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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 higher than the seat 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 tailgate.
• 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
Improper accessories or modifications can affect your vehicle’s handling, and
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
In addition:
• During the first 600 miles (1,000 km) of operation, avoid sudden acc\
eleration or
full throttle operation so as to not 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.
Driving Guidelines for Your Utility Vehicle
Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other \
types of
vehicles.
To prevent rollovers or loss of control:
• Take corners at slower speeds than you would with a passenger vehicle.
• Avoid sharp turns and abrupt maneuvers whenever possible.
• Do not modify your vehicle in any way that you would raise the center of\
gravity.
• Do not carry heavy cargo on the roof.
• Never carry more than 165 lbs (75 kg) of cargo on the roof rack (Hond\
a
accessory).
Your vehicle has been designed primarily for use on pavement, however, its higher
ground clearance allows you to occasionally travel on unpaved roads. It \
is not
designed for trail-blazing, or other challenging off-road activities.
If you decide to drive on unpaved roads, you will find that it require\
s somewhat
different driving skills and that your vehicle will handle somewhat diff\
erently than
it does on pavement. Pay attention to the precautions and tips in this s\
ection, and
get acquainted with your vehicle before leaving the pavement.
Improperly operating this vehicle on or off pavement can cause a crash o\
r
rollover in which you and your passengers can be seriously injured or ki\
lled.
• Follow all instructions and guidelines in this owner’s guide.
• Keep your speed low, and don’t drive faster than conditions permit.
WARNING
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MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE
Checking the Battery
The battery condition is monitored by the sensor on the negative termina\
l. If there
is a problem with the sensor, a message appears on the multi-information display.
Have your vehicle checked by a dealer.
For jump starting, see page 129.
The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.
A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to\
kill or
seriously hurt you.
When conducting any battery maintenance, wear protective clothing and a \
face
shield, or have a skilled technician do it.
WARNING
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead\
compounds. Wash your hands after handling.
Window Washer Fluid
If the washer fluid level is low, fill the washer reservoir. You can check the level by
looking at the reservoir, or a message* will appear on the MID.
Pour the washer fluid carefully. Do not overflow the reservoir.
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 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.
Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not compatible with your vehicle’s braking system and
can cause extensive damage.
NOTICE
*if equipped
Brake reservoir MAX
MIN
Changing Wiper Blades
If the wiper blades leave streaks across the windshield, try cleaning th\
em first with a
paper towel or soft cloth and wiper fluid. If the wiper blade rubber h\
as deteriorated,
you should change the wiper blades.
Changing the Front Wiper Blade Rubber
1. Lift the driver side wiper arm first, then the
passenger side.
2. Place a cloth on the edge of the lock tab. Push
the lock tab up with a flat-tip screwdriver.
3. Slide the blade from the wiper arm.
4. Slide the wiper blade out from its holder by
pulling the tabbed end out.
5. Remove the retainers from the rubber blade that
has been removed, and mount to a new rubber
blade. Correctly align the rubber protrusion and
the retainer grooves.
6. Slide the new wiper blade onto the holder from
the bottom end. The tab on the holder should fit
in the indent of the wiper blade. Slide the wiper
blade onto the wiper arm until it locks
7. Slide the wiper blade onto the wiper arm, then
push down the lock tab.
8. Lower the passenger side wiper arm first, then
the driver side.
Lock tab
Blade
Retainer
Avoid dropping the wiper arm, as it may damage the windshield.
NOTICE
Blade