Honda 2000 Prelude - Owner's Manual User Manual

2000 Prelude 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

Comfort and Convenience FeaturesThe heating and air conditioningsystems in your Honda provide acomfortable driving environment inall weather condition

Heating and CoolingProper use of the Heating andCooling system can make theinterior dry and comfortable, andkeep the windows clear for bestvisibility.

Heating and CoolingMode ButtonsUse the MODE buttons to select thevents the air flows from. Some airwill flow from the dashboard cornervents in all mod

Heating and CoolingVent ControlsYou can adjust the direction of theair coming from the dashboard ventsby moving the tab in the center ofeach vent up-a

Heating and CoolingIt is best to leave the system in FreshAir mode under almost all conditions.Keeping the system in Recirculationmode, particularly w

Heating and CoolingTo Cool with A/C1. Turn on the A/C by pressing thebutton. The light in the buttonshould come on when a fan speedis selected.2. Make

Heating and CoolingIf the interior is very warm frombeing parked in the sun, you can coolit down more rapidly by setting upthe controls this way:1. St

Heating and CoolingTo Defog and DefrostTo remove fog from the inside of thewindows:1. Switch the fan on.2. SelectWhen you select thesystem automatical

Heating and CoolingTo remove exterior frost or ice fromthe windshield and side windowsafter the car has been sitting out incold weather:1. Start the e

Audio SystemAM/FM/CD Audio SystemYour Honda's audio system providesclear reception on both AM and FMbands, while the preset buttons allowyou to e

Your Car's Safety FeaturesSeat BeltsFor your safety, and the safety ofyour passengers, your car isequipped with seat belts in all seatingposition

Audio SystemYou can use any of four methods tofind radio stations on the selectedband: TUNE, SEEK, SCAN or thePreset buttons.TUNE — Use the TUNE bar t

Audio SystemAUTO SELECT — If you aretraveling far from home and can nolonger receive the stations youpreset, you can use the Auto Selectfeature to fin

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

Audio SystemAudio System LightingYou can use the instrument panelbrightness control dial to adjust the il-lumination of the audio system (seepage 63).

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 PlayerYou operate the CD player with thesame controls used for the radio.With the ignition switch inACCESSORY (I) or ON (

Audio SystemIf you turn the system off while a CDis playing, either with the PWR/VOLknob or by turning off the ignition,the disc will stay in the driv

Audio SystemOperating the CD Changer(Optional)A Compact Disc changer is availablefor your car. It holds up to six discs,providing several hours ofcont

Audio SystemTo select the CD changer, press theCD button. The disc and tracknumbers will be displayed.To select a different disc, press theappropriate

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

Your Car's Safety FeaturesAirbagsYour car has a Supplementa lRestraint System (SRS) with frontalairbags to help protect the driver anda front sea

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 SystemOperating the Cassette Player(Optional)The cassette system features DolbyB* noise reduction, automaticsensing of chromium-dioxide (CrO2)ta

Audio SystemThe tape direction indicator will lightto show you which side of thecassette is playing. The indicatesthe side you inserted facing upwardi

Audio SystemSKIP — The skip function allowsyou to find the beginning of a songor passage. To activate SKIP, pressthe SEEK/SKIP bar. Press theside to a

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

Audio SystemTheft ProtectionYour car's audio system will disableitself if it is disconnected fromelectrical power for any reason. Tomake it work

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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

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

Service Station ProceduresFilling the Fuel Tank1. Because the fuel fill cap is on thedriver's side of the car, park withthat side closest to the

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

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

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

Carrying CargoYour car has several convenientstorage areas so you can stow cargosafely.The glove box, and the pockets inthe front doors and seat-back,

Carrying CargoLoad LimitThe maximum load for your car is700 lbs (325 kg).This figure includes the total weightof all occupants, cargo, accessories,and

Your Car's Safety FeaturesDoor LocksKeeping your doors locked reducesthe chance of being thrown out ofthe car during a crash. It also helpspreven

