see page Air conditioning, as it cools, removes ) when driving in stop-and-go Start the engine.
Page 128 Main Menu Table of Contents Heating and Cooling To remove exterior frost or ice from These settings direct all the air flow To Defog and Defrost To remove fog from the inside of the the windshield and side windows to the defroster vents at the base of windows: after the vehicle has been sitting out the windshield and the side window...
Page 129: To Turn Everything Off
Main Menu Table of Contents Heating and Cooling To Turn Everything Off To shut off the system temporarily, turn the fan speed and temperature control dials all the way to the left. No air flow can cause the windows to fog up.
Page 130: Audio System
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System AM/FM/CD Player Audio System On Canadian DX models Your Honda’s audio system provides clear reception on both AM and FM bands, while the preset buttons allow you to easily select your favorite AM/FM BUTTON...
Page 131 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System You can use any of five methods to SCAN The SCAN function To store a frequency: find radio stations on the selected samples all the stations with strong Select the desired band, AM or band: TUNE, SEEK, SCAN, AUTO signals on the selected band.
Page 132 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System AUTO SELECT If you are traveling far from home and can no AUTO SELECT INDICATOR SCAN BUTTON longer receive the stations you preset, you can use the Auto Select feature to find stations in the local area.
Page 133: Adjusting The Sound
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Adjusting the Sound Bass, Treble, Balance, and Fader are Adjustment Level each adjustable. You select which of these you want to adjust by pressing the TUNE knob. The mode changes from BAS to TRE to FAd to BAL, and then back to the selected audio mode, each time you press the TUNE knob.
Page 134: Digital Clock
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Digital Clock The display of your audio system usually shows the time when the ignition switch is in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II). It shows the operation mode of the radio or CD player when you operate them, and goes back to TIME DISPLAY CLOCK BUTTON...
Page 135 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System To set the hour, press the H (Preset For example: 4) button while pressing the CLOCK 1:06 would RESET to 1:00. (SCAN/RPT) button. Press and hold 1:52 would RESET to 2:00. the H button until the hour advances to the desired time.
Page 136: Audio System Lighting
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Radio Frequencies and Reception For information, see page CD BUTTON CD SLOT REPEAT INDICATOR EJECT BUTTON Audio System Lighting You can use the instrument panel brightness control knob to adjust the illumination of the audio system (see page ).
Page 137 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System When the system reaches the end of You can use the SEEK/SKIP bar REPEAT To activate the Repeat the disc, it will return to the begin- while a disc is playing to select feature, press and release the RPT ning and play the disc again.
Page 138: Operating The Cd Changer
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System To select the CD changer, press the If you eject the in-dash CD while it is Operating the CD Changer (Optional) CD button. The disc and track playing, the system will automatically A Compact Disc changer is available numbers will be displayed.
Page 139: Cd Player Error Indications
Mechanical Error If the CD cannot be pulled out or the error indication does not disappear after the disc is ejected, see your Honda dealer. Do not try to force the disc out of the player. High Temperature Will disappear when the temperature returns to normal.
Page 140: Cd Changer Error Indications
FOCUS Error the magazine again. If the code does not your Honda dealer. disappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out, consult your Honda dealer. No CD in the CD Insert CD. Magazine Press the magazine eject button and pull out the magazine, check for error indication.
Page 141: Audio System (Ex Model)
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System AM/FM/CD Player Audio System On EX models Your Honda’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 142: Operating The Radio
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) to PWR/VOL KNOB STEREO INDICATOR SEEK BUTTONS operate the audio system. Turn the system on by pushing the PWR/ FM BUTTON AM BUTTON VOL knob or the AM/FM button.
Page 143 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System TUNE Use the TUNE knob to signal. When it finds one, it will stop Use the TUNE, SEEK, or SCAN tune the radio to a desired frequency. and play that station for about five function to tune the radio to a Turn the TUNE knob to the right to seconds.
Page 144 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System AUTO SELECT If you are traveling far from home and can no AUTO SELECT INDICATOR longer receive the stations you preset, you can use the Auto Select feature to find stations in the local area.
Page 145: Adjusting The Sound
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Adjusting the Sound Subwoofer, Treble, Bass, Fader, and Balance are each adjustable. You select which of these you want to adjust by pressing the TUNE knob. The mode changes from SUB-W to BAS to TRE to FAD to BAL, and then back to the selected audio mode, each time you press the TUNE knob.
Page 146: Digital Clock
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Digital Clock The audio system display shows the time when the ignition switch is in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II). To set the clock, press and hold the CLOCK (TUNE) button until the numbers flash.
Page 147: Audio System Lighting
‘‘FM101.’’ Radio Frequencies Radio Reception Your Honda’s radio can receive the How well your Honda’s radio complete AM and FM bands. receives stations is dependent on Those bands cover these frequen-...
Page 148 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 signals, especially on the FM Radio reception can be affected by band, are deflected by large objects atmospheric conditions such as such as buildings and hills.
Page 149: Operating The Cd Player
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Operating the CD Player You operate the CD player with the EJECT BUTTON CD SLOT RANDOM INDICATOR same controls used for the radio. CD BUTTON With the ignition switch in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II), insert the disc into the CD slot.
Page 150 Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System When the system reaches the end of You can use the SKIP buttons while To activate the Repeat REPEAT the disc, it will return to the begin- a disc is playing to select passages feature, press and release the RPT ning and play the disc again.
Page 151: Operating The Cd Changer
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Operating the CD Changer To select the CD changer, press the If you eject the in-dash CD while it is (Optional) CD button. The disc and track playing, the system will automatically A Compact Disc changer is available numbers will be displayed.
Page 152: Cd Player Error Indications
Mechanical Error If the CD cannot be pulled out or the error indication does not disappear after the disc is ejected, see your Honda dealer. Do not try to force the disc out of the player. High Temperature Will disappear when the temperature returns to normal.
Page 153: Cd Changer Error Indications
FOCUS Error the magazine again. If the code does not your Honda dealer. disappear or the magazine cannot be pulled out, consult your Honda dealer. No CD in the CD Insert CD. Magazine Press the magazine eject button and pull out the magazine, check for error indication.
Page 154: Protecting Compact Discs
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Protecting Compact Discs Handle a CD by its edges; never When a CD is not being played, store A new CD may be rough on the touch either surface. Do not place it in its case to protect it from dust inner and outer edges.
