2002 NSX Online Reference Owner's Manual...

2002 NSX Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference. For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.

Contents

Owner's Identification Form Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i A Few Words About Safety ................................................................................................................. ii

Your Car at a Glance ...........................................................................................................................2

Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................5 Proper use and care of your car's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System. Instruments and Controls ................................................................................................................. 45 Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls. Comfort and Convenience Features ................................................................................................ 87 How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features. Before Driving.................................................................................................................................. 129 What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new car, and how to load luggage and other cargo. Driving .............................................................................................................................................. 145 The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer. Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... 167 The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your car to the dealer. Appearance Care.............................................................................................................................. 227 Tips on cleaning and protecting your car. Things to look for if your car ever needs body repairs. Taking Care of the Unexpected ...................................................................................................... 235 This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them. Technical Information..................................................................................................................... 269 ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information. Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada) ................................................................ 283 A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us. Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)...................................................................................................... 287 How to order manuals and other technical literature. Index...................................................................................................................................................... I Service Information Summary A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.

This Owner’s Manual should beconsidered a permanent part of thevehicle, and should remain with thevehicle when it is sold.

This Owner’s Manual covers allmodels of the Acura NSX. You mayfind descriptions of equipment andfeatures that are not on yourparticular model.

The information and specificationsincluded in this publication were ineffect at the time of approval forprinting. Honda Motor Co., Ltd.reserves the right, however, todiscontinue or change specificationsor design at any time without noticeand without incurring any obligationwhatsoever.

Owner’s Identif ication

OWNER

ADDRESS

V. I. N.

DELIVERY DATE

DEALER NAME DEALER NO.

ADDRESS

OWNER’S SIGNATURE

DEALER’S SIGNATURE

STREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/POSTAL CODE

(Date sold to original retail purchaser)

STREET

CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP CODE/POSTAL CODE

One of the best ways to enhance the enjoyment of your new Acura is to readthis manual. In it, you will learn how to operate its driving controls andconvenience items. Afterwards, keep this owner’s manual in your car so youcan refer to it at any time.

Several warranties protect your new Acura. Read the warranty bookletthoroughly so you understand the coverages and are aware of your rightsand responsibilities.

As you read this manual, you willfind information that is preceded bya symbol. Thisinformation is intended to help youavoid damage to your Acura, otherproperty, or the environment.

Maintaining your car according to the schedules given in this manual helpsto keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment. Whenyour car needs maintenance, keep in mind that your Acura dealer’s staff isspecially trained in servicing the many systems unique to your Acura. YourAcura dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answerany questions and concerns.

Congratulations on your selection of the 2002 Acura NSX. We are certainyou will be pleased with your purchase of one of the most sophisticated andtechnologically-advanced sports cars in the world.

California Proposition 65 Warning

This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State ofCalifornia to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Introduction

WARNING:

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To help you make informeddecisions about safety, we haveprovided operating procedures andother information on labels and inthis manual. This information alertsyou to potential hazards that couldhurt you or others.

You will find this important safety information in a variety of forms,including:

preceded by a safety alert symbol and one ofthree signal words: , , or .These signal words mean:

such as Driver and Passenger Safety.

This entire book is filled with important safety information please read itcarefully.

such as Important Safety Reminders or ImportantSafety Precautions.

Your safety, and the safety of others,is very important. And operating thiscar safely is an importantresponsibility.

Of course, it is not practical orpossible to warn you about all thehazards associated with operating ormaintaining your car. You must useyour own good judgement.

on the car.

how to use this car correctly and safely.

A Few Words About Safety

Safety Messages

Safety Section

Safety Headings

Safety Labels

Instructions

DANGER WARNING CAUTION

ii

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLYHURT if you don’t follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLYHURT if you don’t follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don’t followinstructions.

Your Car at a Glance

2

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Your Car at a Glance

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This section gives you importantinformation about how to protectyourself and your passenger. Itshows you how to use seat beltsproperly. It explains your Supple-mental Restraint System. And it tellsyou how to properly restrain childrenin your car.

.........Important Safety Precautions . 6.............Your Car’s Safety Features . 7

.......................................Seat Belts . 8...........................................Airbags . 9

.....................Seats & Seat-Backs . 10..........................Head Restraints . 10

..................................Door Locks . 10........Pre-Drive Safety Checklist . 11

............................Protecting Adults . 12.....1. Close and Lock the Doors . 12

...........2. Adjust the Front Seats . 12............3. Adjust the Seat-Backs . 13

4. Fasten and Position the Seat.....................................Belts . 15

....5. Adjust the Steering Wheel . 166. Maintain a Proper Sitting

................................Position . 16.....Advice for Pregnant Women . 17...Additional Safety Precautions . 18

........................Protecting Children . 19All Children Must Be

...............................Restrained . 19Your Car is Not Recommended

..............for Child Passengers . 20The Passenger’s Airbag Poses

......Serious Risks to Children . 20

.....Additional Safety Precaution . 22General Guidelines for Using

...............................Child Seats . 22.........Protecting Small Children . 26.......Protecting Larger Children . 29

Using Child Seats with.....................................Tethers . 33

Additional Information About Your.................................Seat Belts . 34

..Seat Belt System Components . 34......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 34

How the Automatic Seat Belt....................Tensioners Work . 35

...............Seat Belt Maintenance . 35Additional Information About Your

...........................................SRS . 36........................SRS Components . 36

...........How Your Airbags Work . 36How the SRS Indicator Light

.......................................Works . 39..................................SRS Service . 40

...Additional Safety Precautions . 40.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 41

...................................Safety Labels . 42

Driver and Passenger Safety


5

You’ll find many safetyrecommendations throughout thissection, and throughout this manual.The recommendations on this pageare the ones we consider to be themost important.

A seat belt is your best protection inall types of collisions. Airbagssupplement seat belts, but airbagsare designed to inflate only in amoderate to severe frontal collision.So even though your car is equippedwith airbags, make sure you andyour passenger always wear yourseat belts, and wear them properly.(See page ).

Since all children are safest in theback seat of a car, and your car doesnot have a back seat, we recommendthat you do not carry a childpassenger.

If a small child whomust be restrained in a forward-facing child seat, or a larger child,must ride in this car, be sure tofollow all instructions and safetywarnings in this manual. (See pages

and .)

While airbags can save lives, theycan cause serious or fatal injuries tooccupants who sit too close to them,or are not properly restrained.Infants, young children, and shortadults are at the greatest risk. Besure to follow all instructions andwarnings in this manual. (See page

.)

Alcohol and driving don’t mix. Evenone drink can reduce your ability torespond to changing conditions, andyour reaction time gets worse with

every additional drink. So don’t drinkand drive, and don’t let your friendsdrink and drive, either.

Excessive speed is a major factor incrash injuries and deaths. Generally,the higher the speed the greater therisk, but serious accidents can alsooccur at lower speeds. Never drivefaster than is safe for currentconditions, regardless of themaximum speed posted.

Having a tire blowout or amechanical failure can be extremelyhazardous. To reduce the possibilityof such problems, check your tirepressures and condition frequently,and perform all regularly scheduledmaintenance. (See page .)

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Important Safety Precautions

Always Wear Your Seat Belt

Your Car is Not Recommendedfor Child Passengers

Be Aware of Airbag Hazards

Don’t Drink and Drive

Control Your Speed

Keep Your Car in Safe Condition

Due to the passenger’s

airbag hazard, you should nevercarry an infant in a rear-facing childseat in this car.

6

Your car is equipped with manyfeatures that work together toprotect you and your passengerduring a crash.

These safety features are designedto reduce the severity of injuries in acrash. However, you and yourpassenger can’t take full advantageof these safety features unless youremain sitting in a proper positionand

In fact, some safetyfeatures can contribute to injuries ifthey are not used properly.

Some safety features do not requireany action on your part. Theseinclude a strong aluminumframework that forms a safety cagearound the passenger compartment;front and rear crush zones that aredesigned to crumple and absorbenergy during a crash; a collapsiblesteering column; and seat belttensioners that automatically tightenthe seat belts in the event of a crash.


Your Car’s Safety Features

always wear your seat beltsproperly.

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Your seat belt system alsoincludes a light on the

instrument panel to remind you andyour passenger to fasten your seatbelts.

For your safety, and the safety ofyour passenger, your car is equippedwith seat belts in both seatingpositions.

Seat belts have proven to be thesingle most effective safety device.

Not wearing a seat belt properlyincreases the chance of seriousinjury or death in a crash, eventhough your car has airbags.

In addition, most states and allCanadian provinces require you towear seat belts.

Help protect you in almost everytype of crash, including side andrear impacts and rollovers. (Yourairbag can only be helpful in amoderate to severe frontalcollision.)

Keep you connected to the vehicleso you can take advantage of thecar’s built-in safety features.

When properly worn, seat belts:

Help keep you from being thrownagainst the inside of the vehicleand against other occupants.

Keep you from being thrown outof the vehicle.

Help keep you in a good positionshould the airbags ever deploy. Agood position reduces the risk ofinjury from an inflating airbag, andallows you to get the bestadvantage from the airbag.

Of course, seat belts cannotcompletely protect you in everycrash. But in most cases, seat beltscan reduce your risk of seriousinjury.

Always wearyour seat belt, and make sure youwear it properly.


Seat Belts

Why Wear Seat Belts

What you should do:


8

Not wearing a seat belt properlyincreases the chance of seriousinjury or death in a crash, evenif you have airbags.

Be sure you and yourpassenger always wear seatbelts and wear them properly.

This system also includesan indicator light on the

instrument panel to alert you to apossible problem with the system.

The most important things you needto know about your airbags are:

Always wearyour seat belt properly, and situpright and as far back as possiblefrom the steering wheel ordashboard.

To do their job, airbags mustinflate with tremendous force andspeed. So while airbags save lives,they can cause serious injuries toadults and larger children who arenot wearing seat belts, are notwearing them properly, are sittingtoo close to the airbag, or are notsitting in a proper position. Infantsand small children are at an evengreater risk of injury or death.

Your car has a SupplementalRestraint System (SRS) with frontalairbags to help protect the driver anda passenger.

Airbags aredesigned to deploy only during amoderate to severe frontalcollision.

The seat belts are the occupants’primary protection in all types ofcollisions. Airbags supplementseat belts by providing extraprotection for occupants’ headsand chests.


Airbags

What you should do:

Airbags can pose serious hazards.

Airbags offer no protection in sideimpacts, rear impacts, rollovers,or minor collisions.

Airbags do not replace seat belts.


9

Head restraints can help protect youfrom whiplash and other injuries.

Keeping your doors locked reducesthe chance of being thrown out ofthe car during a crash. It also helpsprevent occupants from accidentallyopening a door and falling out, andoutsiders from unexpectedly openingyour doors.

Move the seatsas far back as possible, and keepadjustable seat-backs in an uprightposition whenever the car is moving.

Your car’s seats are designed to keepyou in a comfortable, uprightposition so you can take fulladvantage of the protection offeredby seat belts and the energyabsorbing materials in the seats.

How you adjust your seats and seat-backs can also affect your safety. Forexample, sitting too close to thesteering wheel or dashboardincreases the risk of you or yourpassenger being injured by strikingthe inside of the car, or by aninflating airbag.

Reclining a seat-back too far reducesthe seat belt’s effectiveness andincreases the chance that the seat’soccupant will slide under the seatbelt in a crash and be seriouslyinjured.

Seats & Seat-Backs Door Locks

Head Restraints



What you should do:

10

Seat-backs are upright (see page).

To make sure you and yourpassenger get the maximumprotection from your car’s safetyfeatures, check the following eachtime before you drive away:

A small child riding in a forward-facing child seat is properlyrestrained (see page ).

Both doors are closed and locked(see page ).

All cargo is properly stored orsecured (see page ).

The rest of this section gives moredetailed information about how youcan maximize your safety.

Remember, however, that no safetysystem can prevent all injuries ordeaths that can occur in severecrashes, even when seat belts areproperly worn and the airbags deploy.

Occupants are sitting upright andas far back as possible from thesteering wheel and dashboard(see page ).

You and any adult passenger, or alarger child who has outgrownchild seats, are wearing your seatbelts and wearing them properly(see page ).15

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141


Pre-Drive Safety Checklist


11

Any driver who sits too close to thesteering wheel is at risk of beingseriously injured or killed by strikingthe steering wheel, or from beingstruck by an inflating airbag during acrash.

See page for how to lock thedoors.

For security, locked doors canprevent an outsider fromunexpectedly opening a door whenyou come to a stop.

The following pages provideinstructions on how to properlyprotect adult occupants.

After everyone has entered the car,be sure the doors are closed andlocked.

Your car has a door monitor light onthe instrument panel to indicatewhen a specific door is not tightlyclosed.

For safety, locking the doors reducesthe chance that a passenger,especially a child, will open a doorwhile the car is moving andaccidentally fall out. It also reducesthe chance of someone being thrownout of the car during a crash.

These instructions also apply to achild whom you have decided islarge enough and mature enough toride as a passenger. (See page forimportant additional guidelines onhow to properly protect largerchildren.)

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Protecting Adults

Introduction Adjust the Front Seats

Close and Lock the Doors1.

2.

12

CONTINUED

Most shorter drivers can get farenough away from the steeringwheel and still reach the pedals.However, if you are concerned aboutsitting too close, we recommend thatyou investigate whether some typeof adaptive equipment may help.

Once your seat is adjusted correctly,rock it back and forth to make surethe seat is locked in position.

See page for how to adjust theseats.

Adjust the driver’s seat-back to acomfortable, upright position,leaving ample space between yourchest and the airbag cover in thecenter of the steering wheel. If yousit too close to the steering wheel,you could be injured if the airbaginflates.

To reduce the chance of injury, wearyour seat belt properly, sit uprightwith your back against the seat, andmove the seat away from thesteering wheel to the farthestdistance that allows you to maintainfull control of the car.

The National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration and TransportCanada recommend that driversadjust the seat so the center of thechest is at least 10 inches away fromthe center of the steering wheel.Also make sure your front seatpassenger moves the seat as far tothe rear as possible.

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Protecting Adults

Adjust the Seat-Backs3.

13

Sitting too close to an airbagcan result in serious injury ordeath if the airbags inflate.

Always sit as far back from theairbags as possible.

See page for how to adjust seat-backs.

Reclining a seat-back so that theshoulder part of the belt no longerrests against the occupant’s chestreduces the protective capability ofthe belt. It also increases the chanceof sliding under the belt in a crashand being seriously injured. Thefarther a seat-back is reclined, thegreater the risk of injury.

A passenger should also adjust theseat-back to an upright position, butas far from the dashboard aspossible. A passenger who sits tooclose to the dashboard could beinjured if the airbag inflates.

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Protecting Adults

14

Reclining the seat-back too farcan result in serious injury ordeath in a crash.

Adjust the seat-back to anupright position and sit wellback in the seat.

CONTINUED

Position the lap part of the belt aslow as possible across your hips,then pull up on the shoulder part ofthe belt so the lap part fits snugly.This lets your strong pelvic bonestake the force of a crash and reducesthe chance of internal injuries.

Insert the latch plate into the buckle,then tug on the belt to make sure thebelt is securely latched. Also checkthat the belt is not twisted, because atwisted belt can cause seriousinjuries in a crash.

If necessary, pull up on the belt againto remove any slack from theshoulder part, then check that thebelt rests across the center of yourchest and over your shoulder. This

spreads the forces of a crash overthe strongest bones in your upperbody.

This could causevery serious injuries in a crash.


Protecting Adults

Fasten and Position the SeatBelts

4.

Never place the shoulder portion of alap/shoulder belt under your arm orbehind your back.

15

Improperly positioning the seatbelts can cause serious injuryor death in a crash.

Make sure all seat belts areproperly positioned beforedriving.

Adjust the steering wheel, if needed,so that the wheel points toward yourchest, not toward your face.

Pointing the steering wheel towardyour chest provides optimalprotection from the airbag.

See page for how to adjust thesteering wheel.

If a seat belt does not seem to workas it should, it may not protect theoccupant in a crash.

Anyone using a seat belt that isnot working properly can beseriously injured or killed. Have yourAcura dealer check the belt as soonas possible.See page for additionalinformation about your seat beltsystem and how to take care of yourbelts.

Sitting improperly can increase thechance of injury during a crash. Forexample, if an occupant slouches,lies down, turns sideways, sitsforward, leans forward or sideways,or puts one or both feet up, thechance of injury during a crash isgreatly increased.

In addition, an occupant who is out ofposition can be seriously or fatallyinjured by striking interior parts ofthe car, or by being struck by aninflating airbag.

After occupants have adjusted theirseats and put on seat belts, it is veryimportant that they continue to situpright, well back in their seats, withtheir feet on the floor, until the car isparked and the engine is off.

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Protecting Adults

Adjust the Steering Wheel Maintain a Proper SittingPosition

5. 6.

No one shouldsit in a seat with an inoperative seatbelt.

16

Pregnant women should also situpright and as far back as possiblefrom the steering wheel ordashboard. This will reduce the riskof injuries to both the mother andher unborn child that can be causedby a crash or an inflating airbag.

Each time you have a check-up, askyour doctor if it’s okay for you todrive.

Remember to keep the lap portion ofthe belt as low as possible acrossyour hips.

Remember, to get the bestprotection from your car’s airbagsand other safety features, you mustsit properly and wear your seat beltproperly.

Because protecting the mother is thebest way to protect her unborn child,a pregnant woman should alwayswear a seat belt whenever she drivesor rides in a vehicle.

Protecting Adults

Advice for Pregnant Women

Driver and Passenger Safety 17

Sitting improperly or out ofposition can result in seriousinjury or death in a crash.

Always sit upright, well back inthe seat, with your feet on thefloor.

Carrying hard or sharp objects onyour lap, or driving with a pipe orother sharp object in your mouth,can result in injuries if yourairbags inflate.

If they do, theycould be very seriously injured in acrash.

Devices intended to improveoccupant comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt canseverely compromise theprotective capability of the seatbelt and increase the chance ofserious injury in a crash.

Do not attach or place objects onthe airbag covers. Any objectattached to or placed on the coversmarked ‘‘SRS AIRBAG,’’ in thecenter of the steering wheel andon top of the dashboard, couldinterfere with the proper operationof the airbags. Or, if the airbagsinflate, the objects could bepropelled inside the car and hurtsomeone.

If yourhands or arms are close to theairbag covers in the center of thesteering wheel and on top of thedashboard, they could be injured ifthe airbags inflate.

Protecting Adults


Additional Safety Precautions Do not place hard or sharp objectsbetween yourself and an airbag.Two people should never use the

same seat belt.

Do not put any accessories on seatbelts.

Keep your hands and arms awayfrom the airbag covers.

18

Children depend on adults to protectthem. However, despite their bestintentions, many parents and otheradults may not know how toprotect young passengers. (See page

.)

(See page.)

So if you have children, or if you everneed to drive with a grandchild orother children in your car, be sure toread this section.

Each year, many children are injuredor killed in vehicle crashes becausethey are either unrestrained or notproperly restrained. In fact, vehicleaccidents are the number one causeof death of children ages 12 andunder.

To reduce the number of childdeaths and injuries, every state andCanadian province requires thatinfants and children be restrainedwhenever they ride in a vehicle.

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properly


Protecting Children

All Children Must Be Restrained

Any child who is too small to wear aseat belt should be properlyrestrained in a child seat.

A larger child should always berestrained with a seat belt.

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Children who are unrestrainedor improperly restrained can beseriously injured or killed in acrash.

Any child too small for a seatbelt should be properlyrestrained in a child seat. Alarger child should be properlyrestrained with a seat belt.

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Airbags have been designed to helpprotect adults in a moderate tosevere frontal collision. To do this,the passenger’s airbag is quite large,and it inflates with tremendousspeed.

If a larger child must ride inthis car, see page for importantguidelines on how to decide whethera child is large enough and matureenough to ride as a passenger, andhow to properly protect the child.

In addition, your car has a passenger’sairbag which poses serious risks tochildren particularly infants andsmall children.

If the vehicle seat is toofar forward, or the child’s head isthrown forward during a collision, aninflating airbag can strike the childwith enough force to kill or veryseriously injure a small child. If asmall child must ride in this car,follow the instructions on page .

We strongly recommend that you donot carry any child in this car.One reason is that your car does nothave a back seat, and accidentstatistics show that a child of anysize or age is safer when they areproperly restrained in the back seatof a vehicle. As a result, we urge you to follow

these guidelines.

If the airbaginflates, it can hit the back of thechild seat with enough force to kill orvery seriously injure an infant.

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Protecting Children

The Passenger’s Airbag PosesSerious Risks to Children

Your Car is Not Recommendedfor Child Passengers

Small Children

Children who have outgrown childseats are also at risk of being injuredor killed by an inflating passenger’sairbag.

Larger Children

Placing a forward-facing child seat inthe front seat of a car equipped witha passenger’s airbag can behazardous.

Never put a rear-facing child seat inthe front seat of a car equipped witha passenger’s airbag.

Infants

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To remind you of the passenger’sairbag hazards, your car has warninglabels on the dashboard and on thedriver’s and passenger’s visors.Please read and follow theinstructions on these labels.

To remind you of the airbag hazards,your car has warning labels on thedriver’s and passenger’s visors.Please read and follow theinstructions on these labels.


Protecting Children

U.S. Models Canadian Models

21

Leaving a child without adultsupervision is illegal in most statesand Canadian provinces and canbe very hazardous. For example, asmall child left in a car on a hotday can die from heatstroke. Achild left alone with the key in theignition can accidentally set thecar in motion, possibly injuringthemselves or others.

To provide proper protection, a childseat should meet threerequirements:

The child seat shouldmeet Federal Motor VehicleSafety Standard 213 (FMVSS 213)or Canadian Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard 213 (CMVSS 213). Lookfor the manufacturer’s statementof compliance on the box and seat.

Even very youngchildren learn how to unlockvehicle doors, turn on the ignition,and open the trunk, which canlead to accidental injury or death.

As discussed on page , becauseyour car does not have a back seat,and because of the passenger’sairbag hazard, we stronglyrecommend that you do not carry asmall child as a passenger in this car.

However, if you must carry a smallchild in this car, the child must beproperly restrained in a child seat.

The following pages give generalguidelines for selecting and installinga child seat. See page foradditional information.

Children who play in cars canaccidentally get trapped inside thetrunk. Teach your children not toplay in or around cars. Know howto operate the emergency trunkopener (US models only) anddecide if your children should beshown how to use this feature (seepage ).

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Protecting Children


Do not leave a child alone in yourcar.

Selecting a Child Seat

The child seat should meet safetystandards.

Keep car keys out of the reach ofchildren.

Lock both doors and the trunkwhen your car is not in use.

1.

Additional Safety Precaution

General Guidelines for UsingChild Seats

22

A child who can situp without support should berestrained in a forward-facing childseat. See page for additionalinformation on protecting smallchildren.

Due to variations in the design ofchild seats, vehicle seats, and seatbelts, all child seats will not fit allseating positions in all cars.

However, Acura is confident that oneor more child seat models can fit andbe properly installed in this car.

Before purchasing a child seat, werecommend that parents test thechild seat to make sure it fitsproperly in the passenger’s seat. If apreviously purchased child seat doesnot fit, you will need to buy adifferent one that will fit.

26

CONTINUED

The child seat should be of theproper type and size to fit the child.

Small Children:

The child seat should fit thepassenger’s seat.

2. 3.

Protecting Children


This page briefly summarizes Acura’srecommendations on where to placea child seat in your car.

The passenger’s airbag inflateswith enough force to kill orseriously injure an infant in arear-facing child seat.

If a small child must ride in thiscar, follow the instructionsprovided in this section.

A small child in a forward-facingchild seat is also at risk. If thevehicle seat is too far forward,or the child’s head is thrownforward during a collision, aninflating airbag can kill orseriously injure the child.

Never in the passenger’sseat, due to the passenger’s airbaghazard.

Not recommended,due to the passenger’s airbaghazard. If a small child must ridein this car, move the vehicle seatto the rear-most position andsecure a front-facing child seatwith the seat belt. (see page ).27

Placing a Child Seat Passenger’s SeatInfants:

Small children:

Protecting Children


Airbags Pose SeriousRisks to Children

24

After selecting a proper child seat,there are three main steps ininstalling the seat:

All child seatsmust be secured to the car withthe lap part of a lap/shoulder belt.A child whose seat is not properlysecured to the car can beendangered in a crash. See page

for instructions on how tosecure a forward-facing child seatin this car.

After installing a childseat, push and pull the seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure.

To provide security during normaldriving maneuvers as well as duringa collision, we recommend thatparents secure a child seat as firmlyas possible.

Make sure the child is properlystrapped in the child seataccording to the child seat maker’sinstructions. A child who is notproperly secured in a child seatcan be thrown out of the seat in acrash and be seriously injured.

When you are not using a child seat,either remove it and store it in a safeplace, or make sure it is properlysecured. An unsecured child seat canbe thrown around the car during acrash or sudden stop and injuresomeone.

However, a child seat does not needto be ‘‘rock solid.’’ It may be difficultto install a child seat so that it doesnot move at all. Some side-to-side orback-and-forth movement can beexpected and should not reduce thechild seat’s effectiveness.27

Protecting Children


Secure the child seat to the carwith a seat belt.

Installing a Child Seat

Make sure the child seat is firmlysecured.

Secure the child in the child seat.

Storing a Child Seat

1.

2.

3.

25

The passenger’s airbag posesserious risks to small children. If thevehicle seat is too far forward, or thechild’s head is thrown forwardduring a collision, or the child isunrestrained or improperlyrestrained, an inflating airbag can killor seriously injure the child.

For these reasons, we recommendthat you do not carry a small child asa passenger.

Of the different seats available, werecommend those that have a five-point harness system as shown.

If you decide to carry a small child inthis car, follow the instructions andguidelines below.

A child who can sit up withoutsupport, and who fits within the childseat maker’s weight and heightlimits, should be restrained in aforward-facing, upright child seat.

We also recommend that a smallchild stay in the child seat as long aspossible, until the child reaches theweight or height limit for the seat.

Protecting Small Children

Protecting Children


Child Seat Type

26

Improperly placing a forward-facing child seat in the frontseat can result in serious injuryor death if the airbags inflate.

If you must place a forward-facing child seat in front, movethe vehicle seat as far back aspossible and properly restrainthe child.

To activate the lockable retractor,slowly pull the shoulder part of thebelt all the way out until it stops,then let the belt feed back into theretractor (you might hear aclicking noise as the belt retracts).

After the belt has retracted, tug onit. If the belt is locked, you will notbe able to pull it out. If you can pullthe belt out, it is not locked andyou will need to repeat these steps.

The passenger’s seat belt has alocking mechanism that must beactivated to secure a child seat.

The following pages provideinstructions and tips on how tosecure a forward-facing child seatwith this type of seat belt.

Move the vehicle seat to the rear-most position. Moving the seat asfar back as possible reduces thechance of a child being injured orkilled if the passenger’s airbaginflates. (See page forinstructions on how to adjust theseat.)

With the child seat in position,route the belt through the childseat according to the seat maker’sinstructions, then insert the latchplate into the buckle.

1.

2. 3.

4.

71

CONTINUED

Child Seat Installation

Protecting Children


After confirming that the belt islocked, grab the shoulder part ofthe belt near the buckle and pullup to remove any slack from thelap part of the belt. Remember, ifthe lap part of the belt is not tight,the child seat will not be secure. Itmay help to put weight on thechild seat, or push on the back ofthe seat, while pulling up on thebelt.

Push and pull the child seatforward and from side to side toverify that it is secure enough tostay upright during normal drivingmaneuvers. If the child seat is notsecure, unlatch the belt, allow it toretract fully, then repeat thesesteps.

To deactivate the lockingmechanism in order to remove achild restraint system, unlatch thebuckle, unroute the seat belt, and letthe belt fully retract.

If you are not wearing a seatbelt in a crash, you could bethrown forward into thedashboard and crush the child.

During a crash, thebelt could press deep into the childand cause very serious injuries.

If you are wearing a seat belt, thechild can be torn from your armsduring a crash. For example, ifyour car crashes into a parkedvehicle at 30 mph (48 km/h), a30-lb (14 kg) child will become a900-lb (410 kg) force, and you willnot be able to hold on.

5. 6.

Additional Precautions for SmallChildren

Never hold a small child on yourlap.

Never put a seat belt over yourselfand a child.

Protecting Children

Driver and Passenger Safety28

To determine if a lap/shoulder beltproperly fits a child, have the childput on the seat belt. Follow theinstructions on page . Then checkhow the belt fits.

The passenger’s airbag posesserious risks to children, includingthose who have outgrown child seats.If the vehicle seat is too far forward,or the child’s head is thrown forwardduring a collision, or the child isunrestrained or out of position, aninflating airbag can kill or seriouslyinjure the child.

For these reasons, we recommendthat you do not carry a childpassenger.

If a child is too short for the shoulderpart of the belt to properly fit, werecommend that the child use abooster seat until the child is tallenough to use the seat belt without abooster.

With this in mind, following aresome guidelines to help you decidewhen a given child may ride in yourcar.

When a child reaches therecommended weight or height limitfor a forward-facing child seat, thechild should wear a lap/shoulder belt.

The following pages giveinstructions on how to check properseat belt fit, what kind of boosterseat to use if one is needed, andimportant precautions for a childwho must ride in this car.

If the shoulder part of the belt restsover the child’s collarbone andagainst the center of the chest, asshown, the child is large enough towear the seat belt.

15

CONTINUED

Checking Seat Belt Fit

The Child Should Wear a Seat Belt

Protecting Larger Children

Protecting Children


Allowing a larger child to sitimproperly in the front seat canresult in injury or death if theairbags inflate.

If a larger child must sit in front,make sure the child moves theseat as far back as possibleand wears the seat belt properly.

Whichever style you select, followthe booster seat maker’s instructions.

However, if the belt touches orcrosses the child’s neck, the childneeds to use a booster seat.

This could result inserious neck injuries during a crash.

If a child needs a booster seat, werecommend choosing a style thatallows the child to use the lap/shoulder belt directly, without ashield, as shown.

This could causevery serious injuries during a crash.It also increases the chance that thechild will slide under the belt in acrash and be injured.

Devices intended to improveoccupant comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt, severelycompromise the protective capabilityof the seat belt and increase thechance of serious injury in a crash.

If they do, they couldbe very seriously injured in a crash.

Using a Booster Seat

Do not let a child wear a seat beltacross the neck.

Do not let a child put the shoulderpart of a seat belt behind the back orunder the arm.

Do not put any accessories on a seatbelt.

Two children should never use thesame seat belt.

Protecting Children


A child may continue using a boosterseat until the tops of the ears areeven with the top of the seat-back. Achild of this height should be tallenough to use the lap/shoulder beltwithout a booster.

Children vary widely. And while agemay be one indicator of when a childcan safely ride in this car, there areother important factors you shouldconsider.

Physically, a child must be largeenough for the lap/shoulder belt toproperly fit over the hips, chest, andshoulder (see pages and ). Ifthe seat belt does not fit properly,the child should use a booster seat.

To safely ride in this car, a childmust be able to follow the rules,including sitting properly andwearing the seat belt properlythroughout a ride.

2915

CONTINUED

Physical Size

Maturity

When Can a Larger Child Ride in thisCar

Protecting Children


Move the vehicle seat to the rear-most position.

Check that the child’s seat belt isproperly positioned and secured.

Carefully read the owner’s manualand make sure you understand allseat belt instructions and all safetyinformation.

If you decide that a child can safelyride in this car, be sure to:

Have the child sit up straight, backagainst the seat, and feet on ornear the floor.

Supervise the child. Even a maturechild sometimes needs to bereminded to fasten the seat belt orsit properly.

Protecting Children


To attach a tether to your car:

Adjust the passenger’s seat fullyforward to make room behind theseat-back.

Using the measurements shown,poke a marker hole in the liningbehind the seat.

Pass the strap between the top of theseat and the bottom of the headrestraint.

Attach the tether strap hook to thetether anchorage point as shown inthe illustration, then tighten thestrap according to the child seatmaker’s instructions. Make sure thestrap is not twisted.

Use a razor blade or sharp knife tocut a 1-inch (2.5 cm) diametercircle around the marker hole.Remove the upholstery you cut.

Install the tether hardware.Tighten the bolt to :

The hardware is available forpurchase from your Acura dealer(part numbers: 82410-S84-C10 forthe hardware, 82419-S84-C00 for thecover).

The hardware is stored in the glovebox.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Protecting Children


Using Child Seats with Tethers

(U.S. models only)

(Canadian Models)

33

44 iinn ((1100 ccmm))

99..77 iinn((2244..66 ccmm))

11 iinn ((22..55 ccmm))

16 lbf·ft (22 N·m , 2.2 kgf·m)

This seat belt has a single belt thatgoes over your shoulder, across yourchest and across your hips.

Your seat belt system includes lap/shoulder belts in both seatingpositions.The seat belts are also equipped withautomatic seat belt tensioners.

The system also includes alight on the instrument

panel to remind you and yourpassenger to fasten your belts. If thedriver’s seat belt is not fastenedbefore the ignition is turned ON (II),the light will come on and a beeperwill also sound. The beeper will stopafter a few seconds, but the light willstay on until the driver’s seat belt isfastened.

To fasten the belt, insert the latchplate into the buckle, then tug on thebelt to make sure the buckle islatched.