Carrying CargoCarrying Cargo in the Trunk or ona Roof RackDistribute cargo evenly on thefloor of the trunk, placing theheaviest items on the bottom an

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DrivingThis section gives you tips onstarting the engine under variousconditions, and how to operate the5-speed manual and automatictransmissions. It

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. Manual Trans

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

5-speed Manual TransmissionRecommended Shift PointsDrive in the highest gear that letsthe engine run and acceleratesmoothly. This will give you the be

Automatic TransmissionYour Honda's transmission has fourforward speeds, and is electronicallycontrolled for smoother shifting. Italso has a "

Automatic TransmissionShift Lever PositionsSHIFT LEVERThe shift lever has eight positions. Itmust be in Park or Neutral to startthe engine. When you a

Automatic TransmissionPark (P) — This position mechani-cally locks the transmission. UsePark whenever you are turning off orstarting the engine. To sh

Protecting AdultsIntroductionThe following pages provideinstructions on how to properlyprotect the driver and other adultoccupants.These instructions

Automatic TransmissionNeutral (N) — Use Neutral if youneed to restart a stalled engine, or ifit is necessary to stop briefly withthe engine idling. Sh

Automatic TransmissionWhen you accelerate away from astop, the transmission will be in firstgear. The transmission will notautomatically upshift. Watc

Automatic TransmissionIf the car speed slows to below theredline of the selected lower gearposition while the indicator isflashing, the transmission w

Automatic TransmissionSecond (2) — This position locksthe transmission in second gear. Itdoes not downshift to first gearwhen you come to a stop. Seco

Automatic TransmissionShift Lock ReleaseThis allows you to move the shiftlever out of Park if the normalmethod of pushing on the brakepedal does not w

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 discbrakes at all four wheels. A powerassist helps reduce the effort neededon the brake pedal. The ABS h

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

The Braking SystemABS IndicatorThe ABS is self-checking. If anythinggoes wrong, the ABS indicator onthe instrument panel comes on (seepage 56). This m

Protecting Adults2. Adjust the Front SeatsAny driver who sits too close to thesteering wheel is at ris k of beingseriously injured or killed by striki

Active Torque Transfer SystemType SH onlyYour Honda is equipped wit h anActive Torque Transfer System(ATTS). Under certain drivingconditions, the ATTS

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 WeatherTraction — Check your tiresfrequently for wear and properpressure. Both are important inpreventing "hydroplaning" (los

Towing a TrailerYour Honda has been designedprimarily to carry passengers andtheir cargo. You can use it to tow atrailer if you carefully observe thel

Towing a TrailerChecking LoadsThe best way to confirm that vehicleand trailer weights are within limitsis to have them checked at a publicscale.Using

Towing a TrailerTrailer BrakesHonda recommends that any trailerhaving a total weight of 1,000 Ibs(450 kg) or more be equipped withits own electric or

Towing a TrailerAdditional Trailer EquipmentMany states and Canadian provincesrequire special outside mirrors whentowing a trailer. Even if they don&a

Towing a TrailerDriving Safely With a TrailerThe added weight, length, andheight of a trailer will affect yourvehicle's handling and performance,

Towing a TrailerHandling Crosswinds and BuffetingCrosswinds and air turbulencecaused by passing trucks can disruptyour steering and cause trailerswayi

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Protecting Adults3. Adjust the Seat-BacksAdjust the driver's seat-back to acomfortable, upright position,leaving ample space between yourchest an

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 safety and the safet

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

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page 171 .MaintenanceU.S. OwnersFollow the Severe ConditionsMaintenance Schedu

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

* 1 : See Timing Belt on page 204 to determine need for replacement.* 2 : See Air Conditioning Filter on page 203 for replacementinformation under spe

Protecting Adults4. Adjust the Head RestraintsBefore driving, make sure everyonewith an adjustable head restraint hasproperly positioned the headrestr

Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)MaintenanceCONTINUEDYou or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here

