Honda 2000 Insight - Owner's Manual User Manual

2000 Insight Online Reference Owner's Manual Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference.For a printed

Your Car's Safety Features(1) Safety Cage(2) Crush Zones(3) Seats & Seat-Backs(4) Head Restraints(5) Collapsible Steering Column(6) Seat Belt

Audio SystemOperating the RadioThe ignition switch must be inACCESSORY (I) or ON (ID tooperate the audio system. Turn thesystem on by pushing the PWR/

Audio SystemSCAN — The SCAN functionsamples all the stations with strongsignals on the selected band. Toactivate it, press the SCAN button,then releas

Audio SystemPreset — You can store thefrequencies of your favorite radiostations in the six preset buttons.Each button will store one frequencyon the

Audio SystemAdjusting the SoundBalance/Fader — These twocontrols adjust the strength of thesound coming from each speaker.The Balance control adjusts

Audio SystemRadio Frequencies and ReceptionFor information, See page 110 .Audio System LightingYou can use the instrument panelbrightness control butt

Audio SystemYou can use the RESET (Preset 6)button to quickly set the time to thenearest hour. If the displayed time isbefore the half hour, pressingR

Audio SystemDolby B noise reduction turns onwhen you insert a cassette. If thetape was not recorded with Dolby Bnoise reduction, turn it off bypressin

Audio SystemREPEAT — The Repeat functioncontinuously replays the currentsong or passage. Press the RPTbutton to activate it; you will see RPTdisplayed

Audio SystemThe SKIP and REPEAT functionsuse silent periods on the tape to findthe end of a song or passage. Thesefeatures may not work to yoursatisfa

Audio SystemOperating the Optional CDPlayer/ChangerA Compact Disc changer is availablefrom your dealer. It holds up to sixdiscs, providing several hou

Your Car's Safety FeaturesSeat BeltsFor your safety, and the safety ofyour passenger, your car is equippedwith seat belts in both seatingposition

Audio SystemTo operate the CD changer or player,the ignition must be in ACCESSORY(I) or ON (II) and the audio systemmust be on.Press the CD button unt

Audio SystemIf the system is in Repeat mode, youmust turn it off by pressing RPTbefore you can select Random Play.Then press the button again untilyou

Audio SystemCD Changer Error IndicationsIf you see an error indication in thedisplay while operating the CDchanger, find the cause in the chartto the

Audio SystemRadio FrequenciesYour Honda's radio can receive thecomplete AM and FM bands.Those bands cover these frequen-cies:AM band:530 to 1,710

Audio SystemRadio signals, especially on the FMband, are deflected by large objectssuch as buildings and hills. Yourradio then receives both the direc

Audio SystemOperating the CD Changer(Optional)A Compact Disc changer is availablefor your vehicle. It holds up to sixdiscs, providing several hours of

Audio SystemProtecting Compact DiscsHandle a CD by its edges; nevertouch either surface. Contaminationfrom fingerprints, liquids, felt-tippens, and la

Audio SystemCD Player Error IndicationsIf you see an error indication in thedisplay while operating the CDplayer, find the cause in the chart tothe ri

Audio SystemCD Changer Error IndicationsIf you see an error indication in thedisplay while operating the CDchanger, find the cause in the chartto the

Audio SystemCaring for the Cassette PlayerThe cassette player picks up dirt andoxides from the tape. This contami-nation builds up over time andcauses

Your Car's Safety FeaturesAirbagsYour car has a SupplementalRestraint System (SRS) with frontalairbags to help protect the driver anda passenger.

Before DrivingBefore you begin driving your Honda,you should know what gasoline touse, and how to check the levels ofimportant fluids. You also need t

Break-in Period, GasolineBreak-in PeriodHelp assure your car's futurereliability and performance by payingextra attention to how you driveduring

Service Station ProceduresFilling the Fuel Tank1. Because the fuel fill cap is on thepassenger's side of the car, parkwith that side closest to t

Service Station Procedures5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on,tighten it until it clicks severaltimes. If you do not properlytighten the cap, the Malfu

Service Station ProceduresIf you can open the hood withoutlifting the hood latch handle, or thehood latch handle moves stiffly ordoes not spring back

Service Station ProceduresOil CheckCheck the engine oil level every timeyou fill the car with fuel. Wait a fewminutes after turning the engine offbefo

Service Station Procedures4. Remove the dipstick again andcheck the level. It should bebetween the upper and lowermarks.If it is near or below the low

Fuel EconomyThe condition of your car and yourdriving habits are the two mostimportant things that affect the fuelmileage you get.Vehicle ConditionAlw

Fuel EconomyA 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.

