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DRIVING
DRIVING
DRIVING
Learn about preparation for driving, as well as other features.
Before Driving
Check the following items before you begin driving.
Exterior Checks
• Make sure there are no obstructions on the windows, door mirrors, exterior
lights, or other parts of the vehicle.
•
remove any frost, snow, or ice.
• Make sure the hood is securely closed.
• Heat from the engine and exhaust can ignite flammable materials left u\
nder
the hood, causing a fire. If you’ve parked your vehicle for an exte\
nded period,
inspect and remove any debris that may have collected, such as dried grass
and leaves that have fallen or have been carried in for use as a nest by\
a small
animal. Also check under the hood for leftover flammable materials aft\
er you or
someone else has performed maintenance on your vehicle.
• Make sure the tires are in good condition.
• Make sure there are no people or objects behind or around the vehicle.
Interior Checks
• Store or secure all items on board properly.
• Do not pile items in the cargo area higher than the seatback height.
• Do not place anything in the front seat footwells. Make sure to secure t\
he floor
mats.
• If you have any animals on board, do not let them move freely around in \
the
vehicle.
• Securely close and lock all doors and the trunk.
• Adjust your seating position, mirrors, and steering wheel properly.
• Make sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll\
under the
seats.
•
everyone in the vehicle must fasten their seat belt.
• Make sure that the indicators in the instrument panel come on when you s\
tart
the vehicle, and go off soon after.
If the doors are frozen shut, use warm water around the door edges to me\
lt any
ice. Do not try to force them open, as this can damage the rubber trim a\
round the
doors. When done, wipe dry to avoid further freezing.
NOTICE In addition:
• During the first 600 miles (1,000 km) of operation, avoid sudden acc\
eleration or
full throttle operation so as not to damage the engine or powertrain.
• Avoid hard braking for the first 200 miles (300 km). You should also follow this
when the brake pads are replaced.
Improper accessories or modifications can affect your vehicle’s handling,
stability, and performance, and cause a crash in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.
Follow all instructions in the vehicle owner’s manual regarding accessories
and modifications.
WARNING
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M
AINTENANCEMAINTENANCE
Engine Coolant
Park the vehicle on level ground. Check the reserve tank and the coolant\
level in the
radiator. We recommend Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2.
Checking the Coolant
1. Check the amount of coolant in the reserve tank.
2. If the coolant level is below the MIN mark, add
the specified coolant until it reaches the MAX
mark.
3. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.
Adding Coolant
1. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.
2. Turn the reserve tank cap counterclockwise and
relieve any pressure in the coolant system. Do
not push the cap down when turning.
3. Push down and turn the reserve tank cap
counterclockwise to remove it.
4. Pour coolant into the reserve tank until it reaches
the MAX mark.
5. Put the reserve tank cap back on, and tighten it
fully.
If temperatures consistently below −22°F (−30°C) are expec\
ted, the coolant
mixture should be changed to a higher concentration. Consult a dealer fo\
r details
for more information.
NOTICE
Reserve tank cap
1.5 engine models
Reserve tank cap
2.0 engine models
removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant t\
o
spray out, seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiato\
r
cap.
WARNING
Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills
immediately; they can damage components in the engine compartment.
NOTICE
MA X
MINReserve tan k
Window Washer Fluid
Check the amount of window washer fluid by looking
at the reservoir. If the washer fluid level is low, fill the
washer reservoir.
Pour the washer fluid carefully. Do not overflow the
reservoir.
Canadian models
If the washer fluid level is low, the washer level indicator or a message appears in
the Driver Information Interface.
Do not use engine antifreeze or a vinegar/water solution in the windshie\
ld washer
reservoir. Antifreeze can damage your vehicle’s paint. A vinegar/water solution
can damage the windshield washer pump.
NOTICE
Brake/Clutch* Fluid
The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of\
the
reservoir. We recommend using Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3.
Pour the fluid carefully.
If the fluid level is at or below the MIN mark, have a
dealer inspect for leaks or worn brake pads as soon as
possible.
The brake fluid reservoir is also used for your vehicle’s
clutch fluid. As long as you keep the brake fluid level
as instructed above, there is no need for checking the
clutch fluid level.
Brake fluid marked DoT 5 is not compatible with your vehicle’s braking system
and can cause extensive damage.
NOTICE
Brake reservoir
MINMAX
*if equipped