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

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 CAPCOOLANTRESERVOIRAUTOMATICTRANSMISSIONFLUID DIPSTICK(Yellow loop)BRAKE FLUID(Gray cap)(5-speed ManualTransmission only

Engine OilAdding OilTo add oil, unscrew and remove theengine oil fill cap on top of the valvecover. Pour in the oil, and replace theengine oil fill ca

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 Oil4. Install a new oil filter according toinstructions that come with it.5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt,then reinstall the drain bolt.T

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 andradiator are cool.2. Turn the radiator cap counter-clockwise, without pressing downon it, until it stops. Thi

Protecting Adults5. Fasten and Position the SeatBeltsInsert the latch plate into the buckle,then tug on the belt to make sure thebelt is securely latc

Cooling SystemDo not add any rust inhibitors orother additives to your car's coolingsystem. They may not be compatiblewith the coolant or engine

Cooling SystemExcept Type SH onlyRemove the drain bolt and washerfrom the engine block.4. Remove the reserve tank from itsholder by pulling it straigh

Cooling System7. Loosen the bleeder bolt on top ofthe engine.Pour coolant into the radiator upto the base of the filler neck.Tighten the bleeder bolt

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

Transmission FluidAutomatic TransmissionCheck the fluid level with the engineat normal operating temperature.1. Park the car on level ground. Shutoff

Transmission Fluid5-speed Manual TransmissionCheck the fluid level with thetransmission at normal operatingtemperature and the car sitting onlevel gro

Brake and Clutch FluidCheck the fluid level in the reser-voirs monthly. There are up to tworeservoirs, depending on the model.They are:Brake fluid res

Brake and Clutch Fluid, Power SteeringClutch SystemThe fluid should be between theMIN and MAX marks on the side ofthe reservoir. If it is not, add bra

Air Cleaner ElementThe air cleaner element should becleaned or replaced according to thetime and distance recommendationsin the maintenance schedule.C

Hood Latch, Spark PlugsHood LatchClean the hood latch assembly with amild cleaner, then lubricate it with amultipurpose grease. Lubricate allthe movin

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 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

Spark Plugs3. Remove the spark plug cap bypulling it straight out.4. Remove the spark plug witha five-eighths inch (16 mm) sparkplug socket.5. Put the

Spark Plugs, BatteryTighten The spark plugs carefully. Aspark plug That is too loose canoverheat and damage The engine.Overtightening can cause damage

BatteryCheck the battery condition bylooking at the test indicator windowon the battery.The label on the battery explains thetest indicator's col

Battery, Wiper BladesIf your car's battery is disconnectedor goes dead, the audio system willdisable itself. The next time you turnon the radio y

Wiper BladesTo replace the blade:1. Raise the wiper arm off thewindshield.Raise the driver's side first, thenthe passenger's side.2. Disconn

Wiper Blades, Air Conditioning System4. Examine the new wiper blades. Ifthey have no plastic or metal rein-forcement along the back edge,remove the me

Air Conditioning System, Air Conditioning FilterPeriodically check the engine'sradiator and air conditioningcondenser for leaves, insects, anddir

Drive Belts, Timing BeltDrive BeltsCheck the condition of the two drivebelts. Examine the edges of eachbelt for cracks or fraying.Check the tension of

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

TiresRecommended Tire Pressures forNormal DrivingThe following chart shows therecommended cold tire pressures formost normal driving conditions andspe

Protecting Adults7. Maintain a Proper SittingPositionAfter all occupants have adjustedtheir seats and put on seat belts, it isvery important that they

TiresYour 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) wideban

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

TiresThe ABS works by comparing thespeed of the wheels. When replacingtires, use the same size originallysupplied with the car. Tire size andconstruct

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&

LightsCheck the following:Headlights (low and high beam)Parking lightsTaillightsBrake lightsHigh-mount brake lightTurn signalsBack-up lightsHazard lig

LightsHeadlight AimingThe headlights were properly aimedwhen your car was new. You shouldcheck their aim if you regularly carryheavy items in the trun