Page 155: Auxiliary Input Jack
Main Menu Table of Contents Audio System Auxiliary Input Jack Your audio system will accept auxiliary inputs from a portable cassette player, CD changer, MP3 player, etc. To use the jack, turn down the volume of the audio unit and the portable unit. Then pivot the cover up, plug in a mini-jack cable between the portable unit and the jack, and press the AUX button on...
Page 156: Theft Protection
Honda dealer. To do this, you will need the system’s serial number. Comfort and Convenience Features...
Page 157: Cruise Control
Main Menu Table of Contents Cruise Control On EX models 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 158 Main Menu Table of Contents Cruise Control 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/ACCEL down hills. If your speed increases speed in any of these ways: going down a hill, use the brakes to slow down to the desired speed.
Page 159 Main Menu Table of Contents Cruise Control You can decrease the set cruising Even with the cruise control turned Cancelling the Cruise Control speed in any of these ways: on, you can still use the accelerator pedal to speed up for passing. After Press and hold the SET/DECEL completing the pass, take your foot button.
Page 160 Main Menu Table of Contents Cruise Control When you push the CANCEL button, Pressing the Cruise Control Master or tap the brake or clutch pedal, the Switch turns the system completely CRUISE CONTROL light on the off and erases the previous cruising instrument panel will go out and the speed from memory.
Page 161: Before Driving
Main Menu Before Driving Before you begin driving your Honda, 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 ....
Page 162 Break-in Period Gasoline In Canada, some gasolines contain Help assure your vehicle’s future Your Honda is designed to operate an octane-enhancing additive called reliability and performance by paying on unleaded gasoline with a pump MMT. If you use such gasolines, extra attention to how you drive octane number of 86 or higher.
Page 163 Main Menu Table of Contents Service Station Procedures Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. Filling the Fuel Tank Because the fuel fill cap is on the You may hear a hissing sound as driver’s side of the vehicle, park pressure inside the tank escapes. Gasoline is highly flammable with that side closest to the and explosive.
Page 164 Main Menu Table of Contents Service Station Procedures Screw the fuel fill cap back on, Opening the Hood tighten it until it clicks several HOOD RELEASE HANDLE times. If you do not properly tighten the cap, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp may come on (see page Push the fuel fill door closed.
Page 165 Main Menu Table of Contents Service Station Procedures If you can open the hood without To close the hood, lift it up slightly to lifting the hood latch handle, or the remove the support rod from the SUPPORT ROD hood latch handle moves stiffly or hole.
Page 166 Main Menu Table of Contents Service Station Procedures Oil Check DIPSTICK Check the engine oil level every time Wipe the dipstick with a clean Insert it all the way back in its tube. you fill the vehicle with fuel. Wait a cloth or paper towel.
Page 167 Engine Coolant Check Checks on page for information RESERVE TANK on checking other items in your Honda. UPPER MARK LOWER MARK Remove the dipstick again and Look at the coolant level in the check the level. It should be radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the upper and lower between the MAX and MIN lines.
Page 168: Fuel Economy
Main Menu Table of Contents Fuel Economy The condition of your vehicle and A cold engine uses more fuel than a Driving Habits your driving habits are the two most You can improve fuel economy by warm engine. It is not necessary to important things that affect the fuel driving moderately.
Page 169: Accessories And Modifications
Accessories or killed. Before installing any accessory: Your dealer has Honda accessories that allow you to personalize your Follow all instructions in this Make sure the accessory does not vehicle. These accessories have obscure any lights, or interfere owner’s manual regarding...
Page 170 If you plan to modify your vehicle, Covering the outside edge of a undercarriage to impact speed consult with your Honda dealer. front seat-back, with a non-Honda bumps or other raised objects, seat cover for example, could...
Page 171: Carrying Cargo
Main Menu Table of Contents Carrying Cargo Your vehicle has several convenient storage areas so you can stow cargo safely. CARGO AREA SIDE POCKET DOOR POCKETS CEILING POCKET (EX) The glove box, and the pockets in the doors and seat-backs, are designed for small, lightweight items.
Page 172 Main Menu Table of Contents Carrying Cargo Subtract the combined weight of Load Limit The maximum load limit for your the driver and passengers from vehicle is 675 lbs (308 kg). This 675 lbs (308 kg). Overloading or improper figure includes the total weight of all loading can affect handling and occupants, cargo, accessories, and The resulting figure equals the...
Page 173 Please contact your Honda as far forward as possible. Tie dealer for further information. Be sure items placed on the floor...
Page 174 Main Menu Table of Contents Carrying Cargo Cargo Hooks HOOKS To secure cargo, use the four cargo hooks in the cargo area floor. There is another hook on each side wall near the hatch. Make sure all stored items are secured before driving. Before Driving...
Page 175 Main Menu Driving This section gives you tips on Driving Guidelines ......Off-Highway Guidelines ....starting the engine under various Preparing to Drive ......General Information ....conditions, and how to operate the Starting the Engine ....... Important Safety 5-speed manual and automatic Starting in Cold Weather Precautions ......
Page 176: Driving Guidelines
Main Menu Table of Contents Driving Guidelines Your Element has higher ground Avoid sharp turns and abrupt Four-wheel Drive Models clearance than a passenger vehicle maneuvers whenever possible. Your Element is equipped with a designed only for use on pavement. unique four-wheel drive (4WD) Higher ground clearance has many Do not modify your vehicle in any...
Page 177: Preparing To Drive
Main Menu Table of Contents Preparing to Drive You should do the following checks Check the adjustment of the seat Turn the ignition switch ON (II). and adjustments every day before (see page Check the indicator lights in the you drive your vehicle. instrument panel.
Page 178: Starting The Engine
Main Menu Table of Contents Starting the Engine Apply the parking brake. Without touching the accelerator If the engine still does not start, pedal, turn the ignition key to the press the accelerator pedal all the In cold weather, turn off all START (III) position.
Page 179: Starting In Cold Weather At High Altitude
Main Menu Table of Contents Starting the Engine If the engine fails to start in step 2, Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude (Above 8,000 feet/ push the accelerator pedal to the floor and hold it there while you 2,400 meters) An engine is harder to start in cold try to start the engine for no more...
Page 180: 5-Speed Manual Transmission
Main Menu Table of Contents 5-speed Manual Transmission Come to a full stop before you shift into Reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into Rapid slowing or speeding-up Reverse with the vehicle moving. can cause loss of control on Push down the clutch pedal, and slippery surfaces.
Page 181: Recommended Shift Points
Main Menu Table of Contents 5-speed Manual Transmission Recommended Shift Points Engine Speed Limiter Drive in the highest gear that lets If you exceed the maximum speed the engine run and accelerate for the gear you are in, the engine smoothly.