To unlock the belt, push the redPRESS button on the buckle. Guidethe belt across your body to the door

pillar. After exiting the car, be surethe belt is out of the way and will notget closed in the door.

Both seat belts have an emergencylocking retractor. In normal driving,the retractor lets you move freely inyour seat while it keeps sometension on the belt.During a collision or sudden stop,the retractor automatically locks thebelt to help restrain your body.

The passenger’s seat belt has anadditional locking mechanism thatmust be activated to secure a childseat. (See page for instructions onhow to secure a forward-facing childseat with this type of belt.)

If the shoulder part of the belt ispulled all the way out, the lockingmechanism will activate. The beltwill retract, but it will not allow thepassenger to move freely.

27

Seat Belt System Components Lap/Shoulder Belt

Additional Information About Your Seat Belts


To deactivate the lockingmechanism, unlatch the buckle andlet the seat belt fully retract. Torefasten the belt, pull it out only asfar as needed.

See page for instructions on howto wear the lap/shoulder beltproperly.

For safety, you should check thecondition of your seat belts regularly.

Pull each belt out fully and look forfrays, cuts, burns, and wear. Checkthat the latches work smoothly andthat the lap/shoulder belts retracteasily. Any belt not in good conditionor not working properly will notprovide good protection and shouldbe replaced as soon as possible.

Acura provides a lifetime warrantyon seat belts. Acura will repair orreplace any seat belt component thatfails to function properly duringnormal use. Please see your

booklet fordetails.

Your Acura has automatic seat belttensioners for added protectionduring a moderate to severe frontalcollision.

If your airbags inflate, the tensionersimmediately tighten the seat belts tohelp hold the occupants in place. Thebelts will remain tight until youunbuckle them in the normal way.

15

AcuraWarranty Information

CONTINUED

Seat Belt MaintenanceHow the Automatic Seat BeltTensioners Work

U.S. Models



If a seat belt is worn during a crash,it must be replaced by the dealer. Abelt that has been worn during acrash may not provide the same levelof protection in a subsequent crash.The dealer should also inspect theanchors for damage and replacethem if needed.

For information on how to clean yourseat belts, see page .232



Not checking or maintainingseat belts can result in seriousinjury or death if the seat beltsdo not work properly whenneeded.

Check your seat belts regularlyand have any problemcorrected as soon as possible.

Your Supplemental Restraint System(SRS) includes:

Two front airbags. The driver’sairbag is stored in the center ofthe steering wheel; the frontpassenger’s airbag is stored in thedashboard. Both are marked ‘‘SRSAIRBAG.’’

Automatic seat belt tensionersthat tighten the front seat beltsduring a moderate to severefrontal collision. If you ever have a moderate to

severe frontal collision, the sensorswill detect rapid deceleration andsignal the control unit to instantlyinflate the airbags and activate theautomatic seat belt tensioners.

Sensors that can detect amoderate to severe frontalcollision.

A sophisticated electronic systemthat continually monitorsinformation about the sensors, thecontrol unit, and the airbagactivators when the ignition switchis ON (II).

An indicator light on theinstrument panel that alerts you toa possible problem with thesystem (see page ).

Emergency backup power in caseyour car’s electrical system isdisconnected in a crash.

39

CONTINUED

SRS Components How Your Airbags Work


Additional Information About Your SRS

37

After inflating, the airbagsimmediately deflate, so they won’tinterfere with the driver’s visibility,or the ability to steer or operateother controls.

The total time for inflation anddeflation is approximately one-tenthof a second, so fast that mostoccupants are not aware that theairbags deployed until they see themlying in their laps.

After a crash, you may see whatlooks like smoke. This is actuallypowder from the airbag’s surface.Although the powder is not harmful,people with respiratory problemsmay experience some temporarydiscomfort. If this occurs, get out ofthe car as soon as it is safe to do so.

For additional information on howyour airbags work, see the booklettitled

that came with yourowner’s manual.

During a crash, your seat belt helpsrestrain your lower body and torso,while the tensioner tightens andlocks the seat belt to help keep youin place. Your airbag provides acushion to help restrain and protectyour head and chest.

Since both airbags use the samesensors, both airbags normallyinflate at the same time. However, itis possible for only one airbag toinflate.

This can occur when the severity ofa collision is at the margin, orthreshold, that determines whetheror not the airbags will deploy. Insuch cases, the seat belt will providesufficient protection, and thesupplemental protection offered bythe airbag would be minimal.

For additional information on howyour airbags work, ask your dealerfor a copy of the booklet titled

SRS: What You Need to KnowAbout Airbags

SRS:What You Need to Know About Airbags.

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners



38

The purpose of the SRSlight is to alert you to a

potential problem with yourSupplemental Restraint System.

When you turn the ignition ON (II),this indicator will light briefly thengo out. This tells you that the systemis working properly.

If the light comes on at any othertime, or does not come on at all, youshould have the system checked byyour dealer. For example:

If the SRS indicator light does notcome on after you turn the ignitionON (II).

If the light stays on after theengine starts.

If the light comes on or flashes onand off while you drive.

If you see any of these indications,your airbags and seat belt tensionersmay not deploy when you need them.See your Acura dealer as soon aspossible.

How the SRS Indicator LightWorks



39

Ignoring the SRS indicator lightcan result in serious injury ordeath if the airbags do notinflate when needed.

Have your vehicle checked by adealer as soon as possible ifthe SRS light alerts you to apotential problem.

Do not attempt to deactivate yourairbags. Together, airbags andseat belts provide the bestprotection in a moderate to severefrontal collision.

Do not tamper with SRScomponents or wiring for anyreason. Tampering could causethe airbags to deploy, possiblycausing very serious injury.

See page for further informationand precautions relating to your SRS.

Your Supplemental Restraint Systemis virtually maintenance-free, andthere are no parts you can safelyservice. However, you must haveyour car serviced if:

Take your car to anauthorized Acura dealer as soon aspossible. If you ignore thisindication, the airbags might notinflate when you need them.

Theairbags, seat belt tensioners andcontrol unit must be replaced. Donot try to remove or replace theairbags yourself. This must bedone by an Acura dealer or aknowledgeable body shop. 139

Additional Safety PrecautionsSRS Service

The SRS indicator light alerts youto a problem.

Your airbags ever inflate.



40

Your car’s exhaust contains carbonmonoxide gas. You should have noproblem with carbon monoxideentering the car in normal driving ifyou maintain your car properly.Have the exhaust system inspectedfor leaks whenever:

The car is raised for an oil change.You notice a change in the soundof the exhaust.The car was in an accident thatmay have damaged the underside. High levels of carbon monoxide can

collect rapidly in enclosed areas,such as a garage. Do not run theengine with the garage door closed.Even with the door open, run theengine only long enough to move thecar out of the garage.

With the trunk lid open, air flow canpull exhaust gas into your car’sinterior and create a hazardouscondition. If you must drive with thetrunk lid open, open all the windowsand set the heating and coolingsystem/climate control system asshown below.

Push the button.Select the mode.Turn the fan on high speed.Set the temperature control to acomfortable setting.

If you must sit in your parked car,even in an unconfined area, with theengine running, adjust the heatingand cooling system as follows:

1.2.3.4.


Carbon Monoxide Hazard

41

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic.Breathing it can causeunconsciousness and even killyou.

Avoid any enclosed areas oractivities that expose you tocarbon monoxide.

These labels are in the locationsshown. They warn you of potentialhazards that could cause seriousinjury. Read these labels carefully.

If a label comes off or becomes hardto read, contact your Acura dealerfor a replacement.

U.S. models Canadian models

U.S. models only

Safety Labels


RADIATOR

JUMP START

FOLDING SPARE TIRE

SUN VISOR

DASHBOARD

Safety Labels


EXPANSION TANK CAP

This section gives information aboutthe controls and displays thatcontribute to the daily operation ofyour Acura. All the essential controlsare within easy reach.

....................Component Locations . 46...........................Control Locations . 47

...............................Indicator Lights . 48.............................................Gauges . 53

...............................Speedometer . 53.................................Tachometer . 53

....................Oil Pressure Gauge . 53...................Temperature Gauge . 53

.....................................Voltmeter . 54..................................Fuel Gauge . 54

.....................................Odometer . 54...................................Trip Meter . 54

.............Steering Column Controls . 55...................................Headlights . 56

............Daytime Running Lights . 56.............Rear Window Defogger . 57

................................Turn Signals . 58.....................Windshield Wipers . 58

..................Windshield Washers . 59..........................Hazard Warning . 60

..Cruise Control Master Switch . 60......Steering Wheel Adjustment . 60

...............................Keys and Locks . 62..............................................Keys . 62

....................Immobilizer System . 64............................Ignition Switch . 65

......................Power Door Locks . 67...........................................Trunk . 68

........Emergency Trunk Opener . 69....................................Glove Box . 70

............................Seat Adjustments . 71..............................Power Windows . 72

...................Removable Roof Panel . 74................Removing and Storing . 75

......................................Installing . 78..........Roof Unlatched Indicator . 79

................................Maintenance . 80To reduce the possibility of

.........................................leaks . 80.............................................Mirrors . 81

....Adjusting the Power Mirrors . 81....................................Digital Clock . 82

.................................Parking Brake . 83...................Console Compartment . 84

.....................................Coin Holder . 84.............................Beverage Holder . 84............................Cigarette Lighter . 85

.............................................Ashtray . 85.................................Interior Lights . 86

..............................Courtesy Lights . 86

Instruments and Controls

Instruments and Controls 45


Component Locations

46

HHOOOODD

FFRROONNTTCCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT

FFUUEELL FFIILLLL DDOOOORR EENNGGIINNEE CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT TTOOOOLLSS,, JJAACCKK,, AAIIRR PPUUMMPP,,PPRREESSSSUURREE GGAAUUGGEE

TTRRUUNNKK

TTRRUUNNKK LLIIDDEENNGGIINNEE CCOOVVEERRRREEAARR WWIINNDDOOWW

FFOOLLDDIINNGG SSPPAARREE TTIIRREE

Control Locations


HHEEAADDLLIIGGHHTTSSWWIITTCCHH((PP..5566))

HHOOOODD RREELLEEAASSEEHHAANNDDLLEE


PPOOWWEERR WWIINNDDOOWWSSWWIITTCCHHEESS

MMIIRRRROORR CCOONNTTRROOLLSS

TTRRUUNNKK RREELLEEAASSEEBBUUTTTTOONN

FFUUEELL FFIILLLL DDOOOORRRREELLEEAASSEE

SSHHIIFFTT LLOOCCKK RREELLEEAASSEE

((AAuuttoommaattiicc ttrraannssmmiissssiioonn oonnllyy))

AAUUDDIIOO SSYYSSTTEEMM

AAUUTTOOMMAATTIICCCCLLIIMMAATTEECCOONNTTRROOLL

DDIIGGIITTAALL CCLLOOCCKK

HHAAZZAARRDD WWAARRNNIINNGG SSWWIITTCCHH((PP..6600))

WWIINNDDSSHHIIEELLDD WWIIPPEERRCCOONNTTRROOLLSS((PP..5599))

TTUURRNN SSIIGGNNAALL LLEEVVEERR((PP..5588))

((PP..113355))

((PP..113311))((PP..115566))

((PP..6677))

((PP..7722))

((PP..8811))

((PP..6688))((PP..7711))

((PP..9988))

((PP..8888))

((PP..8822))

SSEEAATT AADDJJUUSSTTMMEENNTT SSWWIITTCCHHEESS

＊

＊＊

＊＊

The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differences for the Canadian models are noted in the text.

Indicator Lights

Instruments and Controls48

CCRRUUIISSEE CCOONNTTRROOLL IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

DDOOOORR AANNDD LLAAMMPP MMOONNIITTOORR

EELLEECCTTRRIICC PPOOWWEERR SSTTEEEERRIINNGG IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

IIMMMMOOBBIILLIIZZEERR SSYYSSTTEEMMIINNDDIICCAATTOORR

TTRRAACCTTIIOONN CCOONNTTRROOLL SSYYSSTTEEMM((TTCCSS)) IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

AANNTTII--LLOOCCKK BBRRAAKKEE SSYYSSTTEEMM((AABBSS)) IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

CCHHAARRGGIINNGG SSYYSSTTEEMM IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

MMAALLFFUUNNCCTTIIOONNIINNDDIICCAATTOORR LLAAMMPP

LLOOWW OOIILL PPRREESSSSUURREEIINNDDIICCAATTOORR

SSHHIIFFTT LLEEVVEERR PPOOSSIITTIIOONN IINNDDIICCAATTOORR((AAuuttoommaattiicc ttrraannssmmiissssiioonn oonnllyy))

PPAARRKKIINNGG BBRRAAKKEE AANNDDBBRRAAKKEE SSYYSSTTEEMM IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

HHIIGGHH BBEEAAMM IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

SSUUPPPPLLEEMMEENNTTAALL RREESSTTRRAAIINNTTSSYYSSTTEEMM IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

LLOOWW FFUUEELLIINNDDIICCAATTOORR

SSEEAATT BBEELLTT RREEMMIINNDDEERR LLIIGGHHTT

TTUURRNN SSIIGGNNAALL AANNDD HHAAZZAARRDDWWAARRNNIINNGG IINNDDIICCAATTOORRSS

((PP..5511))

((PP..4499))

((PP..4499))

((PP..4499))

((PP..114499))

((PP..5500)) ((PP..5511))

((PP..5522))

((PP..5522))

((PP..5522))

((PP..5522))

((PP..4499))

((PP..5511))

((PP..5500))

((PP..5522))

((PP..225588))

The engine can be severely damagedif this light flashes or stays on whenthe engine is running. For completeinformation, see page .

If this light comes on when theengine is running, the battery is notbeing charged. For completeinformation, see page .

This indicator flashes for severalseconds when you turn the ignitionON (II). It flashes as a reminder toyou and your passenger to fasten theseat belts. A beeper also sounds ifyou have not fastened your seat belt.

If you do not fasten your seat belt,the beeper will stop after a fewseconds but the light stays on untilyou do. Both the light and the beeperstay off if you fasten your seat beltbefore turning on the ignition.

The instrument panel has manyindicators to give you importantinformation about your car.

256

257

Indicator Lights


Low Oil PressureIndicator

Charging SystemIndicator

Seat Belt Reminder Light

49

This light normally comes on whenyou turn the ignition switch ON (II)and goes off after the engine starts.If it comes on at any other time,there is a problem in the ABS. If thishappens, take the car to your dealerto have it checked. With the light on,your car still has normal brakingability but no anti-lock. For completeinformation, see page .

This indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch ON (II). If itcomes on at any other time, itindicates a problem in thesupplemental restraint system. Forcomplete information, see page .

See page .

This light has two functions:

If the indicator remains lit afteryou have fully released theparking brake while the engine isrunning, or if it comes on whiledriving, it can indicate a problemin the brake system. For completeinformation, see page .

This indicator comes on when youturn the ignition switch ON (II). Itis a reminder to check the parkingbrake. Driving with the parkingbrake not fully released candamage the brakes and tires.

1.

2. 159

260

258

38

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)Indicator

Supplemental RestraintSystem Indicator

Malfunction IndicatorLamp

Parking Brake andBrake System Indicator

Indicator Lights


U.S. Canada U.S. Canada

All the lights in the monitor displaycome on for a few seconds when youturn the ignition switch ON (II). This indicator has three functions:

It comes on as a reminder that youhave turned off the TractionControl System.

It flashes when the TCS isregulating the engine power.

If it comes on and stays on whenthe Traction Control System is on,it indicates that there is a problemin the TCS.

This light also comes on when youturn the ignition ON (II) and goes offafter the engine starts. See page

for more information on theTCS.

This light normally comes on whenyou turn the ignition ON (II) andgoes off after the engine starts. If itcomes on at any other time, there isa problem in the Electric PowerSteering system. If this happens,stop the car in a safe place and turnoff the engine. Reset the system byrestarting the engine, and watch theEPS light. If it does not go off, orcomes back on again while driving,take the car to your dealer to have itchecked. With the light on, the EPSis turned off, making the car harderto steer.

The appropriate light comes on inthis display if the trunk, the roofpanel, the rear window, or eitherdoor is not closed tightly. If a brakelight does not work, the

indicator comes on when youpush the brake pedal with theignition switch ON (II).

A burned out brake light is a hazardwhen drivers behind you cannot tellyou are braking. Have your brakelights repaired right away.

1.

2.

3.

163

Indicator Lights


Door and Lamp Monitor Traction Control System(TCS) Indicator

Electric Power Steering(EPS) Indicator

51

BRAKELAMP

The left or right turn signal lightblinks when you signal a lane changeor turn. If the light does not blink orblinks rapidly, it usually means oneof the turn signal bulbs is burned out(see page ). Replace the bulb assoon as possible, since other driverscannot see that you are signalling.

This light comes on with the highbeam headlights. See page forinformation on the headlightcontrols.

This indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch to ON (II) withthe headlight switch off and theparking brake set. It should go off ifyou turn on the headlights or releasethe parking brake. If it comes on atany other time, it means there is aproblem with the DRL. There mayalso be a problem with the highbeam headlights.

This indicator comes on for a fewseconds when you turn the ignitionswitch ON (II). It will then go off ifyou have inserted a properly-codedignition key. If it is not a properly-coded key, the indicator will blinkand the engine will not start (seepage ).

This light comes on as a reminderthat you must refuel soon.

This lights when you set the cruisecontrol. See page for informationon operating the cruise control.

This indicator also blinks severaltimes when you remove the keyfrom the ignition switch.

When you turn on the HazardWarning switch, both turn signallights blink. All turn signals on theoutside of the car should flash.

56

60220

64

Canadian models only

Indicator Lights


Turn Signal andHazard WarningIndicators

High Beam Indicator

‘‘Daytime RunningLights’’ Indicator

Immobilizer SystemIndicator

Low Fuel Indicator

Cruise Control Indicator

52

×

U.S. Models

Canadian Models

This shows your speed in miles perhour (mph). The smaller innernumbers are the speed in kilometersper hour (km/h).

This shows your speed in kilometersper hour (km/h). The smaller innernumbers are the speed in miles perhour (mph).

The tachometer shows the enginespeed in revolutions per minute(rpm). To protect the engine fromdamage, never drive with thetachometer needle in the red zone.

This shows the temperature of theengine’s coolant. During normaloperation, the pointer should risefrom the bottom white mark to aboutthe middle of the gauge. In severedriving conditions, such as very hotweather or a long period of uphilldriving, the pointer may rise to nearthe upper white mark. If it reachesthe red (Hot) mark, pull safely to theside of the road. Turn to page forinstructions and precautions onchecking the engine’s coolingsystem.

This shows the engine’s oil pressurein hundred kilopascal ( 100 kPa).This pressure varies with enginespeed and temperature. If the oilpressure falls low enough to causeengine damage, the Low OilPressure Indicator comes on (seepage ).

254

256

Gauges


Speedometer Tachometer

Oil Pressure Gauge

Temperature Gauge

53

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OOIILL PPRREESSSSUURREE GGAAUUGGEE

TTAACCHHOOMMEETTEERR

This meter shows you the batteryvoltage when the ignition is ON (II).A prolonged reading of lower than 11volts can indicate a problem with thebattery or charging system. Haveyour car inspected by your Acuradealer.

This shows how much fuel you have.It is most accurate when the car is onlevel ground. It may show slightlymore or less than the actual amountwhen you are driving on curvy orhilly roads.

The gauge stays at the same fuellevel reading after you turn off theignition. When you add fuel, thegauge slowly changes to the newreading after you turn the ignitionswitch back ON (II).

The odometer shows the total dis-tance your car has been driven. Itmeasures miles in U.S. models andkilometers in Canadian models.It is illegal under U.S. federal law andCanadian provincial regulations todisconnect, reset, or alter theodometer with the intent to changethe number of miles or kilometersindicated.

Gauges


Voltmeter Fuel Gauge Odometer

54

FFUUEELL GGAAUUGGEE

TTRRIIPP MMEETTEERR

VVOOLLTTMMEETTEERR

OODDOOMMEETTEERR TTRRIIPP MMEETTEERRRREESSEETT BBUUTTTTOONN

Avoid driving with an extremely lowfuel level. Running out of f uel couldcause the engine to misf ire, damagingthe catalytic converter.

The two pods on the steering columncontain controls for driving featuresyou use most often. The left pod hascontrols for the turn signals,headlights, high beams, and the rearwindow defogger. The right pod hascontrols for the windshield washersand wipers, cruise control andhazard warning lights. Underneaththe instrument panel are theinstrument panel brightness controland the TCS On/Off switch.

The two levers on the underside ofthe steering column allow you to tiltand telescope the steering wheel.

This meter shows the number ofmiles (U.S.) or kilometers (Canada)driven since you last reset it. Toreset it, push the trip meter resetbutton.


Steering Column Controls

Trip Meter

55

HHEEAADDLLIIGGHHTTSS

HHOORRNNBBUUTTTTOONNSSRREEAARR WWIINNDDOOWW

DDEEFFOOGGGGEERR

HHAAZZAARRDDWWAARRNNIINNGG LLIIGGHHTT

IINNSSTTRRUUMMEENNTT PPAANNEELL BBRRIIGGHHTTNNEESSSS

TTUURRNN SSIIGGNNAALLSS


TTIILLTT AADDJJUUSSTTMMEENNTT

((PP..5577))

((PP..5577))TTEELLEESSCCOOPPEEAADDJJUUSSTTMMEENNTT

WWIINNDDSSHHIIEELLDD WWIIPPEERRSS//WWAASSHHEERRSS

CCRRUUIISSEE CCOONNTTRROOLLMMAASSTTEERR SSWWIITTCCHH

((PP..5566))

((PP..5588)) ((PP..6611)) ((PP..6611))

((PP..5599))

((PP..6600))

((PP..6600))

((PP..116633))

●

If you leave the lights on with theignition switch in ACCESSORY (I)or LOCK (0), you will hear areminder chime when you open thedriver’s door.

To change between low beams andhigh beams, pull the turn signal leveras far as it will move towards you,then let go. The blue high beamindicator will light (see page ).

To flash the high beams, pull theturn signal lever back lightly, thenrelease it. The high beams will comeon and go off.

The high beams will stay on for aslong as you hold the lever back, nomatter what position the headlightswitch is in.

Your car has Daytime RunningLights (DRL) in addition to theheadlights. With the ignition ON (II)and the light switch OFF or at ‘‘ ’’,DRL turns on when you release theparking brake. DRL turns off whenyou turn the ignition off or theheadlights on.

The rotating switch on the left podcontrols the lights. Turning thisswitch to ‘‘ ’’ turns on the parkinglights, taillights, instrument panellights, side-marker lights, and rearlicense plate lights. Turning theswitch to ‘‘ ’’ turns on theheadlights.

52

Headlights

Daytime Running Lights(Canadian Models)



CONTINUED

The knob on the dashboard behindthe left pod controls the brightnessof the instrument panel lights. Pushthe knob to get it to pop out. Turnthe knob to adjust the brightness,then push it back in so you cannotaccidentally bump it.

The rear window defogger will clearfog, frost, and thin ice from thewindow. Push the defogger button toturn it on and off. The light on thefront of the pod lights to show thedefogger is on. If you do not turn itoff, the defogger will shut itself offafter about 25 minutes. It also shutsoff when you turn off the ignition.You have to turn it on again whenyou restart the car.

Make sure the rear window is clearand you have good visibility beforestarting to drive.

The defogger and antenna wires onthe inside of the rear window can beaccidentally damaged. Whencleaning the glass, always wipe sideto side.



Instrument Panel Brightness Rear Window Defogger

57

IINNSSTTRRUUMMEENNTT PPAANNEELLBBRRIIGGHHTTNNEESSSS KKNNOOBB

Signal a turn or lane change with thislever. Push down on the lever tosignal a left turn, and up to signal aright turn. If you push it up or downall the way, the turn signal continuesto blink even when you release thelever. It shuts off automatically asyou complete the turn.

To signal a lane change, push lightlyon the turn signal lever in the properdirection and hold it. The lever willreturn to the center position as soonas you release it.

The lever on the right pod controlsthe windshield wipers and washers.The rotary switch at the end of thelever has three positions:

INT: intermittentLO: low speedHI: high speed



Turn Signals Windshield Wipers

58

TTUURRNN SSIIGGNNAALLLLEEVVEERR

In intermittent, the wipers operateevery few seconds. You can varyhow often the wipers sweep thewindshield by turning the INT TIMEring next to the rotary switch. In lowspeed and high speed, the wipers runcontinuously.

To operate the wipers in mist mode,push the control lever down. Thewipers run at high speed until yourelease the lever. This gives you aquick way to clear the windshield.

To clean the windshield, pull back onthe wiper control lever. The washersspray until you release the lever.The wipers run at low speed whileyou’re pulling the lever, thencomplete one more sweep of thewindshield after you release it.



Windshield Washers

59

Push the large red button on theright pod to turn on the hazard warn-ing lights (four-way flashers). Thiscauses all four outside turn signalsand both indicators in the instrumentpanel to flash. Use the hazardwarning lights if you need to park ina dangerous area near heavy traffic,or if your car is disabled.

The cruise control master switch ison the right pod. For information onusing the cruise control, see page .

After you have adjusted the steeringwheel, make sure you have securelylocked it in place by moving it in andout and up and down.

Make any steering wheel adjustmentbefore you start driving.

125

See page for important safetyinformation about how to properlyposition the steering wheel.

16



Hazard Warning Cruise Control Master Switch Steering Wheel Adjustment

60

To adjust the steering wheel:The lever to telescope the steeringwheel is under the steeringcolumn to the left. Push this leverall the way down.

Move the steering wheel in or outto the distance you want. Push thelever up firmly to lock the steeringwheel in that position.

Move the steering wheel up ordown to the desired position.Position the wheel so you can seethe instrument panel gauges andwarning lights. Release the lever.

Make sure you have securelylocked the steering wheel in placeby trying to move it up, down, inand out.

The lever to tilt the steering wheelis under the steering column in the

middle. Pull this lever toward youand hold it.

3.

4.

1.

2.

5.



TTIILLTTAADDJJUUSSTTMMEENNTT

TTEELLEESSCCOOPPEEAADDJJUUSSTTMMEENNTT

Adjusting the steering wheelposition while driving maycause you to lose control of thecar and be seriously injured in acrash.

Adjust the steering wheel onlywhen the car is stopped.

The valet key only works the ignitionand the door locks. You can keep thetrunk and glove box locked whenyou leave your car and valet key at aparking facility. (See Trunk, page .)

You should have received a keynumber plate with your set of keys.You will need this number if youever have to get a lost key replaced.Keep the plate stored in a safe place.When replacing keys, use only

Acura-approved key blanks.

These keys contain electroniccircuits that are activated by theImmobilizer System. They will notwork to start the engine if thecircuits are damaged.

Protect the keys from directsunlight, high temperature, andhigh humidity.

Do not drop the keys or set heavyobjects on them.

Keep the keys away from liquids.If they get wet, dry them immedi-ately with a soft cloth.

The keys do not contain batteries.Do not try to take them apart.

The master key fits all the locks onyour car:• Ignition• Doors• Trunk• Glove box

Your car comes with two masterkeys and a valet key.

68

Keys

Keys and Locks


KKEEYYNNUUMMBBEERRPPLLAATTEE

VVAALLEETTKKEEYY((GGrraayy))

MMAASSTTEERRKKEEYYSS((BBllaacckk))

You should also receive a small casecontaining a learning key. It is usedby the Acura dealer to code replace-ment keys to your car’s ImmobilizerSystem. It must not be used in yourcar’s ignition switch. Store the learn-ing key with the key number plate ina safe place.

If you attempt to use the learningkey to start your car’s engine, it maycause a malfunction in the systemthat makes your master and valetkeys unusable. If this happens, youshould contact your Acura dealer.

If you need a new key made, take thekey number plate, the learning key,and all other keys that came withyour car to your Acura dealer.

CONTINUED

Learning Key

Keys and Locks


The system may not recognize yourkey’s coding if another immobilizerkey or other metal object is near theignition switch when you insert thekey. To make sure the systemrecognizes the key code:

If the system repeatedly does notrecognize the coding of your key,contact your Acura dealer.Do not attempt to alter this systemor add other devices to it. Electricalproblems could result that may makeyour car undriveable.If you have lost your key and youcannot start the engine, contact yourAcura dealer.

Do not keep other immobilizerkeys on the same key ring.

Use a plastic or leather key fob,not metal.

Keep other keys away from yourvehicle’s key and the ignitionswitch while trying to start theengine.

The Immobilizer System protectsyour car from theft. A properly-coded ignition key must be used inthe ignition switch for the engine tostart. If an improperly-coded key (orother device) is used, the engine’sfuel system is disabled.

When you turn the ignition switch toON (II), the Immobilizer Systemindicator should come on for a fewseconds, then go out. If the indicatorstarts to blink, it means the systemdoes not recognize the coding of thekey. Turn the ignition switch toLOCK (0), remove the key, reinsertit, and turn the switch to ON (II)again.

Keys and Locks


Immobilizer System

64

The ignition switch is on the rightside of the steering column. It hasfour positions:• LOCK (0)• ACCESSORY (I)• ON (II)• START (III)

CONTINUED

As required by the FCC:This device complies with Part 15 of theFCC rules. Operation is subject to thefollowing two conditions: (1) This devicemay not cause harmful interference, and(2) this device must accept anyinterference received, includinginterference that may cause undesiredoperation.

Changes or modifications not expresslyapproved by the party responsible forcompliance could void the user’sauthority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with IndustryCanada Standard RSS-210.Operation is subject to the following twoconditions:(1) this device may not causeinterference, and(2) this device must accept anyinterference that may cause undesiredoperation of the device.

Keys and Locks


Ignition Switch

65

－－

－

－

If the front wheels are turned, theanti-theft lock may sometimes makeit difficult to turn the key fromLOCK to ACCESSORY. Firmly turnthe steering wheel to the left or tothe right as you turn the key.

You can insert orremove the key only in this position.To switch from ACCESSORY toLOCK, you must push the key inslightly as you turn it. If your car hasan automatic transmission, the shiftlever must also be in Park. The anti-theft lock will lock the steeringcolumn when you remove the key.

Use this positiononly to start the engine. The switchreturns to ON (II) when you let go ofthe key.

The engine will not start if theImmobilizer System does notrecognize the key’s coding (see page

).

You will hear a reminder beeper ifyou leave the key LOCK (0) orACCESSORY (I) position and openthe driver’s door. Remove the key toturn off the beeper.

In this position,you can operate the audio systemand the cigarette lighter.

This is the normal keyposition when driving. All featuresand accessories on the car are usable.Several of the lights on the instru-ment panel come on as a test whenyou turn the ignition switch fromACCESSORY to ON.

64

Keys and Locks


LOCK (0) START (III)

ACCESSORY (I)

ON (II)

66

Removing the key from theignition switch while drivinglocks the steering. This cancause you to lose control.

Remove the key from theignition switch only whenparked.

CONTINUED

Each door has a door lock switch.Either switch locks and unlocks bothdoors. Push LOCK to lock bothdoors, and the top portion of theswitch to unlock them.

Each door also has a lock tab on thetop. When you push down the locktab on the driver’s door, both doorslock. Pulling up the lock tab on thedriver’s door only unlocks that door.The lock tab on the passenger’s dooronly locks and unlocks that door. Toget out of the car, pull each lock tabup or use the door lock switch beforeyou open either door.

Both doors will lock when you usethe key to lock either door from theoutside. Unlocking the driver’s doorwith the key unlocks only that door.Unlocking the passenger’s door withthe key unlocks both doors.

To lock the door without the key,push the lock tab down and close thedoor.

Keys and Locks


Power Door Locks

67


LLOOCCKK TTAABB

You can open the trunk in two ways:

Press the trunk release button onthe driver’s door.

Use the master key to open thetrunk lock. The valet key does notwork in this lock.

To close the trunk, press down onthe trunk lid. Do not press down onthe rear spoiler as you may damageit.

See page for loading cargo andweight limit information. Keep thetrunk lid closed at all times whiledriving to avoid damaging it.

If you forget and leave the key in theignition switch, Lockout Preventionwill not allow you to lock the driver’sdoor. With the driver’s door openand the key in the ignition, both doorlock switches are disabled.

If you try to lock an open driver’sdoor by pushing the lock tab down,the tabs on both doors pop up.Pushing the lock tab down on thepassenger’s door only locks that door.

141

Trunk

Keys and Locks


Lockout Prevention

68

PPuusshh

TTRRUUNNKK RREELLEEAASSEE BBUUTTTTOONN MMAASSTTEERR KKEEYY

To protect items in the trunk whenyou need to give the key to someoneelse:

Give the person the valet key.

Lock the glove box with themaster key.

Disable the trunk release buttonby turning off the trunk mainswitch in the glove box.

Parents should decide if theirchildren should be shown how to usethis feature.

For more information about childsafety, see page .

As a safety feature, your car has arelease lever on the trunk latch sothe trunk can be opened from theinside.

To open the trunk, push up therelease lever.

1.

2.

3.

22

Keys and Locks


Emergency Trunk Opener(U.S. models only)

69

TTRRUUNNKK MMAAIINN SSWWIITTCCHH

Open the glove box by squeezing thehandle. Close it with a firm push.Lock or unlock the glove box withthe master key.

The glove box light comes on onlywhen the instrument panel lights areon.

Keys and Locks


Glove Box

70

GGLLOOVVEE BBOOXX An open glove box can causeserious injury to your passengerin a crash, even if thepassenger is wearing the seatbelt.