Accessories and ModificationsModifying your car, or installingsome non-Honda accessories, canmake your car unsafe. Before youmake any modifications or

Your Car's Safety FeaturesSeats & Seat-BacksYour car's seats are designed to keepyou in a comfortable, uprightposition so you can take f

Accessories and ModificationsModificationsDo not remove any originalequipment or modify your car in anyway that would alter its design oroperation. Th

Carrying CargoSTORAGE BOXREAR CENTERPOCKET*CARGO AREASEAT-BACK POCKET GLOVE BOXYour car has several convenientstorage areas so you can stow cargosafel

Carrying CargoLoad LimitThe maximum load for your vehicleis 365 Ibs (170 kg).This figure includes the total weightof all occupants, cargo, andaccessor

Carrying CargoCarrying Cargo in the Cargo AreaDistribute cargo evenly on thefloor of the cargo area, placing theheaviest items on the bottom andas far

DrivingThis section gives you tips onstarting the engine under variousconditions, and how to operate themanual transmission. It also includesimportant

Preparing to DriveYou should do the following checksand adjustments every day beforeyou drive your car.1. Make sure all windows, mirrors,and outside l

Starting the Engine1. Apply the parking brake.2. In cold weather, turn off allelectrical accessories to reducethe drain on the battery.3. Push the clu

Auto Idle StopTo maximize fuel economy, youInsight has an Auto Idle Stopfunction. Under certain conditions,the engine will shut off when youcome to a

Auto Idle StopAuto Idle Stop IndicatorThis indicator comes on as areminder that the engine hasstopped because of the Auto Stopfunction. You cannot res

5-speed Manual TransmissionThe manual transmission is syn-chronized in all forward gears forsmooth operation. It has a lockout soyou cannot shift dire

Your Car's Safety FeaturesPre-Drive Safety ChecklistTo make sure you and yourpassenger get the maximumprotection from your car's safetyfeatu

5-speed Manual TransmissionShift Up/Shift Down IndicatorsEither the Shift Up or Shift Downindicator will light to show the besttime to shift to a high

ParkingAlways use the parking brake whenyou park your car. The indicator onthe instrument panel shows that theparking brake is not fully released; itd

The Braking SystemYour Honda is equipped with frontdisc brakes. The brakes on the rearwheels are drum. The brakingsystem is power-assisted to reduceth

The Braking SystemBrake System DesignThe hydraulic system that operatesthe brakes has two separate circuits.Each circuit works diagonally acrossthe ve

The Braking SystemImportant Safety RemindersABS does not reduce the time ordistance it takes to stop the car, itonly helps with steering controlduring

Driving in Bad WeatherRain, fog, and snow conditions re-quire a different driving techniquebecause of reduced traction andvisibility. Keep your car we

Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a TrailerTraction — Check your tiresfrequently for wear and properpressure. Both are important inpreventing "hydro

144Main Menu

MaintenanceThis section explains why it isimportant to keep your car wellmaintained and to follow basicmaintenance safety precautions.This section als

Maintenance SafetyRegularly maintaining your car is thebest way to protect your investment.Proper maintenance is essential toyour safely and the safet

Protecting AdultsIntroductionThe following pages provideinstructions on how to properlyprotect adult occupants.These instructions also apply to achild

Maintenance SafetyImportant Safety PrecautionsBefore you begin any maintenance,make sure your car is parked onlevel ground and that the parkingbrake i

Maintenance ScheduleThe Maintenance Schedule specifieshow often you should have your carserviced and what things needattention. It is essential that y

Maintenance ScheduleYour authorized Honda dealerknows your car best and can providecompetent, efficient service.However, service at a dealer is notman

U.S. OwnersFollow the Normal ConditionsMaintenance Schedule if thesevere driving conditionsspecified in the SevereConditions MaintenanceSchedule do no

Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C as required for each distance/time interval. Follow thissche

U.S. OwnersFollow the Severe ConditionsMaintenance Schedule if youdrive your vehicle MAINLYunder one or more of thefollowing conditions:Driving less t

Use this schedule if your vehicle is MAINLY driven in any of the following Severe Conditions, or normally driven in Canada; otherwise use the NormalSc

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, lastcolumn, page 149.* 1 : Refer to page 181 for replacement information under specialdrivi

Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow

Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)MaintenanceMain MenuTable of Contents