Page 182: Automatic Transmission
Avoid when the converter locks. rapid acceleration and have the trans- mission checked by an authorized Honda dealer as soon as possible. This indicator on the instrument panel shows which position the shift lever is in.
Page 183: Shift Lever Positions
Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission Shift Lever Positions To shift from: Do this: P to R Press the brake pedal and press the release button. R to N N to D Press the release button. D to 2 2 to 1 1 to 2 2 to D...
Page 184 Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission If you have done all of the above and Your vehicle has a reverse lockout so Use Neutral if you Neutral (N) still cannot move the lever out of you cannot accidentally shift to need to restart a stalled engine, or if Park, see Shift Lock Release on page Reverse when the vehicle speed...
Page 185 Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission Drive (D) Use this position for Overdrive (O/D) Mode your normal driving. The transmis- sion automatically selects a suitable gear for your speed and acceleration. You may notice the transmission shifting up at higher speeds when the engine is cold.
Page 186: Engine Speed Limiter
Main Menu Table of Contents Automatic Transmission When overdrive is off, the First (1) To shift from Second to Engine Speed Limiter transmission selects only the first First, press the release button on the If you exceed the maximum speed three gears.
Page 187: Shift Lock Release
To release the Reverse Lockout, developing a problem. Have the Carefully pry on the edge of the move the shift lever from Neutral vehicle checked by your Honda cover. to Reverse, then to Park. dealer. Driving...
Page 188: Parking
Main Menu Table of Contents Parking Always use the parking brake when If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn Parking Tips you park your vehicle. The indicator the front wheels away from the curb. Make sure the skylight and the on the instrument panel shows that If you have a manual transmission, windows are closed.
Page 189: The Braking System
Main Menu Table of Contents The Braking System Your Honda is equipped with disc Constant application of the brakes Brake Wear Indicators brakes at all four wheels. A power when going down a long hill builds All four brakes have audible brake...
Page 190: Brake System Design
Main Menu Table of Contents The Braking System Brake System Design Anti-lock Brakes When the front tires skid, you lose The hydraulic system that operates Standard on EX models steering control; the vehicle the brakes has two separate circuits. ABS helps to prevent the wheels continues straight ahead even Each circuit works diagonally across from locking up and skidding during...
Page 191: Important Safety Reminders
Main Menu Table of Contents The Braking System You should never pump the A vehicle with ABS may require a Important Safety Reminders brake pedal; this defeats the ABS does not reduce the time or longer distance to stop on loose or purpose of the ABS.
Page 192: Abs Indicator
Main Menu Table of Contents The Braking System If the ABS indicator and the brake ABS Indicator system indicator come on together, ABS INDICATOR and the parking brake is fully released, the front-to-rear braking distribution system may also shut down. Test your brakes as instructed on page .
Page 193: Driving In Bad Weather
Main Menu Table of Contents Driving in Bad Weather Driving Technique Always drive Visibility Being able to see slower than you would in dry clearly in all directions and being weather. It takes your vehicle longer visible to other drivers are important to react, even in conditions that may in all weather conditions.
Page 194 Main Menu Table of Contents Driving in Bad Weather Check your tires Traction frequently for wear and proper pressure. Both are important in preventing ‘‘hydroplaning’’ (loss of traction on a wet surface). In the winter, mount snow tires on all four wheels for the best handling.
Page 195: Towing A Trailer
Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer Your Honda has been designed Load Limits primarily to carry passengers and their cargo. You can use it to tow a trailer if you carefully observe the load limits, use the proper equipment, and follow the guidelines in this section.
Page 196 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer To achieve a proper tongue load, Gross Axle Weight Rating start by loading 60 percent of the (GAWR): load toward the front of the trailer The total weight of the vehicle, all Exceeding load limits or and 40 percent toward the rear, then occupants, all cargo, and the...
Page 197 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer Checking Loads Towing Equipment and Hitches The best way to confirm that vehicle Accessories Any hitch used on your vehicle must and trailer weights are within limits Towing can require a variety of be properly bolted to the underbody.
Page 198 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer Trailer Brakes Trailer Lights Honda recommends that any trailer having a total weight of 1,000 lbs GROUND BACK-UP LIGHT LEFT TURN SIGNAL (BLACK) (GREEN/BLACK) (GREEN/RED) (450 kg) or more be equipped with its own electric or surge-type brakes.
Page 199 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer Pre-Tow Checklist The lights and brakes on your Additional Trailer Equipment 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 200 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer Driving Safely With a Trailer Towing Speeds and Gears Driving on Hills The added weight, length, and Drive slower than normal in all When climbing hills, closely watch height of a trailer will affect your driving situations, and obey posted your temperature gauge.
Page 201 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing a Trailer When driving down hills, reduce Backing Up your speed and shift down to 3rd Always drive slowly and have gear on the manual transmission, someone guide you when backing up. and turn off the overdrive (O/D) Grip the bottom of the steering...
Page 202: Towing Your Vehicle Behind A Motorhome
Main Menu Table of Contents Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome Your Element can be towed behind a 5-speed Manual Transmission Automatic Transmission motorhome at legal highway speeds When preparing to tow your When preparing to tow your Element, up to 65 mph(100 km/h). Do not Element, make sure the make sure the transmission is full of exceed 65 mph (100km/h).
Page 203 Main Menu Table of Contents Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome Start the engine. Extended Towing If you tow more than 8 hours in one Press on the brake pedal. Shift the day, you should repeat the above Severe automatic transmission damage lever through all the positions (P, procedure at least every 8 hours.
Page 204: Off-Highway Guidelines
Main Menu Table of Contents Off-Highway Guidelines General Information Your Element has been designed primarily for use on pavement. But its higher ground clearance allows you to occasionally travel on unpaved roads, to campgrounds, picnic sites, and similar locations. It is not designed for trail-blazing, mountain climbing, or other challenging off- road activities.
Page 205: Important Safety Precautions
Main Menu Table of Contents Off-Highway Guidelines The route presents limits (some Important Safety Precautions Remember that your Element has roads are too steep and bumpy for higher ground clearance and a example). You have limits (in driving Improperly operating this higher center of gravity than vehicle on or off-pavement can skills and comfort).
Page 206: Driving Tips
Main Menu Table of Contents Off-Highway Guidelines Driving Tips Generally, the best off-pavement Controlling Speed The following pages contain practical Off-highway, the general rule is to braking technique is to gently tips on basic off-highway operation. keep your speed low. Of course, depress the brake pedal, then you’ll need enough speed to keep increase pressure as more braking is...