Always keep the glove boxclosed while driving.

－

You can adjust the power seats withthe ignition switch in any position.

Adjust the seat-back angle bypushing the rear switch in thedirection you want to move.

Adjust the seat before you startdriving.

Push the front switch forward orbackward to adjust the distance tothe steering wheel and pedals.

The power seats in your car areadjusted with the two switches onthe outside of the seat bottom.

See pages for important safetyinformation and warnings about how toproperly position seats and seat-backs.

12 13

Seat Adjustments


Each window has its own controlswitch. To open the window, pushthe switch down and hold it. Releasethe switch when you want thewindow to stop. Close the window bypushing the switch up and holding it.

The driver’s armrest has a masterpower window control panel. Toopen the passenger’s window, pushdown on the switch and hold it downuntil the window reaches the desiredposition. To close the window, pushup on the window switch. Releasethe switch when the window gets tothe position you want.

Your car’s windows are electrically-powered. Turn the ignition switch toON (II) to raise or lower eitherwindow.


Power Windows

72

DDRRIIVVEERR’’SS WWIINNDDOOWW SSWWIITTCCHH

MMAAIINNSSWWIITTCCHH

PPAASSSSEENNGGEERR’’SS WWIINNDDOOWW SSWWIITTCCHHClosing a power window onsomeone’s hands or fingers cancause serious injury.

Make sure your passenger isaway from the window beforeclosing it.

－

The master control panel also con-tains these extra features:

To open the driver’swindow fully, push the windowswitch firmly down and release it.The window automatically goes allthe way down. To stop the windowfrom going all the way down, pushthe window switch up briefly.

The MAIN switch controls power tothe passenger’s window. With thisswitch off, the passenger’s windowcannot be raised or lowered. TheMAIN switch does not affect thedriver’s window. Keep the MAINswitch off when you have a child inthe car so the child does not getinjured by operating the windowunintentionally.

To open the driver’s window onlypartially, push the window switchdown lightly and hold it. The windowwill stop as soon as you release theswitch.

The AUTO function only works tolower the driver’s window. To raisethe window, you must push thewindow switch up and hold it untilthe window reaches the desiredposition.

The power window system has a key-off delay function. The windows willstill operate for up to ten minutesafter you turn off the ignition.Opening either door cancels thedelay function. You must turn theignition switch ON (II) again beforeyou can raise or lower the windows.

AUTO

Power Windows


Your Acura’s roof panel has a singlerelease handle on each side, makingit easy to remove and install. Whennot in use, the roof panel can bestored in a special holder under therear window.

Always clean and dry the roof panelbefore you remove it so dirt andwater do not fall in the interior andengine compartment.

Do not put any items other than theroof panel in the roof holder or youcan damage the roof holder.

One person should be able to removeand install the roof panel. Althoughthe panel is not heavy, you may findit awkward to handle because of itssize. If so, get someone to assist youso you do not damage the panel.

Removable Roof Panel


Open both windows.

Turn off the engine and set theparking brake.

Release each side of the roof bypushing the lock tab sideways andpulling down the release lever.

Open the door. Locate the rearwindow release handle on the rearof the driver’s door opening, nextto the seat. Pivot this handletowards the driver’s seat. The rearwindow will pop up slightly.

Stand just behind the driver’s door.Reach under the rear edge of thewindow and raise it. It will stay upby itself.

1.

2.

3.

4. 5.

CONTINUED

Removing and Storing



Pull up the roof cover release leverand raise the roof cover.

Put the hook around the edge ofthe roof cover to hold it up.

Unsnap the hook end of the strapfrom the rear window frame.

6. 7. 8.



76

Lift the roof straight up off the car.Since the roof must go in theholder backwards, it isrecommended that you carry itaround to the opposite side of thecar.

Place the roof in the holder withthe rear facing forward. Makesure the pins at both front cornersof the holder are in the holes inthe roof panel.

Lower the roof cover and push itdown until it latches. Snap thehook on the window frame.

Pull the rear window down until itis resting on the body, then pushon the center of the back edgeuntil it latches. Make sure it issecurely closed before drivingaway.

To prevent anyone from getting tothe roof panel and the engine whenyou park the car with the roofremoved, lock the rear windowrelease lever with the master key.

9.

10.

11.

12.

CONTINUED



If the wind noise is unpleasant whileyou are driving with the roof panelremoved, you can reduce the noiseby inserting a plug in the holelocated at each side of the rear roofpillar. These plugs are stored in theglove box.

Do not use any plugs other than theones that came with your car. Otherobjects may damage the mechanismin the roof pillar, causing the roof

panel mechanism to jam or to notlatch the roof properly.

Because it is stored above the enginecompartment, the roof panel can gethot while driving. Allow it to cooldown for several minutes beforeattempting to remove it from theroof holder.

Open both windows.

Open the roof cover by pulling upthe release lever. Unsnap the hookfrom the window frame and use itto hold up the roof cover.

Open the rear window (see page).

Remove the plugs from the rearpillars.

Turn off the engine and set theparking brake.

Remove the roof from the holderby pulling it up slightly, then back.

Make sure the roof panel releaselevers are in the unlocked (down)position.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

75

Installing



Set the roof in place on the car.Make sure all four corners aresitting flush with the car body.

Secure the roof by turning eachrelease lever until the lock tabclicks forward. Pull on the leversto make sure they are locked. Ifthe release levers are lockedcorrectly, the roof unlatchedindicator will not light when youturn the ignition ON (II).

Close the roof cover and snap thehook onto the window frame.Close the rear window.

This indicator lights when the roof isinstalled if either release lever is notfully locked. Check both releaselevers to make sure they are locked.This indicator also lights when theroof is removed but is not properlystored in the holder.

8. 9.

10.

Roof Unlatched Indicator



RROOOOFF UUNNLLAATTCCHHEEDD IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

Dust is the main cause of creaks orother sounds coming from the roof.Regularly clean the roof panel andbody seals with glass cleaner and asoft cloth.

Every three to six months,depending on how often the roof isremoved, rub a thin film of Shin-EtsuSilicone grease (available from yourAcura dealer, P/N 08798-9013) ontothe seals wherever they touch theroof panel or each other.

Use the door pull to open andclose the door. Do not push or pullon the door glass.

The roof panel seals are designedto promote the flow of water offthe roof. Spraying high pressurewater directly on the seals candistort them, causing a leak. Useonly a low pressure water streamwhen using a hose, and avoid carwashes that use only highpressure water spray for cleaning.

Avoid getting water in the roofholder. This can damage theswitch that senses the roof isstored, causing the instrumentpanel light to stay on.

Do not lean or sit on an open door.

Maintenance

To reduce the possibility of leaks:



When the seals are new, the glasswill seal more tightly if you openthe door slightly before closingthe window.

Never store any items other thanthe roof panel in the holder.Because it is above the engine, theholder can get very warm.

Keep the inside and outside mirrorsclean and adjusted for best visibility.Be sure to adjust the mirrors beforeyou start driving.

The inside mirror has day and nightpositions. The night position reducesglare from headlights behind you.Flip the tab on the bottom edge ofthe mirror to select the day or nightposition.

Adjust the outside mirrors with theadjustment switch on the driver’sdoor armrest:

Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

Move the selector switch to L(driver’s side) or R (passenger’sside).

1.

2.

CONTINUED

Mirrors Adjusting the Power Mirrors

Removable Roof Panel, Mirrors


TTAABBAADDJJUUSSTTMMEENNTT SSWWIITTCCHH

SSEELLEECCTTOORR SSWWIITTCCHH

Push the appropriate edge of theadjustment switch to move themirror right, left, up, or down.

When you finish, move theselector switch to the center (off)position. This turns off theadjustment switch so you can’tmove a mirror out of position byaccidentally bumping the switch.

The digital clock displays the timewith the ignition switch ON (II). Tosee the time with the ignition off,press and hold the DISPLAY button.

Press and hold the HOUR buttonuntil the hour advances to thedesired hour.

Raise the lid to the left of the clockdisplay. You will see HOUR, MIN.,and RESET buttons.

Turn the ignition switch ON (II) todisplay the time.

To set the clock:3.

4.

3.

1.

2.

Digital Clock

Mirrors, Digital Clock


HHOOUURR MMIINN.. RREESSEETT

Press and hold the MIN. buttonuntil the numbers advance to thedesired time.

You can use the RESET button toquickly set the time to the nearesthour. If the displayed time is beforethe half hour, pressing the RESETbutton sets the clock back to theprevious hour. If the displayed timeis after the half hour, pressing theRESET button sets the clock for-ward to the beginning of the nexthour.For example:

1:06 would RESET to 1:00.1:52 would RESET to 2:00.

To apply the parking brake, pull thelever up fully. To release it, pull upslightly, push the button, and lowerthe lever. The parking brake light onthe instrument panel should go outwhen the parking brake is fullyreleased (see page ). If you try todrive the vehicle without releasingthe parking brake, the ABS indicatormay come on, and the ABS may notwork properly.

4.

49

Parking Brake

Digital Clock, Parking Brake


Driving the car with the parking brakeapplied can damage the rear brakesand axles.

The coin holder is located in thefront half of the consolecompartment lid. Open the coinholder by lifting up on the middle ofthe armrest pad.

To open the console compartment,lift the tab on the left edge.

The beverage holder is located in therear half of the console compartmentlid. To use the beverage holder, liftup on the middle of the armrest pad.

To remove the beverage holder forcleaning, lift up on the front edge ofthe holder’s front ring. To reinstall it,align the rear tab in the slot and pushdown on the front of the holder.

Coin HolderConsole Compartment Beverage Holder


Console Compartment, Coin Holder, Beverage Holder

84

CCOONNSSOOLLEE CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT

Be careful when you are using thebeverage holder. A spilled liquid thatis very hot can scald you or yourpassenger. Spilled liquids can alsodamage the upholstery, carpeting,and electrical components in theinterior.

The ignition switch must be inACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) for thecigarette lighter to work. To heat upthe lighter, push it in. It will pop outwhen it is ready for use. Do not holdthe lighter in while it is heating up,you could cause it to overheat.

Open the ashtray by lifting the lid up.To close the ashtray, push the liddown. To remove it for emptying, liftthe lid up to the open position, andpush it up further. The ashtray willpop out slightly so you can grasp itand pull it all the way out. Afteremptying, push it all the way back in.


Cigarette Lighter Ashtray

Cigarette Lighter, Ashtray

85

CCIIGGAARREETTTTEE LLIIGGHHTTEERR AASSHHTTRRAAYY

AASSHHTTRRAAYY

This light stays on for a few secondsafter you close the door.

Each door has a light near the backedge. This light comes on wheneverthe door is open.

The interior light is located in thecenter of the headliner.

The interior light has a three-position switch. In the OFF position,the light does not come on. In thecenter position, the interior lightcomes on when you open either door.In the ON position, the interior lightstays on continuously.

When you open the driver’s door, thelight for the driver’s footwell turnson to assist you.


Interior Lights Courtesy Lights

Interior Lights, Courtesy Lights

86

FFOOOOTTWWEELLLL LLIIGGHHTTDDOOOORR LLIIGGHHTTUse the ashtray only f or cigarettes,cigars, and other smoking materials.To prevent a possible f ire and damageto your car, don’t put paper or otherthings that can burn in the ashtray.

.................Climate Control System . 88.........Fully-automatic Operation . 89.........Semi-automatic Operation . 91.........Air Conditioning Switch . 91

...........................Mode Button . 92...Recirculated and Fresh Air . 96

................................Fan Speed . 96.................Temperature Sensors . 97

..................................Audio System . 98...................Operating the Radio . 99

............Finding a Radio Station . 100.................Adjusting the Sound . 103

....................Radio Frequencies . 104Operating the Cassette

.....................................Player . 106......Cassette Search Functions . 109

Caring for the Cassette.....................................Player . 114

.....Operating the CD Changer . 116................CD Error Indications . 123

............................Security System . 124...............................Cruise Control . 125

Comfort and Convenience Features

Comfort and Convenience Features 87

The automatic climate controlsystem in your Acura picks theproper combination of air condi-tioning, heating, and ventilation tomaintain the interior temperatureyou select. The system also adjuststhe fan speed and air flow levels.

The direction of air flow from thevents in the center of the dashboardand in each armrest is adjustable.Move the tab in the center of eachvent up-and-down and side-to-side.

The vents on top of each door and ineach armrest can be opened andclosed with the dial next to them.


Climate Control System

88

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The climate control system draws airthrough the exterior vents at thebottom of the windshield. Keepthese vents clear of leaves and otherdebris.

For the climate control system toprovide heating and cooling, theengine must be running.

To put the Automatic ClimateControl in fully-automatic mode,press the AUTO button, set thedesired temperature by turning thetemperature control dial and turn thefan speed dial to AUTO. You will seeFULL AUTO in the system’s display.The light in either the or

button also goes on to showyou which is selected.

CONTINUED

Fully-automatic Operation



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In cold weather, the fan will notcome on automatically until thevehicle has been driven for a shorttime and the heater starts to developwarm air.

When you set the temperature to itslower limit (60°F/18°C) or its upperlimit (90°F/32°C), the system runsat full cooling or heating only. It doesnot regulate the interior temperature.When the temperature is setbetween the lower and upper limits,the system regulates the interiortemperature to the set value.

Pressing the OFF button shuts theclimate control system completelyoff. Keep the system completely offonly for short periods. To keep staleair and mustiness from collecting,you should have the fan running atall times.



90

TTEEMMPPEERRAATTUURREECCOONNTTRROOLL DDIIAALL

OOFFFF BBUUTTTTOONN TToottuurrnn ssyysstteemm ooffff

CONTINUED

You can manually select variousfunctions of the Climate Controlsystem when it is in FULL AUTO.All other features remain auto-matically controlled. Making anymanual selection causes the wordFULL to go out.

Pressing the A/C switch turns theair conditioning on and off. You willsee ON or OFF in the display. Whenyou turn the A/C off, the systemcannot regulate the inside tempe-rature if you set the dial below theoutside air temperature. With theA/C on, use the temperature controldial to adjust the temperature of theair flow to a comfortable setting.



Semi-automatic Operation

Air Conditioning Switch

91

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The main air flow comes outof the dashboard and door vents.Close the door vents when using theair conditioning or the windows mayfog up.

Use the MODE button to select thevents the air flows from. Some airwill flow from the dashboard cornervents in all modes. Each time youpress the MODE button, the displayshows the mode selected. Press thebutton four times to see all themodes.



Mode Button

92

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CONTINUED

The main air flow comesfrom the floor vents.

The main air flow is dividedbetween the dashboard/door ventsand the floor vents.



93

The main air flow is dividedbetween the floor vents andwindshield defroster vents.


Comfort and Convenience Features94

～～

CONTINUED

The button directs the mainair flow to the windshield for fasterdefrosting. It also overrides anyMODE selection you may have made.To defrost more quickly, turn thetemperature control to 82°F 86°F(28°C 30°C).Press and turn the fan speeddial to high. Warmed air will thenflow from the windshield and sidedefroster vents. To turn off defrost,press the AUTO or DEFROSTbutton.

If there is frost on the windows, firstselect . If the windows arefogged, select .



The and buttonsselect the source of air going into theclimate control system.

draws fresh air from outside.draws air into the system

from the car’s interior and recircu-lates it. You can, for example,manually put the system in recircu-lation mode when driving through anarea of smoke or fumes. When youpress the or button,the light in that button comes on.

You can manually select the fanspeed by turning the dial. You mustturn the fan speed dial back toAUTO to go to fully-automaticclimate control.



Recirculated and Fresh Air

Fan Speed

96

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FFAANN SSPPEEEEDD DDIIAALL

The climate control system hastemperature sensors located on thedashboard and in the center console.Do not cover these sensors or spillany liquid on them.



Temperature Sensors

97

TTEEMMPPEERRAATTUURREE SSEENNSSOORR

TTEEMMPPEERRAATTUURREE SSEENNSSOORR

＊

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Dolby noise reduction manufactured underlicense from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpo-ration. ‘‘DOLBY’’ and the double-D symbol

are trademarks of Dolby LaboratoriesLicensing Corporation.

The sound system in your NSX candeliver excellent reception on boththe AM and FM bands.

A trunk-mounted CD changer isavailable as an option. See page

for CD changer operation.

The cassette system uses Dolbynoise reduction to give excellentsound reproduction on tapes thatwere recorded using that feature.The system can also sense when ametal or chromium-dioxide (CrO )tape is being played, and adjustsaccordingly.

116

2


Audio System

98

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The ignition switch must be inACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) tooperate the audio system. Turn thesystem on by pressing the ON/OFFbutton. The radio comes on anddisplays the frequency of the stationit was last tuned to.

Select the AM or FM band bypushing the AM/FM button. Theselected band is shown next to thefrequency display.

Adjust the volume with the VOL dial(outside ring of the left knob).

The power antenna will also extend.


Audio System

Operating the Radio

99

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To tune to a station, turn the TUNEdial (outside ring of the right knob).Turn it clockwise to tune to a higherfrequency, and counterclockwise totune to a lower frequency.The STEREO indicator next to thefrequency display lights if the stationis broadcasting in FM stereo. TheSTEREO indicator will flash if youare driving in an area where theradio signal is weak. This systemcannot receive AM broadcasts instereo.


Audio System

Finding a Radio Station

100

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－

CONTINUED

The easiest way to find your favoritestations is to set their frequenciesinto the eight preset buttons. To dothis, tune to the desired station asdescribed previously. Press one ofthe preset buttons (1 8) and hold ituntil you hear a beep. You can preseteight stations on each band.

When you press the SEEK bar, theradio scans the selected band andstops on the next station with astrong signal. Press the left side ofthe SEEK bar to scan lower frequen-cies, and the right side of the bar toscan higher frequencies. This helpsyou locate stations when drivingoutside your normal reception area.


Audio System

101

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A. SELECT does not erase thestations you have manually preset.When you return to your normalreception area, turn off A. SELECTby pressing the button again. Thelight in the button goes out and thepreset buttons can then select thestations you originally set.

You cannot manually change anypresets with A. SELECT on. If youdo not like the stations found byA. SELECT, you can still use theTUNE or SEEK function to findother stations.

The A. SELECT function allows youto find stations easily when you arein an unfamiliar area. Press theA. SELECT button. The systemautomatically scans both the AM andFM bands, memorizes the eightstrongest stations on each band, andstores them in the eight presetbuttons. You can then use thebuttons to tune to those stations.The light in the A. SELECT buttonstays on as a reminder.


Audio System

102

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Use the TREB and BASS knobs toadjust the tone quality to your liking.Push on the TREB knob to get bothto pop out. The outside ring changesthe bass level, and the inner knobchanges the treble level.When you have finished the adjust-ments, push the knobs back in sothere is less chance of accidentallychanging your settings.

The BAL control adjusts the soundbalance between the speakers. Pushon the knob so it pops out. Adjust theside-to-side balance as desired, thenpush the knob back in.

When the headlights are on, theradio panel illumination is on, even ifthe radio is turned off. The panellighting can be turned off by firstpushing the BAL control knob so itpops out, then pulling it out slightlyfarther.

Audio System


Adjusting the Sound

103

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You can use the instrument panelbrightness control dial to adjust the il-lumination of the audio system (seepage ). The audio systemilluminates when the parking lightsare on, even if the radio is turned off.

Your Acura’s radio can receive thecomplete AM and FM bands.Those bands cover these frequen-cies:

AM band:530 to 1,710 kilohertzFM band:87.7 to 107.9 megahertz

Radio stations on the AM band areassigned frequencies at least tenkilohertz apart (530, 540, 550).Stations on the FM band areassigned frequencies at least 0.2megahertz apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3).

Stations must use these exactfrequencies. It is fairly common forstations to round-off the frequency intheir advertising, so your radio coulddisplay a frequency of 100.9 eventhough the announcer may identifythe station as ‘‘FM101.’’

How well your Acura’s radio receivesstations is dependent on manyfactors, such as the distance fromthe station’s transmitter, nearbylarge objects, and atmosphericconditions.

A radio station’s signal gets weakeras you get farther away from itstransmitter. If you are listening to anAM station, you will notice the soundvolume becoming weaker, and thestation drifting in and out. If you arelistening to an FM station, you willsee the stereo indicator flickering offand on as the signal weakens.Eventually, the stereo indicator will

go off and the sound will fadecompletely as you get out of range ofthe station’s signal.

Driving very near the transmitter ofa station that is broadcasting on afrequency close to the frequency ofthe station you are listening to canalso affect your radio’s reception.You may temporarily hear bothstations, or hear only the station youare close to.

57

Audio System


Audio System Lighting

Radio Frequencies Radio Reception

104

Radio signals, especially on the FMband, are deflected by large objectssuch as buildings and hills. Yourradio then receives both the directsignal from the station’s transmitter,and the deflected signal. This causesthe sound to distort or flutter. This isa main cause of poor radio receptionin city driving.

Radio reception can be affected byatmospheric conditions such asthunderstorms, high humidity, andeven sunspots. You may be able toreceive a distant radio station oneday and not receive it the next daybecause of a change in conditions.

Electrical interference from passingvehicles and stationary sources cancause temporary reception problems.

As required by the FCC:Changes or modifications not expresslyapproved by the party responsible forcompliance could void the user’sauthority to operate the equipment.

Audio System


▲ ▼

▲

Make sure the radio is ON. Insertthe cassette with the tape opening tothe right. Push the cassette most ofthe way into the slot. It will be pulledin the rest of the way and begin toplay. The display will change fromthe radio frequency to the wordTAPE.

The or will light to show youwhich side of the cassette is playing.The indicates the side youinserted facing upward is nowplaying. To play the other side of thetape, press the PROG button.The system also has an Auto-reversefeature. It will automatically reversedirection when it reaches the end ofthe cassette.

Operating the Cassette Player

Audio System


Dolby B noise reduction turns onwhen you insert a cassette. If thetape was not recorded with Dolby Bnoise reduction, turn it off bypressing the button.

If you play a metal or chromium-dioxide (CrO ) tape, the systemautomatically senses it. The METALindicator in the frequency displaylights.

2

CONTINUED

Audio System


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To remove the cassette from thedrive, press the (Eject) button.The system automatically ejects thecassette whenever you turn off thesystem or the ignition switch.

Audio System


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Press to fast forward the tape.Press to rewind the tape. Tostop fast forward or rewind, pressPLAY. Fast forward or rewind stopsautomatically at the end of the tape.The system reverses direction, thenbegins to play.

You can use the preset buttons tocontrol tape movement while playinga cassette. Six functions areavailable: Fast forward, Rewind,Repeat, Replay, Skip, and Scan.

CONTINUED

Cassette Search Functions

Audio System


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The REPEAT function plays thecurrent song or passage over again.Press REPEAT to enable it. The lightin the button stays lit to remind you.When the system senses a silentperiod in the program (such as theend of a song), it rewinds the tape tothe previous silent period. Itcontinues to repeat this samepassage as long as REPEAT is on. Toturn it off, press the button again.Pressing or also turnsoff REPEAT.

Audio System


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The REPLAY function issimilar to REPEAT. When you pressthis button, the system immediatelygoes into rewind. The light in theREPLAY button flashes duringrewind. When it senses a silentperiod on the tape, the system stopsrewinding and goes back to PLAY.Unlike REPEAT, this functionreplays a selection only once. If youdo not press again, the tapewill play straight through.

Audio System


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The SKIP function allows youto skip over a song or other passage.When you press this button, thesystem goes into fast forward until itsenses a silent period on the tape.The light in the SKIP button flashesduring fast forward. When thesystem finds a silent period, it goesback to PLAY.

Audio System


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CONTINUED

SCAN allows you to search a tape fora desired passage. When you pressthis button, the system goes into fastforward. It goes back to PLAY whenit senses a silent period on the tape.It stays in PLAY for eight seconds soyou can listen to that passage anddecide if you want to hear it all. Ifyou are not interested in thatpassage, leave the system alone.After eight seconds, it will go intofast forward again until it sensesanother silent passage, then go backto PLAY. When it gets to a passageyou want to hear, press SCAN again.The tape plays normally after that.

Audio System


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The REPLAY, SKIP and SCANfunctions use silent periods on thetape to find the end of a selection.These features may not work satis-factorily on tapes that have almostno gap between songs, a high noiselevel between songs, or silent peri-ods in the middle of songs.

After 50 hours of use, the CLEANlight comes on to remind you toclean the cassette drive. After clean-ing the drive, turn off the CLEANlight by pushing it in with the tip of aballpoint pen or similar object.

If you do not clean the cassetteplayer regularly, it may eventuallybecome impossible to remove thecontamination with a normalcleaning kit.

Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes.Cassettes longer than that usethinner tape that may break or jamthe drive.

The cassette drive picks up dirt andoxides whenever you play a tape.This builds up over time and causesthe sound quality to degrade. Toprevent this, you should clean thecassette drive after every 30 hours ofuse. Your dealer has a cleaning kitavailable for this purpose.

Audio System


Caring for the Cassette Player

114

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Do not leave cassettes sitting wherethey are exposed to high heat orhumidity, such as on top of thedashboard or in the player. If acassette is exposed to extreme heator cold, let it reach a moderatetemperature before putting it in theplayer.

If the label is peeling off, do not putit in the player. It may cause thecassette to jam in the drive mecha-nism when you try to eject it.

Look at the cassette before youinsert it. If the tape is loose, tightenit by turning a hub with a pencil oryour finger.

Audio System


－

A trunk-mounted Compact Discchanger is available for your car. Itholds up to six discs, providingseveral hours of continuous program-ming. You operate the CD changerwith the same controls used for theradio and cassette player.

Load the desired CDs in themagazine and load the magazine inthe changer according to theinstructions that came with the unit.Play only standard round discs. Odd-shaped CDs may jam in the drive orcause other problems.

When that disc ends, the next disc inthe magazine is loaded and played.When disc 6 has completed, thesystem will return to disc 1.

Turn on the audio system asdescribed previously. Press the AM/FM button until ‘‘CD’’ appears in thedisplay. The selected disc (1 6) andtrack, also displayed, will beginplaying.

Operating the CD Changer(Optional)

Audio System


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To return to the radio function, pressthe AM/FM button.

To select another disc, press PROG.The next CD in the changer isloaded and starts to play from thefirst track. The new CD and tracknumbers are displayed.

To turn the system completely off,press the ON/OFF button.

CONTINUED

Audio System


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Each time you press , thesystem skips forward to thebeginning of the next track on thatCD. Pressing skipsbackward to the beginning of thecurrent track.

You can use the preset buttons whilea CD is playing to select passagesand change tracks.

To move rapidly within a track, pressand hold the button to moveforward or the button tomove backward. The player will fastforward or reverse for as long as youhold the button. It goes to normalplay mode when you release thebutton.


Audio System

118

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To replay the current track, pressREPEAT. The indicator in the presetbutton will come on as a reminder.At the end of the track, the systemskips back to its beginning. Thattrack will repeat continuously untilyou cancel REPEAT by pressing thebutton again.

Audio System


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To search for a particular programon a disc, press SCAN. The systemwill skip forward to the next trackand begin to play it. If you do nottouch any of the controls, the systemskips to the beginning of the nexttrack after ten seconds and begins toplay that. When the system gets to atrack you want to hear all the waythrough, press SCAN again. You canonly scan tracks on the disccurrently being played.

Audio System


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You can get the CD changer torandomly select tracks by pressingA. SELECT. The indicator in thebutton lights as a reminder. Withthis active, the system selects andplays tracks randomly rather thansequentially. Random selection onlyworks on the disc currently playing,not across all six discs. Cancelrandom selection by pressingA. SELECT again. Random selectionis also cancelled by selecting theSCAN function.

Audio System


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Never try to insert foreign objects inthe CD player or the magazine.

A new CD may be rough on theinner and outer edges. The smallplastic pieces causing this roughnesscan flake off and fall on the re-cording surface of the disc, causingskipping or other problems. Removethese pieces by rubbing the innerand outer edges with the side of apencil or pen.

To clean a disc, use a clean soft cloth.Wipe across the disc from the centerto the outside edge.

When a CD is not being played, storeit in its case to protect it from dustand other contamination. To preventwarpage, keep CDs out of directsunlight and extreme heat.

Handle a CD by its edges; nevertouch either surface. Do not placestabilizer rings or labels on the CD.These, along with contaminationfrom fingerprints, liquids, and felt-tippens, can cause the CD to not playproperly, or possibly jam in the drive.

Protecting Compact Discs

Audio System


If you see an error indication in thedisplay while operating the CDchanger, find the cause in the chartto the right. If you cannot clear theerror indication, take the car to yourAcura dealer.

Indication Cause Solution

Disc-changermalfunction.Disc is in changermechanism.

Disc-changermalfunction.

Disc-changermalfunction.

CD magazine ejectionimpossible.

High temperature.

Misconnection ordisconnection of CDchanger.No CD magazine in theCD changer.

Consult your Acura dealer.

Press the magazine eject button, and insert anempty magazine.If the code disappears within a few seconds,unit is OK. If it does not, consult your Acuradealer.

Press the magazine eject button and pull outthe magazine, check for error indication. Insertthe magazine again. If the magazine can not bepulled out, consult your Acura dealer.Press the magazine eject button. If themagazine does not eject, consult your Acuradealer.Will disappear when the temperature returns tonormal.

See your Acura dealer.

Insert CD magazine.

CD Error Indications

Audio System


The security system helps to protectyour car and valuables from theft.The horn sounds and all the exteriorlights flash if someone attempts tobreak into your car or remove theradio. The system alarms continuefor two minutes unless you turn it offmanually. To turn the system off,unlock either door with the key.

The security system sets automati-cally fifteen seconds after you lockthe doors, hood, rear window, roofpanel and trunk. For the system toactivate, you must lock the doorsfrom the outside with the key, locktab, or door lock switch (see page

). The security system light nextto the driver’s door lock starts blink-ing immediately to show you thesystem is setting itself.

Once the security system is set,opening either door (without thekey), the hood, roof panel or the rearwindow will cause it to alarm. It alsoalarms if the radio is removed fromthe dashboard or the wiring is cut.

With the system set, you can stillopen the trunk with the master keywithout triggering the alarm. Thealarm will sound if the trunk lock isforced or smashed, or the trunk isopened with the release button onthe driver’s door.

The security system does not set ifthe hood, rear window, trunk, roofpanel or either door is not latchedcompletely. If the system will not set,check the Door and Lamp Monitoron the instrument panel (see page

), to see if the doors, rear window,roof panel and trunk are fully closed.Since it is not monitored, manuallycheck the hood.

6751

Security System


Push in the Cruise Control MasterSwitch on the right pod. Theindicator by the switch will light.

Accelerate to the desired cruisingspeed above 25 mph (40 km/h).

Cruise control allows you to maintaina set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h)without keeping your foot on theaccelerator pedal. It should be usedfor cruising on straight, openhighways. It is not recommended forconditions such as city driving,winding roads, slippery roads, heavyrain, or bad weather. You shouldhave full control of the car underthose conditions.

1.

2.

CONTINUED

Using the Cruise Control

Cruise Control


Improper use of the cruisecontrol can lead to a crash.

Use the cruise control onlywhen traveling on openhighways in good weather.

Press and release the SET/decelbutton on the steering wheel. TheCRUISE CONTROL light on theinstrument panel comes on toshow the system is now activated.

You can increase the set cruisingspeed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the RESUME/accel button. The car will acceler-ate. When you reach the desiredcruising speed, release the button.

Push on the accelerator pedal. Ac-celerate to the desired cruisingspeed and press the SET/decelbutton.

You can decrease the set cruisingspeed in any of these ways:

Press and hold the SET/decelbutton. The car will decelerate.Release the button when youreach the desired speed.

Tap the brake or clutch pedallightly with your foot. TheCRUISE CONTROL light on theinstrument panel will go out.When the car slows to the desiredspeed, press the SET/decel button.The car will then maintain thedesired speed.

The cruise control may not holdthe set speed when you are goingup and down hills. If your speedincreases going down a hill, usethe brakes to slow down to thedesired speed. This will cancel the

cruise control. To resume the setspeed, press the RESUME/accelbutton. The CRUISE CONTROLlight on the instrument panelcomes on.When climbing a steep hill, theautomatic transmission maydownshift to hold the set speed.

To increase your speed in verysmall amounts, tap the RESUME/accel button repeatedly. Each time

you do this, your car will speed upabout 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

To slow down in very smallamounts, tap the SET/decelbutton repeatedly. Each time youdo this, your car will slow downabout 1 mph (1.6 km/h).

3.

Changing the Set Speed

Cruise Control


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Resting your foot on the brake orclutch pedal will cause the cruisecontrol to cancel.

Even with the cruise control turnedon, you can still use the acceleratorpedal to speed up for passing. Aftercompleting the pass, take your footoff the accelerator pedal. The carwill return to the set cruising speed.

You can cancel the cruise control inany of these ways:

Tap the brake or clutch pedal.

Press the SET/decel andRESUME/accel buttons at thesame time.

Press the Cruise Control MasterSwitch.

When you tap the brake or clutchpedal, or press the SET andRESUME buttons at the same time,the CRUISE CONTROL light on theinstrument panel will go out and thecar will begin to slow down. You canuse the accelerator pedal in thenormal way.

If you use the brake or clutch pedalto cancel cruise control, the systemremembers the previously-setcruising speed. To return to thatspeed, accelerate to above 25 mph

(40 km/h), then press theRESUME/accel button. TheCRUISE CONTROL light comes on,and the car will accelerate to thesame cruising speed as before.