Protecting AdultsTo reduce the chance of injury, wearyour seat belt properly, sit uprightwith your back against the seat, andmove the seat as far back

Owner Maintenance ChecksYou should check the followingitems at the specified intervals. Ifyou are unsure of how to performany check, turn to the page

Fluid LocationsENGINE OILFILL CAPWASHER FLUID(Blue cap)ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK(Orange loop)CLUTCH FLUID(Gray cap)BRAKE FLUID(Gray cap)ENGINECOOLANTRESERVO

Engine OilAdding OilENGINE OIL FILL CAPTo add oil, unscrew and remove theengine oil fill cap on top of the valvecover. Pour in the oil, and install th

Engine OilThe oil container may also displaythe API Certification seal. Make sureit says "For Gasoline Engines."API CERTIFICATION SEALThe SA

Engine OilChanging the Oil and FilterAlways change the oil and filteraccording to the time and distance(miles/kilometers) recommenda-tions in the main

Engine Oil3. Remove the oil filter and let theremaining oil drain. A specialwrench (available from yourHonda dealer) is required toremove the filter.4

Cooling SystemAdding Engine CoolantIf the coolant level in the reservetank is at or below the MIN line, addcoolant to bring it up to the MAX line.Insp

Cooling System1. Make sure the engine and radiatorare cool.2. Turn the radiator cap counter-clockwise, without pressing downon it, until it stops. Thi

Cooling SystemReplacing Engine CoolantThe cooling system should becompletely drained and refilled withnew coolant according to the timeand distance re

Cooling System4. Loosen the drain plug on thebottom of the radiator. Thecoolant will drain through thesplash guard. Remove the drainbolt and washer fr

Protecting AdultsA passenger should also adjust theseat-back to an upright position, butas far from the dashboard aspossible. A passenger who sits too

Cooling System6. When the coolant stops draining,tighten the drain plug at thebottom of the radiator.Apply non-hardening sealant to thedrain bolt thre

Cooling System15.Start the engine and let it run forabout 30 seconds. Then turn offthe engine.16.Pour coolant into the radiator upto the base of the f

Windshield WashersCheck the level in the windshieldwasher reservoir at least monthlyduring normal usage. In bad weather,when you use the washers often

Transmission FluidCheck the fluid level with thetransmission at normal operatingtemperature and the car sitting onthe level ground.Remove the black co

Brake and Clutch FluidCheck the fluid level in the reser-voirs monthly. There are two reser-voirs. They are:Brake fluid reservoirClutch fluid reservoi

Brake and Clutch FluidClutch SystemThe fluid should be between theMIN and MAX marks on the side ofthe reservoir. If it is not, add brakefluid to bring

Air Cleaner ElementThe air cleaner element should bereplaced according to the time anddistance recommendations in themaintenance schedule.ReplacementT

Hood LatchPIVOTSClean the hood latch assembly with amild cleaner, then lubricate it with amultipurpose grease. Lubricate allthe moving parts, includin

BatteryCheck the condition of your car'sbattery monthly. You should checkthe color of the test indicator window,and for corrosion on the terminal

BatteryIf the terminals are severely cor-roded, clean them with baking sodaand water. Then use a wrench toloosen and remove the cables fromthe termina

Protecting Adults4.Fasten and Position the SeatBeltsInsert the latch plate into the buckle,then tug on the belt to make sure thebelt is securely latch

Wiper BladesCheck the condition of the wiperblades at least every six months.Look for signs of cracking in therubber, or areas that are gettinghard. R

Wiper Blades3. Remove the blade from its holderby grasping the tabbed end of theblade. Pull firmly until the tabscome out of the holder.4. Examine the

Wiper BladesTo replace the rear wiper blade:1. Raise the wiper arm off thewindshield.2. Pull one end of the blade out fromthe holder.3. Slide the blad

Air Conditioning System (Optional)Your car's air conditioning is a sealedsystem. Any major maintenance,such as recharging, should be doneby a qua

Air Conditioning Filter, Drive BeltAir Conditioning FilterThe air conditioning filter removespollen and dust from outside air theheating and cooling s

TiresTo safely operate your car, your tiresmust be the proper type and size, ingood condition with adequate tread,and correctly inflated. The followin

TiresYou should get your own tirepressure gauge and use it wheneveryou check your tire pressures. Thiswill make it easier for you to tell if apressure

TiresInspectionEvery time you check inflation, youshould also examine the tires fordamage, foreign objects, and wear.You should look for:Bumps or bulg