Page 207 Main Menu Table of Contents Off-Highway Guidelines Test your brakes from time to time Driving on Slopes Avoiding Obstacles to make sure they are operating Before driving up or down a hill, stop Bumps, holes, rocks, and other properly. This will also give you a and assess the situation.
Page 208 Main Menu Table of Contents Off-Highway Guidelines If You Get Stuck Avoid driving on soft sand, deep mud, or other surfaces where you could get stuck. If you do happen to get stuck because of inclement weather or other conditions, choose a safe and appropriate course of action.
Page 209 Main Menu Table of Contents Off-Highway Guidelines 4-Wheel Drive Vehicles If you spin the wheels excessively trying to get unstuck, you may overheat the components of the 4-wheel drive system. If this happens, the 4-wheel drive system shuts off and only the front wheels receive power.
Page 210 Main Menu...
Page 211 Replacing Engine Coolant ..Inspection ........form more complex maintenance Windshield Washers ....Maintenance ......tasks on your Honda, you may want Transmission Fluid ....... Tire Rotation ......to purchase the Service Manual. See Automatic Transmission ..Replacing Tires and Wheels .
Page 212: Maintenance Safety
It will also should be performed by a Honda performing maintenance. Only you reward you with more economical, technician or other qualified...
Page 213: Important Safety Precautions
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 vehicle is parked on tools and skills required. level ground and that the parking brake is set.
Page 214: Maintenance Schedule
Main Menu Table of Contents Maintenance Schedule The Maintenance Schedule specifies The services and time or distance Which Schedule to Follow: how often you should have your intervals shown in the maintenance Service your vehicle according to the vehicle serviced and what things schedule assume you will use your time and mileage periods on one of need attention.
Page 215 However, Honda recommends that all maintenance We recommend the use of genuine services be performed at the Honda parts and fluids whenever you recommended time or mileage have maintenance done. These are period to ensure long-term reliability. manufactured to the same high-...
Page 216 Main Menu Table of Contents Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first. miles x 1,000 km x 1,000 months Check engine oil and coolant Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop Replace engine oil Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month) Replace engine oil filter Inspect front and rear brakes Check parking brake adjustment...
Page 217 Main Menu Table of Contents Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C, D as required for each distance/time. U.S. Owners Refer to page to determine which schedule to use. Canadian Owners Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.
Page 218 Main Menu Table of Contents Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first. miles x 1,000 km x 1,000 months Check engine oil and coolant Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop Replace engine oil Replace every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month) Replace engine oil filter Inspect front and rear brakes...
Page 219 Main Menu Table of Contents Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C, D, E as required for each distance/time. U.S. Owners Refer to page to determine which schedule to use. Canadian Owners Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.
Page 220 Main Menu Table of Contents 95,000 mi/152,000 km Do item in A. See dust and pollen filter on page for replacement information 100,000 mi/160,000 km/5 yrs Do items in A, B, C. under special driving conditions. 105,000 mi/168,000 km Do items in A, E. See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last 6 yrs Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage).
Page 221: Required Maintenance Record
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 ) or severe conditions (page ). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle. 5,000 mi Signature or dealer stamp 35,000 mi...
Page 222 Main Menu Table of Contents Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules) 65,000 mi Signature or dealer stamp 95,000 mi Signature or dealer stamp mi/km mi/km 104,000 km 152,000 km Date Date 70,000 mi 100,000 mi mi/km mi/km 112,000 km 160,000 km (or 5 years) Date...
Page 223: Owner Maintenance Checks
Main Menu Table of Contents Owner Maintenance Checks You should check the following Engine oil level Check every Tires Check the tire pressure items at the specified intervals. If time you fill the fuel tank. See monthly. Examine the tread for you are unsure of how to perform page wear and foreign objects.
Page 224: Fluid Locations
Main Menu Table of Contents Fluid Locations ENGINE OIL BRAKE FLUID FILL CAP (Gray cap) ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop) POWER STEERING CLUTCH FLUID FLUID (5-speed Manual (Red cap) Transmission only) (Gray cap) WASHER FLUID (Blue cap) ENGINE COOLANT AUTOMATIC RESERVOIR TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK...
Page 225: Engine Oil
Institute’s latest requirements. Honda Motor Oil is the preferred 5W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. It is highly recommended that you use Honda Motor Oil in your vehicle for API CERTIFICATION SEAL To add oil, unscrew and remove the optimum engine protection.
Page 226: Synthetic Oil
When using synthetic oil, you must follow the oil and filter change intervals given in the maintenance schedule. Additives Your Honda does not require any oil additives. Additives may adversely affect your engine’s or transmission’s Ambient Temperature performance and durability.
Page 227: Changing The Oil And Filter
(available from your this maintenance done by a skilled Honda dealer) is required to mechanic. Open the hood and remove the remove the filter. engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil...
Page 228 Main Menu Table of Contents Engine Oil Put a new washer on the drain bolt, Replace the engine oil fill cap. then reinstall the drain bolt. Start the engine. The oil pressure Tighten it to: indicator light should go out within Improper disposal of engine oil can be 33 lbf·ft (44 N·m , 4.5 kgf·m) five seconds.
Page 229: Cooling System
Main Menu Table of Contents Cooling System Adding Engine Coolant Always use Honda All Season If the reserve tank is completely Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This empty, you should also check the RESERVE TANK coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent coolant level in the radiator.
Page 230 Main Menu Table of Contents Cooling System Put the radiator cap back on. Tighten it fully. RADIATOR CAP RESERVE TANK Pour coolant into the reserve tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back on the reserve tank.
Page 231: Replacing Engine Coolant
Only use Honda All Season Antifreeze/ Coolant Type 2. Draining the coolant requires access to the underside of the vehicle. Unless you have the tools and...
Page 232 When the coolant stops draining, tighten the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator. Remove the reserve tank Pour Honda All Season mounting bolt with a wrench, and Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 into remove the reserve tank from its the radiator up to the base of the bottom holder by pulling it up filler neck.
Page 233 Main Menu Table of Contents Cooling System The cooling system capacity is: Remove the radiator cap. Fill the radiator with coolant up to the base of the filler neck. With automatic transmission: 1.43 US gal (5.4 ) Start the engine and hold it at With manual transmission: 1,500 rpm until the radiator fan comes on.
Page 234: Windshield Washers
Main Menu Table of Contents Windshield Washers Check the level in the windshield washer reservoir at least monthly during normal use. In bad weather, Do not use engine antif reeze or a when you use the washers often, vinegar/water solution in the check the level every time you windshield washer reservoir.