Pressing the Cruise Control MasterSwitch turns the system completelyoff and erases the previous cruisingspeed from memory. To use thesystem again, refer to

.

Cancelling the Cruise Control

Using theCruise Control

Cruise Control


Before you begin driving your Acura,you should know what gasoline touse, and how to check the levels ofimportant fluids. You also need toknow how to properly store luggageor packages. The information in thissection will help you. If you plan toadd any accessories to your car,please read the information in thissection first.

.............................Break-in Period . 130.........................................Gasoline . 130

.........Service Station Procedures . 131................Filling the Fuel Tank . 131

Opening the Engine....................Compartment . 132

...............................Oil Check . 133.........Engine Coolant Check . 135

Checking the Front........................Compartment . 135

...............................Fuel Economy . 138............................Car Condition . 138...........................Driving Habits . 138

...Accessories and Modifications . 139.............................Carrying Cargo . 141

.....................General Precautions . 144

Before Driving

Before Driving 129

During this period: If you are unable to find premiumunleaded gasoline, you may substi-tute an unleaded regular gasoline.The engine will compensate for thelower octane, but you may notice aslight decrease in power as a result.

We recommend gasolines containingdetergent additives that help preventfuel system and engine deposits.

In Canada, some gasolines containan octane-enhancing additive calledMMT. If you use such gasolines,your emissions control systemperformance may deteriorate andthe Malfunction Indicator Lamp onyour instrument panel may turn on.If this happens, contact yourauthorized Acura dealer for service.

Your NSX is designed to operate onpremium unleaded gasoline with apump octane number of 91 or higher.

Help assure your car’s futurereliability and performance by payingextra attention to how you driveduring the first 600 miles (1,000 km).

Using gasoline containing lead willdamage your car’s emissionscontrols. This contributes to airpollution.

You should follow these same re-commendations with an overhauledor exchanged engine, or when thebrakes are relined.

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapidacceleration.Do not exceed 5,500 rpm for thefirst 600 miles (1,000 km) ofoperation.

Avoid hard braking. New brakesneed to be broken-in by moderateuse for the first 200 miles (300km).

Do not change the oil until therecommended time or mileageinterval shown in the maintenanceschedule.

Break-in Period Gasoline

Before Driving

Break-in Period, Gasoline

130

Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.You may hear a hissing sound aspressure inside the tank escapes.Place the cap in the holder on thefuel fill door.

Open the fuel fill door by pullingon the handle to the left of thedriver’s seat.

Because the fuel fill cap is on thedriver’s side of the car, park withthat side closest to the servicestation pumps.

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Filling the Fuel Tank

Service Station Procedures

Before Driving 131

PPuullll

FFUUEELL FFIILLLL CCAAPP

Gasoline is highly flammableand explosive. You can beburned or seriously injuredwhen handling fuel.

Stop the engine and keepheat, sparks, and flame away.Handle fuel only outdoors.Wipe up spills immediately.

Stop filling the tank after the fuelnozzle automatically clicks off. Donot try to ‘‘top off’’ the tank, leavesome room for the fuel to expandwith temperature changes.

Shift to Park or Neutral and setthe parking brake. Locate therelease handle on the rear of thedriver’s door opening, next to theseat. Pivot this handle towards thedriver’s seat. The rear window willpop up slightly.

Stand just behind the driver’s door.Reach under the rear edge of therear window at its center and raiseit. It will stay up by itself.

Push the fuel fill door closed untilit latches.

Screw the fuel fill cap back on,tighten it until it clicks severaltimes. If you do not properlytighten the cap, the MalfunctionIndicator Lamp may come on (seepage ).

Your car has an on-board refuelingvapor recovery system to helpkeep fuel vapors from going intothe atmosphere. If the fuel nozzlekeeps clicking off even though thetank is not full, there may be aproblem with this system. Consultyour dealer.

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Opening the EngineCompartment


Before Driving132

RREELLEEAASSEE HHAANNDDLLEE RREEAARR WWIINNDDOOWW

To Close the Rear Window:Lift the engine cover.

Pull the support rod out of its clipand insert the end into the squarehole in the engine cover bracket.

Remove the dipstick (orangehandle).

Check the engine oil level every timeyou fill the car with fuel. Wait a fewminutes after turning the engine offbefore you check the oil.

Snap the support rod back into theclip and lower the engine cover. Pullthe rear window down until it isresting on the body, then push onthe centre of the back edge until itlatches. Make sure it is securelyclosed before driving away.

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Before Driving

Oil Check

133

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Wipe the dipstick with a cleancloth or paper towel.

Insert it all the way back in its tube. Remove the dipstick again andcheck the level. It should bebetween the upper and lowermarks.

If it is near or below the lower mark,see on page .

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181Adding Oil


Before Driving134

UUPPPPEERR MMAARRKK

LLOOWWEERR MMAARRKK

Look at the coolant level in theexpansion tank. Make sure it isbetween the MAX and MIN lines. Ifit is below the MIN line, see

on page forinformation on adding the propercoolant.

Refer toon page for information

on checking other items in yourAcura.

Shift to Park or Neutral and setthe parking brake. Pull the hoodrelease handle located under thelower left corner of the dashboard.The hood will pop up slightly.

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CONTINUED

Engine Coolant Check

AddingEngine Coolant

Owner MaintenanceChecks

Checking the Front Compartment


Before Driving 135

EEXXPPAANNSSIIOONN TTAANNKK

MMAAXX

MMIINN

HHOOOODD RREELLEEAASSEE HHAANNDDLLEE

Pull the support rod out of its clipand insert the end into the squarehole on the right side of the hood.

To close the hood, lift it up slightlyto remove the support rod fromthe hole.

If you can open the hood withoutlifting the hood latch handle, or thehood latch handle moves stiffly ordoes not spring back as before, themechanism should be cleaned andlubricated (see page ).

Standing in front of the car, putyour fingers under the front edgeof the hood to the right of center.Slide your hand to the left untilyou feel the hood latch handle.Push this handle to the left until itreleases the hood. Lift the hood.

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Before Driving136

LLAATTCCHHHHAANNDDLLEE

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Snap the support rod back into itsholding clip.

Lower the hood about halfwaydown and let the hood drop.

After closing the hood, make sureit is securely latched.

Refer toon page for information

on checking other items in yourAcura.

6.5.

179


Before Driving


137

CCLLIIPP

You can improve fuel economy bydriving moderately. Rapid acceler-ation, abrupt cornering, and hardbraking use more fuel.

Always drive in the highest gear thatallows the engine to run and acceler-ate smoothly.

A cold engine uses more fuel than awarm engine. It is not necessary to‘‘warm-up’’ a cold engine by letting itidle for a long time. You can driveaway in about a minute, no matterhow cold it is outside. The enginewill warm up faster, and you getbetter fuel economy. To cut down onthe number of ‘‘cold starts,’’ try to

combine several short trips into one.

The air conditioning puts an extraload on the engine which makes ituse more fuel. Turn off the A/C orset the climate control to a highertemperature to cut down on airconditioning use. Use the flow-through ventilation when the outsideair temperature is moderate.

The condition of your car and yourdriving habits are the two mostimportant things that affect the fuelmileage you get.

Always maintain your car accordingto the maintenance schedule. Thiswill keep it in top operating condition.An important part of that mainte-nance is the

(see page ). Forexample, an underinflated tirecauses more ‘‘rolling resistance,’’which uses fuel. It also wears outfaster, so check the tire pressure atleast monthly.

In winter, the build-up of snow onyour vehicle’s underside adds weightand rolling resistance. Frequentcleaning helps your fuel mileage andreduces the chance of corrosion.

Depending on traffic conditions, tryto maintain a constant speed. Everytime you slow down and speed up,your car uses extra fuel. Use thecruise control, when appropriate, toincrease fuel economy.

179

Driving Habits


Car Condition

Fuel Economy

Before Driving138

Modifying your car, or installingsome non-Acura accessories, canmake your car unsafe. Before youmake any modifications or add anyaccessories, be sure to read thefollowing information.

Your dealer has Genuine Acuraaccessories that allow you topersonalize your car. Theseaccessories have been designed andapproved for your car, and arecovered by warranty.

Non-Acura accessories are usuallydesigned for universal applications.Although aftermarket accessoriesmay fit on your car, they may notmeet factory specifications, andcould adversely affect your car’shandling and stability. (See‘‘Modifications’’ on page foradditional information.)

When properly installed, cellularphones, alarms, two-way radios, andlow-powered audio systems shouldnot interfere with your car’scomputer-controlled systems, suchas the SRS and anti-lock brakesystem.

If possible, have your dealer inspectthe final installation.

Have the installer contact yourAcura dealer for assistance beforeinstalling any electronic accessory.

Be sure electronic accessories donot overload electrical circuits(see page ).

Make sure the accessory does notobscure any lights, or interferewith proper car operation orperformance.

Before installing any accessory:

However, if electronic accessoriesare improperly installed, or exceedyour car’s electrical system capacity,they can interfere with the operationof your car, or even cause theairbags to deploy.

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265

Accessories

Before Driving

Accessories and Modifications

139

Improper accessories ormodifications can affect yourcar’s handling, stability andperformance, and cause acrash in which you can be hurtor killed.

Follow all instructions in thisowner’s manual regardingaccessories and modifications.

In addition, any modifications thatdecrease ground clearance increasethe chance of undercarriage partsstriking a curb, speed bump, or otherraised object, which could causeyour airbags to deploy.

Do not modify your steering wheelor any other part of yourSupplemental Restraint System.Modifications could make thesystem ineffective.

Do not remove any originalequipment or modify your car in anyway that would alter its design oroperation. This could make your carunsafe and illegal to drive.

For example, do not make anymodifications that would change theride height of your car, or installwheels and tires with a differentoverall diameter.

Such modifications can adverselyaffect handling, and interfere withthe operation of the car’s anti-lockbrakes and other systems.

Do not attach or place objects on theairbag covers. Any object attached toor placed on the covers marked ‘‘SRSAIRBAG,’’ in the center of thesteering wheel and on top of thedashboard, could interfere with theproper operation of the airbags. Or,if the airbags inflate, the objectscould be propelled inside the car andhurt someone.

Modifications Additional Safety Precaution

Accessories and Modifications

Before Driving140

Your car has several convenientstorage areas so you can stow cargosafely.

However, carrying too much cargo,or improperly storing it, can affectyour car’s handling, stability, andoperation and make it unsafe. Beforecarrying any type of cargo, be sure toread the following pages.

The glove box, and the consolecompartment are designed for small,lightweight items. The trunk isintended for larger, heavier items.

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving 141

GGLLOOVVEE BBOOXX

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Store or secure all items that couldbe thrown around and hurtsomeone during a crash.

Be sure items placed on the floorbehind the front seats cannot rollunder the seats and interfere withthe driver’s ability to operate thepedals, or with the properoperation of the seats.

Keep the glove box closed whiledriving. If the lid is open, apassenger could injure their kneesduring a crash or sudden stop.

This figure includes the total weightof all occupants, cargo, andaccessories.

To figure out how much cargo youcan carry:

Add up the weight of all occupants.

Subtract the total from 400 lbs(185 kg).

The final number is the total weightof cargo you can carry.

The maximum load for your car is400 lbs (185 kg).

Carrying Items in the PassengerCompartment

Load Limit

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving142

Overloading or improperloading can affect handling andstability and cause a crash inwhich you can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and otherloading guidelines in thismanual.

Distribute cargo evenly on thefloor of the trunk, placing theheaviest items on the bottom andas far forward as possible.

Carrying Cargo

Before Driving

Carrying Cargo in the Trunk

143

Your Acura is designed to give youoptimum handling and performanceon well-maintained roads. As part ofthis design, your car has a minimumof ground clearance and very low-profile tires.

Use caution if you should driveyour car on very rough or ruttedroads. You could damage thesuspension and underbody bybottoming out. Going too fast overparking lot ‘‘speed bumps’’ canalso cause damage. Curbs and steep inclines could

damage the front and rearbumpers. Low curbs that do notaffect the average car may be highenough to hit the bumper on yourAcura. The front or rear bumpermay scrape when trying to driveonto an incline, such as a steepdriveway or trailer ramps.

Because of the low-profile tiresfitted to your car, the alloy wheelsare closer to the ground. Drivingover a pothole or road debris attoo high a speed can seriouslydamage a wheel. Slow down underthese conditions.

General Precautions

Before Driving144

This section gives you tips onstarting the engine under variousconditions, and how to operate themanual and automatic transmissions.It also includes importantinformation on parking your car, thebraking system and the TractionControl System.

........................Preparing to Drive . 146.......................Starting the Engine . 147

Starting in Cold Weather....................at High Altitude . 147

....6-speed Manual Transmission . 148.....Recommended Shift Points . 149

..............Engine Speed Limiter . 149

..............Automatic Transmission . 151.Shift Lever Position Indicator . 151

..............Engine Speed Limiter . 155....................Shift Lock Release . 156

...........................................Parking . 157.....................The Braking System . 158

.............Brake Wear Indicators . 158...............Brake System Design . 159

.......................Anti-lock Brakes . 159Important Safety

.........................Reminders . 160........................ABS Indicator . 161

..............Traction Control System . 162...............TCS ON/OFF Switch . 163

............................TCS Indicator . 163...............Driving in Bad Weather . 164

...........................Towing a Trailer . 165

Driving

Driving 145

Make sure all windows, mirrors,and outside lights are clean andunobstructed. Remove frost, snow,or ice.

Check that the hood, trunk andrear window are fully closed.

Check that any items you may becarrying with you inside are storedproperly or fastened downsecurely.

Check the adjustment of the seat(see page ).

Check the adjustment of theinside and outside mirrors (seepage ).

Check the adjustment of thesteering wheel (see page ).

Fasten your seat belt. Check thatyour passenger has fastened his orher seat belt (see page ).

Turn the ignition switch ON (II).Check the indicator lights in theinstrument panel.

Start the engine (see page ).

Check the gauges and indicatorlights in the instrument panel (seepage ).Visually check the tires. If a tire

looks low, use a gauge to check itspressure.

Make sure the doors are securelyclosed and locked.

You should do the following checksand adjustments every day beforeyou drive your car.

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Driving

Preparing to Drive

146

Apply the parking brake.

In cold weather, turn off allelectrical accessories to reducethe drain on the battery.

Without touching the acceleratorpedal, turn the ignition key to theSTART (III) position. If the enginedoes not start right away, do nothold the key in START (III) formore than 15 seconds at a time.Pause for at least 10 secondsbefore trying again.

Push the clutch pedal down all theway. START (III) does notfunction unless the clutch pedal isdepressed.

Make sure the shift lever is inPark. Press on the brake pedal.

If the engine does not start within15 seconds, or starts but stallsright away, repeat step 4 with theaccelerator pedal pressed half-waydown. If the engine starts, releasepressure on the accelerator pedalso the engine does not race.

If the engine still does not start,press the accelerator pedal all theway down and hold it there whilestarting in order to clear flooding.As before, keep the ignition key inthe START (III) position for nomore than 15 seconds. Return tostep 5 if the engine does not start.If it starts, lift your foot off theaccelerator pedal so the enginedoes not race.

An engine is harder to start in coldweather. The thinner air found athigh altitude above 8,000 feet (2,400

meters) adds to the problem.

If the engine fails to start in step 2,push the accelerator pedal to thefloor and hold it there while youtry to start the engine for no morethan 15 seconds. If the enginedoes not start, return to step 2.

Turn off all electrical accessoriesto reduce the drain on the battery.

Push the accelerator pedal half-way to the floor and hold it therewhile starting the engine. Do nothold the ignition key in START(III) for more than 15 seconds.When the engine starts, releasethe accelerator pedal gradually asthe engine speeds up and smoothsout.

Use the following procedure:

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Manual Transmission:

Automatic Transmission:

Driving

Starting the Engine

Starting in Cold Weather at HighAltitude (Above 8,000 feet/2,400 meters)

147

The manual transmission is synchro-nized in all forward gears for smoothoperation. It has a lockout so youcannot shift directly from Fifth toReverse instead of sixth (see page

). When shifting up or down,make sure you push the clutch pedaldown all the way, shift to the nextgear, and let the pedal up gradually.When you are not shifting, do notrest your foot on the clutch pedal.This can cause your clutch to wearout faster.

Come to a full stop before you shiftinto Reverse. You can damage thetransmission by trying to shift intoReverse with the car moving. Pushdown the clutch pedal, and pause fora few seconds before shifting intoReverse, or shift into one of theforward gears for a moment. Thisstops the gears so they won’t ‘‘grind.’’

When slowing down, you can getextra braking from the engine byshifting to a lower gear. This extrabraking can help you maintain a safespeed and prevent your brakes fromoverheating while going down asteep hill. Before downshifting,make sure engine speed will not gointo the tachometer’s red zone in thelower gear.

150

6-speed Manual Transmission

Driving148

Rapid slowing or speeding-upcan cause loss of control onslippery surfaces. If you crash,you can be injured.

Use extra care when driving onslippery surfaces.

Drive in the highest gear that letsthe engine run and acceleratesmoothly. This will give you the bestfuel economy and effective emis-sions control. The following shiftpoints are recommended:

If you exceed the maximum speedfor the gear you are in, the enginespeed will enter into the tachometer’sred zone. If this occurs, you may feelthe engine cut in and out. This iscaused by a limiter in the engine’scomputer controls. The engine willrun normally when you reduce theRPM below the red zone.

Before downshifting, make sure theengine will not go into thetachometer’s red zone.

Shift Up

1st to 2nd2nd to 3rd3rd to 4th4th to 5th5th to 6th

Normal Acceleration

15 mph (24 km/h)25 mph (40 km/h)40 mph (64 km/h)47 mph (75 km/h)52 mph (83 km/h)


Driving

Recommended Shift Points Engine Speed Limiter

149

If you need to use this procedure toshift to Reverse, your car may bedeveloping a problem. Have the carchecked by your Acura dealer.

With the clutch pedal still de-pressed, start the engine.

Depress the clutch pedal and shiftto Reverse.

If you are still unable to shift toReverse, apply the parking brakeand turn the ignition key toACCESSORY (I) or LOCK (0).

With the clutch pedal depressed,move the shift lever to the First/Second gear side of the Neutralgate, then shift to Reverse.

The 6-speed manual transmissionhas an electric lockout so you cannotaccidentally shift from Fifth toReverse instead of Sixth. If youcannot shift to Reverse when the caris stopped:

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Driving

Reverse Lockout

150

Your Acura’s transmission has fourforward speeds, and is electronicallycontrolled for smoother shifting. Italso has a ‘‘lock-up’’ torque converterfor better fuel economy. You mayfeel what seems like another shiftwhen the converter locks.

This display is in the tachometer. Itshows you the position of theconsole shift lever. The illuminatednumber next to the ‘‘M’’ indicatorshows you the gear you haveselected when selecting 3/Mposition.

The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for afew seconds when you turn theignition switch ON (II). If it flashesat any time (in any shift position), itindicates a possible problem in thetransmission. Avoid rapidacceleration and have thetransmission checked by anauthorized Acura dealer as soon aspossible.

Automatic Transmission

Driving

Shift Lever Position Indicator

151

－ This position mechani-cally locks the transmission. UsePark whenever you are turning off orstarting the engine. To shift out ofPark, you must press on the brakepedal and have your foot off theaccelerator pedal. Press the releasebutton on the side of the shift leverto move it.

The console shift lever has sevenpositions. It must be in Park orNeutral to start the engine.

The shift lever on the steeringcolumn’s right pod allows you toshift up and down manually whenthe console shift lever is in the‘‘3/M’’ position.

To shift from:P to R

R to PN to R

3/M to 22 to 11 to 2

2 to 3/M3/M to D

D to ND to 3/M

N to DR to N

Do this:Press the brake pedal andpush the release button.

Push the release button.

Move the lever.


Driving

Park (P)

Shift Lever Positions

152

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If you have done all of the above andstill cannot move the lever out ofPark, see Shift Lock Release on page

.

You must also press the releasebutton to shift into Park. To avoidtransmission damage, come to acomplete stop before shifting intoPark. The shift lever must be in Parkbefore you can remove the key fromthe ignition switch.

To shift to Reversefrom Park, see the explanation underPark. To shift to Reverse fromNeutral, come to a complete stop andthen shift. Press the release buttonbefore shifting into Reverse fromNeutral.

Use this position foryour normal driving. The transmis-sion automatically selects a suitablegear for your speed and acceleration.You may notice the transmissionshifting up at higher speeds whenthe engine is cold. This helps theengine warm up faster.

Press firmly on the brake pedalwhen you are stopped in Drive, 3/M,2, 1, N or Reverse. Never press onthe accelerator pedal at the sametime.

For faster acceleration when passing,you can get the transmission toautomatically downshift by pushingthe accelerator pedal to the floor.The transmission will shift down to alower gear.

Use Neutral if youneed to restart a stalled engine, or ifit is necessary to stop briefly withthe engine idling. Shift to Park posi-tion if you need to leave the car forany reason. Press on the brake pedalwhen you are moving the shift leverfrom Neutral to another gear.

156


Driving

Reverse (R)

Drive (D)Neutral (N)

153

－ If you move the console shift leverfrom ‘‘D’’ to ‘‘3/M’’ while the car ismoving, the transmission remains inthe gear it was in. If you do thiswhile stopped, the transmissionselects first gear.

When you accelerate away from astop, the transmission will be in firstgear. If you do not manually upshiftto second gear, the transmission willautomatically upshift when theengine reaches redline, or when youreduce pressure on the acceleratorpedal. It will remain in second gearuntil you either upshift manually orcome to a stop.

The transmission remains in theselected gear (4, 3, or 2). There is noautomatic downshift when you pushthe accelerator pedal to the floor.The only time it will shiftautomatically is when the car comesto almost a complete stop. It will thendownshift to first gear.

If you try to manually downshift at aspeed that would cause the engine toexceed the redline in the lower gear,the transmission will not downshift.If that downshift is from second gearto first gear, the gear indicator willflash ‘‘1’’ several times, then returnto ‘‘2’’.

When manually downshifting fromsecond gear to first gear belowredline, you must depress theaccelerator pedal to get thetransmission to downshift. If you donot, the gear indicator will flash asdescribed. This is not necessarywhen downshifting in any of theother gears.

With theconsole shift lever in this position,you can use the SportShift lever onthe right pod to shift gears; muchlike a manual transmission without aclutch pedal. Each time you push upon the SportShift lever, thetransmission will shift up to the nexthigher gear. Push down on the leverto downshift. The number of theselected gear is displayed next to the‘‘M’’ indicator (See page ).151


Driving

SportShift (3/M)

154

－－ To shift from Second toFirst, press the release button on theshift lever. With the lever in thisposition, the transmission locks inFirst gear.

To shift to Second,press the release button on the sideof the shift lever. This position locksthe transmission in second gear. Itdoes not downshift to first gearwhen you come to a stop. Secondgives you more power when climbing,and increased engine braking whengoing down steep hills. Use secondgear when starting out on a slipperysurface or in deep snow. It will helpreduce wheelspin.

If you exceed the maximum speedfor the gear you are in, the enginespeed will enter into the tachometer’sred zone. If this occurs, you may feelthe engine cut in and out. This iscaused by a limiter in the engine’scomputer controls. The engine willrun normally when you reduce theRPM below the red zone.


Driving

First (1)Second (2) Engine Speed Limiter

155

Insert the key in the Shift LockRelease slot next to the shift lever.

Push down on the key while youpress the release button on theshift lever and move the shift leverout of Park to Neutral.

This allows you to move the shiftlever out of Park if the normalmethod of pushing on the brakepedal and pressing the releasebutton does not work.

Set the Parking brake.

Remove the key from the ignitionswitch.

Put a cloth on the edge of the ShiftLock Release slot cover next tothe shift lever.Use a small flat-tipped screwdriveror finger nail file to remove thecover. Carefully pry off the edgeof the cover.

Remove the key from the ShiftLock Release slot. Depress thebrake pedal and restart the engine.

If you need to use the Shift LockRelease, it means your car isdeveloping a problem. Have the carchecked by your Acura dealer.

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Driving

Shift Lock Release

156

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Make sure the moonroof and thewindows are closed.

Place any packages, valuables, etc.,in the trunk or take them with you.

Turn off the lights.Make sure the parking brake is fullyreleased before driving away.Driving with the parking brakepartially set can overheat or damagethe rear brakes, and will cause theABS indicator to light.

Always use the parking brake whenyou park your car. The indicator onthe instrument panel shows that theparking brake is not fully released; itdoes not indicate that the parkingbrake is firmly set. Make sure theparking brake is set firmly or yourcar may roll if it is parked on anincline.

If your car has an automatictransmission, set the parking brakebefore you put the transmission inPark. This keeps the car frommoving and putting pressure on theparking mechanism in thetransmission making it easier tomove the shift lever out of Parkwhen you want to drive away.

If the car is facing uphill, turn thefront wheels away from the curb.If the car is facing downhill, turn thefront wheels toward the curb.

Lock the doors with the key.Check the indicator on the driver’sdoor to verify that the securitysystem is set.

Never park over dry leaves, tallgrass, or other flammablematerials. The three way catalyticconverter gets very hot, and couldcause these materials to catch onfire.

Parking Tips

Parking

Driving 157

All four brakes have audible brakewear indicators.

Check your brakes after drivingthrough deep water. Apply thebrakes moderately to see if they feelnormal. If not, apply them gently andfrequently until they do. Since alonger distance is needed to stopwith wet brakes, be extra cautiousand alert in your driving.

Constant application of the brakeswhen going down a long hill buildsup heat and reduces their effective-ness. Use the engine to assist thebrakes by downshifting to a lowergear and taking your foot off theaccelerator pedal.

Your Acura is equipped with discbrakes at all four wheels. A powerassist helps reduce the effort neededon the brake pedal. The ABS helpsyou retain steering control whenbraking very hard.

Put your foot on the brake pedal onlywhen you intend to brake. Restingyour foot on the pedal keeps thebrakes applied lightly, causing themto build up heat. Heat build-up canreduce how well your brakes work. Italso keeps your brake lights on allthe time, confusing drivers behindyou.

When the brake pads need replacing,you will hear a distinctive metallic‘‘screeching’’ sound when you applythe brakes. If you do not have thebrake pads replaced, they will beginscreeching all the time.

Your brakes may sometimes squealor squeak when you apply themlightly. Do not confuse this with thebrake wear indicators. They make avery audible ‘‘screeching.’’

Brake Wear Indicators

The Braking System

Driving158

CONTINUED

The hydraulic system that operatesthe brakes has two separate circuits.Each circuit works diagonally acrossthe car (the left-front brake isconnected with the right-rear brake,etc.). If one circuit should develop aproblem, you will still have brakingat two wheels.

Your car has an Anti-lock BrakeSystem (ABS) as standardequipment. ABS helps to prevent thewheels from locking up and skiddingduring hard braking, allowing you toretain steering control.

When the front tires skid, you losesteering control; the car continuesstraight ahead even though you turnthe steering wheel. The ABS helps toprevent lock-up and helps you retainsteering control by pumping thebrakes rapidly; much faster than aperson can do it.

Brake System Design Anti-lock Brakes

The Braking System

Driving 159

FFrroonntt

this defeats thepurpose of the ABS. Let the ABSwork for you by always keeping firm,steady pressure on the brake pedalas you steer away from the hazard.This is sometimes referred to as

You will feel a pulsation in the brakepedal when the ABS activates, andyou may hear some noise. This isnormal; it is the ABS rapidlypumping the brakes.

Activation varies with the amount oftraction your tires have. On drypavement, you will need to press onthe brake pedal very hard before youactivate the ABS. However, you mayfeel the ABS activate immediately ifyou are trying to stop on snow or ice.

such as trying to take acorner too fast or making a suddenlane change. Always drive at a safe,prudent speed for the road andweather conditions.

itonly helps with steering controlduring braking. You should alwaysmaintain a safe following distancefrom other vehicles.

Always steer moderatelywhen you are braking hard. Severeor sharp steering wheel movementcan still cause your car to veer intooncoming traffic or off the road.

on loose oruneven surfaces, such as gravel orsnow, than a car without anti-lock.Slow down and allow a greaterdistance between cars under thoseconditions.

‘‘stomp and steer.’’

You should never pump thebrake pedal;

ABS will not prevent a skid thatresults from changing directionabruptly,

ABS does not reduce the time ordistance it takes to stop the car;

ABS cannot prevent a loss ofstability.

A car with ABS may require alonger distance to stop

Important Safety Reminders

The Braking System

Driving160

＊＊

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The ABS is self-checking. If anythinggoes wrong, the ABS indicator onthe instrument panel comes on (seepage ). This means the anti-lockfunction of the braking system hasshut down. The brakes still work likea conventional system without anti-lock, providing normal stoppingability. You should have the dealerinspect your car as soon as possible.

50

The Braking System

Driving

ABS Indicator

161

UU..SS.. iinnddiiccaattoorr sshhoowwnn

AANNTTII--LLOOCCKK BBRRAAKKEESSYYSSTTEEMM IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

When driving on a loose or slipperyroad surface, you may notice that theengine does not respond to theaccelerator in the same way it doesat other times. This is a sign the TCSis activating. You will see the TCSindicator light flash.

Driving with the folding spare tire(see page ) installed mayactivate the TCS. You may want toturn the system off under thiscondition.

You should still install winter tires onyour car during the winter. Exercisethe same caution in winter driving asyou would if your car was notequipped with TCS.

Your Acura is equipped with aTraction Control System (TCS). TCSassists you in maintaining tractionwhile accelerating on slipperysurfaces. It does this by regulatingthe engine’s power output when itsenses either of the drive wheelsstarting to spin. This increases thecar’s traction and directional stabilityon loose or slippery road surfaces.

Driving with TCS requires no specialskills or technique. The TCS doesnot affect braking, and cannot pre-vent skidding if you enter a cornertoo fast. It is still your responsibilityto drive at reasonable speeds and toleave a sufficient margin of safety.

247

Driving

Traction Control System

162

TTCCSS IINNDDIICCAATTOORR LLIIGGHHTT

Deactivate the system by pressingthe TCS On/Off switch. The TCSindicator light comes on as areminder. Pressing the switch againturns the system back on.

The TCS indicator comes on orflashes under the following condi-tions:

The TCS indicator may occasionallycome on for one or two seconds andthen go out. This is normal.

When you turn the ignition switchto ON (II).

When you manually turn off TCS.

It flashes when the TCS isregulating the engine output toprevent wheelspin.

If the system’s diagnostics sensesa problem with TCS, the indicatorwill come on and stay on.

This switch is on the dashboardbehind the right control pod. It letsyou turn the Traction ControlSystem on and off. You cannot turnoff the TCS while the TCS indicatorlight is flashing.

The Traction Control System turnson every time you start the engine,even if you turned it off the last timeyou drove the car.

If the TCS indicator comes on whiledriving, pull to the side of the roadwhen it is safe and turn off theengine. Reset the system by re-starting the engine, and watch theTCS indicator. If the indicatorremains on, or comes back on whiledriving, have the TCS inspected byyour Acura dealer. You can still drivethe car without TCS.

TCS ON/OFF Switch

TCS Indicator

Driving

Traction Control System

163

TTCCSS IINNDDIICCAATTOORR LLIIGGHHTT


－－

Exercise extra caution when drivingin rain after a long dry spell. Aftermonths of dry weather, the firstrains bring oil to the surface of theroadway, making it slippery.

Being able to seeclearly in all directions and beingvisible to other drivers are importantin all weather conditions. This ismore difficult in bad weather. To beseen more clearly during daylighthours, turn on your headlights.

Inspect your windshield wipers andwashers frequently. Keep the wind-shield washer reservoir full of theproper fluid. Have the windshieldwiper blades replaced if they start tostreak the windshield or leave partsunwiped. Use the defrosters and airconditioning to keep the windowsfrom fogging up on the inside (seepage ).

Rain, fog, and snow conditionsrequire a different driving techniquebecause of reduced traction andvisibility. Keep your car well-maintained and exercise greatercaution when you need to drive inbad weather. The cruise controlshould not be used in theseconditions.

Always driveslower than you would in dryweather. It takes your car longer toreact, even in conditions that mayseem just barely damp. Applysmooth, even pressure to all thecontrols. Abrupt steering wheelmovements or sudden, hard appli-cation of the brakes can cause loss ofcontrol in wet weather. Be extracautious for the first few miles(kilometers) of driving while youadjust to the change in drivingconditions. This is especially true insnow. A person can forget somesnow-driving techniques during thesummer months. Practice is neededto relearn those skills. 89

Driving in Bad Weather

Driving

VisibilityDriving Technique

164

－ Check your tiresfrequently for wear and properpressure. Both are important inpreventing ‘‘hydroplaning’’ (loss oftraction on a wet surface). In thewinter, mount snow tires on all fourwheels for the best handling.

Watch road conditions carefully,they can change from moment tomoment. Wet leaves can be as slip-pery as ice. ‘‘Clear’’ roads can havepatches of ice. Driving conditionscan be very hazardous when theoutside temperature is near freezing.The road surface can becomecovered with areas of water puddlesmixed with areas of ice, so yourtraction can change without warning.

Be careful when downshifting. Iftraction is low, you can lock up thedrive wheels for a moment and causea skid.

Your NSX is not designed to tow atrailer. Attempting to do so can voidyour warranties.