TiresTire RotationTo help increase tire life anddistribute wear more evenly, youshould have the tires rotated every7,500 miles (12,000 km). Move theti

TiresIt is best to replace all four tires atthe same time. If that is not possibleor necessary, then replace the twofront tires or the two rear tires

Protecting AdultsIf a seat belt does not seem to workas it should, it may not protect theoccupant in a crash. No one shouldsit in a seat with an inope

TiresSnow TiresIf you mount snow tires on yourHonda, make sure they are radialtires of the same size and load rangeas the original tires. Mount snowti

LightsCheck the operation of your car'sexterior lights at least once a month.A burned out bulb can create anunsafe condition by reducing yourcar&

LightsHIGH-MOUNT BRAKE LIGHTSTOP/TAILLIGHTLICENSE PLATE LIGHTS TURN SIGNALLIGHTBACK-UP LIGHTCheck the following:Headlights (low and high beam)Parking

LightsReplacing a Headlight BulbYour car has halogen headlightbulbs, one on each side. Whenreplacing a bulb, handle it by its steelbase and protect th

Lights4. Unclip the end of the hold-downwire from its slot. Pivot it out ofthe way and remove the bulb.5. Insert the new bulb into the hole,making sur

Lights2. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver toremove the screw from the top ofthe fender.3. Pull the inner fender cover back.4. Remove the socket from th

LightsReplacing Rear Bulbs1. Open the hatch.2. Pull the cover back.3. Loosen the nut holding the rearlight assembly.4. Remove the two covers. Removeth

Lights8. Reinstall the socket into the lightassembly by turning it clockwiseuntil it locks.9. Test the lights to make sure thenew bulb is working.10.R

LightsReplacing an Interior Light Bulb1. Remove the lens by carefullyprying on the edge of the lens inthe middle with a fingernail file ora small flat

Storing Your CarIf you need to park your car for anextended period (more than onemonth), there are several things youshould do to prepare it for stora

Owner's IdentificationThis Owner's Manual should be considereda permanent part of the car, and shouldremain with the car when it is sold.The

Protecting AdultsRemember, to get the bestprotection from your car's airbagsand other safety features, you mustsit properly and wear your seat be

Appearance CareRegular cleaning and polishing ofyour Honda helps to keep it "new"looking. This section gives you hintson how to clean your c

Exterior CareRoof AntennaBefore using an automatic car wash,remove the radio antenna so it doesnot get damaged. Remove theantenna by unscrewing it. Wh

Exterior CareAlthough almost all exterior panels onyour Honda are made of hardenedaluminum, they may dent more easilythan steel under some conditions.

Exterior CareWaxingAlways wash and dry the whole carbefore waxing it. You should waxyour car, including the metal trim,whenever water sits on the surf

Interior CareCarpetingVacuum the carpeting frequently toremove dirt. Ground-in dirt will makethe carpet wear out faster.Periodically shampoo the carpe

Interior Care, Corrosion ProtectionWindowsClean the windows, inside and out,with a commercially-available glasscleaner. You can also use a mixtureof o

Corrosion Protection, Body RepairsInspect and clean out the drainholes in the bottom of the doorsand body.Check the floor coverings fordampness. Carpe

204Main Menu

Taking Care of the UnexpectedThis section covers the more-common problems that motoristsexperience with their vehicles. Itgives you information about

Compact Spare TireYour car has a compact spare tirethat takes up less space. Use thisspare tire as a temporary replace-ment only. Get your regular tir

Protecting AdultsAdditional Safety PrecautionsTwo people should never use thesame seat belt. If they do, theycould be very seriously injured in acrash

Changing a Flat TireIf 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 da

Changing a Flat Tire1. Rear tire only:Use a flat-tipped screwdriver toloosen the two stud fastenersholding the rear wheel skirt.2. Pull the rear wheel

Changing a Flat TireJACKING POINT5. Locate the jacking point nearestthe tire you need to change. It ispointed to by an arrow molded intothe underside

Changing a Flat Tire8. Before mounting the spare tire,wipe any dirt off the mountingsurface of the wheel and hub witha clean cloth. Wipe the hubcarefu

Changing a Flat Tire11.Tighten the wheel nuts securely inthe same crisscross pattern. Havethe wheel nut torque checked atthe nearest automotive servic

Changing a Flat TireWING BOLT SPACER CONE14.Remove the center cap.Place the flat tire face down in thespare tire well.15.Remove the spacer cone from t

