
1 Instruments and controls
Meters and gauges ............................................ 1-2
Speedometer and odometer .............................. 1-3
Tachometer (If so equipped) .............................. 1-3
Engine coolant temperature gauge .................... 1-4
Fuel gauge ......................................................... 1-4
Instrument cluster clock (If so equipped) ........... 1-5
Warning/indicator lights and chimes .................. 1-6
Headlight and turn signal switch ...................... 1-10
Windshield wiper and washer switch ............... 1-11
Instrument brightness control ........................... 1-12
Hazard warning flasher switch ......................... 1-12
Cigarette lighter (accessory) and ash tray ....... 1-13
Cup holder (If so equipped) ............................. 1-13
Interior light and cargo light ............................. 1-14
Map light (If so equipped) ................................ 1-14
Manual window ................................................. 1-15
Power window (If so equipped) ........................ 1-15
Rear sliding window (If so equipped) ............... 1-16
Opera window (If so equipped) ........................ 1-17
Sunroof (If so equipped) .................................. 1-17
ZX

Turn signal/hazard indicator lightsLow washer fluid warning lightSupplemental air bag warning light
orBrake warning light4-wheel drive indicator light
High beam indicator light``CRUISE'' indicator light
Seat belt reminder light and chimeOverdrive off indicator light
Engine oil pressure warning lightDoor open warning light
Charge warning lightMalfunction indicator light
Low fuel warning lightorRear anti-lock brake
warning light
Checking bulbs
Apply the parking brake and turn the ignition
key to ON without starting the engine. The
following lights come on:
,,,or,
The following lights come on briefly and
then go off:
or,,
If any light fails to come on, it may indicate
a burned-out bulb or an open circuit in the
electrical system. Have the system repaired
promptly.
Turn signal/hazard indicator
lights
These lights flash when the turn signal
switch or hazard switch is turned on.
WARNING/INDICATOR
LIGHTS AND CHIMES
1-6
ZX

Lighting
Turn the switch to theposition.
The side marker, tail, license plate and
instrument lights come on.
Turn the switch to the
position.
Headlights come on and all the other lights
remain on.
To select the high beam, push the lever
forward. Pull it back to select the low beam.
DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHT
SYSTEM (Canada only)
The headlights automatically illuminate at a
reduced intensity when the engine is started
with the parking brake released. The day-
time running lights operate with the head-
light switch in the ``OFF'' position or in the
position. Turn the headlight switch to
theposition for full illumination when
driving at night. If the parking brake is
applied before the engine is started, the
daytime running lights do not illuminate. The
daytime running lights illuminate once the
parking brake is released. The daytime run-ning lights will remain on until the ignition
switch is turned off.
WARNING
When the daytime running light system
is active, tail lights on your vehicle will
not be on. It is necessary at dusk to
turn on your headlights. Failure to do
so could cause an accident injuring
yourself and others.
Passing signal
Pulling the lever toward you turns on the
headlight high beam.
Turn signal
Move the lever up or down to signal the
turning direction. When the turn is com-
pleted, the turn signal cancels automati-
cally.
Lane change signal
To indicate a lane change, move the lever
up or down to the point where the indicator
light begins to flash, but the lever does not
latch.
AIC0739
HEADLIGHT AND TURN
SIGNAL SWITCH
1-10
ZX

The instrument brightness control operates
when the light switch is in theorposition.
Turn the control to adjust the brightness of
the instrument panel lights.Push the switch on to warn other drivers
when you must stop or park under emer-
gency conditions. All turn signal lights flash.
WARNING
cWhen stalled or stopped on the road-
way under emergency conditions,
move the vehicle well off the road.cDo not use the hazard warning flash-
ers while moving on the highway
unless unusual circumstances force
you to drive so slowly that your ve-
hicle might become a hazard to other
traffic.
cSome state laws may prohibit the
use of the hazard warning flasher
switch while driving.
cTurn signals do not work when the
hazard warning flasher lights are on.
The flasher can be actuated with the ignition
switch in any position.
SIC0052SIC0050
INSTRUMENT BRIGHTNESS
CONTROLHAZARD WARNING FLASHER
SWITCH
1-12
ZX