Page 235: Transmission Fluid
Park the vehicle on level ground. Remove the dipstick and check it with Honda ATF-Z1, then drive the Shut off the engine. the fluid level. It should be vehicle a short distance. Do this between the upper and lower three times.
Page 236: 5-Speed Manual Transmission
WASHER FILLER BOLT The transmission should be drained If Honda MTF is not available, you and refilled with new fluid according may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 to the time and distance recommen- viscosity motor oil with the API dations in the maintenance schedule.
Page 237: Rear Differential Fluid
FILLER BOLT WASHER then reinstall the filler bolt and level tighten it securely. Use only Honda Dual Pump Fluid. Do not use Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). The rear differential should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the time and distance recommendations in the mainte- nance schedule.
Page 238: Brake And Clutch Fluid
Brake fluid reservoir (all models) replacement. However, the use of Clutch fluid reservoir any non-Honda brake fluid can cause (manual transmission only) corrosion and decrease the life of the system. Have the brake system The brake fluid should be replaced...
Page 239: Clutch System
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 240: Air Cleaner Element
Main Menu Table of Contents Air Cleaner Element The air cleaner element should be Replacement replaced according to the distance BOLTS recommendation in the maintenance schedule. BOLTS AIR CLEANER ELEMENT The air cleaner element is inside the Remove the old air cleaner air cleaner housing on the left side of element.
Page 241: Hood Latch
Lubricate all the moving parts (as shown), including the pivot. Follow the time and distance recommendations in the Maintenance Schedule. If you are not sure how to clean and grease the latch, contact your Honda dealer. Maintenance...
Page 242: Spark Plugs
Main Menu Table of Contents Spark Plugs The spark plugs in your vehicle are a special iridium-tipped design for BOLT CONNECTOR longer life. The spark plugs should be replaced according to the distance recommendation in the maintenance schedule. Replacement NUTS NUTS IGNITION COIL LOCK TAB...
Page 243: Specifications
Main Menu Table of Contents Spark Plugs Specifications: NGK: Tighten the spark plugs caref ully. A IZFR6K-11 DENSO: SKJ20DR-M11 spark plug that is too loose can overheat and damage the engine. Overtightening can cause damage to the threads in the cylinder head. Install the ignition coil into the hole.
Page 244: Battery
Main Menu Table of Contents Battery Check the condition of your vehicle’s Check the battery terminals for battery monthly. corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To remove it, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown.
Page 245 Main Menu Table of Contents Battery If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damage to the vehicle’s Charging the battery with the cables electrical system. connected can seriously damage your vehicle’s electronic controls. Detach the battery cables bef ore connecting the battery to a charger.
Page 246: Wiper Blades
Main Menu Table of Contents Wiper Blades Check the condition of the wiper FRONT REAR blades at least every six months. WIPER ARMS Look for signs of cracking in the rubber, or areas that are getting hard. Replace the blades if you find these signs, or if they leave streaks and unwiped areas when used.
Page 247 Main Menu Table of Contents Wiper Blades BLADE BLADE REINFORCEMENT LOCK TAB Disconnect the blade assembly Remove the blade from its holder Examine the new wiper blades. If from the wiper arm by pushing in by grasping the tabbed end of the they have no plastic or metal rein- the lock tab.
Page 248 Main Menu Table of Contents Wiper Blades Slide the new wiper blade into the holder until the tabs lock. Slide the wiper blade assembly onto the wiper arm. Make sure it locks in place. Lower the wiper arm down against the windshield or the hatch glass.
Page 249: Air Conditioning System
Main Menu Table of Contents Air Conditioning System If the air conditioning does not get as On U.S. EX, and Canadian DX and EX models cold as before, have your dealer Your vehicle’s air conditioning is a check the system. Recharge the sealed system.
Page 250: Dust And Pollen Filter
Main Menu Table of Contents Dust and Pollen Filter The dust and pollen filter removes Replacement pollen and dust that is brought in COVER from the outside through the heating and cooling system. This filter should be replaced every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) under normal conditions.
Page 251 Remove the second filter by replaced by your Honda dealer. sliding it to the left, then pulling it Install the new filter in the case. out.
Page 252: Drive Belt
Examine the edges of the belt for you see signs of wear, have the drive POINTER cracks or fraying. belt replaced by your Honda dealer as soon as possible. An auto-tensioner adjusts the tension of the drive belt. The pointer on the auto-tensioner should be in the proper range.
Page 253: Tires
Main Menu Table of Contents Tires To safely operate your vehicle, your Use a gauge to measure the air Inflation tires must be the proper type and Keeping the tires properly inflated pressure at least once a month. Even size, in good condition with adequate provides the best combination of tires that are in good condition may tread, and correctly inflated.
Page 254: Recommended Tire Pressures For Normal Driving
Main Menu Table of Contents Tires If you check the pressure when the For convenience, the recommended Recommended Tire Pressures for tires are hot [the vehicle has been tire sizes and cold air pressures are Normal Driving driven several miles (kilometers)], The following chart shows the on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.
Page 255: Inspection
Main Menu Table of Contents Tires Inspection Maintenance INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS Every time you check inflation, you In addition to proper inflation, should also examine the tires for correct wheel alignment helps to damage, foreign objects, and wear. decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer You should look for: check the wheel alignment.
Page 256: Tire Rotation
Improper wheel weights can damage To help increase tire life and your vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Use distribute wear more evenly, you only genuine Honda wheel weights f or should have the tires rotated every balancing. 10,000 miles (16,000 km). Move the tires to the positions shown in the chart each time they are rotated.
Page 257: Replacing Tires And Wheels
It is best to replace all four tires at your Honda dealer. accuracy. the same time. If that is not possible or necessary, then replace the two front tires or the two rear tires as a pair.
Page 258: Wheels And Tires
Tires that are marked ‘‘M S’’ or If you mount snow tires on your Wheels: ‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an Honda, make sure they are radial 16 x 6 1/2JJ all-weather tread design. They tires of the same size and load range should be suitable for most winter as the original tires.
Page 259: Tire Chains
Main Menu Table of Contents Tires When installing cables, follow the Tire Chains Because your Honda has limited tire manufacturer’s instructions and clearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’ mount them as tightly as you can. Traction devices that are the wrong cable-type traction devices on the Drive slowly with them installed.
Page 260: Lights
Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Check the operation of your vehicle’s exterior lights at least once a month. A burned out bulb can create an FRONT TURN SIGNAL/PARKING LIGHT unsafe condition by reducing your vehicle’s visibility and the ability to signal your intentions to other drivers.