If Your Engine Won't StartDiagnosing why your engine won'tstart falls into two areas, dependingon what you hear when you turn thekey to STAR

If Your Engine Won't Start, Jump StartingThe Starter Operates NormallyIn this case, the starter motor'sspeed sounds normal, or even fasterth

Jump Starting3. Connect one jumper cable to thepositive ( + ) terminal on thebooster battery. Connect the otherend to the positive ( + ) terminalon yo

If Your Engine OverheatsThe pointer of your car's tempera-ture gauge should stay in the mid-range under most conditions. It maygo higher if you a

Protecting ChildrenChildren depend on adults to protectthem. However, despite their bestintentions, many parents and otheradults may not know how to p

If Your Engine Overheats4. If the temperature gauge stays atthe red mark, turn off the engine.5. Wait until you see no more signsof steam or spray, th

Low Oil Pressure IndicatorLOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATORThis indicator should light when theignition switch is ON (II), and go outafter the engine starts.

Charging System IndicatorCHARGING SYSTEM INDICATORThis indicator should come on whenthe ignition switch is ON (II), and goout after the engine starts.

Malfunction Indicator LampMALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMPThis indicator comes on for a fewseconds when you turn the ignitionswitch ON (II). If it comes on

Brake System IndicatorBRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR*The Brake System Indicator comeson when you turn the ignition ON(II). If the parking brake is not set, it

FusesAll the electrical circuits in your carhave fuses to protect them from ashort circuit or overload. Thesefuses are located in two fuse boxes.INTER

FusesChecking and Replacing FusesIf something electrical in your carstops working, the first thing youshould check for is a blown fuse.Determine from

Fuses5. 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 t

FusesINTERIOR FUSE BOX* : Canadian model onlyCONTINUEDTaking Care of the UnexpectedMain MenuTable of Contents

FusesUNDER-HOOD FUSE BOXTaking Care of the UnexpectedMain MenuTable of Contents

Protecting ChildrenYour Car is Not Recommendedfor Child PassengersWe strongly recommend that you donot carry any child in this car.One reason is that

If Your Car Gets StuckIf your car gets stuck in sand, mud,or snow, call a towing service to pullit out (see page 228).For very short distances, such a

Emergency TowingIf your car needs to be towed, call aprofessional towing service or, if youbelong to one, an organization thatprovides roadside assist

Emergency TowingIf you decide to tow your car with allfour wheels on the ground, makesure you use a properly-designed andattached tow bar. Prepare the

230Main Menu

Technical InformationThe diagrams in this section giveyou the dimensions and capacities ofyour Honda, and the locations of theidentification numbers.

Identification NumbersYour car has several identifyingnumbers located in various places.The Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) is the 17-digit number

Identification NumbersThe Engine Number is stamped intothe engine block.The Transmission Number is on alabel on top of the transmission.TRANSMISSION N

Specifications* 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in theengine.Reserve tank capacity: 0.11 US gal (0.4 , 0.09 Imp gal)*

SpecificationsTechnical Informationpage 225page 226Main MenuTable of Contents

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)The tires on your car meet all U.S.Federal Safety Requirements. Alltires are also graded for treadwear,tractio

Protecting ChildrenU.S. ModelsTo remind you of the passenger'sairbag hazards, your car has warninglabels hanging from the glove boxand on the dri

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)TemperatureThe temperature grades are A (thehighest), B, and C, representing thetire's resistance to the

Oxygenated FuelsSome conventional gasolines arebeing blended with alcohol or anether compound. These gasolinesare collectively referred to asoxygenate

Driving in Foreign CountriesTechnical InformationIf you are planning to take yourHonda outside the U.S. or Canada,contact the tourist bureaus in thear

Emissions ControlsThe burning of gasoline in your car'sengine produces several byproducts.Some of these are carbon monoxide(CO), oxides of nitrog

Emissions ControlsExhaust Emissions ControlsThe exhaust emissions controlsinclude three systems: PGM-FI,Ignition Timing Control and ThreeWay Catalytic

Three Way Catalytic ConverterThe three way catalytic convertercontains precious metals that serveas catalysts, promoting chemicalreactions to convert

Warranty and Customer RelationsCustomer RelationsInformation... 244U.S. Zone Office Map... 245Canada Zo

Customer Relations InformationHonda dealership personnel aretrained professionals. They shouldbe able to answer all your questions.If you encounter a

U.S. Zone Office MapThe addresses and telephone numbers are subject to change. If you cannotreach your Zone office, ask your Honda dealer for the curr