Be very cautious when passing, orbeing passed by other cars. Thespray from large cars reduces yourvisibility, and the wind buffeting cancause you to lose control.

Driving

Traction Towing a Trailer

Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer

165

This section also includesMaintenance Schedules for normaldriving and severe driving conditions,a Maintenance Record, and instruc-tions for simple maintenance tasksyou may want to take care ofyourself.

If you have the skills and tools to per-form more complex maintenancetasks on your Acura, you may wantto purchase the Service Manual. Seepage for information on how toobtain a copy, or see your Acuradealer.

This section explains why it isimportant to keep your car wellmaintained and how to follow basicmaintenance safety precautions.

......................Maintenance Safety . 168.Important Safety Precautions . 169

.................Maintenance Schedule . 170...Required Maintenance Record . 177

.......Owner Maintenance Checks . 179..............................Fluid Locations . 180

......................................Engine Oil . 181..................................Adding Oil . 181

....................Recommended Oil . 181..............................Synthetic Oil . 182

....................................Additives . 182.....Changing the Oil and Filter . 183

.............................Cooling System . 185............Adding Engine Coolant . 185

.......Replacing Engine Coolant . 187....................Windshield Washers . 192

.......................Transmission Fluid . 193..........Automatic Transmission . 193

6-speed Manual.........................Transmission . 194

................Brake and Clutch Fluid . 195................................Brake Fluid . 195

............................Brake System . 195...........................Clutch System . 196

.....................Air Cleaner Element . 197......................................Fuel Filter . 198

....................................Hood Latch . 199

....................................Spark Plugs . 199..............................Replacement . 199............................Specifications . 201

...........................................Battery . 202.................................Wiper Blades . 205

..............Air Conditioning System . 207.....................................Drive Belts . 208....................................Timing Belt . 208

...............................................Tires . 209......................................Inflation . 209

..................................Inspection . 211..............................Maintenance . 212.............................Tire Rotation . 212

...Replacing Tires and Wheels . 213......................Wheels and Tires . 214

..........................Winter Driving . 214.............................Snow Tires . 215............................Tire Chains . 215

.............................................Lights . 216........................Replacing Bulbs . 218

...........................Storing Your Car . 226

287

Maintenance

Maintenance 167

This section includes instructions forsimple maintenance tasks, such aschecking and adding oil. Any serviceitems not detailed in this sectionshould be performed by an Acuratechnician or other qualifiedmechanic.

Some of the most important safetyprecautions are given here. However,we cannot warn you of everyconceivable hazard that can arise inperforming maintenance. Only youcan decide whether or not youshould perform a given task.

Regularly maintaining your car is thebest way to protect your investment.Proper maintenance is essential toyour safety and the safety of yourpassengers. It will also reward youwith more economical, trouble-freedriving and help reduce air pollution.

Maintenance

Maintenance Safety

168

Failure to properly followmaintenance instructions andprecautions can cause you tobe seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the proceduresand precautions in this owner’smanual.

Improperly maintaining this caror failing to correct a problembefore driving can cause acrash in which you can beseriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspectionand maintenancerecommendations andschedules in this owner’smanual.

Read the instructions before youbegin, and make sure you have thetools and skills required.

To reduce the possibility of fire orexplosion, be careful when workingaround gasoline or batteries. Use acommercially available degreaser orparts cleaner, not gasoline, to cleanparts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, andflames away from the battery and allfuel-related parts.

Be surethere is adequate ventilationwhenever you operate the engine.

Let theengine and exhaust system coolbefore touching any parts.

Donot run the engine unless in-structed to do so.

Before you begin any maintenance,make sure your car is parked onlevel ground and that the parkingbrake is set. Also, be sure the engineis off. This will help to eliminateseveral potential hazards:

You should wear eye protection andprotective clothing when workingnear the battery or when usingcompressed air.

Maintenance Safety

Maintenance

Important Safety Precautions

Carbon monoxide poisoningfrom engine exhaust.

Burns from hot parts.

Injury from moving parts.

169

Always use unleaded gasoline withthe proper octane rating (see page

).

The services and time or distanceintervals shown in the maintenanceschedule assume you will use yourcar as normal transportation for yourpassenger and possessions. Youshould also follow theserecommendations:

The Maintenance Schedule specifieshow often you should have your carserviced and what things needattention. It is essential that you haveyour car serviced as scheduled toretain its high level of safety,dependability, and emissions controlperformance.

Avoid exceeding your car’s loadlimit. This puts excess stress onthe engine, brakes, and manyother parts of your car. The loadlimit is shown on the label on thedriver’s doorjamb.

Operate your car on reasonableroads within the legal speed limit.

Drive your car regularly over adistance of several miles(kilometers).

Service your car according to thetime and mileage periods on one ofthe Maintenance Schedules on thefollowing pages. Select the schedulefor ‘‘Severe Conditions’’ if most ofyour driving is done under one ormore of the conditions listed on thatpage. Otherwise, follow the schedulefor ‘‘Normal Conditions.’’

130

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance

Which Schedule to Follow:

170

＃

We recommend the use of genuineAcura parts and fluids whenever youhave maintenance done. These aremanufactured to the same high-quality standards as the originalcomponents, so you can be confidentof their performance and durability.

According to state and federalregulations, failure to performmaintenance on the items markedwith will not void your emissionswarranties. However, Acurarecommends that all maintenanceservices be performed at therecommended time or mileageperiod to ensure long-term reliability.U.S. Cars:

Your authorized Acura dealer knowsyour car best and can providecompetent, efficient service.However, service at a dealer is notmandatory to keep your warrantiesin effect. Maintenance may be doneby any qualified service facility orperson who is skilled in this type ofautomotive service. Keep all thereceipts as proof of completion, andhave the person who does the workfill out the Maintenance Record.Check your warranty booklet formore information.

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance

Maintenance, replacement orrepair of emissions controldevices and systems may be doneby any automotive repairestablishment or individual usingparts that are ‘‘certif ied’’ to EPAstandards.

171

－

［］

＃

＃

＃

＃

Follow the Normal ConditionsMaintenance Schedule if thesevere driving conditionsspecified in the SevereConditions MaintenanceSchedule do not apply.

NOTE: If you onlydrive under a

‘‘severe’’ condition, you shouldfollow the Normal ConditionsMaintenance Schedule.

Follow the MaintenanceSchedule for Severe Conditions.

OCCASIONALLY

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

Maintenance172

Visually inspect the following items:

See information on maintenance and

emissions warranty, last column, page .

Service at the indicateddistance or time whichevercomes first.

miles x 1,000km x 1,000months

Replace every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 1 year

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

Every 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years

Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and bootsSuspension componentsDriveshaft bootsBrake hoses and lines (including ABS)All fluid levels and condition of fluidsCooling system hoses and connectionsExhaust systemFuel lines and connections

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

304824

457236

609648

7512060

9014472

10516884

12019296

120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, then every 60,000 miles(96,000 km) or 5 years

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

152412

Replace engine oilReplace engine oil filterCheck engine oil and coolantReplace air cleaner elementInspect valve clearanceReplace spark plugsReplace timing belt, and inspect water pumpInspect and adjust drive beltsReplace fuel filterInspect idle speedReplace engine coolant

Replace transmission fluid

Inspect front and rear brakesReplace brake fluid including ABSCheck parking brake adjustmentCheck tire inflation and condition at least onceper month

120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 5 years

:

171

Adjust only if noisy

M/TA/T

Maintenance

ScheduleforN

ormalConditions

－－

□□

□□□□□□□□

□□□□□

□

□

□

□□ □□

□□

□

＃

＃

＃

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Maintenance 173

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

A, B, C

A

B

C

Refer to page to determine which schedule to use.Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

7,500 mi/12,000 km15,000 mi/24,000 km/1 yr22,500 mi/36,000 km30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs37,500 mi/60,000 km45,000 mi/72,000 km/3 yrs3 years52,500 mi/84,000 km60,000 mi/96,000 km/4 yrs67,500 mi/108,000 km75,000 mi/120,000 km/5 yrs82,500 mi/132,000 km90,000 mi/144,000 km/6 yrs6 years97,500 mi/156,000 km105,000 mi/168,000 km/7 yrs

112,500 mi/180,000 km120,000 mi/192,000 km/8 yrs120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs

120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs

Replace engine oil.Check tire inflation and condition at least once permonth.Replace engine oil filter.Inspect front and rear brakes.Check parking brake adjustment.Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots.Inspect suspension components.Inspect driveshaft boots.Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS).Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and checkfor leaks.Inspect cooling system hoses and connections.Inspect exhaust system.Inspect fuel lines and connections.

Replace air cleaner element.Inspect and adjust drive belts.

Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in as required for each distance/time interval.

Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage).Do items in A.

Replace fuel filter . Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage).Do items in A.

Replace timing belt, inspect water pump.Check idle speed. Replace spark plugs.Inspect valve clearance. Do items in A, B.

Do items in A.Replace fuel filter . Do items in A, B, C.Replace engine coolant, then replace every

60,000 mi/96,000 km/5 yrs.Replace transmission fluid.

M/T: every 120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrsA/T: 120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs, then every90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs.

172

See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, lastcolumn, page .

Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop.Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.

:

Note :••

171

Maintenance

Schedule

forNorm

alConditions

(listedby

distance/time)

－

［］

＊

＃＃＃

＊＃

＃

Follow the Severe ConditionsMaintenance Schedule if youdrive your vehicleunder one or more of thefollowing conditions:

Driving less than 5 miles (8km) per trip or, in freezingtemperatures, driving lessthan 10 miles (16 km) per trip.Driving in extremely hot[over 90°F (32°C)] conditions.Extensive idling or longperiods of stop-and-go driving,Driving with a car-top carrier,or driving in mountainousconditions.Driving on muddy, dusty, orde-iced roads.

Follow the MaintenanceSchedule for Severe Conditions.

MAINLY

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

Maintenance174

Visually inspect the following items:

Service at the indicateddistance or time whichevercomes first.

Replace every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 monthsCheck oil and coolant at each fuel stop

Clean: every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 monthsReplace: every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years

miles x 1,000km x 1,000months

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3 years

Tie rod ends, steering gear box, and bootsSuspension components, Driveshaft bootsBrake hoses and lines (including ABS)All fluid levels and condition of fluidsCooling system hoses and connectionsExhaust system , Fuel lines and connectionsLights and controls, Vehicle underbody

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months

Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months

304824

457236

609648

7512060

9014472

10516884

12019296

Refer to page for replacement information under special driving conditions.

152412

120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, then every 60,000 miles(96,000 km) or 5 years

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

Replace engine oil and oil filterCheck engine oil and coolantClean or replace air cleaner element

Inspect valve clearanceReplace spark plugsReplace timing belt and inspect water pumpInspect and adjust drive beltsReplace fuel filterInspect idle speedReplace engine coolant

Replace transmission fluid

Inspect front and rear brakesReplace brake fluid including ABSCheck parking brake adjustmentLubricate all hinges, locks and latchesClean antenna mastCheck tire inflation and condition at least onceper month

See information on maintenance and

emissions warranty, last column, page .

1 :

:

Adjust only if noisy

208

M/TA/T

171

60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years

Use normal schedule except in dusty conditions

1,

Maintenance

ScheduleforS

evereConditions

－－

□□□□

□□□□□

□□□

□□□□□□□

□

□□ □

＃

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CONTINUED

••

Maintenance 175

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

A, B, C, D

A

B

C

D

Refer to page to determine which schedule to use.Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

Replace engine oil and filter.Clean air cleaner element.Inspect front and rear brakes.Check tire inflation and condition at least once permonth.Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots.Inspect suspension components.Inspect driveshaft boots.Check parking brake adjustment.Lubricate all hinges, locks and latches withmultipurpose grease.Clean antenna mast.Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS).Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and checkfor leaks.Inspect cooling system hoses and connections.Inspect exhaust system.Inspect fuel lines and connections.

Check all lights and controls.Inspect the underbody.Replace air cleaner element.Inspect and adjust drive belts.

Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in as required for each distance/time.

3,750 mi/6,000 km7,500 mi/12,000 km11,250 mi/18,000 km15,000 mi/24,000 km/1 yr18,750 mi/30,000 km22,500 mi/36,000 km26,250 mi/42,000 km30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs33,750 mi/54,000 km37,500 mi/60,000 km41,250 mi/66,000 km45,000 mi/72,000 km/3 yrs3 years48,750 mi/78,000 km52,500 mi/84,000 km56,250 mi/90,000 km60,000 mi/96,000 km/3 yrs60,000 mi/96,000 km/4 yrs

Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C, D.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C.

Replace blake fluid (independent of mileage).Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.

Replace transmission fluid (M/T, A/T).Replace fuel filter. Replace timing belt ,

and inspect water pump. Do items in A, B, C, D.

174

See timing belt on page to determine need for replacement.See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page .


Note :

1:: 171

208

1

Maintenance

Schedule

forSevere

Conditions

(listedby

distance/time)

□□

□□ □□

□ □

□

□□

＊

＃＊

＊＃

Maintenance176

See timing belt on page to determine need for replacement.See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, lastcolumn, page .


1 ::

NOTE:••

208

171

63,750 mi/102,000 km67,500 mi/108,000 km71,250 mi/114,000 km75,000 mi/120,000 km/5 yrs78,750 mi/126,000 km82,500 mi/132,000 km86,250 mi/138,000 km90,000 mi/144,000 km/6 yrs6 years90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs93,750 mi/150,000 km97,500 mi/156,000 km101,250 mi/162,000 km105,000 mi/168,000 km/7 yrs

108,750 mi/174,000 km112,500 mi/180,000 km116,250 mi/186,000 km120,000 mi/192,000 km/8 yrs

120,000 mi/192,000 km/10 yrs

120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs120,000 mi/192,000 km/7 yrs

Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.Do items in A, B, C, D.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage).Replace transmission fluid (A/T).

Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.

Replace timing belt , and inspect water pump.Check idle speed. Replace spark plugs.Inspect valve clearance.

Do items in A, B, C.Do items in A.Do items in A, B.Do items in A.

Replace fuel filter. Replace timing belt ,and inspect water pump. Do items in A, B, C, D.

Replace engine coolant, then replace every60,000 mi/96,000 km/5 yrs.

Replace transmission fluid (M/T).Replace transmission fluid (A/T).

1

1

Maintenance

ScheduleforS

evereConditions

(listed

bydistance/time)

CONTINUEDMaintenance

Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

177

3,750 mi

7,500 mi

11,250 mi

15,000 mi

18,750 mi

22,500 mi

26,250 mi

30,000 mi

33,750 mi

37,500 mi

41,250 mi

45,000 mi

48,750 mi

52,500 mi

56,250 mi

60,000 mi

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

Signature or dealer stamp Signature or dealer stamp mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page ) or severeconditions (page ). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.

6,000 km

12,000 km

18,000 km

24,000 km(or 1 year)

30,000 km

36,000 km

42,000 km

48,000 km(or 2 years)

54,000 km

60,000 km

66,000 km


78,000 km

84,000 km

90,000 km


172174

Maintenance

Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

178

63,750 mi

67,500 mi

71,250 mi

75,000 mi

78,750 mi

82,500 mi

86,250 mi

90,000 mi

93,750 mi

97,500 mi

101,250 mi

105,000 mi

108,750 mi

112,500 mi

116,250 mi

120,000 mi

Signature or dealer stamp mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

Signature or dealer stamp mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

102,000 km

108,000 km

114,000 km


126,000 km

132,000 km

138,000 km


150,000 km

156,000 km

162,000 km


174,000 km

180,000 km

186,000 km


－

－

－

－

－

－

－

You should check the followingitems at the specified intervals. Ifyou are unsure of how to performany check, turn to the page given.

Engine oil level Check everytime you fill the fuel tank. Seepage .

Engine coolant level Check theexpansion tank every time you fillthe fuel tank. See page .

Windshield washer fluid Checkthe level in the reservoir monthly.If weather conditions cause you touse the washers frequently, checkthe reservoir each time you stopfor fuel. See page .

Automatic transmission Checkthe fluid level monthly. See page

.

Brakes and clutch Check thefluid level monthly. See page .

Tires Check the tire pressuremonthly. Examine the tread forwear and foreign objects. See page

.

Lights Check the operation ofthe headlights, parking lights,taillights, turn signals, brake lights,and license plate lights monthly.See page .

133

135

192

193

195

209

216

Owner Maintenance Checks

Maintenance 179

Fluid Locations

Maintenance180

BBRRAAKKEE FFLLUUIIDD((GGrraayy CCaapp))

CCLLUUTTCCHH FFLLUUIIDD((GGrraayy CCaapp))

AAUUTTOOMMAATTIICCTTRRAANNSSMMIISSSSIIOONNFFLLUUIIDD DDIIPPSSTTIICCKK((YYeellllooww LLoooopp))

EEXXPPAANNSSIIOONNTTAANNKK CCAAPP

EENNGGIINNEE OOIILL FFIILLLLCCAAPP

EENNGGIINNEE OOIILL DDIIPPSSTTIICCKK((OOrraannggee LLoooopp))

MMAANNUUAALL TTRRAANNSSMMIISSSSIIOONNFFIILLLLEERR BBOOLLTT

WWAASSHHEERR FFLLUUIIDD((BBlluuee CCaapp))

To add oil, unscrew and remove theengine oil fill cap on top of the leftvalve cover. Pour in the oil, andreplace the engine oil fill cap.Tighten it securely. Wait a fewminutes and recheck the oil level. Donot fill above the upper mark; youcould damage the engine.

Oil is major contributor to yourengine’s performance and longevity.Always use a premium-gradedetergent oil displaying the APICertification Seal. This seal indicatesthe oil is energy conserving, and thatit meets the American PetroleumInstitute’s latest requirements. It ishighly recommended that you useHonda Motor Oil in your vehicle foras long as you own it.

Make sure the API Certification Sealsays ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’

CONTINUED

Adding Oil Recommended Oil

Engine Oil

Maintenance 181

AAPPII CCEERRTTIIFFIICCAATTIIOONN SSEEAALL

The numbers on the container’s labeltell you the oil’s viscosity or weight.Select the oil for your car accordingto this chart.

You may use a synthetic motor oil ifit meets the same requirementsgiven for conventional motor oil: itdisplays the API Certification Seal,and it is the proper weight as shownon the chart. When using syntheticoil, you must follow the oil and filterchange intervals given in themaintenance schedule.

Your Acura does not need any oiladditives. Purchasing additives forthe engine or transmission will notincrease your car’s performance orlongevity. It only increases the costof operating your car.

An oil with a viscosity of 10W-30 ispreferred for optimum fuel economyand year-round protection in yourAcura. You may use a 5W-30 oil ifthe temperature in your area goesbelow 32°F (0°C).

Engine Oil

Maintenance

Synthetic Oil Additives

182

AAmmbbiieenntt TTeemmppeerraattuurree

Always change the oil and filteraccording to the time and distance(miles/kilometers) recommenda-tions in the maintenance schedule.The oil and filter collect contami-nants that can damage your engine ifthey are not removed regularly.

Run the engine until it reachesnormal operating temperature,then shut it off.

Remove the engine oil fill cap.Remove the oil drain bolt from thebottom of the engine. Drain the oilinto an appropriate container.

Remove the oil filter and let theremaining oil drain. A specialwrench (available from your Acuradealer) is required to remove thefilter.

Install a new oil filter according toinstructions that come with it.

Changing the oil and filter requiresspecial tools and access fromunderneath the car. The car shouldbe raised on a service station-typehydraulic lift for this service. Unlessyou have the knowledge and properequipment, you should have thismaintenance done by a skilledmechanic.

1.

2. 3.

4.

CONTINUED

Changing the Oil and Filter

Engine Oil

Maintenance 183

WWAASSHHEERR OOIILL DDRRAAIINN BBOOLLTT OOIILL FFIILLTTEERR

Put a new washer on the drain bolt,then reinstall the drain bolt.Tighten it to:

Refill the engine with the recom-mended oil.Engine oil change capacity(including filter):

Turn off the engine, let it sit forseveral minutes, then check the oillevel. If necessary, add oil to bringthe level to the upper mark on thedipstick.

Replace the engine oil fill cap.Start the engine. The oil pressureindicator light should go out withinfive seconds. If it does not, turn offthe engine and reinspect yourwork.

Let the engine run for severalminutes and check the drain boltand oil filter for leaks.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Engine Oil

Maintenance184

33 lbf·ft (45 N·m , 4.6 kgf·m)

5.3 US qt (5.0 , 4.4 Imp qt)

Improper disposal of engine oil can beharmful to the environment. If youchange your own oil, please dispose ofthe used oil properly. Put it in a sealedcontainer and take it to a recyclingcenter. Do not discard it in a trash binor dump it on the ground.

If the expansion tank is completelyempty, add coolant to bring it up tothe MAX line. Inspect the coolingsystem for leaks. This coolant shouldalways be a mixture of 50 percentantifreeze and 50 percent water.Never add straight antifreeze orplain water.

Always use Honda All SeasonAntifreeze/Coolant Type 2. Thiscoolant is pre-mixed with 50 percentantifreeze and 50 percent water. Itdoes not require any additionalmixing. If it is not available, you mayuse another major-brand non-silicatecoolant as a temporary replacement.Make sure it is a high-quality coolantrecommended for aluminum engines.However, continued use of any non-Honda coolant can result incorrosion, causing the coolingsystem to malfunction or fail. Havethe cooling system flushed andrefilled with Honda antifreeze/coolant as soon as possible.

CONTINUED

Adding Engine Coolant

Cooling System

Maintenance 185

EEXXPPAANNSSIIOONN TTAANNKK Removing the expansion tankcap while the engine is hot cancause the coolant to spray out,seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine andradiator cool down beforeremoving the expansion tankcap.

Make sure the engine and radiatorare cool.

Turn the expansion tank capcounterclockwise, withoutpressing down on it, until it stops.This relieves any pressureremaining in the cooling system.

Remove the expansion tank cap bypushing down and turningcounterclockwise.

Pour coolant into the expansiontank. Fill it to the MAX line. Putthe cap back on the expansiontank.

Do not add any rust inhibitors orother additives to your car’scooling system. They may not becompatible with the coolant orengine components.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Cooling System

Maintenance186

Open the hood, the rear window,and engine cover.

Remove the cover protecting thecoolant pipes and shift linkage onthe underside of the car.

To replace the coolant:

Draining the coolant requires accessto the underside of the car. Unlessyou have the tools and knowledge,you should have this maintenancedone by a skilled mechanic.

The cooling system should becompletely drained and refilled withnew coolant according to the timeand distance recommendations inthe maintenance schedule. Only useHonda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. Use of any non-Honda coolant or plain water canresult in corrosion and deposits inthe cooling system.

1.

2.

CONTINUED

Replacing Engine Coolant

Cooling System

Maintenance 187

Remove the drain plug from thebottom of the radiator.

Loosen the bleeder plug on top ofthe radiator.

Start the engine. Turn the heatertemperature control dial tomaximum heat and turn off theengine. Make sure the engine andradiator are cool to the touch.

3. 4. 5.

Cooling System

Maintenance188

DDRRAAIINN PPLLUUGG

BBLLEEEEDDEERR PPLLUUGG

Remove the drain plugs from thecoolant pipes under the car.

Loosen the drain plugs on theengine.

When the coolant stops draining,tighten the engine drain plugs,reinstall the plugs in the coolantpipes, and reinstall the radiatordrain plug.

7.

8.

6.

CONTINUED

Cooling System

Maintenance 189

DDRRAAIINN PPLLUUGGDDRRAAIINN PPLLUUGG

DDRRAAIINN PPLLUUGG

Loosen the bleeder bolt on top ofthe engine.

Loosen the bleeder bolt near theexpansion tank.

Remove the bleeder cap from thetop of the heater inlet.

9. 10. 11.

Cooling System

Maintenance190

BBLLEEEEDDEERR BBOOLLTTBBLLEEEEDDEERR CCAAPP BBLLEEEEDDEERR BBOOLLTT

Turn off the engine. Check theexpansion tank and, if needed, addcoolant to bring it up to the MAXline. Tighten the expansion tankcap. Reinstall the cover on the car’sunderside.

Fill the expansion tank to about 1in. (2.5 cm) above the MAX line.Put the cap back on the tank, onlytighten it to the first stop. Start theengine and let it run until it warmsup (the radiator cooling fan comeson at least twice).

Pour Honda All SeasonAntifreeze/Coolant Type 2 intothe expansion tank. This coolant isa mixture of 50 percent antifreezeand 50 percent water. Pre-mixingis not required.

The cooling system capacity is:

Coolant will go through the tankinto the system. When the tank isfull, go to each of the fourbleeders. Close each bleeder whencoolant comes out of it in a steadystream with no bubbles. You mayneed to refill the expansion tank.

12.

13.

14.

Cooling System

Maintenance 191

EEXXPPAANNSSIIOONN TTAANNKK CCAAPP

3.17 US gal (12.0 , 2.64 Imp gal)

Check the level in the windshieldwasher reservoir at least monthlyduring normal usage. In bad weather,when you use the washers often,check the level every time you stopfor fuel.

Fill the reservoir with a good-qualitywindshield washer fluid. Thisincreases the cleaning capability andprevents freezing in cold weather.

The windshield washer reservoir islocated in the front compartment infront of the radiator.

Check the windshield washer fluidlevel as follows:

Unfasten the reservoir cap.

Cover the small hole on the capwith your finger and pull up untilthe tube is fully exposed.

Read the fluid level on the tube. Ifthe fluid level is near the ‘‘E’’ mark,fill the reservoir with windshieldwasher fluid up to the brim.

1.

2.

3.

Windshield Washers

Maintenance192

RREESSEERRVVOOIIRR CCAAPP

Do not use engine antif reeze or avinegar/water solution in thewindshield washer reservoir.

Antif reeze can damage your car’s paint,while a vinegar/water solution candamage the windshield washer pump.

Use only commercially-availablewindshield washer f luid.

Check the fluid level with the engineat normal operating temperature.

Remove the dipstick (yellow loop)from the transmission and wipe itwith a clean cloth.

Insert the dipstick into thetransmission. Make sure the notchin the rubber cap fits in thedipstick guide and that you pushthe dipstick in all the way.

Remove the dipstick and checkthe fluid level. It should bebetween the upper and lowermarks.

Park the car on level ground. Shutoff the engine.

If the level is below the lowermark, add fluid into the filler holeto bring it to the upper mark.Always use Honda ATF-Z1(Automatic Transmission Fluid). Ifit is not available, you may use aDEXRON III automatictransmission fluid as a temporaryreplacement. However, continueduse can affect shift quality. Havethe transmission flushed andrefilled with Honda ATF-Z1 assoon as it is convenient.

To thoroughly flush thetransmission, the technicianshould drain and refill it withHonda ATF-Z1 (AutomaticTransmission Fluid), then drivethe vehicle a short distance. Dothis three times. Then drain andrefill the transmission a final time.

1.

2.

3.

5.

4.


Transmission Fluid

Maintenance 193

DDIIPPSSTTIICCKK

LLOOWWEERR MMAARRKKUUPPPPEERR MMAARRKK

The transmission should be drainedand refilled with new fluid accordingto the time and distance recommen-dations in the maintenance schedule.

If Honda MTF is not available, youmay use an API service SG, SH or SJgrade motor oil with a viscosity ofSAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 as atemporary replacement. An SGgrade is preferred, but an SH or SJgrade may be used if SG is notavailable. However, motor oil doesnot contain the proper additives andcontinued use can cause stiffershifting. Replace as soon as it isconvenient.

Insert the dipstick all the way backin the transmission.

The transmission should be drainedand refilled with new fluid accordingto the time and distance recommen-dations in the maintenance schedule.

Check the fluid level with thetransmission at normal operatingtemperature and the car sitting onlevel ground. Remove thetransmission filler bolt and carefullyfeel inside the bolt hole with yourfinger. The fluid level should be upto the edge of the bolt hole. If it isnot, add Honda Manual Transmis-sion Fluid (MTF) until it starts torun out of the hole. Reinstall thefiller bolt and tighten it securely.

6.

Transmission Fluid

Maintenance


194

CCOORRRREECCTT LLEEVVEELL

FFIILLLLEERR BBOOLLTT

Always use Honda Heavy DutyBrake Fluid DOT 3. If it is notavailable, you should use only DOT 3or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealedcontainer, as a temporaryreplacement. However, the use ofany non-Honda brake fluid can causecorrosion and decrease the life of thesystem. Have the brake systemflushed and refilled with HondaHeavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3 assoon as possible.

The fluid level should be betweenthe MIN and MAX marks on the sideof the reservoir. If the level is at orbelow the MIN mark, your brakesystem needs attention. Have thebrake system inspected for leaks orworn brake pads.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is notcompatible with your car’s brakingsystem and can cause extensivedamage.

Check the fluid level in the reser-voirs monthly. There are two reser-voirs. They are:

Brake fluid reservoir (all models)Clutch fluid reservoir(manual transmission only)

The brake fluid should be replacedaccording to the time recommenda-tion in the maintenance schedule.

Brake SystemBrake Fluid

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Maintenance 195

MMAAXX

MMIINN

The fluid level should be betweenthe MIN and MAX marks on the sideof the reservoir. If it is not, addbrake fluid to bring it up to that level.Use the same fluid specified for thebrake system.

Low fluid level can indicate a leak inthe clutch system. Have this systeminspected as soon as possible.

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Maintenance

Clutch System

196

MMAAXX

MMIINN

The air cleaner element should becleaned or replaced according to thetime and distance recommendationsin the maintenance schedule.

Clean the air cleaner element byblowing compressed air through it inthe opposite direction to normal airflow. If you do not have access tocompressed air (such as a servicestation), ask your Acura dealer to dothis service.

Follow the replacement procedurefor removal and reinstallation.

The air cleaner element is inside theair cleaner housing on the driver’sside of the engine compartment.

To replace it:

Loosen the hose clamp around theengine air intake tube. Slide thetube off the air cleaner housingcover.

Carefully unsnap a hose from theclips on the air cleaner housingcover.

Loosen the six Phillips-headscrews around the edge of the aircleaner housing cover. Removethe air cleaner housing cover andset it aside.

1.

2.

3.

CONTINUED

Replacement

Cleaning (Severe Conditions)

Air Cleaner Element

Maintenance 197

HHOOSSEE

SSCCRREEWWSS

Remove the old air cleanerelement.Carefully clean the inside of theair cleaner housing with a damprag.

Install the new air cleaner element,making sure the rubber seal fitson all four sides.

Reinstall the air cleaner housingcover. Tighten the six screws.

Slide the air intake tube onto theair cleaner housing cover. Tightenthe hose clamp.

Snap a hose back into the clips onthe air cleaner housing cover.

The fuel filter should be replacedevery 4 years or 60,000 miles (96,000km), whichever comes first.

Have a qualified mechanic changethe fuel filter. Since the fuel systemis under pressure, fuel can spray outand create a hazard if all fuel lineconnections are not handledcorrectly.

The filter may require replacementsooner if you happen to buy one ormore tankfuls of contaminated fuel.Have the filter tested or replaced ifyou suspect it has been clogged bycontaminants.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Maintenance

Air Cleaner Element, Fuel Filter

Fuel Filter

198

AAIIRR CCLLEEAANNEERR EELLEEMMEENNTT

CONTINUED

Replace the spark plugs one side at atime. Make sure the front cylinderignition coils and the back side of thecover are marked ‘‘FR’’ and the rearcylinder ignition coils and the backside of the cover are marked ‘‘RR’’.To replace them:

Remove the cover over the sparkplugs by removing the four 10 mmbolts and the two 10 mm cap nuts.

The spark plugs in your car are aspecial platinum-tipped design forlonger life. They only need to bereplaced every 7 years or 105,000miles (168,000 km), whichevercomes first.

Clean the hood latch assembly with amild cleaner, then lubricate it with amultipurpose grease. Lubricate allthe moving parts, including the pivot.Follow the time and distancerecommendations in theMaintenance Schedule. If you arenot sure how to clean and grease thelatch, contact your Acura dealer.

1.

Maintenance

ReplacementSpark PlugsHood Latch

Hood Latch, Spark Plugs

199

1100 mmmmBBOOLLTTSS

1100 mmmmCCAAPP NNUUTTSS

CCOOVVEERR

PPIIVVOOTTSS

Remove the spark plug witha five-eighths inch (16 mm) sparkplug socket.

Put the new spark plug into thesocket, then screw it into the hole.Screw it in by hand so you do notcrossthread it.

Disconnect the three ignition coilsfrom the wire harness by squeez-ing the harness end of each con-nector and pulling.

Remove the two 10 mm boltsholding the ignition coil. Removethe ignition coil by pulling itstraight out as you twist it slightly.

3.

4. 5.2.

Maintenance

Spark Plugs

200

SSPPAARRKK PPLLUUGG SSOOCCKKEETTIIGGNNIITTIIOONN CCOOIILL 1100 mmmmBBOOLLTT

＋－

Install the ignition coil. Install andtighten the two hold-down bolts to:Tightening torque:

Reconnect the ignition coil to thewire harness.

After changing the three sparkplugs on each side, reinstall thespark plug covers, bolts and nuts.Tighten the bolts and nuts.Tightening torque:

Spark Plug Gap:

Torque the spark plug. (If you donot have a torque wrench, tightenthe spark plug two-thirds of a turnafter it contacts the cylinder head.)Tightening torque:

NGK:DENSO:

6.

7.

8.

9.