Page 261 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Check the following: TURN SIGNAL LIGHT HIGH-MOUNT BRAKE LIGHT Headlights (low and high beam) Parking lights Taillights Brake lights High-mount brake light Turn signals Back-up lights Hazard light function License plate lights Side marker lights Daytime running lights (Canadian models) If you find any bulbs are burned out,...
Page 262: Headlight Aiming
Adjustment of the headlights should objects. If you touch the glass, clean be performed by a Honda technician it with denatured alcohol and a clean or other qualified mechanic. cloth.
Page 263 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Insert the new bulb into the hole, Replacing a Front Parking/Turn making sure the tabs are in their Signal Light Bulb slots. Pivot the hold-down wire back in place, and clip the end into the slot.
Page 264 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Pull the bulb straight out of its Replacing a Front Side Marker socket. Push the new bulb straight Light Bulb into the socket until it bottoms. Insert the socket back into the headlight assembly. Turn it clockwise to lock it in place.
Page 265 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Put the socket back into the light Replacing Rear Bulbs assembly and turn it clockwise to lock it in place. Turn on the lights to make sure the new bulb is working. Put the light assembly back into the body, bottom first.
Page 266 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Reinstall the socket into the light Replacing a Rear License Plate assembly by turning it clockwise Bulb until it locks. Test the lights to make sure the new bulb is working. When reinstalling the taillight assembly, first place the two pins in the holes in place.
Page 267 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Test the lights to make sure the Replacing a High-mount Brake Light Bulb new bulb is working. Put the socket back into the light assembly and turn it clockwise to lock it in place. Put the cover back onto the light assembly.
Page 268 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights Replacing Interior Light Bulbs CEILING LIGHT SPOTLIGHTS Although the ceiling light, cargo area light, and spotlights come apart the same way, they do not use the same type of bulbs. Remove the lens by carefully Ceiling light: prying on the edge of the lens with Pry on the rear edge of the lens...
Page 269 Main Menu Table of Contents Lights CARGO AREA LIGHT Remove the bulb by pulling it straight out of its metal tabs. Push the new bulb into the metal tabs. Snap the lens back in place. Maintenance...
Page 270: Storing Your Vehicle
Change the engine oil and filter Disconnect the battery. If you store your vehicle for 12 (see page months or longer, have your Honda Support the front and rear wiper dealer perform the inspections called Wash and dry the exterior...
Page 271: Appearance Care
Main Menu Appearance Care Regular cleaning and polishing of Exterior Care ......... your Honda helps to keep it ‘‘new’’ Washing ........looking. This section gives you Waxing ........information on how to clean your Aluminum Wheels ....vehicle and preserve its appearance: Paint Touch-up ......
Page 272: Exterior Care
Main Menu Table of Contents Exterior Care Washing Rinse the vehicle thoroughly with When you have washed and rinsed Frequent washing helps preserve cool water to remove loose dirt. the whole exterior, dry it with a your vehicle’s beauty. Dirt and grit chamois or soft towel.
Page 273 You solution, and rinse them thoroughly. form into beads or droplets after should use a polish on your Honda if waxing. the finish does not have its original The wheels have a protective clear- shine after using a wax.
Page 274 Main Menu Table of Contents Exterior Care Paint Touch-up Inspect your vehicle frequently for Your dealer has touch-up paint to chips or scratches in the paint. match your vehicle’s color. The color Repair them right away to prevent code is printed on a sticker on the corrosion of the metal underneath.
Page 275: Interior Care
Main Menu Table of Contents Interior Care Floor Covering Vinyl Seat Belts Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum Remove dirt and dust with a vacuum cleaner. For general cleaning, use a cleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a soft LOOP soft cloth dampened in a solution of cloth dampened in a solution of mild mild soap and water, then dry with a...
Page 276 Main Menu Table of Contents Interior Care Dirt build-up in the loops of the seat Windows Air Fresheners belt anchors can cause the belts to Clean the windows, inside and out, If you want to use an air freshener/ retract slowly. Wipe the insides of with a commercially-available glass deodorizer in the interior of your the loops with a clean cloth...
Page 277: Corrosion Protection
Two factors normally contribute to Many corrosion-preventive measures Use a high-pressure spray to clean causing corrosion in your vehicle: are built into your Honda. You can the underside of your vehicle. This help keep your vehicle from is especially important in areas Moisture trapped in body cavities.
Page 278: Body Repairs
If your insurance company, tell them you vehicle needs repairs after a collision, want genuine Honda parts used in pay close attention to the parts used the repair. Although most insurers in the repair and the quality of the recognize the quality of original work.
Page 279 Main Menu Taking Care of the Unexpected This section covers the more- Compact Spare Tire ...... 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 Starter safely evaluate the problem and what Motor Operates Very...
Page 280: Compact Spare Tire
Main Menu Table of Contents Compact Spare Tire Your vehicle has a compact spare Do not mount snow chains on the INDICATOR LOCATION MARK tire that takes up less space. Use this compact spare. spare tire as a temporary replace- ment only.
Page 281: Changing A Flat Tire
Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire If you have a flat tire while driving, TOOLS stop in a safe place to change it. Stopping in traffic or on the shoulder The vehicle can easily roll off of a busy road is dangerous. Drive the jack, seriously injuring slowly along the shoulder until you anyone underneath.
Page 282 Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire WHEEL NUTS JACK Push the rear edge of the handle Remove the tools and the jack. To Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2 to raise the handle loop and pull up remove the jack, turn the jack’s turn with the wheel wrench.
Page 283 Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire EXTENSION WHEEL WRENCH JACKING POINTS Locate the jacking point nearest Use the extension and wheel Remove the wheel nuts and flat the tire you need to change. It is wrench as shown to raise the tire.
Page 284 Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire BRAKE HUB Before mounting the spare tire, Put on the spare tire. Put the Lower the vehicle to the ground wipe any dirt off the mounting wheel nuts back on finger-tight, and remove the jack.
Page 285 Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire Store the jack in its holder. Turn the jack’s end bracket to lock it in place. Store the tools. Remove the center cap from the flat tire, and store it in the spare tire well.
Page 286 Main Menu Table of Contents Changing a Flat Tire Secure the flat tire by screwing the wing bolt to the spare tire mount through the hole in the cargo area floor. Remove the small round plug from Reinstall the cargo area floor. the cargo area floor by pushing it Place the flat tire face down on the from the back side to make a hole.