Canada Zone Office MapCUSTOMER RELATIONSRELATIONS AVEC LA CLIENTELEHonda Canada Inc.715 Milner AvenueToronto, ONM1B 2K8Tel: 1-888-9-HONDA-9Fax: Toll-f

Protecting ChildrenAdditional Safety PrecautionDo not leave a child alone in yourcar. Leaving a child without adultsupervision is illegal in most stat

Warranty CoveragesU.S. OwnersYour new Honda is covered by thesewarranties:New Car Limited Warranty — coversyour new vehicle, except for thebattery, em

Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Vehicles)If you believe that your vehicle has adefect which could cause a crash orcould cause injury or death, youshoul

Authorized ManualsPurchasing Factory Authorized Manuals(U.S. only)The following publications covering the operation andservicing of your vehicle can b

Authorized ManualsThese Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14days of delivery. On returns, a re

IndexAccessories and Modifications... 126Accessories... 126Additional Safety Precaution... 127Modifications...

IndexBulb ReplacementInterior Light... 195License Plate Lights... 194Specifications...

IndexDipstickEngine Oil... 122Directional Signals... 61Disabled, Towing Your Car If... 228D

IndexFront End, Towing byEmergency Wrecker... 228Fuel... 118Fill Door and Cap...

IndexJacking up the Car... 207Jack, Tire... 207Jump Starting...

IndexPaint Touch-up... 200Panel Brightness Control... 60Parking... 13

Protecting Children2. The child seat should be of theproper type and size to fit the child.Small Children: A child who can situp without support shoul

IndexService Manual*... 249Service Station Procedures... 119Setting the Clock... 101ShiftingTh

IndexTowingA Trailer... 143Emergency Wrecker... 228TransmissionChecking Fluid Level,Manual...

Service Information SummaryGasoline:Unleaded gasoline, pump octanenumber of 87 or higher.Fuel Tank Capacity:10.6 US gal (40 l, 8.8 Imp gal)Recommended

Protecting ChildrenPlacing a Child SeatThis page briefly summarizesHonda's recommendations on whereto place a child seat in your car.Passenger&ap

Protecting ChildrenInstalling a Child SeatAfter selecting a proper child seat,there are three main steps ininstalling the seat:1. Secure the child sea

Protecting ChildrenProtecting Small ChildrenThe passenger's airbag posesserious risks to small children. If thevehicle seat is too far forward, o

IntroductionCongratulations ! Your selection of a 2000 Honda Insight was a wiseinvestment. It will give you years of driving pleasure.One of the best

Protecting ChildrenChild Seat InstallationThe passenger's seat belt has alocking mechanism that must beactivated to secure a child seat.The follo

Protecting Children5. After confirming that the belt islocked, grab the shoulder part ofthe belt near the buckle and pullup to remove any slack from t

Protecting ChildrenProtecting Larger ChildrenThe passenger's airbag posesserious risks to children, includingthose who have outgrown child seats.

Protecting ChildrenHowever, if the belt touches orcrosses the child's neck, the childneeds to use a booster seat.Do not let a child wear a seat b

Protecting ChildrenA child may continue using a boosterseat until the tops of the ears areeven with the top of the seat-back. Achild of this height sh

Protecting ChildrenIf you decide that a child can safelyride in this car, be sure to:Carefully read the owner's manualand make sure you understan

Protecting ChildrenUsing Child Seats with TethersYour car has a tether anchoragepoint on the trunk lining for securinga tether-style child seat to the

Additional Information About Your Seat BeltsSeat Belt System ComponentsYour seat belt system includes lap/shoulder belts in both seatingpositions.The

Additional Information About Your Seat BeltsTo deactivate the lockingmechanism, unlatch the buckle andlet the seat belt fully retract. Torefasten the

Additional Information About Your SRSSRS ComponentsYour Supplemental Restraint System(SRS) includes:Two front airbags. The driver'sairbag is stor

A Few Words About SafetyYour safety, and the safety of others,is very important. And operating thiscar safely is an importantresponsibility.To help yo

Additional Information About Your SRSDuring a crash, your seat belt helpsrestrain your lower body and torso,while the tensioner tightens andlocks the

Additional Information About Your SRSHow the Automatic Seat BeltTensioners WorkYour Honda has automatic seat belttensioners for added protectionduring

Additional Information About Your SRSSRS ServiceYour Supplemental Restraint Systemis virtually maintenance-free, andthere are no parts you can safelys