Spark Plugs

Maintenance

Specifications:

201

SSPPAARRKK PPLLUUGG SSOOCCKKEETT

13 lbf·ft (18 N·m , 1.8 kgf·m)

9 lbf·ft (12 N·m , 1.2 kgf·m)

0.04 in (1.1 mm)

PK20PR-L11PFR6L-11

9 lbf·ft (12 N·m , 1.2 kgf·m)

00.1 mm

Tighten the spark plugs caref ully. Aspark plug that is too loose canoverheat and damage the engine.Overtightening can cause damage tothe threads in the cylinder head.

Check the battery condition bylooking at the test indicator windowon the battery.The label on the battery explains thetest indicator’s colors.

Check the battery terminals forcorrosion (a white or yellowishpowder). To remove it, cover theterminals with a solution of bakingsoda and water. It will bubble up andturn brown. When this stops, wash itoff with plain water. Dry off thebattery with a cloth or paper towel.Coat the terminals with grease tohelp prevent future corrosion.

Check the condition of your car’sbattery monthly. You should checkthe color of the test indicator window,and for corrosion on the terminals.

Battery posts,terminals and related accessoriescontain lead and lead compounds.

Battery

Maintenance

WARNING:

Wash hands after handling.

202

－

If the terminals are severely cor-roded, clean them with baking sodaand water. Then use a wrench toloosen and remove the cables fromthe terminals. Always disconnect thenegative ( ) cable first and recon-nect it last. Clean the battery termi-nals with a terminal cleaning tool orwire brush. Reconnect and tightenthe cables, then coat the terminalswith grease.

If you need to connect the battery toa charger, disconnect both cables toprevent damage to the car’selectrical system.

CONTINUED

Battery

Maintenance 203

The battery gives off explosivehydrogen gas during normaloperation.

A spark or flame can cause thebattery to explode with enoughforce to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and aface shield, or have a skilledmechanic do the batterymaintenance.

If you need to charge the batteryafter storing the car, make sure youdo it outside the car. Do not connecta battery charger to the jump startterminal in the engine compartmentfuse box.

Disconnect the terminals to preventdamage to the car’s electrical system,and remove the battery from thefront compartment so hydrogen gasdoes not build up during charging.You need to remove the spare tireholder before removing the battery.

Battery

Maintenance204

Charging the battery with the cablesconnected can seriously damage yourcar’s electronic controls. Detach thebattery cables bef ore connecting thebattery to a charger.

－

To replace the blade:

Check the condition of the wiperblades at least every six months.Look for signs of cracking in therubber, or areas that are gettinghard. Replace the blades if you findthese signs, or if they leave streaksand unwiped areas when used.

Turn the ignition ON (II), switchthe wipers to INT or (lowposition), then turn the ignitionOFF when the wiper arm isapproximately midway in its travel.

Disconnect the blade assemblyfrom the wiper arm by pushing inthe lock tab. Hold it in while youpush the blade assembly towardthe base of the arm.

1.

2.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

Wiper Blades

205

LLOOCCKK TTAABB

Remove the blade from its holderby grasping the tabbed end of theblade. Pull firmly until the tabscome out of the holder.

Examine the new wiper blades. Ifthey have no plastic or metal rein-forcement along the back edge,remove the metal reinforcementstrips from the old wiper blade andinstall them in the slots along theedge of the new blade.

Slide the new wiper blade into theholder until the tabs lock.

Slide the wiper blade assemblyonto the wiper arm. Make sure itlocks in place.

Turn the ignition switch ON (II)and return the windshield wipersto their park position.

3. 4.

5.

6.

7.

Maintenance

Wiper Blades

206

RREEIINNFFOORRCCEEMMEENNTT

BBLLAADDEE

Run the air conditioning at least oncea week during the cold weathermonths. Run it for at least tenminutes while you are driving at asteady speed with the engine atnormal operating temperature. Thiscirculates the lubricating oil con-tained in the refrigerant.

If the air conditioning does not get ascold as before, have your dealercheck the system. Recharge thesystem with Refrigerant HFC-134a(R-134a). (See Specifications on page

.)

Your car’s air conditioning is a sealedsystem. Any major maintenance,such as recharging, should be doneby a qualified mechanic. You can doa couple of things to make sure theair conditioning works efficiently.Periodically check the engine’sradiator and air conditioningcondenser for leaves, insects, anddirt stuck to the front surface. Theseblock the air flow and reduce coolingefficiency. Use a light spray from ahose or a soft brush to remove them.

273

Air Conditioning System

Maintenance 207

AAIIRR CCOONNDDIITTIIOONNIINNGG CCOONNDDEENNSSEERRSS

Whenever you have the air conditioningsystem serviced, make sure the servicef acility uses a ref rigerant recyclingsystem. This system captures theref rigerant f or reuse. Releasingref rigerant into the atmosphere candamage the environment.

The condenser and radiator f ins bendeasily. Only use a low-pressure sprayor sof t-bristle brush to clean them.

－－

－－

－－

The belts should have the following‘‘play’’ or deflection.

If you see signs of wear or looseness,have your dealer adjust or replacethe belts.

Compressor belt:

Alternator belt:

The timing belt should normally bereplaced at the intervals shown inthe maintenance schedule.

Replace this belt at 60,000 miles (U.S.)or 100,000 km (Canada) if youregularly drive your car in one ormore of these conditions:

In very high temperatures(over 110°F, 43°C).In very low temperatures(under 20°F, 29°C).

You should check the condition ofthe two engine belts every 2 years.Examine the edges of each belt forcracks or fraying. Check the tensionof each belt by pushing on it at thepoint shown in the diagram.

Maintenance

Drive Belts, Timing Belt

Timing BeltDrive Belts

208

AALLTTEERRNNAATTOORR BBEELLTT

CCOOMMPPRREESSSSOORR BBEELLTT

0.4 0.5 in (10 12 mm)

0.4 0.53 in (11 13.5 mm)

CONTINUED

Keeping the tires properly inflatedprovides the best combination ofhandling, tread life, and ridingcomfort. Underinflated tires wearunevenly, adversely affect handlingand fuel economy, and are morelikely to fail from being overheated.Overinflated tires can make your carride more harshly, are more prone todamage from road hazards, and wearunevenly.

We recommend that you visuallycheck your tires every day and usethe pressure gauge that came withyour car to measure the air pressureat least once a month. If you think atire might be low, check it immedi-ately.

To safely operate your car, your tiresmust be the proper type and size, ingood condition with adequate tread,and correctly inflated. The followingpages give more detailed informationon how and when to check airpressure, how to inspect your tiresfor damage and wear, and what to dowhen your tires need to be replaced.

Inflation

Maintenance

Tires

209

Using tires that are excessivelyworn or improperly inflated cancause a crash in which you canbe seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in thisowner’s manual regarding tireinflation and maintenance.

Use a gauge to measure the airpressure at least once a month. Eventires that are in good condition maylose one to two psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month.Remember to check the spare tire atthe same time you check all theother tires.

Front:

Rear:

The folding spare tire pressure is:Front:

Rear:

These pressures are also given onthe tire information label on thedriver’s doorjamb.

Check the pressure in the tires whenthey are cold. This means the carhas been parked for at least threehours. If you have to drive the carbefore checking the tire pressure,the tires can still be considered‘‘cold’’ if you drive less than 1 mile(1.6 km).

The following chart shows therecommended cold tire pressures formost normal driving conditions andspeeds. Tire pressures for highspeed driving are the same as fornormal driving.

Use the pressure gauge that camewith your car every time you checkthe tires. This will make it easier foryou to tell if a pressure loss is due toa tire problem and not due to avariation between gauges.

If you check the pressure when thetires are hot (the car has been drivenseveral miles), you will see readings4 to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3 to 0.4kgf/cm ) higher than the coldreading. This is normal. Do not letair out to match the specified coldpressure. The tire will beunderinflated.

Tire Size Cold Tire Pressurefor Normal Driving

Tire Size Cold Tire Pressurefor Normal Driving

Tires

Maintenance

Recommended Tire Pressures forNormal Driving

210

26 psi (180 kPa , 1.8 kgf/cm )

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

215/40R17 83Y 33 psi (230 kPa , 2.3kgf/cm )

255/40R17 94Y 40 psi (275 kPa , 2.8kgf/cm )

Tubeless tires have some ability toself-seal if they are punctured.However, because leakage is oftenvery slow, you should look closelyfor punctures if a tire starts losingpressure.

Every time you check inflation, youshould also examine the tires fordamage, foreign objects, and wear.You should look for:

Bumps or bulges in the tread orside of the tire. Replace the tire ifyou find either of these conditions.

Cuts, splits, or cracks in the sideof the tire. Replace the tire if youcan see fabric or cord.

Excessive tread wear.Your car’s tires have wear indicatorsmolded into the tread. When thetread wears down to that point, youwill see a 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wideband running across the tread. Thisshows there is less than 1/16 inch(1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. Atire that is this worn gives very littletraction on wet roads. You shouldreplace the tire if you can see thetread wear indicator in three or moreplaces around the tire.

Inspection

Tires

Maintenance 211

IINNDDIICCAATTOORR LLOOCCAATTIIOONN MMAARRKKSS

TTRREEAADD WWEEAARR IINNDDIICCAATTOORRSS

In addition to proper inflation,correct wheel alignment helps todecrease tire wear. If you find a tireis worn unevenly, have your dealercheck the wheel alignment.

The tires were properly balanced bythe factory. They may need to berebalanced at some time before theyare worn out. Have your dealercheck the tires if you feel a consis-tent vibration while driving. A tireshould always be rebalanced if it isremoved from the wheel for repair.

Make sure the installer balances thewheels when you have new tiresinstalled. This increases ridingcomfort and tire life. Your car’soriginal tires were dynamic or ‘‘spin’’balanced at the factory. For bestresults, have the installer perform adynamic balance.

You should not rotate your NSX’stires. The front and rear tires aredifferent sizes, so they cannot berotated front-to-rear. The original-equipment tires on your NSX have aunidirectional tread pattern, so theycannot be rotated side-to-side.

The tires that came on your NSXwere designed and constructed toprovide superior grip duringacceleration, braking, and cornering.As a trade-off, they will wear morerapidly than tires used on ordinarypassenger cars. Because of the car’sweight distribution, and the fact thatthey are the driving wheels, you canexpect the rear tires to wear morerapidly than the front tires.

Maintenance Tire Rotation

Tire Wear

Tires

Maintenance212

Improper wheel weights can damageyour car’s aluminum wheels. Use onlygenuine Acura wheel weights f orbalancing.

CONTINUED

The tire mileage you can expectfrom your NSX is the same ascomparable mid-and rear-enginedsports cars, and it will vary greatlywith your driving habits. If you drivemoderately, the rear tires could lastmore than 10,000 miles (16,000 km).However, the mileage will besubstantially less if you tend to driveyour NSX at the upper limits of itscapabilities. You should carefullyinspect your car’s tires for wear,damage, and proper inflation every7,500 miles (12,000 km) (see page

).

The tires that came with your carwere selected to match the perform-ance capabilities of the car whileproviding the best combination ofhandling, ride comfort, and long life.You should replace them with radialtires of the same size, load range,speed rating, and maximum cold tirepressure rating (as shown on thetire’s sidewall). Mixing radial andbias-ply tires on your car can reduceits braking ability, traction, andsteering accuracy. It is best to replace all four tires at

the same time. If that is not possibleor necessary, then replace the twofront tires or the two rear tires as apair. Replacing just one tire canseriously affect your car’s handling.

211

Replacing Tires and Wheels

Tires

Maintenance 213

Installing improper tires on yourcar can affect handling andstability. This can cause a crashin which you can be seriouslyhurt or killed.

Always use the size and type oftires recommended in thisowner’s manual.

＋Tires that are marked ‘‘M S’’ or‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have anall-weather tread design. Theyshould be suitable for most winterdriving conditions. Tires withoutthese markings are designed foroptimum traction in dry conditions.They may not provide adequateperformance in winter driving.For the best performance in snowyor icy conditions, you should installsnow tires or tire chains. They maybe required by local laws undercertain conditions.

Wheels:Front:

Rear:

Tires:Front:

Rear:

See page for information aboutDOT Tire Quality Grading.

The ABS works by comparing thespeed of the wheels. When replacingtires, use the same size originallysupplied with the car. Tire size andconstruction can affect wheel speedand may cause the system to work in-consistently.

If you ever need to replace a wheel,make sure the wheel’s specificationsmatch those of the original wheelthat came on your car. Replacementwheels are available at your Acuradealer.

274

Winter DrivingWheels and Tires

Tires

Maintenance214

17 x 9 JJ

17 x 7 JJ

215/40R17 83Y

255/40R17 94Y

If you mount snow tires on yourAcura, make sure they are radialtires of the same size and load rangeas the original tires. Mount snowtires on all four wheels to balanceyour car’s handling in all weatherconditions. Keep in mind the tractionprovided by snow tires on dry roadsmay not be as high as your car’soriginal equipment tires. You shoulddrive cautiously even when the roadsare clear. Check with the tire dealerfor maximum speed recommen-dations.

Metal link-type ‘‘chains’’ should notbe used. No matter how tight theyseem to be installed, they can comeinto contact with the body andsuspension, causing serious damage.

When installing cables, follow themanufacturer’s instructions andmount them as tightly as you can.Drive slowly with them installed. Ifyou hear them coming in contactwith the body or chassis, stop andinvestigate. Make sure the cables areinstalled tightly, and that they arenot contacting the brake lines orsuspension. Remove them as soon asyou begin driving on cleared roads.

Because your Acura has limited tireclearance, mount only SAE Class ‘‘S’’cable-type traction devices on therear tires. Use traction devices onlywhen required by driving conditionsor local laws. Make sure they are thecorrect size for your tires.

Snow Tires Tire Chains

Tires

Maintenance 215

Cables that are the wrong size orimproperly installed can damage yourcar’s brake lines, suspension, body, andwheels. Stop driving if they are hittingany part of the car.

Check the operation of your car’sexterior lights at least once a month.A burned out bulb can create anunsafe condition by reducing yourcar’s visibility and the ability tosignal your intentions to otherdrivers.

Maintenance

Lights

216

TTUURRNN SSIIGGNNAALL LLIIGGHHTT

HHEEAADD LLIIGGHHTTLLOOWW BBEEAAMM


PPAARRKKIINNGG LLIIGGHHTT

HHEEAADDLLIIGGHHTTLLOOWW BBEEAAMM

HHEEAADD LLIIGGHHTTHHIIGGHH BBEEAAMM

SSIIDDEE MMAARRKKEERR LLIIGGHHTT

Check the following:

Headlights (low and high beam)Parking lightsTaillightsBrake lightsTurn signalsBack-up lightsHazard light functionLicense plate lightSide marker lightsDaytime running lights(Canadian cars)

If you find any bulbs are burned out,replace them as soon as possible.Refer to the chart on page todetermine what type of replacementbulb is needed.

273

Maintenance

Lights

217

BBAACCKK--UUPP LLIIGGHHTT

TTAAIILLLLIIGGHHTT

BBRRAAKKEE//TTAAIILLLLIIGGHHTT

LLIICCEENNSSEE PPLLAATTEE LLIIGGHHTT


TTAAIILLLLIIGGHHTT

BBRRAAKKEE//TTAAIILLLLIIGGHHTT

TTUURRNN SSIIGGNNAALL LLIIGGHHTTSSIIDDEE MMAARRKKEERR LLIIGGHHTT

The low beam headlight bulbs are atype of high voltage discharge tube.High voltage can remain in thecircuit even with the light switch offand the key removed. Because ofthis, you should not attempt toexamine or change a low beamheadlight bulb yourself. If a lowbeam headlight bulb fails, take thecar to your dealer to have it replaced.Halogen bulbs are used for the highbeam headlight bulbs. Whenreplacing a high beam headlight bulb,handle it by its base and protect theglass from contact with your skin orhard objects. If you touch the glass,clean it with denatured alcohol and aclean cloth.

Open the hood.

Remove the electrical connectorfrom the bulb by squeezing theconnector to unlock the tab, thenslide the connector off the bulb.

Remove the bulb by turning itapproximately one-quarter turncounterclockwise.

Insert the new bulb into the holeand turn it one-quarter turn clock-wise to lock it in place.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Lights

Maintenance

Replacing a Headlight Bulb

218

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hotwhen lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratchon the glass can cause the bulb tooverheat and shatter.

Turn on the headlights to test thenew bulb.

Push the electrical connector backonto the bulb. Make sure it is onall the way.

Remove the socket from theheadlight assembly by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket.

Install the new bulb into thesocket.

Insert the socket back into theheadlight assembly. Turn itclockwise to lock it in place.

Test the lights to make sure thenew bulb is working.

1.

2.

5.

6.

3.

4.

5.

Lights

Replacing the Front ParkingLights

Maintenance 219

Insert the socket back into theheadlight assembly. Turn itclockwise to lock it in place.


Remove the socket from theheadlight assembly by turning itone-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Remove the bulb by pushing it inslightly and turning it counter-clockwise.

Install the new bulb into thesocket.

2.

3.

4.

5.

1.

Lights

Maintenance

Replacing a Front Turn SignalBulb

220

Turn the socket one-quarter turncounterclockwise to remove itfrom the lens.

Use your fingernail to lift therubber seal along the back edge ofthe side marker lens.

Use a small flat blade screwdriverunder the rubber seal to prycarefully on the back edge of theside marker assembly until it popsout of the body.

Remove the electrical connectorfrom the bulb holder by squeezingthe connector and pulling themapart.

Put the side marker assemblyback into the body, front first.Push on the back edge until itsnaps into place.

Turn on the parking lights andcheck that the new bulb isworking.

Plug the wire harness back intothe bulb holder.

Put the socket back into its hole inthe lens and turn it clockwise untilit locks.

Push the new bulb straight intothe socket until it bottoms.

Pull the bulb straight out of itssocket.

3.

4.

5.

6.

2.

1.

7.

8.

9.

Lights

Maintenance

Replacing Side Marker Bulbs

221

RRUUBBBBEERR SSEEAALL

BBUULLBB HHOOLLDDEERR CCOONNNNEECCTTOORR

FFLLAATT BBLLAADDEESSCCRREEWWDDRRIIVVEERR

Pull the top edge of the trunk linerout from under the rubber seal.Remove the plastic clips holdingthe trunk liner by putting yourthumbs under the head of the clipbetween the liner and body andpushing the clip outward as youwiggle it back and forth.

Determine which bulb in thetaillight assembly is burned out.

The bulbs for the taillights, tail/stop-lights, rear turn signals, and back-uplights are behind the trunk liner.

If the turn signal light bulb, back-up bulb, or tail/stoplight bulb isburned out, remove it by pushingit in and turning counterclockwise.If the taillight bulb is burned out,remove it by pulling it straight outof its socket.

Install the new bulb in the socketin the reverse order of removal.

To reinstall the socket, line up thetabs on the socket with the slots inthe taillight, push the socket intothe hole, and turn it clockwiseuntil it locks.


Install the trunk liner clips bypushing them straight in. Insertthe top edge of the liner backunder the rubber seal.

Remove the socket from the tail-light assembly by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise andpulling it outward.

1.

2.

3.

8.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Lights

Maintenance

Replacing Rear Bulbs

222

Install the new bulb in the socket.

Turn on the parking lights andmake sure the new bulb isworking. Reinstall the license plateassembly on the bumper bracketwith the same two screws.

Use a Phillips-head screwdriver toremove the two screws holdingthe license plate light assembly tothe bracket. Pull the assemblyaway from the bracket. Pull the bulb straight out of the

socket.

Remove the socket from the lightassembly by turning it one-quarterturn counterclockwise.

3.

4.

5.

1. 2.

Lights

Maintenance

Replacing a Rear License PlateBulb

223

Remove the bulb by pulling itstraight out of its metal tabs.

The courtesy lights in the doors, roofand under the dashboard come apartthe same way. They do not all usethe same bulb.

Push the new bulb into the metaltabs. Snap the cover back in place.

Remove the lens by carefullyprying on the edge with yourfingernail or a small flat-tipscrewdriver. The two lenses onthe roof-mounted interior lightcome out as a unit.

1. 2.

3.

Lights

Maintenance

Replacing Bulbs in the InteriorCourtesy Lights

224

DDOOOORR FFOOOOTTWWEELLLL

Lights

Maintenance 225

IINNTTEERRIIOORR TTRRUUNNKK

Block the rear wheels.

Disconnect the battery.

If possible, run the engine for awhile periodically (preferably oncea month).

Support the front wiper bladearms with a folded towel or rag sothey do not touch the windshield.

To minimize sticking, apply asilicone spray lubricant to all doorand trunk seals. Also, apply avehicle body wax to the paintedsurfaces that mate with the doorand trunk seals.

Fill the fuel tank.

Change the engine oil and filter(see page ).

Wash and dry the exteriorcompletely.

Clean the interior. Make sure thecarpeting, floor mats, etc. arecompletely dry.

If you need to park your car for anextended period (more than onemonth), there are several things youshould do to prepare it for storage.Proper preparation helps preventdeterioration and makes it easier toget your car back on the road. Ifpossible, store your car indoors.

If the car is to be stored for alonger period, it should besupported on jackstands so thetires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (ifthe car is being stored indoors).

Cover the car with a ‘‘breathable’’cover, one made from a porousmaterial such as cotton.Nonporous materials, such asplastic sheeting, trap moisture,which can damage the paint.

If you store your car for 12 monthsor longer, have your Acura dealerperform the inspections called for inthe 24 months/30,000 miles (48,000km) maintenance schedule (NormalConditions) as soon as you take itout of storage (see page ). Thereplacements called for in themaintenance schedule are notneeded unless the car has actuallyreached that time or mileage.Leave the parking brake off. Put

the transmission in Reverse (6-speed manual) or Park(automatic).

183

172

Maintenance

Storing Your Car

226

Regular cleaning and polishing ofyour Acura helps to keep it ‘‘new’’looking. This section gives you hintson how to clean your car andpreserve its appearance: the paint,brightwork, wheels and interior. Alsoincluded are several things you cando to help prevent corrosion.

.................................Exterior Care . 228.....................................Washing . 228

.........Power Antenna Cleaning . 229.......................................Waxing . 229

....................Aluminum Wheels . 230..........................Paint Touch-up . 230

..................................Interior Care . 230...................................Carpeting . 230.................................Floor Mats . 231

.........................................Fabric . 231...........................................Vinyl . 232

.......................................Leather . 232...................................Seat Belts . 232....................................Windows . 232

..........................Air Fresheners . 232....................Corrosion Protection . 233

.................................Body Repairs . 234

Appearance Care

Appearance Care

227

When you have washed and rinsedthe whole exterior, dry it with achamois or soft towel. Letting itair-dry will cause dulling and waterspots.

Fill a bucket with cool water. Mixin a mild detergent, such asdishwashing liquid or a productmade especially for car washing.

Only use the solvents and cleanersrecommended in this Owner’sManual.

Frequent washing helps preserveyour car’s beauty. Dirt and grit canscratch the paint, while tree sap andbird droppings can permanently ruinthe finish.

Wash your car in a shady area, not indirect sunlight. If the car is parked inthe sun, move it into the shade andlet the exterior cool down before youstart.

Rinse the car thoroughly with coolwater to remove loose dirt.

Wash the car using the water anddetergent solution and a soft-bristle brush, sponge, or soft cloth.Start at the top and work your waydown. Rinse frequently.

Check the body for road tar, treesap, etc. Remove these stains withtar remover or turpentine. Rinse itoff immediately so it does notharm the finish. Remember to re-wax these areas, even if the rest ofthe car does not need waxing.

As you dry the car, inspect it forchips and scratches that could allowcorrosion to start. Repair them withtouch-up paint (see page ).230

Exterior Care

Appearance Care

Washing

228

Although the exterior panels on yourNSX are made of hardened aluminum,they may dent more easily than steelunder some conditions. Exercise carewhen leaning on or over any part of thebody.

Chemical solvents and strong cleanerscan damage the paint, metal, andplastic on your car.

－

－

Twice a year, clean the antenna mastwith a dry cloth and mild detergent.Scrub the antenna in upward strokesto avoid bending it. Rinse with water.

Make sure the antenna workssmoothly by turning the stereo offand on several times with theignition switch ON (II). The antennadoes not need lubricating.

If you use a ‘‘drive-through’’ car wash,make sure you turn the stereo offfirst. This retracts the antenna toprevent damage from the car washbrushes.

Polishes Polishes and cleaner/waxes can restore the shine to paintthat has oxidized and lost some of itsshine. They normally contain mildabrasives and solvents that removethe top layer of the finish. Youshould use a polish on your Acura ifthe finish does not have its originalshine after using a wax.

Cleaning tar, insects, etc. withremovers also takes off the wax.Remember to re-wax those areas,even if the rest of the car does notneed waxing.

Always wash and dry the whole carbefore waxing it. You should waxyour car, including the metal trim,whenever water sits on the surfacein large patches. It should form intobeads or droplets after waxing.

You should use a quality liquid orpaste wax. Apply it according to theinstructions on the container. Ingeneral, there are two types ofproducts:

Waxes A wax coats the finish andprotects it from damage by exposureto sunlight, air pollution, etc. Youshould use a wax on your Acurawhen it is new.

Exterior Care

Appearance Care

Power Antenna Cleaning Waxing

229

The wheels have a protective clear-coat that keeps the aluminum fromcorroding and tarnishing. Usingharsh chemicals, including somecommercial wheel cleaners, or stiffbrushes can damage this clear-coat.Only use a mild detergent and softbrush or sponge to clean the wheels.

Clean your Acura’s aluminum alloywheels as you do the rest of theexterior. Wash them with the samesolution, and rinse them thoroughly.

Your dealer has touch-up paint tomatch your car’s color. The colorcode is printed on a sticker on thedriver’s doorjamb. Take this code toyour dealer so you are sure to getthe correct color. Although barealuminum does not ‘‘rust’’ like baremetal, it will corrode and turn to dullgray if left unprotected.

Inspect your car frequently for chipsor scratches in the paint. Repairthem right away to prevent corrosionof the metal underneath. Use thetouch-up paint only on small chipsand scratches. More extensive paintdamage should be repaired by aprofessional.

Vacuum the carpeting frequently toremove dirt. Ground-in dirt will makethe carpet wear out faster.Periodically shampoo the carpet tokeep it looking new. Use one of thefoam-type carpet cleaners on themarket. Follow the instructions thatcome with the cleaner, applying itwith a sponge or soft brush. Keepthe carpeting as dry as possible bynot adding water to the foam.

Appearance Care

Paint Touch-upAluminum Wheels Carpeting

Exterior Care, Interior Care

230

The genuine Acura driver’s floor matthat came with your car wasdesigned to be hooked over the floormat anchor. This keeps the floor matfrom sliding forward and possiblyinterfering with the pedals.

If you remove the floor mat, makesure to re-anchor it when you put itback in your car.

If you use a non-Acura floor mat inthe driver’s footwell, make sure itfits properly and that it can beused with the floor mat anchor.

Do not put additional floor mats ontop of the anchored mat,otherwise the additional mats mayslide forward and interfere withthe pedals.

Vacuum dirt and dust out of thematerial frequently. For generalcleaning, use a solution of mild soapand lukewarm water, letting it air dry.To clean off stubborn spots, use acommercially-available fabric cleaner.Test it on a hidden area of the fabricfirst, to make sure it does not bleachor stain the fabric. Follow theinstructions that come with thecleaner.

If you replace it, use a genuine Acurafloor mat that is designed to be usedwith the floor mat anchor in yourvehicle.

The plates on both the driver’s andpassenger’s floor mats should beinserted between the rail motor andseat rails underneath the seats.

Interior Care

Floor Mats Fabric

Appearance Care 231

RRAAIILL MMOOTTOORR

PPLLAATTEE

PPLLAATTEEFFLLOOOORR MMAATT

Remove dirt and dust with a vacuumcleaner. Wipe the vinyl with a softcloth dampened in a solution of mildsoap and water. Use the samesolution with a soft-bristle brush onmore difficult spots. You can also usecommercially-available spray orfoam-type vinyl cleaners.

Vacuum dirt and dust from theleather frequently. Pay particularattention to the pleats and seams.Clean the leather with a soft clothdampened with clear water, thenbuff it with a clean, dry cloth. Iffurther cleaning is needed, use asoap specifically for leather, such assaddle soap. Apply this soap with adamp, soft cloth. Wipe down andbuff as described above.

If your seat belts get dirty, you canuse a soft brush with a mixture ofmild soap and warm water to cleanthem. Do not use bleach, dye, orcleaning solvents. They can weakenthe belt material. Let the belts air-dry before you use the car.

Clean the windows, inside and out,with a commercially-available glasscleaner. You can also use a mixtureof one part white vinegar to ten partswater. This will remove the haze thatbuilds up on the inside of thewindows. Use a soft cloth or papertowels to clean all glass and clearplastic surfaces.

If you use a liquid air freshener,make sure you fasten it securely so itdoes not spill as you drive.

If you want to use an air freshener/deodorizer in the interior of your car,it is best to use a solid type. Someliquid air fresheners contain chemi-cals that may cause parts of theinterior trim and fabric to crack ordiscolor.

Vinyl

Leather

Seat Belts

Windows

Air Fresheners

Interior Care

Appearance Care232

The rear window defogger andantenna wires are bonded to the insideof the glass. Wiping vigorously up-and-down can dislodge and break these

wires. When cleaning the rear window,use gentle pressure and wipe side-to-side.

Use a high-pressure spray to cleanthe underside of your car. This isespecially important in areas thatuse road salt in winter. It is also agood idea in humid climates andareas subject to salt air. Be carefulof the ABS wheel sensors andwiring at each wheel.

Have the corrosion-preventivecoatings on the underside of yourcar inspected and repairedperiodically.

Check the floor coverings fordampness. Carpeting and floormats may remain damp for a longtime, especially in winter. Thisdampness can eventually causethe floor panels to corrode.

Inspect and clean out the drainholes in the bottom of the doorsand body.

Repair chips and scratches in thepaint as soon as you discover them.

Many corrosion-preventive measuresare built into your Acura. You canhelp keep your car from corrodingby performing some simple periodicmaintenance:

Two factors normally contribute tocausing corrosion in your car:

Moisture trapped in body cavities.Dirt and road salt that collects inhollows on the underside of thecar stays damp, promotingcorrosion in that area.

Removal of paint and protectivecoatings from the exterior andunderside of the car.

1.

2.

Appearance Care

Corrosion Protection

Corrosion Protection

233

Inspect areas of the body that havebeen repaired rather than replaced.Try to look at the inside surfaces.Make sure the repair includedreapplication of corrosion-preventivecoatings. Bare metal corrodes veryfast.

If you have any doubts aboutreplaced or repaired body parts andwhether corrosion-preventionmeasures were used during therepair, take the car to your Acuradealer for inspection.

Make sure the repair facility usesgenuine Acura replacement bodyparts. Some companies make sheetmetal pieces that seem to duplicatethe original Acura body parts, butare actually inferior in fit, finish, andcorrosion resistance. Once installed,they do not give the same high-quality appearance.

The entire body and undercarriageof your NSX is made of aluminum.Aluminum has different propertiesthan steel, so special techniques arerequired to do successful body repair.

It is recommended that you choose abody shop experienced in repairingan aluminum body. Contact yourAcura dealer for recommendations.

Body Repairs

Appearance Care

Body Repairs

234

This section covers the more-common problems that motoristsexperience with their vehicles. Itgives you information about how tosafely evaluate the problem and whatto do to correct it. If the problem hasstranded you on the side of the road,you may be able to get going again.If not, you will also find instructionson getting your car towed.

....................Changing a Flat Tire . 236..........If Your Engine Won’t Start . 249

Nothing Happens or theStarter Motor Operates

........................Very Slowly . 249The Starter Operates

................................Normally . 250

................................Jump Starting . 251............If Your Engine Overheats . 254

.........Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 256..........Charging System Indicator . 257

.......Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 258...............Brake System Indicator . 260

..............................................Fuses . 261..........Checking and Replacing . 263

.................If Your Car Gets Stuck . 267......................Emergency Towing . 268

Taking Care of the Unexpected

Taking Care of the Unexpected 235

If you have a flat tire while driving,stop in a safe place to change it.Stopping in traffic or on the shoulderof a busy road is dangerous. Driveslowly along the shoulder until youget to an exit or an area to stop thatis far away from the traffic lanes.

Open the hood (see page ).Unscrew the wing bolt holding thefolding spare tire. Remove thefolding spare tire from the com-partment. The wing bolt and wheelmay be very warm from the airpassing through the radiator. Usea cloth or gloves (not provided) toprotect your hands when remov-ing the spare tire.

Park the car on firm, level andnon-slippery ground away fromtraffic. Put the transmission inPark (automatic) or Reverse(manual). Apply the parking brake.

Turn on the hazard warning lightsand turn the ignition switch toLOCK (0). Have your passengerget out of the car while youchange the tire.

2.

1. 3. 135


Changing a Flat Tire

236

WWIINNGG BBOOLLTT

FFOOLLDDIINNGG SSPPAARREE TTIIRREE

The car can easily roll off thejack, seriously injuring anyoneunderneath.

Follow the directions forchanging a tire exactly, andnever get under the car when itis supported only by the jack.

CONTINUED

Place the air pump near the flattire. Open the nearest window, androute the air pump’s power cordthrough the open window.