2) Turn the ignition key slightly in the ON
direction.
3) Turn the key toward the LOCK position.
4) Remove the key.
The shift lever is designed so it cannot be
moved out of P and into any of the other
gear positions if the ignition key is turned to
OFF or if the key is removed from the
switch.The shift lever can be moved if the
ignition switch is in the ACC position.
The shift lever can also be moved if the
ignition switch is in the ON position and
the foot brake pedal is depressed.
WARNING
cTo lock the steering wheel, remove
the key. To unlock the steering
wheel, insert the key and turn it gen-
tly while rotating the steering wheel
slightly right and left.
cNever remove the key while driving.
If the key is removed, the steering
wheel will lock. This may cause the
driver to lose control of the vehicle
and could result in serious vehicle
damage or personal injury.
Key positions
LOCK Normal parking position (0)
OFF (Manual transmission model) (1)
The engine can be turned off without locking
the steering wheel. When removing the key
from the key cylinder, push the key release
button at this position and turn the key to
LOCK.
ACC (Accessories) (2)
This position activates electrical accesso-
ries such as the radio when the engine is
not running.
ON (Normal operating position) (3)
This position turns on the ignition system
and electrical accessories.
START (4)
This position starts the engine. As soon as
the engine has started, release the key. It
automatically returns to the ON position.cMake sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
cCheck fluid levels such as engine oil,
coolant, brake and clutch fluid, and win-
dow washer fluid as frequently as pos-
sible, at least whenever you refuel.
cCheck that all windows and lights are
clean.
cVisually inspect tires for their appearance
and condition. Also check tires for proper
inflation.
cLock all doors.
cPosition seat and adjust head restraints.
cAdjust inside and outside mirrors.
cFasten seat belts and ask all passengers
to do likewise.
cCheck the operation of warning lights
when key is turned to the ON (3) position.
BEFORE STARTING THE
ENGINE
4-5
ZX

make sure no nuts are missing, and check
for any loose nuts. Tighten if necessary.
Tire rotation*Tires should be rotated every
7,500 miles (12,000 km) for 2WD vehicles
and 3,750 miles (6,000 km) for 4WD ve-
hicles.
Wheel alignment and balanceIf the ve-
hicle should pull to either side while driving
on a straight and level road, or if you detect
uneven or abnormal tire wear, there may be
a need for wheel alignment.
If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at
normal highway speeds, wheel balancing
may be needed.
Windshield wiper blades*Check for
cracks or wear if they do not wipe properly.
Doors and engine hoodCheck that all
doors and the engine hood operate prop-
erly. Also ensure that all latches lock se-
curely. Lubricate hinges, latches, rollers and
links if necessary. Make sure that the sec-
ondary latch keeps the hood from opening
when the primary latch is released.
When driving in areas using road salt or
other corrosive materials, check lubrication
frequently.Lights*Make sure that the headlights, stop
lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and other
lights are all operating properly and installed
securely. Also check headlight aim.
INSIDE THE VEHICLE
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked on a regular basis, such as
when performing periodic maintenance,
cleaning the vehicle, etc.
Additional information on the following
items with ``*'' is found in the ``Do-it-
yourself operations'' section.
Warning lights and chimesMake sure all
warning lights and chimes are operating
properly.
Windshield wiper and washer*Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly and
that the wipers do not streak.
Windshield defrosterCheck that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly
and in sufficient quantity when operating the
heater or air conditioner.
Steering wheelCheck for changes in the
steering conditions, such as excessive free-
play, hard steering or strange noises.SeatsCheck seat position controls such as
seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to
ensure they operate smoothly and all
latches lock securely in every position.
Check that the head restraints move up and
down smoothly and the locks (if so
equipped) hold securely in all latched posi-
tions.
Seat beltsCheck that all parts of the seat
belt system (e.g., buckles, anchors, adjust-
ers and retractors) operate properly and
smoothly, and are installed securely. Check
the belt webbing for cuts, fraying, wear or
damage.
Accelerator pedalCheck the pedal for
smooth operation and make sure the pedal
does not catch or require uneven effort.
Keep the floor mats away from the pedal.
Clutch pedal*Make sure the pedal oper-
ates smoothly and check that it has the
proper free travel.
BrakesCheck that the brakes do not pull
the vehicle to one side when applied.
Brake pedal and booster*Check the pedal
for smooth operation and make sure it has
the proper distance under it when de-
pressed fully. Check the brake booster func-
8-3
ZX