Page 287: If Your Engine Won't Start
Main Menu Table of Contents If Your Engine Won’t Start Diagnosing why your engine won’t Nothing Happens or the Starter Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). start falls into two areas, depending Motor Operates Very Slowly Turn on the headlights and check on what you hear when you turn the When you turn the ignition switch to their brightness.
Page 288 Main Menu Table of Contents If Your Engine Won’t Start If the headlights dim noticeably or Do you have fuel? Turn the The Starter Operates Normally go out when you try to start the In this case, the starter motor’s ignition switch to ON (II) for a engine, either the battery is dis- speed sounds normal, or even faster...
Page 289: Jump Starting
You cannot start a Honda with an automatic transmission by pushing If a battery sits in extreme cold, the or pulling it.
Page 290 The numbers in the illustration show positive ( ) terminal on your to the negative ( ) terminal on you the order to connect the jumper Honda’s battery. Connect the the booster battery. Connect the cables. other end to the positive ( ) other end to the grounding strap terminal on the booster battery.
Page 291 Main Menu Table of Contents Jump Starting Start your vehicle. If the starter motor still operates slowly, check the jumper cable connections to make sure they have good metal- to-metal contact. Once your vehicle is running, disconnect the negative cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery.
Page 292: If Your Engine Overheats
Main Menu Table of Contents If Your Engine Overheats The pointer of your vehicle’s If you do not see steam or spray, temperature gauge should stay in leave the engine running and the midrange under most conditions. watch the temperature gauge. If Steam and spray from an It may go higher if you are driving up overheated engine can...
Page 293 Main Menu Table of Contents If Your Engine Overheats Look for any obvious coolant leaks, Start the engine and set the such as a split radiator hose. temperature control dial to Everything is still extremely hot, maximum. Add coolant to the Removing the radiator cap so use caution.
Page 294: Low Oil Pressure Indicator
Main Menu Table of Contents Low Oil Pressure Indicator If necessary, add oil to bring the LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR level back to the full mark on the dipstick (see page Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical Start the engine and watch the oil damage almost immediately.
Page 295: Charging System Indicator
Main Menu Table of Contents Charging System Indicator Immediately turn off all electrical By eliminating as much of the CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR 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 296: Malfunction Indicator Lamp
Main Menu Table of Contents Malfunction Indicator Lamp If you have recently refueled your vehicle, 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 malf unction indicator lamp on, you can and tighten it until it clicks several damage your vehicle’s emissions...
Page 297 Main Menu Table of Contents Malfunction Indicator Lamp If possible, do not take your vehicle Readiness Codes Your vehicle has certain ‘‘readiness for a state emissions test until the codes’’ that are part of the on-board readiness codes are set. Refer to diagnostics for the emissions State Emissions Testing for more systems.
Page 298: Brake System Indicator
Because of the inspected by your Honda dealer It comes on and stays lit if you do not brake system’s dual-circuit design, a immediately.
Page 299 Main Menu Table of Contents Fuses All the electrical circuits in your UNDER-HOOD INTERIOR vehicle have fuses to protect them from a short circuit or overload. These fuses are located in two fuse boxes. The under-hood fuse box is located The interior fuse box is underneath in the engine compartment on the the steering column.
Page 300 Main Menu Table of Contents Fuses Turn the ignition switch to LOCK Checking and Replacing Fuses FUSE If something electrical in your (0). Make sure the headlights and vehicle stops working, the first thing all other accessories are off. you should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on pages Remove the cover from the fuse , or the diagram on the...
Page 301 Main Menu Table of Contents Fuses If you cannot drive the vehicle BLOWN without fixing the problem, and you FUSE PULLER do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits. Make sure you can do without that circuit temporarily (such as the accessory power socket or radio).
Page 302 Main Menu Table of Contents Fuses If the replacement fuse of the same rating blows in a short time, there is probably a serious Replacing a f use with one that has a electrical problem in your vehicle. higher rating greatly increases the Leave the blown fuse in that chances of damaging the electrical circuit and have your vehicle...
Page 303 Main Menu Table of Contents Fuses INTERIOR FUSE BOX Amps. Circuits Protected 7.5 A Power Window Relay 20 A 7.5 A Accessory, Radio 10 A Rear Wiper 7.5 A Meter 7.5 A 7.5 A Daytime running lights 10 A 10 A Remote Control Mirrors 20 A LAF Heater...
Page 304 Main Menu Table of Contents Fuses UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX Amps. Circuits Protected 30 A Condenser Fan 15 A Small Light 7.5 A Interior Light 20 A Cooling Fan Motor 15 A Hazard 15 A 15 A Horn, Stop Not Used 10 A Back Up 30 A...
Page 305: Emergency Towing
Main Menu Table of Contents Emergency Towing If your vehicle needs to be towed, Refer to Towing Your Vehicle call a professional towing service or, Behind a Motorhome on page if you belong to one, an organization for non-emergency towing Towing a 4WD Element with only two that provides roadside assistance.
Page 306 Main Menu...
Page 307 ....Emissions Controls ....... you the dimensions and capacities of Specifications ........ The Clean Air Act ..... your Honda, and the locations of the DOT Tire Quality Grading Crankcase Emissions Control identification numbers. It also (U.S. Vehicles) ...... System ........
Page 308: Identification Numbers
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER numbers located in various places. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the 17-digit number your Honda dealer uses to register your vehicle for warranty purposes. It is also necessary for licensing and insuring your vehicle. The easiest place to find the VIN is on a plate fastened to the top of the dashboard.
Page 309 Main Menu Table of Contents Identification Numbers The Engine Number is stamped into AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER the engine block. The Transmission Number is on a label on top of the transmission. ENGINE NUMBER MANUAL TRANSMISSION NUMBER Technical Information...
Page 310: Specifications
Main Menu Table of Contents Specifications Dimensions Length 169.3 in (4,300 mm) Engine Automatic Transmission Width 71.5 in (1,815 mm) coolant Change 1.43 US gal (5.4 ) Height 70.4 in (1,788 mm) Total 1.88 US gal (7.1 ) Wheelbase 101.4 in (2,575 mm) Manual Transmission Track Front...
Page 311 Main Menu Table of Contents Specifications Air Conditioning Fuses Refrigerant type HFC-134a (R-134a) Interior See page or the fuse label Charge quantity 16.9 18.7 oz (480 530 g) attached to the inside of the fuse Lubricant type SP-10 box door under the steering column.
Page 312: Dot Tire Quality Grading (U.s. Vehicles)
Main Menu Table of Contents DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles) The tires on your vehicle meet all Treadwear Traction AA, A, B, C U.S. Federal Safety Requirements. The treadwear grade is a compara- The traction grades, from highest to All tires are also graded for tive rating based on the wear rate of lowest, are AA, A, B, and C.