Open the trunk (see page ). Liftthe cover; remove the jack, wheelwrench, extension, air pump,pressure gauge, and screwdriverfrom the trunk. The tools maybecome very hot while the car isbeing driven. Wear gloves or use aprotective cloth when handling thetools.

4. 5.68



237

WWHHEEEELL WWRREENNCCHH JJAACCKK

AAIIRRPPUUMMPP

PPRREESSSSUURREE GGAAUUGGEE

SSCCRREEWWDDRRIIVVEERR

EEXXTTEENNSSIIOONN

AAIIRR PPUUMMPPThe radiator’s electric fan runsautomatically, even with theignition off. The fan’s bladescan injure you.

Keep your hands, arms, andclothing away from the fanwhen removing the spare tire.

Loosen the five wheel nuts 1/2turn with the wheel wrench.

Remove the cigarette lighter fromits socket and plug the power cordend into the socket. Make sure thekey is in the ignition switch atLOCK (0).

Locate the jacking point nearestthe tire you need to change. It ispointed to by an arrow molded intothe underside of the body. Placethe jack under the jacking point.Turn the end bracket clockwiseuntil the top of the jack contactsthe jacking point. Make sure thejacking point tab is resting in thejack notch.

6. 7. 8.



238

CCIIGGAARREETTTTEE LLIIGGHHTTEERR PPOOWWEERR CCOORRDD

WWHHEEEELL NNUUTTSS JJAACCKKIINNGG PPOOIINNTT

CONTINUED

Remove the wheel nuts and flattire. Temporarily place the flat tireon the ground with the outsidesurface of the aluminum wheelfacing up. Placing the wheel facedown could mar its finish.

Use the extension and wheelwrench as shown to raise the caruntil the flat tire is off the ground.

9. 10.



239

WWHHEEEELL WWRREENNCCHH

EEXXTTEENNSSIIOONN

Garage-type f loor jacks and jacks ofsimilar design can damage your car’sunderbody, even if they are located onthe jacking point. Only use the scissorsjack that comes with your NSX to raisethe car.

Before you put on the foldingspare tire, wipe any dirt off themounting surface of the wheel andhub with a clean cloth. This willassure a tight, even contactbetween the wheel and hub.

Put on the folding spare tire withthe air valve toward the bottom.Put the wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in acrisscross pattern with the wheelwrench until the wheel is firmlyagainst the hub. Do not try totighten them fully. Inflate thefolding spare tire only when it ison the car. Inflating it while it islying on the ground may trapstones or other foreign matterbetween the tire and the wheel rim.

11. 12.



240

FFOOLLDDIINNGG SSPPAARREETTIIRREE

BBRRAAKKEE HHUUBB

CONTINUED

Unscrew the valve cap from thefolding spare tire’s air valve byturning it counterclockwise. Thenscrew on the air pump hose.

Reach into the car and turn theignition switch to ACCESSORY (I).This will start the air pump toinflate the tire.

14.13.



241

VVAALLVVEE CCAAPP

Do not climb into the car when it is onthe jack. You could cause the car to rollof f the jack, damaging the suspensionand body.Keep your f ingers and clothing awayas the tire inf lates and unfolds f rom itscompact size.

Front:

Rear:

After about five minutes, unscrewthe air pump hose and check thepressure with the suppliedpressure gauge.Inflate to:

When finished, reach in and turnthe ignition switch to LOCK (0).Unplug the air pump power cord.

Screw the valve cap on the valvetightly with your hands.

17.15. 16.



242

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

26 psi (180 kPa , 1.8 kgf/cm )

CONTINUED

Lower the car to the ground andremove the jack.

Tighten the wheel nuts securely inthe same crisscross pattern. Havethe wheel nut torque checked atthe nearest automotive servicefacility.

Tighten the wheel nuts to:

Store the jack, wheel wrench,extension, air pump, pressuregauge and screwdriver in thetrunk.

Put the flat tire in the suppliedvinyl bag. This bag is stored inthe glove box.

18. 19.

20.

21.



243

11

22

33 44

55

80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)

Before returning the folding sparetire to its compartment, you must letout all the air. It will fold back to itsoriginal space saving shape.

The folding spare tire must be offthe ground when you let the air out.It is best to deflate the folding sparetire while it is still mounted on thecar. This prevents foreign materialfrom being trapped between thewheel and tire.

If the folding spare tire is still onthe car, follow the instructionsunder toloosen the wheel nuts and jack upthe car.

Temporarily keep the wing bolt inthe trunk as well. See

on pagefor tire replacement.

Slide the tire in the trunk well withthe outside surface of thealuminum wheel facing up.

1.

213

23.

22.



Storing the Folding Spare Tire


ReplacingTires and Wheels

244

CONTINUED

Unscrew and remove the foldingspare tire valve cap.

Remove the rubber cover on top ofthe valve cap. Use the notch onthe valve cap to unscrew the sparetire valve core until the air startscoming out. Use your hand toshield your eyes. The valve corecan fly out under pressure.

Keep your fingers and clothing awayas the tire deflates and folds back toits compact size.

2. 3.



245

As the tire deflates, it will foldback to its original shape. Whenthe air stops coming out of the tire,use the notch on the valve cap totighten the valve core.

Put the rubber cap back on thevalve cap. Screw the valve capback on the folding spare tirevalve.

Remove the folding spare tire andinstall the original tire and wheelnuts. Lower the car and tightenthe wheel nuts securely in a criss-cross pattern. Tighten to:

4. 5. 6.



246

11

44

2255

33

VVAALLVVEE CCAAPP

80 lbf·ft (108 N·m , 11 kgf·m)

CONTINUED

Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h)under any circumstances.

Applying oil to any component ofthe air pump is not necessary.

The surface of the air pump willbecome hot during use. Do nottouch the air pump while in use.

Continuous operation for morethan 15 minutes could damage theair pump. Let it cool down beforeusing it again.

Follow these precautions:

Store the folding spare tire in thefront compartment with theoutside surface of the wheelcontacting the bracket of thespare tire well. Securely tightenthe wing bolt.

The air pump that comes with yourNSX is designed specifically toinflate the folding spare tire.

Your car comes with a folding sparetire. Use this spare tire as a tempo-rary replacement only. Get yourregular tire replaced and put back onyour car as soon as you can.

Inflate or deflate the spare tireonly when it is on the car. Inflatingit on the ground may trap stonesor other foreign matter betweenthe tire and the wheel rim.

Follow these precautions wheneveryou are using the folding spare tire:

Connect the air pump only to a12 V car battery. Connecting it toany other power source coulddamage the air pump.

7.


Air Pump Folding Spare Tire


247

This tire gives a harsher ride andless traction on some road sur-faces than the regular tire. Usegreater caution while driving onthis tire.

The spare tire is smaller than theregular tire, reducing your car’sground clearance. Such things asroad debris and parking lot speedbumps could possibly damage theunderside of your car.

Do not take your car to an auto-matic car wash when the spare tireis mounted. Because of the re-duced ground clearance, theunderside of your car could bedamaged by the mechanism thatpulls the car through the car wash.

The wheel of the spare tire isdesigned especially to fit your car.Do not use your spare tire onanother car unless it is the samemake and model.

Do not mount snow chains on thefolding spare tire.

The folding spare tire has a shortertread life than a regular tire. Replaceit when you can see the tread wearindicator bars. The spare tire is notdesigned to be mounted on a regularwheel, and the compact wheel is notdesigned for mounting a regular tire.

The folding spare tire cannot berepaired. Special equipment isrequired to remove it from the rimand install a new tire. If it isdamaged, replace it with a foldingspare tire of the same design. Newspare tires are available at yourAcura dealer.



248

IINNDDIICCAATTOORRLLOOCCAATTIIOONNMMAARRKK

TTRREEAADD WWEEAARRIINNDDIICCAATTOORRBBAARR

CONTINUED

Diagnosing why your engine won’tstart falls into two areas, dependingon what you hear when you turn thekey to START (III):

You hear nothing, or almostnothing. The engine’s startermotor does not operate at all, oroperates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motoroperating normally, or the startermotor sounds like it is spinningfaster than normal, but the enginedoes not start up and run.

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).Check the voltmeter reading. Turnon the headlights and check theirbrightness. If the voltmeter doesnot register and the headlights arevery dim or don’t light at all, thebattery is discharged. See

on page .

If the voltmeter reads normallyand the headlights are bright, turnthe key to START (III) thenrelease it.

Your car has the ImmobilizerSystem. You should use aproperly-coded master or valet keyto start the engine (see page ).A key that is not properly codedwill cause the immobilizer systemindicator in the dash panel to blinkrapidly.

When you turn the ignition switch toSTART (III), you do not hear thenormal noise of the engine trying tostart. You may hear a clicking soundor series of clicks, or nothing at all.Check these things:

Check the transmission interlock.If you have a manual transmission,the clutch pedal must be pushedall the way to the floor or thestarter will not operate. With anautomatic transmission, it must bein Park or Neutral.

If the headlights do not dim, checkthe condition of the fuses. If thefuses are OK, there is probablysomething wrong with theelectrical circuit for the ignitionswitch or starter motor. You willneed a qualified technician todetermine the problem.(See

on page .)

251

63

268


If Your Engine Won’t Start

JumpStarting

Nothing Happens or the StarterMotor Operates Very Slowly

Emergency Towing

249

There may be an electricalproblem, such as no power to thefuel pump. Check all the fuses(see page ).

If you find nothing wrong, you willneed a qualified technician to findthe problem. See

on page .

In this case, the starter motor’sspeed sounds normal, or even fasterthan normal, when you turn theignition switch to START (III), butthe engine does not run.

Do you have fuel? Turn theignition switch to ON (II) for aminute and watch the fuel gauge.The low fuel level warning lightmay not be working, so you werenot reminded to fill the tank.

Are you using the proper startingprocedure? Refer to

on page .

If the headlights dim noticeably orgo out when you try to start theengine, either the battery is dis-charged or the connections arecorroded. Check the condition of thebattery and terminal connections(see page ). You can then tryjump starting the car from a boosterbattery (see page ).

202

251147

261

268

If Your Engine Won’t Start


The Starter Operates Normally

EmergencyTowingStarting the

Engine

250

CONTINUED

You cannot start an Acura with anautomatic transmission by pushingor pulling it.

Put the transmission in Neutral orPark, and set the parking brake.

Turn off all the electrical acces-sories: climate control, stereosystem, lights, etc.

Open the hood and check thephysical condition of the battery(see page ). In very coldweather, check the condition ofthe electrolyte. If it seems slushyor like ice, do not try jump startinguntil it thaws.

If your car’s battery has run down,you may be able to start the engineby using a booster battery. Althoughthis seems like a simple procedure,you should take several precautions.

To jump start your car, follow thesedirections closely:

1.

2.

202


Jump Starting

251

A battery can explode if you donot follow the correct procedure,seriously injuring anyonenearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames,and smoking materials awayfrom the battery.

If a battery sits in extreme cold, theelectrolyte inside can f reeze.Attempting to jump start with a f rozenbattery can cause it to rupture.

－

＋

Connect the second jumper cableto the negative ( ) terminal onthe booster battery. Connect theother end to the boss on the intakemanifold as shown. Do notconnect this jumper cable to anyother part of the engine.

Connect one jumper cable to theJUMP START terminal in the fusebox. Connect the other end to thepositive ( ) terminal on thebooster battery.

Open the rear window and enginecover. Locate the enginecompartment fuse box on thedriver’s side of the compartment.Remove the fuse box cover.

3. 4. 5.


Jump Starting

252

FFUUSSEE BBOOXX CCOOVVEERR

JJUUMMPP SSTTAARRTTTTEERRMMIINNAALL

If the booster battery is in anothercar, have an assistant start that carand run it at a fast idle.

Start your car. If the starter motorstill operates slowly, check thejumper cable connections to makesure they have good metal-to-metal contact.

Once your car is running, discon-nect the negative cable from yourcar, then from the booster battery.Disconnect the positive cable fromyour car, then the booster battery.

Keep the ends of the jumper cablesaway from each other and any metalon the car until all are disconnected.Otherwise, you may cause anelectrical short.

8.

7.6.

Jump Starting


BBOOOOSSTTEERR BBAATTTTEERRYY

If the temperature gauge stays atthe red mark, turn off the engine.

Safely pull to the side of the road.Put the transmission in Neutral orPark and set the parking brake.Turn off the climate control and allother accessories. Turn on thehazard warning indicators.

If you do not see steam or spray,leave the engine running andwatch the temperature gauge. Ifthe high heat is due to overloading(climbing a long, steep hill on ahot day with the A/C running, forexample), the engine should startto cool down almost immediately.If it does, wait until the tempera-ture gauge comes down to the mid-point then continue driving.

Wait until you see no more signsof steam or spray, then open thefront hood and engine cover.

Your car can overheat for severalreasons, such as lack of coolant or amechanical problem. The onlyindication may be the temperaturegauge climbing to or above the redmark. Or you may see steam orspray coming from under the car orengine cover. In either case, youshould take immediate action.

The pointer of your car’s tempera-ture gauge should stay in the mid-range under most conditions. It maygo higher if you are driving up a longsteep hill on a very hot day. If itclimbs to the red mark, you shoulddetermine the reason.

If you see steam and/or spraycoming from under the car or theengine cover, turn off the engine.

1.

3.

4.

5.

2.

If Your Engine Overheats

Taking Care of the Unexpected254

Steam and spray from anoverheated engine canseriously scald you.

Do not open the hood if steamis coming out.

Driving with the temperature gaugepointer at the red mark can causeserious damage to your engine.

Look for any obvious coolant leaks,such as a split radiator hose.Everything is still extremely hot,so use caution. If you find a leak, itmust be repaired before youcontinue driving (see

on page ).

If you don’t find an obvious leak,check the coolant level in theexpansion tank (see page ).

If the expansion tank needscoolant, you will have to removethe cap. Before doing that, turnthe ignition switch ON (II) andcheck the temperature gauge.Remove the expansion tank cap

if the temperature gaugepointer has come down to normalor below and you do not hear anybubbling or gurgling noisescoming from the cooling system.

Use a cloth or glove to protectyour hand while removing theexpansion tank cap. Withoutpressing it downward, turn the capone-quarter turn counterclockwise.Stop and wait for any pressure inthe expansion tank to escape.Then press down on the cap andturn it counterclockwise to removeit.

Start the engine and set theclimate control to FULL AUTO at90°F (32°C). Add coolant up tothe MAX line on the expansiontank. If you do not have the propercoolant mixture available, you canadd plain water. Remember tohave the cooling system drainedand refilled with the propermixture as soon as you can.

If the temperature stays normal,check the coolant level in theexpansion tank. If it has gonedown, add coolant to the MAXmark. Put the expansion tank capback on tightly.

Put the expansion tank cap backon tightly. Run the engine andwatch the temperature gauge. If itgoes back to the red mark, theengine needs repair. (See

on page .)

6. 7.

9.

8.

135

10.

11.

12.

268

268

EmergencyTowing

ONLY

Emergency Towing

If Your Engine Overheats


Removing the expansion tankcap while the engine is hot cancause the coolant to spray out,seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine andradiator cool down beforeremoving the expansion tankcap.

This indicator should light when theignition switch is ON (II), and go outafter the engine starts. It shouldnever come on when the engine isrunning. If it starts flashing, itindicates that the oil pressuredropped very low for a moment, thenrecovered. If the indicator stays onwith the engine running, it showsthat the engine has lost oil pressureand serious engine damage ispossible. In either case, you shouldtake immediate action.

Start the engine and watch the oilpressure indicator. If the lightdoes not go out within ten seconds,turn off the engine. There is amechanical problem that needs tobe repaired before you cancontinue driving. (See

on page .)Safely pull off the road and shutoff the engine. Turn on the hazardwarning indicators.

If necessary, add oil to bring thelevel back to the full mark on thedipstick (see page ).

Let the car sit for a minute. Openthe engine compartment andcheck the oil level (see page ).Although oil level and oil pressureare not directly connected, anengine that is very low on oil canlose pressure during corneringand other driving maneuvers.

1.

2.

3.

4.

133

134

268Emergency

Towing

Low Oil Pressure Indicator


LLOOWW OOIILL PPRREESSSSUURREE IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

Running the engine with low oilpressure can cause serious mechanicaldamage almost immediately. Turn of fthe engine as soon as you can saf ely getthe car stopped.

This indicator should come on whenthe ignition switch is ON (II), and goout after the engine starts. If itcomes on brightly when the engineis running, it indicates that thecharging system has stoppedcharging the battery.

Immediately turn off all electricalaccessories: radio, climate control,rear defogger, cruise control, etc.Try not to use other electrically-operated controls such as the powerwindows. Keep the engine runningand take extra care not to stall it.The starter motor uses lots ofcurrent and will discharge thebattery rapidly. Check the voltmeteras you drive. If there is a problem inthe charging system, the voltage willgradually drop.

By eliminating as much of theelectrical load as possible, you candrive several miles (kilometers)before the battery is too dischargedto keep the engine running. Drive toa service station or garage whereyou can get technical assistance.

Charging System Indicator


CCHHAARRGGIINNGG SSYYSSTTEEMM IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

This indicator comes on for a fewseconds when you turn the ignitionswitch ON (II). If it comes on at anyother time, it indicates one of theengine’s emissions control systemsmay have a problem. Even thoughyou may feel no difference in yourcar’s performance, it can reduceyour fuel economy and cause yourcar to put out excessive emissions.Continued operation may causeserious damage.

If the indicator remains on past threedriving trips, or the fuel cap was notloose or missing, have the carchecked by the dealer as soon aspossible. Drive moderately until thedealer has inspected the problem.Avoid full-throttle acceleration anddriving at high speed.

You should also have the dealerinspect your car if this indicatorcomes on repeatedly, even though itmay turn off as you continue driving.

If you have recently refueled yourcar, the cause of this indicatorcoming on could be a loose ormissing fuel fill cap. Check the capand tighten it until it clicks severaltimes. Replace the fuel fill cap if it ismissing. Tightening the cap will notmake the indicator turn offimmediately; it takes at least threedriving trips.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp


MMAALLFFUUNNCCTTIIOONN IINNDDIICCAATTOORR LLAAMMPP

If you keep driving with themalf unction indicator lamp on, you candamage your car’s emissions controlsand engine. Those repairs may not becovered by your car’s warranties.

Your car has certain ‘‘readinesscodes’’ that are part of the on-boarddiagnostics for the emissionssystems. In some states, part of theemissions testing is to make surethese codes are set. If they are notset, the test cannot be completed.

If your car’s battery has beendisconnected or gone dead, thesecodes are erased. It takes severaldays of driving under variousconditions to set the codes again.

If possible, do not take your car for astate emissions test until thereadiness codes are set. Refer toState Emissions Testing for moreinformation. (See page .)281

Malfunction Indicator Lamp


Readiness Codes

259

Slow down by shifting to a lowergear, and pull to the side of the roadwhen it is safe. Because of thelonger distance needed to stop, it ishazardous to drive the car. Youshould have it towed, and repaired assoon as possible.

If it comes on at any other time, itindicates a problem with the car’sbrake system. In most cases, theproblem is a low fluid level in thebrake fluid reservoir. Press lightly onthe brake pedal to see if it feelsnormal. If it does, check the brakefluid level the next time you stop at aservice station (see page ). If thefluid level is low, take the car to yourdealer and have the brake systeminspected for leaks or worn brakepads.

However, if the brake pedal does notfeel normal, you should takeimmediate action. Because of thebrake system’s dual-circuit design, aproblem in one part of the systemwill still give you braking at twowheels. You will feel the brake pedalgo down much farther before the carbegins to slow down, and you willhave to press harder on the pedal.The distance needed to stop will bemuch longer.

If you must drive the car a shortdistance in this condition, driveslowly and cautiously.

The Brake System Indicatornormally comes on when you turnthe ignition switch ON (II). It is areminder to check the parking brake.It comes on and stays lit if you do notfully release the parking brake.

195


Brake System Indicator

260

BBRRAAKKEE SSYYSSTTEEMM IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

All the electrical circuits in your carhave fuses to protect them from ashort circuit or overload. Thesefuses are located in three fuse boxes.

Fuses


UUNNDDEERR--HHOOOODD FFUUSSEE BBOOXX

EENNGGIINNEE CCOOMMPPAARRTTMMEENNTT FFUUSSEE BBOOXXIINNTTEERRIIOORR FFUUSSEE BBOOXX

The interior fuse box is underneaththe dashboard on the driver’s side.To open it, turn the knob as shown.

The engine compartment fuse box islocated next to the air cleanerhousing. To open, push the tab asshown.

The under-hood fuse box is locatedin the front of the engine compart-ment on the passenger’s side. Toopen it, push the tab as shown.

Fuses


UUNNDDEERR--HHOOOODD EENNGGIINNEE IINNTTEERRIIOORR

PPuusshh

PPuusshh

TTuurrnn

Check the smaller fuses by pullingout the fuse with the fuse pullerprovided in the interior fuse box.

Remove the cover from the fusebox.

Turn the ignition switch to LOCK(0). Make sure the headlights andall other accessories are off.

Check each of the large fuses inthe under-hood and enginecompartment fuse boxes bylooking through the top at the wireinside. Removing these fusesrequires a Phillips-head screw-driver.

If something electrical in your carstops working, the first thing youshould check for is a blown fuse.Determine from the chart on pages

and , or the diagram on thefuse box lid, which fuse or fusescontrol that component. Check thosefuses first, but check all the fusesbefore deciding that a blown fuse isnot the cause. Replace any blownfuses and check the component’soperation.

1.

2.

3. 4.

265 266

CONTINUED

Checking and Replacing Fuses

Fuses


FFUUSSEE PPUULLLLEERR

BBLLOOWWNN

FFUUSSEE

Look for a burned wire inside thefuse. If it is burned, replace it withone of the spare fuses of the samerating or lower.

If you cannot drive the car withoutfixing the problem, and you do nothave a spare fuse, take a fuse of thesame rating or a lower rating fromone of the other circuits. Make sureyou can do without that circuittemporarily (such as the cigarettelighter or radio).If you replace the blown fuse with aspare fuse that has a lower rating, itmight blow out again. This does notindicate anything wrong. Replace thefuse with one of the correct rating assoon as you can.

If the replacement fuse of thesame rating blows in a short time,there is probably a seriouselectrical problem in your car.Leave the blown fuse in thatcircuit and have your car checkedby a qualified mechanic.

5.

6.

Fuses


BBLLOOWWNN

Replacing a fuse with one that has ahigher rating greatly increases thechances of damaging the electricalsystem. If you do not have a replace-ment f use with the proper rating f or thecircuit, install one with a lower rating.

＊

＊

No.

CONTINUED

Amps. Circuits Protected Amps.No. Circuits Protected

12345678910111213

20 A20 A20 A20 A20 A40 A50 A30 A50 A30 A30 A20 A10 A

Driver’s Power WindowPassenger’s Power WindowSpeaker AmplifierLeft Headlight LowRight Headlight LowWiper MotorEPSBlower MotorIgnition Switch (A)ABSCooling FanABS 1, 4Daytime Running Lights

15 A10 A7.5 A15 A20 A20 A10 A10 A10 A10 A10 A

1415161718192021222324

Small LightsO Sensor HeaterDigital ClockInterior LightPower Door LockBrake Lights, HornHazard LightsLeft Headlight HighLeft Condenser FanRight Condenser FanRight Headlight High

: Canadian Model

2

Fuses


UUNNDDEERR--HHOOOODD FFUUSSEE BBOOXX

＊

＊

No. Amps. Circuits Protected

No. Amps. Circuits Protected

Spare Fuse

123

4

5

67891011121314

10 A10 A20 A

20 A

20 A

20 A20 A

120 A60 A40 A30 A20 A20 A30 A

Engine Room FanHAC ClutchPassenger’s Power SeatRecliningDriver’s Power SeatRecliningPassenger’s Power SeatSlideDriver’s Power Seat SlideACG (S)ACGAir PumpRear DefrosterIgnition Switch (B)Throttle MotorCigarette LighterIgnition Coil

123

4

5

678

10 A15 A7.5 A

15 A

15 A

7.5 A7.5 A10 A

SRS 1SRS 2, Fuel PumpDaytime Running LightsHeater Control, RearDefroster Relay, CoolingFan ControlBack-up Lights, TurnSignals, AlternatorWasherStarter SignalRadio

: Canadian Model

Fuses


ENGINE COMPARTMENT FUSE BOX INTERIOR FUSE BOX

:

If your car gets stuck in sand, mud,or snow, call a towing service to pullit out (see page ).

For very short distances such asfreeing the car, you can use the tie-down hook on the lower right of thefront bumper. Remove the cover toexpose the hook. This hook is not foropen-road towing (see

, page ).

268

268Emergency

Towing

If Your Car Gets Stuck


TTIIEE--DDOOWWNN HHOOOOKK

CCOOVVEERR

‘‘Rocking’’ your car between forwardand reverse gear or revving up theengine and allowing the wheels to spinf reely at high speeds can damage theautomatic transmission. Use a towservice to prevent transmission damage.

－

－

－If your car needs to be towed, call aprofessional towing service or, if youbelong to one, an organization thatprovides roadside assistance. Nevertow your car behind another vehiclewith just a rope or chain. It is verydangerous.

There are three popular types ofprofessional towing equipment.

The operatorloads your car on the back of a truck.

When you contact the towing agency,inform them that you have an NSXand that a flat-bed is required.

The towtruck uses two pivoting arms that gounder the tires (front or rear) and liftthem off the ground. The other twotires remain on the ground. Becausethe NSX sits so low, the body couldcome in contact with the ground andbe damaged.

The towtruck uses metal cables with hookson the ends. These hooks go aroundparts of the frame or suspension andthe cables lift that end of the car offthe ground. Your car’s suspensionand body can be seriously damaged.

Emergency Towing


Flat-bed Equipment

Wheel-Lift Equipment

Sling-type Equipment

This is the only way your NSXshould be transported.

This method oftowing is unacceptable.

This method of towing isunacceptable.

268

The diagrams in this section giveyou the dimensions and capacities ofyour Acura, and the locations of theidentification numbers. It alsoincludes information you shouldknow about your vehicle’s tires andemissions control systems.

................Identification Numbers . 270................................Specifications . 272

..........DOT Tire Quality Grading . 274.................................Treadwear . 274

......................................Traction . 274.............................Temperature . 275

.........................Oxygenated Fuels . 276......Driving in Foreign Countries . 277

.......................Emissions Controls . 278.....................The Clean Air Act . 278

Crankcase Emissions Control....................................System . 278

Evaporative Emissions Control....................................System . 278

Onboard Refueling Vapor................................Recovery . 278

...Exhaust Emissions Controls . 279....................PGM-FI System . 279

Ignition Timing Control................................System . 279

Exhaust Gas Recirculation...................(EGR) System . 279

Three Way Catalytic...........................Converter . 279

....................Replacement Parts . 279..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 280

..............State Emissions Testing . 281

Technical Information

Technical Information 269

Your car has several identifyingnumbers located in various places.

The Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) is the 17-digit number yourAcura dealer uses to register yourcar for warranty purposes. It is alsonecessary for licensing and insuringyour car. The easiest place to findthe VIN is on a plate fastened to thetop of the dashboard. You can see itby looking through the windshieldon the driver’s side. It is also on theCertification label attached to thedriver’s doorjamb, and is stamped onthe engine compartment bulkhead.The VIN is also provided in bar codeon the Certification label.

Identif ication Numbers

Technical Information270

VVEEHHIICCLLEE IIDDEENNTTIIFFIICCAATTIIOONN NNUUMMBBEERR

CCEERRTTIIFFIICCAATTIIOONN LLAABBEELL

The Transmission Number is on alabel on top of the transmission.

The Engine Number is stamped onthe back left corner of the engineblock, below the rear valve cover.


Identif ication Numbers

271

TTRRAANNSSMMIISSSSIIOONN NNUUMMBBEERR

EENNGGIINNEE NNUUMMBBEERR

＊＊

＊

＊

＊

＊

＊

＊

＊

＊

＊


Specifications

272

Dimensions

Weights

Engine

Capacities

174.2 in (4,425 mm)71.3 in (1,810 mm)46.1 in (1,170 mm)99.6 in (2,530 mm)59.4 in (1,510 mm)60.6 in (1,540 mm)

3.54 x 3.07 in (90.0 x 78.0 mm)

10.2 : 1

181.6 cu-in (2,977 cm )3.66 x 3.07 in (93.0 x 78.0 mm)

194 cu-in (3,179 cm )

18.5 US gal (70 , 15.4 Imp gal)

3.17 US gal (12.0 , 2.64 Imp gal)4.23 US gal (16.0 , 3.52 Imp gal)

3.17 US gal (12.0 , 2.64 Imp gal)4.36 US gal (16.5 , 3.63 Imp gal)

5.3 US qt (5.0 , 4.4 Imp qt)4.5 US qt (4.3 , 3.8 Imp qt)




Including the coolant in the expansion tank and that remaining in theengine.Expansion tank capacity:0.55 US gal (2.1 , 0.46 Imp gal)Excluding the oil remaining in the engine.

6.3 US qt (6.0 , 5.3 Imp qt)

LengthWidthHeightWheelbaseTrack

Gross vehicle weight rating See the certification label attachedto the driver’s doorjamb.

Type

Bore x Stroke

Displacement

Compression ratio

Spark plugs

Fuel tankEngine coolant

Manual Transmission


Engine oil

ManualtransmissionfluidAutomatictransmissionfluidWindshieldwasherreservoir

Water cooled 4-stroke DOHCVTEC V-6 gasoline engine

See spark plug maintenancesection page 201 .

FrontRear

1 :2 :

3.0 model (4 AT)3.2 model (6 MT)

ChangeTotal

ChangeTotalChange

TotalChangeTotal

ChangeTotal

U.S. CarsCanadian Cars

3 :

4 :

1

2

1

2

3

3

4

Including filterWithout filter

－－

－－

－－

＊

－－－－－－－－－－－－－

＊


Specifications

273

Fuses

Alignment

Tires

Air conditioning

Battery

Lights

60 W (HB3)12 V

0°20’1°30’

215/40R17 83Y255/40R17 94Y

165/75D16

33 psi (230 kPa , 2.3 kgf/cm )40 psi (275 kPa , 2.8 kgf/cm )26 psi (180 kPa , 1.8 kgf/cm )32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V12 V

Front compartment

Interior

Engine compartment

Toe

Camber

Caster

Size

Pressure

Foldingspare tire

See page 265 or the fuse boxcover.See page 264 or the fuse labelattached to the inside of the fusebox door under the dashboard.See page 266 or the fuse boxcover.

8°

0.14 in (3.5 mm)0.16 in (4.0 mm)

Low beam headlight bulbs are a type of high voltage dischargetube.

12 V12 V12 V

45 CP5 W45 CP32/2 CP (SAE 2057)2 CP3 CP3 CP32 CP8 W5 W5 W3.4 W

Refrigerant typeCharge quantityLubricant type

Capacity

55 AH/5 HR52 AH/5 HR

12 V12 V

28.2 30.0 oz (800 850 g)HFC-134a (R-134a)

ND-OIL8

Headlights (High beam)Front turn signal lightsFront parking lightsRear turn signal lightsStop/TaillightsTaillightsSide marker lights

Back-up lightsLicense plate lightsInterior lightTrunk lightDoor courtesy lights

FrontRear

FrontRearFolding spareTireFrontRearFrontRear

Manual transmissionAutomatic transmission

FrontRearFrontRearFront

1 :

outin

1

－The treadwear grade is a compara-tive rating based on the wear rate ofthe tire when tested under controlledconditions on a specified governmenttest course. For example, a tiregraded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on thegovernment course as a tire graded100. The relative performance oftires depends upon the actual condi-tions of their use, however, and maydepart significantly from the normdue to variations in driving habits,service practices and differences inroad characteristics and climate.

The tires on your vehicle meet allU.S. Federal Safety Requirements.All tires are also graded fortreadwear, traction, and temperatureperformance according toDepartment of Transportation(DOT) standards. The followingexplains these gradings.

Quality grades can be found whereapplicable on the tire sidewallbetween the tread shoulder and themaximum section width. Forexample:

The traction grades, from highest tolowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Thesegrades represent the tire’s ability tostop on wet pavement as measuredunder controlled conditions onspecified government test surfacesof asphalt and concrete. A tiremarked C may have poor tractionperformance.

Warning: The traction gradeassigned to this tire is based onstraight-ahead braking traction tests,and does not include acceleration,cornering, hydroplaning, or peaktraction characteristics.

All passenger car tires must conformto Federal Safety Requirements inaddition to these grades.

Treadwear

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Treadwear 200Traction AATemperature A

Traction AA, A, B, C

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)


－ Warning: The temperature grade forthis tire is established for a tire thatis properly inflated and not over-loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-tion, or excessive loading, eitherseparately or in combination, cancause heat buildup and possible tirefailure.

The temperature grades are A (thehighest), B, and C, representing thetire’s resistance to the generation ofheat and its ability to dissipate heatwhen tested under controlledconditions on a specified indoorlaboratory test wheel. Sustained hightemperature can cause the materialof the tire to degenerate and reducetire life, and excessive temperaturecan lead to sudden tire failure. Thegrade C corresponds to a level ofperformance which all passenger cartires must meet under the FederalMotor Vehicle Safety Standard No.109. Grades B and A representhigher levels of performance on thelaboratory test wheel than theminimum required by law.