Driving
Auto-lock free-running hubs ................. 4-15
Cold weather driving cautions .............. 4-27
Driving with automatic transmission ....... 4-6
Driving with manual transmission ........... 4-9
Driving your 4-wheel drive safely ......... 4-22
Manual-lock free-running hubs ............. 4-19
Precautions when driving ..................... 4-25
Precautions when starting and driving ... 4-2
E
Economy, fuel ............................................ 4-13
Emission control information label............. 9-14
Emission control system warranty ............. 9-22
Engine
Before starting the engine ...................... 4-5
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants.......................................... 9-2
Changing engine coolant........................ 7-5
Changing engine oil................................ 7-7
Changing engine oil filter........................ 7-8
Checking engine coolant level ............... 7-4
Checking engine oil level ....................... 7-6
Engine compartment check locations .... 7-3
Engine coolant temperature gauge ........ 1-4
Engine cooling system ........................... 7-4
Engine oil ................................................ 7-6
Engine oil and oil filter
recommendation ..................................... 9-6
Engine oil viscosity ................................. 9-7
Engine serial number ........................... 9-13Engine specifications .............................. 9-9
Starting the engine ............................... 4-10
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ................. 4-2
F
Flashers (See hazard warning flasher switch)
Flat tire ......................................................... 5-2
Floor mat positioning aid ............................. 6-4
Fluid (Checking)
Automatic transmission fluid ................... 7-9
Brake and clutch fluid ........................... 7-11
Engine coolant ........................................ 7-4
Engine oil ................................................ 7-6
Power steering fluid .............................. 7-11
Window washer fluid ............................ 7-12
F.M.V.S.S. certification label ..................... 9-13
Front seats
Bench.................................................... 2-10
Separate ................................................. 2-8
Fuel
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants.......................................... 9-2
Fuel economy ....................................... 4-13
Fuel filler cap .......................................... 2-5
Fuel gauge.............................................. 1-4
Fuel octane rating................................... 9-5
Fuel recommendation ............................. 9-4
Fuses ......................................................... 7-20G
Gas station information............................ 10-11
Gauge
Engine coolant temperature gauge ........ 1-4
Fuel gauge.............................................. 1-4
Odometer ................................................ 1-3
Speedometer .......................................... 1-3
Tachometer............................................. 1-3
Trip odometer ......................................... 1-3
Gear selection (See shifting)
General maintenance .................................. 8-2
Glove box lock ............................................. 2-4
H
Hazard warning flasher switch .................. 1-12
Head restraints ............................................ 2-9
Headlight and turn signal switch ............... 1-10
Headlights .................................................. 7-20
Heater
Heater and air conditioner controls ........ 3-3
Heater operation ..................................... 3-4
Hood release ............................................... 2-4
Hubs
Auto-lock free-running hubs ................. 4-15
Manual-lock free-running hubs ............. 4-19
I
Ignition switch .............................................. 4-4
10-2
ZX

Increasing fuel economy............................ 4-13
Indicator lights and chimes
(See warning/indicator lights and chimes)
Inside mirror ............................................... 2-27
Instrument brightness control .................... 1-12
Interior light and cargo light ....................... 1-14
J
Jack
Pantograph type ..................................... 5-5
Screw type .............................................. 5-6
Jump seat .................................................. 2-11
Jump starting ............................................... 5-8
K
Key ............................................................... 2-2
L
Labels
Air conditioner specification label ......... 9-14
Emission control information label........ 9-14
Engine serial number ........................... 9-13
F.M.V.S.S. certification label ................ 9-13
Vehicle identification number plate ...... 9-12
Warning labels (for SRS) ..................... 2-15
Light
Supplemental air bag warning light ...... 2-15
Bulb check/instrument panel .................. 1-6Bulb replacement.................................. 7-22
Headlight and turn signal switch .......... 1-10
Headlights ............................................. 7-20
Interior light and cargo light .................. 1-14
Light bulbs ............................................ 7-20
Map light ............................................... 1-14
Warning/indicator lights and chimes ...... 1-6
Lock
Door locks............................................... 2-2
Free-running lock (see hubs)
Glove box lock ........................................ 2-4
Power door lock...................................... 2-3
Luggage (see vehicle loading information). 9-15
M
Maintenance
General maintenance ............................. 8-2
Inside the vehicle.................................... 8-3
Maintenance precautions ....................... 7-2
Outside the vehicle ................................. 8-2
Periodic maintenance schedules ............ 8-5
Seat belt maintenance.......................... 2-21
Under the hood and vehicle ................... 8-4
Manual antenna ......................................... 3-20
Manual-lock free-running hubs .................. 4-19
Manual window .......................................... 1-15
Map light .................................................... 1-14
Mirror
Inside mirror.......................................... 2-27
Outside mirror remote control ............. 2-26
Outside mirrors ..................................... 2-26Vanity mirror ......................................... 2-27
O
Octane rating (see fuel)
Odometer ..................................................... 1-3
Oil
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants.......................................... 9-2
Changing engine oil................................ 7-7
Changing engine oil filter........................ 7-8
Checking engine oil level ....................... 7-6
Engine oil ................................................ 7-6
Engine oil and oil filter
recommendation ..................................... 9-6
Opera window ............................................ 1-17
Outside mirror remote control .................. 2-26
Outside mirrors .......................................... 2-26
Overdrive switch .......................................... 4-8
Overheat
If your vehicle overheats ........................ 5-9
Owner's manual order form ....................... 9-26
P
Pantograph type jack ................................... 5-5
Parking
Parking brake check ............................. 7-17
Parking brake operation ....................... 4-11
Parking/parking on hills ........................ 4-24
Periodic maintenance schedules ................. 8-5
10-3
ZX