Page 313: Temperature
Main Menu Table of Contents DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles) Warning: The temperature grade for Temperature A, B, C 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 314: Tire Information
Main Menu Table of Contents Tire Information Tire Labeling Rim diameter in inches. 2202 Date of manufacture. The tires that came on your vehicle have a number of markings. Those Load index (a numerical code you should be aware of are described associated with the maximum below.
Page 315: Oxygenated Fuels
Main Menu Table of Contents Oxygenated Fuels Some conventional gasolines are The following are the U.S. EPA and If you notice any undesirable being blended with alcohol or an Canadian CGSB approved operating symptoms, try another ether compound. These gasolines percentages of oxygenates: service station or switch to another are collectively referred to as...
Page 316: Driving In Foreign Countries
Table of Contents Driving in Foreign Countries If you are planning to take your Honda 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 317: Technical Information
‘‘smog.’’ canister while the engine is off. After Carbon monoxide does not contri- In Canada, Honda vehicles comply the engine is started and warmed up, bute to smog creation, but it is a with the Canadian emission the vapor is drawn into the engine poisonous gas.
Page 318: Exhaust Emissions Controls
HC, CO, and (PCM) uses various sensors to genuine Honda replacement parts or NOx that comes out the tailpipe. The determine how much air is going their equivalent for repairs. Using exhaust emissions control systems into the engine.
Page 319: Three Way Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is referred to running properly. as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Honda part or its equivalent. The three way catalytic converter THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER...
Page 320: State Emissions Testing
Main Menu Table of Contents State Emissions Testing If the testing facility determines that Without touching the accelerator Testing of Readiness Codes If you take your vehicle for a state the readiness codes are not set, you pedal, start the engine and let it emissions test shortly after the will be requested to return at a later idle for 20 seconds.
Page 321 If the testing facility determines the pedal. (Vehicle speed may vary readiness codes are still not set, see slightly; this is okay.) If you cannot your Honda dealer. do this for a continuous 90 seconds because of traffic conditions, drive for at least 30 seconds, then repeat it two more times (for a total of 90 seconds).
Page 322 Main Menu...
Page 323: Warranty And Customer Relations
Main Menu Warranty and Customer Relations Customer Relations Information ........ Warranty Coverages ....Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles) ......Authorized Manuals ..... Warranty and Customer Relations...
Page 324: Customer Relations Information
Main Menu Table of Contents Customer Relations Information Honda dealership personnel are Canadian Owners: When you call or write, please give trained professionals. They should CUSTOMER RELATIONS us this information: RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTÈLE be able to answer all your questions.
Page 325: Warranty Coverages
Table of Contents Warranty Coverages U.S. Owners a seat Seat Belt Limited Warranty Replacement Battery Limited Your new Honda is covered by these belt that fails to function properly is provides prorated Warranty warranties: covered for the useful life of the coverage for a replacement battery vehicle.
Page 326: Reporting Safety Defects (U.s. Vehicles)
NHTSA, U.S. Department of Administration (NHTSA) in addition However, NHTSA cannot become Transportation, Washington, to notifying American Honda Motor 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.
Page 327: Authorized Manuals
Authorized Manuals Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals (U.S. only) Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners should contact their authorized Honda dealer. The publications shown below can be purchased from Helm Incorporated. You can order in any of three ways:...
Page 328: 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 329 Main Menu Index Brakes Appearance Care ......Armrest, Driver’s Seat ....Anti-lock System (ABS) ... Accessories and Modifications . Break-in, New Linings ..... Audio System ........ Accessories ........ Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners . Bulb Replacement ....Additional Safety Precautions . Fluid ...........
Page 330 Main Menu Index Bulb Replacement Child Safety ........Temperature Gauge ....Specifications ......Child Seats ........Corrosion Protection ....Spotlights ........LATCH Anchorage System ..Crankcase Emissions Control Turn Signal Lights ....Lower Anchors ......System ........Bulbs, Halogen ......Tether Anchorage Point ....
Page 331 Main Menu Index Power Door Locks ...... Emergency Towing ...... Features, Comfort and DOT Tire Quality Grading ..Emissions Controls ....... Convenience ......Downshifting, 5-speed Manual Emissions Testing, State ..... Filling the Fuel Tank ....Transmission ......Engine Filters Drive Belt ........
Page 332 Main Menu Index Four-way Flashers ......Gearshift Lever Positions Horn ..........3, Front Airbags ......10, Automatic Transmission ..Hydraulic Clutch ......Fuel ..........5-speed Manual Hydroplaning ......... Fill Door and Cap ...... Transmission ......Gauge ........... Glass Cleaning ......
Page 333 Main Menu Index Interior Lights ....... Locks Mirrors, Adjusting ......Introduction ........Anti-theft Steering Column ..Fuel Fill Door ......Glove Box ........Power Door ......... Neutral Gear Position ....Jacking up the Vehicle ....Tailgate ........New Vehicle Break-in ....
Page 334 Main Menu Index Onboard Refueling Vapor Additional Safety Precautions . Removing the Rear Seats .... Recovery ........Advice for Pregnant Women ..Replacement Information Operation in Foreign Countries . Protecting Children ......Air Cleaner Element ....Outside Mirrors ......Protecting Infants .......
Page 335 Main Menu Index Safety Features ......... Service Station Procedures ..How Your Front Airbags Airbags ......... Setting the Clock ....130, Work ......... Door Locks ........Shift Lever Position Indicator ..How Your Side Airbags Work . Head Restraints ......
Page 336 Main Menu Index Inflation ........Inspection ........Tachometer ........Maintenance ......Underside, Cleaning ..... Tailgate Replacing ........Unexpected, Taking Care Open Indicator ......Rotating ........of the .......... Opening the ......... Snow ........... Uniform Tire Quality Grading ..Taillights, Changing Bulbs ..
Page 337 Main Menu Index Washers, Windshield Checking the Fluid Level ..Operation ........Washing ......... Waxing and Polishing ....Wheels Adjusting the Steering ....Alignment and Balance .... Wrench ........Windows Cleaning ........Operating the Power ....Rear, Defogger ......Windshield Cleaning ........
Page 338: Service Information Summary
34 psi (235 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm ) Oil change capacity (including Rear Differential Fluid: filter): Honda Dual Pump Fluid. Do not Spare Tire Pressure: 4.4 US qt (4.2 ) use ATF (see page 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

Honda Element 2003 Owner's Manual

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