Temperature A, B, C

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)


Some conventional gasolines arebeing blended with alcohol or anether compound. These gasolinesare collectively referred to asoxygenated fuels. To meet clean airstandards, some areas of the UnitedStates and Canada use oxygenatedfuels to help reduce emissions.

If you use an oxygenated fuel, besure it is unleaded and meets theminimum octane rating requirement.

Before using an oxygenated fuel, tryto confirm the fuel’s contents. Somestates/provinces require thisinformation to be posted on thepump.

The following are the U.S. EPA andCanadian CGSB approvedpercentages of oxygenates:

If you notice any undesirableoperating symptoms, try anotherservice station or switch to anotherbrand of gasoline.

Fuel system damage or performanceproblems resulting from the use ofan oxygenated fuel containing morethan the percentages of oxygenatesgiven above are not covered underwarranty.

(methyl or woodalcohol)Your vehicle was not designed to usefuel that contains methanol.Methanol can corrode metal parts inthe fuel system, and also damageplastic and rubber components. Thisdamage would not be covered byyour warranties.

(Methyl Tertiary ButylEther)You may use gasoline containing upto 15 percent MTBE by volume.

(ethyl or grain alcohol)You may use gasoline containing upto 10 percent ethanol by volume.Gasoline containing ethanol may bemarketed under the name ‘‘Gasohol.’’

METHANOL

MTBE

ETHANOL

Oxygenated Fuels


If you are planning to take yourAcura outside the U.S. or Canada,contact the tourist bureaus in theareas you will be traveling in to findout about the availability of unleadedgasoline with the proper octanerating.

If unleaded gasoline is not available,be aware that using leaded gasolinein your Acura will affect perfor-mance and fuel mileage, and damageits emissions controls. It will nolonger comply with U.S. andCanadian emissions regulations, andwill be illegal to operate in NorthAmerica. To bring your car back intocompliance will require the replace-ment of several components, such asthe oxygen sensors and the threeway catalytic converter. These re-placements are not covered underwarranty.

Driving in Foreign Countries


＊

＊

The United States Clean Air Actsets standards for automobileemissions. It also requires thatautomobile manufacturers explain toowners how their emissions controlswork and what to do to maintainthem. This section summarizes howthe emissions controls work.Scheduled maintenance is on page

.

The burning of gasoline in your car’sengine produces several byproducts.Some of these are carbon monoxide(CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) andhydrocarbons (HC). Gasolineevaporating from the tank alsoproduces hydrocarbons. Controllingthe production of NOx, CO, and HCis important to the environment.Under certain conditions of sunlightand climate, NOx and HC react toform photochemical ‘‘smog.’’ Carbonmonoxide does not contribute tosmog creation, but it is a poisonousgas.

In Canada, Acura cars comply withthe Canadian Motor Vehicle SafetyStandards (CMVSS) for Emissionsvalid at the time they aremanufactured.

Your car has a Positive CrankcaseVentilation System. This keepsgasses that build up in the engine’scrankcase from going into theatmosphere. The Positive CrankcaseVentilation valve routes them from

the crankcase back to the intakemanifold. They are then drawn intothe engine and burned.

As gasoline evaporates in the fueltank, an evaporative emissionscontrol canister filled with charcoaladsorbs the vapor. It is stored in thiscanister while the engine is off. Afterthe engine is started and warmed up,the vapor is drawn into the engineand burned during driving.

The Onboard Refueling VaporRecovery (ORVR) system capturesthe fuel vapors during refueling. Thevapors are adsorbed in a canisterfilled with activated carbon. Whiledriving, the fuel vapors are drawninto the engine and burned off.

172

The Clean Air Act

Crankcase Emissions ControlSystem

Evaporative Emissions ControlSystem

Onboard Refueling VaporRecovery

Emissions Controls


The exhaust emissions controlsinclude four systems: PGM-FI,Ignition Timing Control, ExhaustGas Recirculation and Three WayCatalytic Converter. These foursystems work together to control theengine’s combustion and minimizethe amount of HC, CO, and NOx thatcomes out the tailpipe. The exhaustemissions control systems areseparate from the crankcase andevaporative emissions controlsystems.

The PGM-FI System uses sequentialmultiport fuel injection.It has three subsystems: Air Intake,Engine Control, and Fuel Control.The Engine Control Module (ECM)uses various sensors to determinehow much air is going into theengine. It then controls how muchfuel to inject under all operatingconditions.

This system constantly adjusts theignition timing, reducing the amountof HC, CO and NOx produced.

The three way catalytic converter isin the exhaust system. Throughchemical reactions, it converts HC,CO, and NOx in the engine’s exhaustto carbon dioxide (CO ), dinitrogen

(N ), and water vapor.

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation(EGR) system takes some of theexhaust gas and routes it back intothe intake manifold. Adding exhaustgas to the air/fuel mixture reducesthe amount of NOx produced whenthe fuel is burned.

During engine warm-up, air ispumped into the exhaust to reduceemissions when the engine is cold.

The emissions control systems arecovered by warranties separate fromthe rest of your car. Read yourwarranty manual for more informa-tion.

The emissions control systems aredesigned and certified to work to-gether in reducing emissions tolevels that comply with the Clean AirAct. To make sure the emissionsremain low, you should use only newAcura replacement parts or theirequivalent for repairs. Using lowerquality parts may increase theemissions from your car.

2

2Exhaust Emissions Controls

Replacement Parts

PGM-FI System

Ignition Timing Control System

Three Way Catalytic Converter

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)System

Secondary Air Injection System

Emissions Controls


The three way catalytic convertercontains precious metals that serveas catalysts, promoting chemicalreactions to convert the exhaustgasses without affecting the metals.The catalytic converter is referred toas a three-way catalyst, since it actson HC, CO, and NOx. A replacementunit must be an original Acura partor its equivalent.

Keep the engine tuned-up.

Always use unleaded gasoline.Even a small amount of leadedgasoline can contaminate thecatalyst metals, making the threeway catalytic converter ineffective.

The three way catalytic convertermust operate at a high temperaturefor the chemical reactions to takeplace. It can set on fire any com-bustible materials that come near it.Park your car away from high grass,dry leaves, or other flammables.

A defective three way catalyticconverter contributes to air pollution,and can impair your engine’s per-formance. Follow these guidelines toprotect your car’s three way catalyticconverter.

Have your car diagnosed andrepaired if it is misfiring, back-firing, stalling, or otherwise notrunning properly.

Three Way Catalytic Converter


TTHHRREEEE WWAAYY CCAATTAALLYYTTIICC CCOONNVVEERRTTEERR

If you take your vehicle for a stateemissions test shortly after thebattery has been disconnected orgone dead, it may not pass the test.This is because of certain ‘‘readinesscodes’’ that must be set in the on-board diagnostics for the emissionssystems. These codes are erasedwhen the battery is disconnected,and set again only after several daysof driving under a variety ofconditions.

If the testing facility determines thatthe readiness codes are not set, youwill be requested to return at a laterdate to complete the test. If you mustget the vehicle re-tested within thenext two or three days, you cancondition the vehicle for re-testingby doing the following.

Make sure the gas tank is nearly,but not completely, full (around3/4).

Make sure the vehicle has beenparked with the engine off for 8hours or more.

Make sure the ambienttemperature is between 20° and95°F.

Without touching the acceleratorpedal, start the engine and let itidle for 20 seconds.

Keep the vehicle in Park(automatic transmission) orNeutral (manual transmission).Increase the engine speed to 2,000rpm and hold it there until thetemperature gauge rises to at least1/4 of the scale (approximately 3minutes).

CONTINUED


State Emissions Testing

Testing of Readiness Codes

281

Then drive in city/suburbantraffic for at least 10 minutes.When traffic conditions allow, letthe vehicle coast for severalseconds without using theaccelerator pedal or the brakepedal.

If the testing facility determines thereadiness codes are still not set, seeyour Acura dealer.

Select a nearby lightly traveledmajor highway where you canmaintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph(80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20minutes. Drive on the highway inD (A/T) or 6th (M/T). Do not usethe cruise control. When trafficallows, drive for 90 secondswithout moving the acceleratorpedal. (Vehicle speed may varyslightly; this is okay.) If you cannotdo this for a continuous 90seconds because of trafficconditions, drive for at least 30seconds, then repeat it two moretimes (for a total of 90 seconds).

State Emissions Testing


Customer Relations................................Information . 284

....................Warranty Coverages . 285Reporting Safety Defects

..........................(U.S. Vehicles) . 286.....................Authorized Manuals . 287

Warranty and Customer Relations

Warranty and Customer Relations 283

When you call or write, please giveus this information:

Acura dealership personnel aretrained professionals. They shouldbe able to answer all your questions.If you encounter a problem that yourdealership does not solve to yoursatisfaction, please discuss it withthe dealership’s management. TheService Manager or GeneralManager can help. Almost allproblems are solved in this way.

Vehicle Identification Number(see page )Name and address of the dealerwho services your carDate of purchaseMileage on your carYour name, address, and tele-phone numberA detailed description of theproblemName of the dealer who sold thecar to you

If you are dissatisfied with thedecision made by the dealership’smanagement, contact the AcuraCustomer Relations Office.

U.S. Owners:Acura Automobile Division

Client Services OfficeAmerican Honda Motor Co., Inc.

1919 Torrance Blvd.Torrance, CA 90501-2746

Tel: (800) 382-2238

In Puerto Rico and the U.S. VirginIslands:

Vortex Motor Corp.Bella InternationalP.O. Box 190816

San Juan, PR 00919-0816(787) 250-4327

Canadian Owners:

Honda Canada Inc.715 Milner AvenueToronto, ONM1B 2K8

Tel:1-888-9-ACURA-9Fax:Toll-free 1-877-939-0909

Toronto (416) 287-4776

270

Warranty and Customer Relations

Customer Relations Information

284

CUSTOMER RELATIONS

RELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTÈLE

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a seatbelt that fails to function properly iscovered for the useful life of thevehicle.

Your new Acura is covered by thesewarranties:

provides proratedcoverage for a replacement batterypurchased from an Acura dealer.

providescoverage for as long as the pur-chaser of the muffler owns the car.

covers all genuineAcura replacement parts againstdefects in materials and workman-ship.

genuine Acura Accessories arecovered under this warranty. Timeand mileage limits depend on thetype of accessory and other factors.Please read your warranty manualfor details.

all exterior body panels arecovered for rust-through from theinside for the specified time periodwith no mileage limit.

coversyour new vehicle, except for thebattery, emissions control systems,and accessories, against defects inmaterials and workmanship.

these twowarranties cover your car’s emis-sions control systems. Time, mileage,and coverage are conditional. Pleaseread the warranty manual for exactinformation.

this warranty gives upto 100 percent credit toward areplacement battery.

Please refer to the 2002 WarrantyManual that came with your car.

Restrictions and exclusions apply toall these warranties. Please read the2002 Acura Warranty Informationbooklet that came with your car forprecise information on warrantycoverages. Your Acura’s originaltires are covered by theirmanufacturer. Tire warrantyinformation is in a separate booklet.

Seat Belt Limited Warranty Replacement Battery LimitedWarranty

Replacement Muffler LifetimeLimited Warranty

Replacement Parts LimitedWarranty

Accessory Limited Warranty

Rust Perforation Limited WarrantyNew Car Limited Warranty

Emissions Control Systems DefectsWarranty and EmissionsPerformance Warranty

Original Equipment Battery LimitedWarranty

U.S. Owners

Canadian Owners

Warranty Coverages

Warranty and Customer Relations 285

If you believe that your vehicle has adefect which could cause a crash orcould cause injury or death, youshould immediately inform theNational Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) in additionto notifying Acura AutomobileDivision, American Honda Motor Co.,Inc.

If NHTSA receives similar com-plaints, it may open an investigation,and if it finds that a safety defectexists in a group of vehicles, it mayorder a recall and remedy campaign.However, NHTSA cannot becomeinvolved in individual problemsbetween you, your dealer, or AcuraAutomobile Division, AmericanHonda Motor Co., Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may eithercall the Auto Safety Hotline toll-freeat 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 inWashington D.C. area) or write to:NHTSA, U.S. Department ofTransportation, Washington,D.C. 20590. You can also obtainother information about motorvehicle safety from the Hotline.

Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)

Warranty and Customer Relations286

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Valid only for sales within the U.S. Canadian owners shouldcontact their authorized Acura dealer.

The following publications covering the operation andservicing of your car can be obtained from HelmIncorporated, either by filling out the attached form or,for credit card holders, calling the toll-free phone numberon the form. For manuals prior to the year shown below,contact Helm Incorporated, P.O. Box 07280, Detroit,Michigan 48207, or call 1-800-782-4356.

Authorized Manuals

Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals(U.S. only)

287

ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-782-4356

OR

(NOTE: For Credit Card Holder Orders Only)

MINIMUM CREDIT CARD PURCHASE $10.00

Publication

Form Number

61SL006

61SW001

61SW001EL

61SL032

31SW0610

ACU-R

Price

Each

$74.00

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FREE

From Description

1997 Acura NSX

Service Manual

2002 Acura NSX

Service Manual Supplement

1997 2002 Acura NSX

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual

1995 2002 Acura NSX

Body Repair Manual

2002 Acura NSX

Owner’s Manual

Order Form for Previous Years-

Indicate Year and Model Desired

PUBLICATION NUMBERVEHICLE MODEL

Name YearQty

Price

Each

Total

Price

GRAND TOTAL

HANDLING CHARGE

Mich. Purchases

Add 6% Sales Tax

TOTAL MATERIAL

$6.00

Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurringobligation.

Monday-Friday 8:00 A.M. 6:00 P.M. EST

By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You canpay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail toHelm Incorporated at the address shown on the back of the order form.

Prices are subject to change withoutnotice and without incurring obligation.

Orders are mailed within 10 days. Pleaseallow adequate time for delivery.

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This manual describes the procedures involved in thereplacement of damaged body parts.

This manual covers maintenance and recommendedprocedures for repair to engine and chassis components.It is written for the Journeyman mechanic, but is simpleenough for most mechanically-inclined owners to under-stand.

This manual complements the Service Manual byproviding in-depth troubleshooting information for eachelectrical circuit in your car.

Authorized Manuals

Service Manual:

Electrical Troubleshooting Manual:

Body Repair Manual:

288

NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name,and also the name of the person to whose attention the shipment shouldbe sent. For purchases outside U.S.A. please write to the address shownbelow for a quotation.

P.O. BOX 07280·DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207·1-800-782-4356

Customer Name Attention

Apartment Number

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Check or money order enclosed payable to Helm Inc U.S. funds only.Do not send cash

MasterCard

VISA Check here if your billing address is differentfrom the shipping address shown above.

Account Number Expiration: Mo. Yr.

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These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.

CONTINUED

Accessories.................................Installation . 139

ACCESSORY (Ignition Key.......................................Position) . 66

....................Additives, Engine Oil . 182.....................................Airbag (SRS) . 9

.....................Air Cleaner Element . 197..............................Air Conditioning . 88

..............................Maintenance . 207............................................Usage . 89

.........................Air Outlets (Vents) . 88

.......................Air Pressure, Tires . 209........................................Air Pump . 247

...........................Alarm, Anti-theft . 124.......................Alcohol in Gasoline . 276

.......Aluminum Wheels, Cleaning . 230........................Antenna, Cleaning . 229

......................................Antifreeze . 185Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)

...............................Indicator . 50, 161...................................Operation . 159

.Anti-theft Steering Column Lock . 66..........................Anti-theft System . 128..........................Appearance Care . 227

.............................................Ashtray . 85..................................Audio System . 98

................Automatic Car Washes . 229Automatic Climate Control

..........................................System . 88.............Automatic Speed Control . 125..............Automatic Transmission . 151

..........................Capacity, Fluid . 272...............Checking Fluid Level . 193

.......................................Shifting . 151....................Shift Lock Release . 156

.Shift Lever Position Indicator . 151

........Back-up Lamp Replacement . 222Battery

Charging System...........................Indicator . 49, 257

............................Jump Starting . 251..............................Maintenance . 202............................Specifications . 273

..............................Before Driving . 129..........................................Belts, Seat . 8

.............................Beverage Holder . 84...................................Body Repair . 234

............................................Brakes . 158...........Anti-lock System (ABS) . 159

.............Break-in, New Linings . 130....................Bulb Replacement . 222

...........................................Fluid . 195.........................................Parking . 83

.........................System Indicator . 50..............Wear Indicators, Disc . 158

.............................Braking System . 158........................Break-in, New Car . 130

..Brightness Control, Instruments . 57........................Brights, Headlights . 56

.........................Bulb Replacement . 218..........................Back-up Lights . 222

..............................Brake Lights . 222........................Courtesy Lights . 224

.................................Headlights . 218.................License Plate Lights . 223

..........................Parking Lights . 222..................Side Marker Lights . 221

............................Specifications . 273....................Turn Signal Lights . 220

..............................Bulbs, Halogen . 218

Index

B

A

I

............................Capacities Chart . 272.............Carbon Monoxide Hazard . 41

............................Cargo, Carrying . 141Cassette Player

............................................Care . 114...................................Operation . 106

..............CAUTION, Explanation of . ii...................................CD Changer . 116

........................Certification Label . 270............................................Chains . 215

....................Changing a Flat Tire . 236............Changing Engine Coolant . 187

Changing Oil........................................How to . 183......................................When to . 172

...Charging System Indicator . 49, 257...............Check Engine Light . 50, 259

............Checklist, Before Driving . 146.....................................Child Safety . 19

Child Seats Techer Anchorage.............................................Point . 33

............................Cigarette Lighter . 85...................................Cleaner, Air . 197

.........................................Cleaning . 227....................Aluminum Wheels . 230

......................................Antenna . 229

......................................Exterior . 228.......................................Interior . 230.......................................Leather . 232

...................................Seat Belts . 232...........................................Vinyl . 232

....................................Windows . 232................................CLEAN Light . 114

.................Climate Control System . 88...........................Clock, Setting the . 82

...................................Clutch Fluid . 196

.....................................Coin Holder . 84........................CO in the Exhaust . 279

............Cold Weather, Starting in . 147....Compact (Folding) Spare Tire . 247

.............Controls, Instruments and . 45Coolant

........................................Adding . 185....................................Checking . 135

.........................Proper Solution . 185...................Temperature Gauge . 53...................Console Compartment . 84

....................Corrosion Protection . 233..............................Courtesy Lights . 86

Crankcase Emission Control........................................System . 278

............Cruise Control Operation . 125Customer Relations

................................Information . 284

................DANGER, Explanation of . ii.......................................Dashboard . 47

................Daytime Running Lights . 56............Defects, Reporting Safety . 286

................Defogger, Rear Window . 57

................Defrosting the Windows . 95....................................Dimensions . 272

...............Dimming the Headlights . 56Dipstick

..........Automatic Transmission . 193..................................Engine Oil . 133

..........................Directional Signals . 58........Disc Brake Wear Indicators . 158

.....................Disposal of Used Oil . 184...................Do Not Tow a Trailer . 165

Doors..............Locking and Unlocking . 67

....................Lockout Prevention . 68

Index

C

D

II

CONTINUED

..............................Monitor Light . 51......................Power Door Locks . 67

..........DOT Tire Quality Grading . 274Downshifting, 6-speed Manual

.............................Transmission . 148...........................................Driving . 145

....................................Economy . 138.........................In Bad Weather . 164

................In Foreign Countries . 277

............................Fabric, Cleaning . 231.....................................Fan, Interior . 89

Features, Comfort and................................Convenience . 87

....................Filling the Fuel Tank . 131Filters

.............................................Fuel . 198...............................................Oil . 183

.............Flashers, Hazard Warning . 60...................Flat Tire, Changing a . 236

Fluids..........Automatic Transmission . 193

..........................................Brake . 195.........................................Clutch . 196

..............Manual Transmission . 194..................Windshield Washer . 192

........FM Stereo Radio Reception . 104........................Folding Spare Tire . 247

.....Foreign Countries, Driving in . 277..........................Four-way Flashers . 60

..............................Economy, Fuel . 138............Emergencies on the Road . 235.............Battery, Jump Starting . 251

................Changing a Flat Tire . 236.....Charging System Indicator . 257

..................Checking the Fuses . 263.....Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 256...Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 258

..................Overheated Engine . 254...........................Emergency Brake . 83

......................Emergency Flashers . 60.......................Emissions Controls . 278

.............Emissions Testing, State . 281

Engine............................................Belts . 208

Compartment, Checking......................................in the . 132.......................................Coolant . 185

....Coolant Temperature Gauge . 53.................................Drive Belts . 208

Malfunction Indicator................................Lamp . 50, 258

....................Oil Pressure Gauge . 53........Oil Pressure Indicator . 49, 256..............Oil, What Kind to Use . 181

...............................Overheating . 254....................Speed Limiter . 149, 155............................Specifications . 272

.......................................Starting . 147.........Engine Cover, Opening the . 132

......................Ethanol in Gasoline . 276.Evaporative Emissions Controls . 278

...............................Exhaust Fumes . 41Exhaust Gas Recirculation

........................................System . 279Expectant Mothers, Use of Seat

........................................Belts by . 17..................Exterior, Cleaning the . 228

Index

E

F

III

.................................................Fuel . 130......................Fill Door and Cap . 131

...........................................Filter . 198...........................................Gauge . 54

................Octane Requirement . 130...............................Oxygenated . 276

........................Reserve Indicator . 52........................Tank, Filling the . 131

..............Fuel Mileage, Improving . 138

..............Fuel Station Procedures . 131.....................Fuses, Checking the . 263

..........................................Gasohol . 276.........................................Gasoline . 130

...........................................Filter . 198...............Fuel Reserve Indicator . 52

...........................................Gauge . 54................Octane Requirement . 130

.....................Oxygenated Fuels . 276........................Tank, Filling the . 131

.............................................Gauges . 53...Engine Coolant Temperature . 53

...................Engine Oil Pressure . 53...............................................Fuel . 54

...............................Speedometer . 53.................................Tachometer . 53

.....................................Voltmeter . 54Gearshift Lever Positions

..........Automatic Transmission . 1516-speed Manual

.........................Transmission . 148..............................Glass Cleaning . 232

........................................Glove Box . 70

.............Halogen Headlight Bulbs . 218..............Hazard Warning Flashers . 60

Headlights............Daytime Running Lights . 56

..................High Beam Indicator . 52.........................Reminder Chime . 56

........Replacing Halogen Bulbs . 218...................................Turning on . 56

Heating and Air Conditioning..........................................System . 88

.............High Altitude, Starting at . 147.................High-Low Beam Switch . 56

................High Speed, Shifting at . 149....................................Hood Latch . 199

.......................Hood, Opening the . 135..................................................Horn . 55

...........................Hydraulic Clutch . 196.................................Hydroplaning . 165

...Identification Number, Vehicle . 270Ignition

..............................................Keys . 62...........................................Switch . 65

............Timing Control System . 279...........Indicator, Instrument Panel . 48

...................Inflation, Proper Tire . 209...................................Inside Mirror . 81

.............................Inspection, Tire . 211............................Instrument Panel . 48

........Instrument Panel Brightness . 57...........................Interior Cleaning . 230

.................................Interior Lights . 86........................................Introduction . i

Index

G

H

I

IV

CONTINUED

.......................Jacking Up the Car . 238.......................................Jack, Tire . 237

................................Jump Starting . 251

..................................................Keys . 62

.......................Label, Certification . 270.................Lane Change, Signaling . 58

........................Lap/Shoulder Belts . 34.........................Leather, Cleaning . 232...........................Lighter, Cigarette . 85

Lights....................Bulb Replacement . 218

.......................................Courtesy . 86

.......................................Indicator . 48.........................................Parking . 56

..................................Turn Signal . 58...............................Loading Cargo . 141

......LOCK (Ignition Key Position) . 66

Locks.......Anti-theft Steering Column . 66

............................Fuel Fill Door . 131....................................Glove Box . 70

.................................Power Door . 67...........................................Trunk . 68

........................Low Coolant Level . 135...Lower Gear, Downshifting to a . 148

.........................Low Fuel Indicator . 52...Low Oil Pressure Indicator . 49, 256

...Lubricant Specifications Chart . 272.........................................Luggage . 141

..................................Maintenance . 167...Owner Maintenance Checks . 179

........................................Record . 177....................................Schedule . 170

.Malfunction Indicator Lamp . 50, 258...................Manual Transmission . 148

........Manual Transmission Fluid . 194...............................Meters, Gauges . 53

...................Methanol in Gasoline . 276..........................Mirrors, Adjusting . 81

...................Neutral Gear Position . 153..................New Vehicle Break-in . 130

.....................Normal Shift Speeds . 149..................NOTICE, Explanation of . ii

...............Numbers, Identification . 270

...Octane Requirement, Gasoline . 130.........................................Odometer . 54

...............................Odometer, Trip . 54Oil

........................Change, How to . 183......................Change, When to . 172......................Checking Engine . 133

..........................Pressure Gauge . 53..............Pressure Indicator . 49, 256

Selecting Proper Viscosity......................................Chart . 182

...........ON (Ignition Key Position) . 66

Index

J

K

L

M

N

O

V

Onboard Refueling Vapor....................................Recovery . 278

..........Opening the Engine Cover . 132.........................Opening the Trunk . 68

..Operation in Foreign Countries . 277..............................Outside Mirrors . 81

....................Overheating, Engine . 254.........................Oxygenated Fuels . 276

..............................Paint Touch-up . 230..............Panel Brightness Control . 57

........................Park Gear Position . 152.................................Parking Brake . 83.................................Parking Lights . 56.............................PGM-FI System . 279

..................Polishing and Waxing . 229.........Pregnancy, Using Seat Belts . 17

............................Protecting Adults . 12...Additional Safety Precautions . 18

.....Advice for Pregnant Women . 17........................Protecting Children . 19

.......Protecting Larger Children . 29.........Protecting Small Children . 26

Using Child Seats with.....................................Tethers . 33

...................Radiator Overheating . 254......Radio/Cassette Sound System . 98

...........................Readiness Codes . 281..Rear Lights, Bulb Replacement . 222

............................Rear View Mirror . 81Rear Window

......................................Defogger . 57...............................Opening the . 132

................Reclining the Seat-backs . 71.......Recommended Shift Speeds . 149

Recovery Vehicle, Emergency.......................................Towing . 268

.............................Reminder Lights . 48...................Removable Roof Panel . 74

......................................Installing . 78................Removing and Storing . 75

..........Roof Unlatched Indicator . 79........................................Roof cover . 76

Replacement Information................................Air Cleaner . 197

..........................Engine Coolant . 187

................Engine Oil and Filter . 183..................................Fuel Filter . 198

..........................................Fuses . 262................................Light Bulbs . 218

....................................Schedule . 172................................Spark Plugs . 199

...........................................Tires . 213.............................Wiper Blades . 205

Replacing Seat Belts After a............................................Crash . 35

...Reserve Tank, Engine Coolant . 135...............................Restraint, Child . 19

..................Reverse Gear Position . 153................................Rotation, Tire . 212

........................................Safety Belts . 8............Safety Defects, Reporting . 286.............Safety Labels, Location of . 42

...............................Safety Messages . ii.Seat Belt, Additional Information . 34

......................Lap/Shoulder Belt . 34...............Seat Belt Maintenance . 35

..Seat Belt System Components . 34

Index

P

R

S

VI

CONTINUED

...........................................Seat Belts . 8...............Additional Information . 34

Automatic Seat Belt...............................Tensioners . 35

.....................................Cleaning . 232................................Maintenance . 35

......Reminder Light and Beeper . 49...................System Components . 34

...............Use During Pregnancy . 17........................Seats, Adjusting the . 71

................Security Alarm System . 124...............................Serial Number . 270

...........................Service Intervals . 172.............................Service Manual . 287

.........Service Station Procedures . 131............................Setting the Clock . 82

.....Shift Lever Position Indicator . 151........................Shift Lock Release . 156

Side Marker Lights, Bulb.........................Replacement in . 221

...............................Signaling Turns . 586-speed Manual Transmission

...............Checking Fluid Level . 194................................Shifting the . 148

.....................................Snow Tires . 215...................Solvent-type Cleaners . 228

..................................Sound System . 98Spare Tire, Folding

......................................Inflating . 247............................Specifications . 273

................Spark Plugs, Replacing . 199....................Specifications Charts . 272

................................Speed Control . 125...................................Speedometer . 53

..........SRS, Additional Information . 36...Additional Safety Precautions . 40..How the SRS Indicator Works . 39

...........How Your Airbags Work . 36........................SRS Components . 36

..................................SRS Service . 40..................SRS Indicator Light . 39, 50

....START (Ignition Key Position) . 66.......................Starting the Engine . 147

In Cold Weather at High..................................Altitude . 147

................With a Dead Battery . 251..............State Emissions Testing . 281

........Steam Coming from Engine . 254...........Steam from under the Car . 254

Steering Wheel................................Adjustments . 60

.............Anti-theft Column Lock . 66

.....................Stereo Sound System . 98...........................Storing Your Car . 226

.......................................Stuck Car . 267Supplemental Restraint System

......................................Servicing . 40.........................SRS Indicator . 39, 50

...............Tensioners, Seat Belts . 35

.....................................Tachometer . 53......Taillights, Changing Bulbs in . 222

.Taking Care of the Unexpected . 235....................................Tape Player . 106...................................Operation . 106

..............................Maintenance . 114..........................TCS Indicator . 51, 163

Technical Descriptions.....Emissions Control Systems . 278

Three Way Catalytic...............................Converter . 280

Index

T

VII

.......................Temperature Gauge . 53...................Tensioners, Seat Belts . 35

...............Tether Attachment Point . 33...............Theft Deterrent System . 124

..Three Way Catalytic Converter . 280............................Time, Setting the . 82

....................................Tire Chains . 215.........Tire, How to Change a Flat . 236

...............................................Tires . 209..............................Air Pressure . 209

...................................Balancing . 212.........................Checking Wear . 211

......DOT Tire Quality Grading . 274............................Folding Spare . 247

......................................Inflation . 209..................................Inspection . 211...................................Replacing . 213

......................................Rotating . 212...........................................Snow . 215

............................Specifications . 273...................Tools, Tire Changing . 237

Towing......................A Trailer, Do Not . 165

................Emergency Wrecker . 268Traction Control System (TCS)

...................................Operation . 162

..................Trailer, Do Not Tow a . 165Transmission

Checking Fluid Level,..............................Automatic . 193

Checking Fluid Level, 6-speed..........Manual Transmission . 194

..................Fluid Selection . 193, 194..............Identification Number . 270.............Shifting the Automatic . 151

Shifting the 6-speed Manual.........................Transmission . 148

.....................................Treadwear . 274

.......................................Trip Meter . 54................................................Trunk . 68

........Emergency Trunk Opener . 69.................................Opening the . 68

...................Open Monitor Light . 51....................................Turn Signals . 58

.....................Underside, Cleaning . 233Unexpected, Taking Care

..........................................of the . 235....Uniform Tire Quality Grading . 274

........................Unleaded Gasoline . 130

.....................Upholstery Cleaning . 230.......Used Oil, How to Dispose of . 184

......................Vehicle Dimensions . 272....Vehicle Identification Number . 270

.............................Vehicle Storage . 226........................................Ventilation . 88

.................................................VIN . 270...............................Vinyl Cleaning . 232

..................................Viscosity, Oil . 182.........................................Voltmeter . 54

.............WARNING, Explanation of . ii.........Warning Labels, Location of . 42

....................Warranty Coverages . 285Washer, Windshield

........Checking the Fluid Level . 192.....................................Operation . 59

.........................................Washing . 228..................Waxing and Polishing . 229

...........................................Wheels . 214...............Adjusting the Steering . 60

Index

U

W

V

VIII

............Alignment and Balance . 212......Cleaning Aluminum Alloys . 230

............................Folding Spare . 247......................................Wrench . 237

Windows.....................................Cleaning . 232

..................Operating the Power . 72......................Opening the Rear . 132

...........................Rear, Defogger . 57Windshield

.......................................Cleaning . 60.....................................Defroster . 95

.......................................Washers . 59Wipers, Windshield

.......................Changing Blades . 205.....................................Operation . 58

....................................Worn Tires . 211.....Wrecker, Emergency Towing . 268

Index

IX

Service Information Summary

Gasoline: Tire Pressure (measured cold):

Brake Fluid:

6-speed Manual TransmissionFluid:

Spare Tire Pressure:Recommended Engine Oil:

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Honda Manual TransmissionFluid preferred, or an API serviceSG, SH or SJ, SAE 10W-30 or10W-40 motor oil as a temporaryreplacement (see page ).

Capacity:2.7 US qt (2.6 , 2.3 Imp qt)

Honda Heavy Duty Brake FluidDOT 3 preferred, or a DOT 3 orDOT 4 brake fluid as a temporaryreplacement (see page ).

Rear:

Front:

Front:

Rear:

26 psi (180 kPa , 1.8 kgf/cm )

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

33 psi (230 kPa , 2.3 kgf/cm )

40 psi (275 kPa , 2.8 kgf/cm )

Premium unleaded gasoline,pump octane number of 91 orhigher.

API premium grade 10W-30detergent oil (see page ).

Oil change capacity (includingfilter):

5.3 US qt (5.0 , 4.4 Imp qt)

Honda ATF-Z1 (AutomaticTransmission Fluid) preferred, ora DEXRON III ATF as atemporary replacement (see page

).

181

194

195

193

18.5 US gal (70 , 15.4 Imp gal)

2002 NSX Online Reference Owner's Manual...

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