Carbon Monoxide HazardYour car's exhaust contains carbonmonoxide gas. You should have noproblem with carbon monoxideentering the car in normal dr

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

42Main Menu

Instruments and ControlsThis section gives information aboutthe controls and displays thatcontribute to the daily operation ofyour Honda. All the esse

Control LocationsInstruments and ControlsFCD SELECT BUTTON(P. 52)POWER WINDOWSWITCHES(P. 75)HEATING/COOLINGCONTROLS(P. 82, 89)AUDIO SYSTEM(P. 96)DIGIT

Indicator LightsThe instrument panel has manyindicators to give you importantinformation about your car.* The U.S. instrument panel is shown. Differen

Indicator LightsSeat Belt Reminder LightThis indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch ON (II). It is areminder to you and your passengersto p

Your Car at a GlancePOWER WINDOW SWITCHES(P.75)FCD SELECT BUTTON(P.52)DOOR LOCK(P.69)FUEL FILLDOOR RELEASE(P.119)AUDIO SYSTEM(P.96)DIGITAL CLOCKHOOD R

Indicator LightsSee page 220.Malfunction IndicatorLampTurn Signal andHazard WarningIndicatorsThe left or right turn signal lightblinks when you signal

Indicator Lights"Daytime RunningLights" IndicatorCanadian models onlyThis indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch to ON (II) witht

GaugesMEINTENANCE REQUIRED INDICATORDISPLAY CHANGEBUTTONTEMPERATURE GAUGETRIP BUTTONLiquid crystal is used in the meterpanel. You may feel the indicat

GaugesFUEL CONSUMPTIONDISPLAY SELECT BUTTONFUEL MILEAGE DISPLAYAUTO STOP INDICATORIMA CHARGE/ASSIST INDICATORSHIFT DOWN INDICATORIMA SYSTEMINDICATORIn

GaugesCurrent Fuel MileageThis display shows the current, orinstantaneous fuel mileage you aregetting.To change the meter reading in thedisplay, push

GaugesTrip MileageWhen a trip meter is displayed, theaverage fuel mileage you have beengetting during that trip is shown inthe Fuel Mileage display. T

GaugesLifetime Fuel MileageWhen the odometer is displayed, theFuel Mileage display shows thelifetime fuel mileage. This is theaverage fuel mileage you

Gauges5. Use the Trip button to selectanother mileage display.6. Press and hold the FCD Selectbutton again to turn off thatdisplay.7. Use the Trip but

Charge/Assist GaugeThis gauge shows the status of theIntegrated Motor Assist. If theindicator is on the left side of thegauge, the IMA battery is bein

GaugesFuel GaugeThis 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

Your Car at a GlanceMIRROR CONTROLS(P.76)POWER WINDOWSWITCHES(P.75)HEADLIGHTS/TURN SIGNALS(P.59, 61)HORNWINDSHIELD WIPERS/WASHERS(P.61)HAZARD WARNINGL

GaugesMaintenance Required IndicatorThis indicator reminds yon that it istime to take your car in forscheduled maintenance.Refer to the Maintenance Sc

Controls Near the Steering WheelThe two levers on the steeringcolumn contain controls for drivingfeatures you use most often. The leftlever controls t

Controls Near the Steering WheelHeadlightsThe rotating switch on the left levercontrols the lights. Turning thisswitch to the position turnson the par

Controls Near the Steering WheelDaytime Running LightsCanadian models onlyWith the headlight switch off, thehigh beam headlights come on withreduced b

Controls Near the Steering WheelTurn SignalsSignal a turn or lane change with thislever. Push down on the lever tosignal a left turn, and up to signal

Controls Near the Steering WheelIn intermittent, the wipers operateevery few seconds. In low speed andhigh speed, the wipers run continu-ously.To oper

Controls Near the Steering WheelRear Window Wiper and WasherTo turn on the rear window wiper,turn the ring clockwise to ON. Toalso use the rear window

Controls Near the Steering WheelAutomatic OperationThe rear window defogger turns onautomatically when you turn theignition switch ON (II) if the outs

Keys and LocksKeysYour car comes with two masterkeys and a valet key.The master key fits all the locks onyour vehicle:IgnitionDoorsHatchGlove boxThe v

Keys and LocksImmobilizer SystemThe Immobilizer System protectsyour car from theft. A properly-coded master or valet key must beused in the ignition s

4Main Menu

Keys and LocksIgnition SwitchThe ignition switch is on the rightside of the steering column. It hasfour positions:LOCK (0)ACCESSORY (I)ON (II)START (I

Keys and LocksACCESSORY (I) — In this position,you can operate the audio systemand the accessory power socket.ON (II) — This is the normal keyposition

Keys and LocksDoor LocksLOCK TABEach door has a lock tab next to theinside door handle. Push the tab in tolock the door and pull it out to unlock.To l

Keys and LocksTo open the hatch, push the leverbehind the hatch's back edge. Toclose the hatch, push down on theback edge.See page 128 for cargo

Keys and LocksRemote TransmitterYou can lock and unlock your carwith the remote transmitter. Whenyou push the LOCK button, bothdoors lock. The side ma

Keys and LocksPanic ModePanic mode allows you to remotelyactivate your car's security system toattract attention. When activated, thehorn will so

Keys and LocksBATTERY ROUNDCOVERRemove the old battery and note thepolarity. Make sure the polarity ofthe new battery is the same (+ sidefacing up), t

Seat AdjustmentsFront Seat AdjustmentsSee pages 12 — 14 for important safetyinformation and warnings about how toproperly position seats and seat-back

Power WindowsYour car's windows are electrically-powered. Turn the ignition switch toON (II) to raise or lower eitherwindow.MAIN SWITCHThere is a

Power Windows, MirrorsThe AUTO function only works tolower the driver's window. To raisethe window, you must push thewindow switch up and hold it

Driver and Passenger SafetyThis section gives you importantinformation about how to protectyourself and your passenger. Itshows you how to use seat be

Mirrors, Parking Brake, Storage BoxMirrorsKeep the inside and outside mirrorsclean and adjusted for best visibility.Be sure to adjust the mirrors befo

Glove Box, Beverage HolderGlove BoxOpen the glove box by pulling thebottom of the handle. Close it with afirm push. Lock or unlock the glovebox with t

Accessory Power SocketTo use the accessory power socket,pull up the cover. The ignition switchmust be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON(II).This socket is intend

Interior LightCeiling LightsDOOR ACTIVATEDThe interior light has a three-position switch. In the OFF position,the light does not come on. In thecenter

Comfort and Convenience FeaturesThe heating and optional airconditioning systems in your Hondaprovide a comfortable drivingenvironment in all weatherc

HeatingProper use of the Heating systemcan make the interior comfortable,and keep the windows clear for bestvisibility.What Each Control DoesFan Contr

HeatingMode ButtonsUse the MODE buttons to select thevents the air flows from. Some airwill flow from the dashboard cornervents in all modes.Air flows

HeatingVent ControlsThe direction of air flow from thevents in the center and each side ofthe dashboard is adjustable.To adjust the air flow from thec

HeatingHow to Use the SystemThis section covers how to set up thesystem controls for ventilation,heating, and defrosting.The engine must be running fo

HeatingTo HeatTo warm the interior:1. Start the engine.2. Select and Fresh Air mode.3. Set the fan to the desired speed.4. Adjust the warmth of the ai

Important Safety PrecautionsYou'll find many safetyrecommendations throughout thissection, and throughout this manual.The recommendations on this

HeatingThese settings direct all the air flowto the defroster vents at the base ofthe windshield and the side windowdefroster vents. The air flow will

Climate Control SystemOnly on cars with automatic airconditioning systemThe automatic climate controlsystem in your Honda picks theproper combination

Climate Control SystemPASSENGER'S-SIDE VENTComfort and Convenience FeaturesMain MenuTable of Contents

Climate Control SystemFully-automatic OperationAuto ButtonTo put the Automatic ClimateControl in fully-automatic mode,press the AUTO button and set th

Climate Control SystemPressing the OFF button shuts theclimate control system completelyoff. Keep the system completely offonly for short periods. To

Climate Control SystemRecirculation ButtonThis button controls the source ofthe air going into the system. Whenthe indicator above this button is lit,

Climate Control SystemMode ButtonUse the MODE button to select thevents the air flows from. Some airwill flow from the dashboard cornervents in all mo

Climate Control SystemThe button directs the mainair flow to the windshield for fasterdefrosting. It also overrides anyMODE selection you may have mad

Climate Control SystemSunlight Sensor/TemperatureSensorSUNLIGHT SENSORThe climate control system has twosensors. A sunlight sensor is locatedin the to

Audio SystemAM/FM/Cassette Stereo AudioSystemYour Honda's audio system providesclear reception on both AM and FMbands, while the preset buttons a