LightsHORIZONTAL ADJUSTMENT6. If either indicator is not alignedwith its "0" mark as described, anadjustment can be made using aPhillips-hea

Lights1. Open the hood.2. Remove the electrical connectorfrom the bulb by squeezing theconnector on both sides to unlockthe tab. Pull the connector st

LightsReplacing a Parking Light Bulb1. Open the hood. The front parkinglight is next to the headlight bulb.If you need to change a bulb onthe passenge

Protecting AdultsAdvice for Pregnant WomenBecause protecting the mother is thebest way to protect her unborn child,a pregnant woman should alwayswear

LightsReplacing a Front Side MarkerLight Bulb1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver toremove the side marker assembly'smounting screw.2. Remove the s

LightsReplacing a Front Turn SignalLight Bulb1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver toloosen the turn signal assembly'smounting screw.2. Remove the t

LightsReplacing Rear Bulbs1. Open the trunk.2. Undo the fastener on the side ofthe trunk lining by pushing on thecenter of the fastener's head un

Lights6. Reinstall the socket into the lightassembly by turning it clockwiseuntil it locks.7. Test the lights to make sure thenew bulb is working.8. R

LightsReplacing a High-mount BrakeLight Bulb(Except Type SH model)1. Remove the high-mount brakelight assembly by pushing itslightly toward the rear w

LightsReplacing a Rear License Bulb1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver toremove the two screws holdingthe license plate light assembly tothe bracket. P

LightsReplacing Bulbs in the InteriorCourtesy LightsThe courtesy lights in the doors androof come apart the same way. Theydo not all use the same bulb

LightsReplacing the Trunk Light Bulb1. Open the trunk. Pull down thetrunk light cover.2. Remove the bulb by pulling itstraight out of its metal tabs.3

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

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Protecting AdultsDo not place hard or sharp objectsbetween yourself and an airbag.Carrying hard or sharp objects onyour lap, or driving with a pipe or

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

Exterior CareWashingFrequent washing helps preserveyour car's beauty. Dirt and grit canscratch the paint, while tree sap andbird droppings can pe

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 CareSeat BeltsIf your seat belts get dirty, you canuse a soft brush with a mixture ofmild soap and warm water to cleanthem. Do not use bleach

Interior Care, Corrosion ProtectionAir FreshenersIf you want to use an air freshener/deodorizer in the interior of your car,it is best to use a solid

Body RepairsBody repairs can affect your car'sresistance to corrosion. If your carneeds repairs after a collision, payclose attention to the part

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

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 Tire6. The jack is behind a cover in theleft fender. Remove the cover byturning the handle clockwise, thenpulling on the cover.7. Turn

Changing a Flat Tire9. Locate the jacking point nearestthe tire you need to change. It ispointed to by a mark moldedinto the underside of the body.Pla

Changing a Flat Tire12. Before mounting the spare tire,wipe any dirt off the mountingsurface of the wheel and hub witha clean cloth. Wipe the hubcaref

Changing a Flat Tire15. Tighten the wheel nuts securely inthe same crisscross pattern. Havethe wheel nut torque checked atthe nearest automotive servi

Changing a Flat Tire, If Your Engine Won't Start19. Secure the flat tire by screwingthe wing bolt back into its hole.20. Store the jack in its ho

If Your Engine Won't StartNothing Happens or the StarterMotor Operates Very SlowlyWhen you turn the ignition switch toSTART (III), you do not hea

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 Should Sit in the BackSeatAccording to accident statistics,children of all ages and sizes aresafer when they are restraine

If Your Engine Overheats6. Look for any obvious coolant leaks,such as a split radiator hose.Everything is still extremely hot,so use caution. If you f

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

Charging System IndicatorThis indicator should come on whenthe ignition switch is ON (II), and goout after the engine starts. If itcomes on brightly w

Malfunction Indicator LampThis indicator comes on for a fewseconds when you turn the ignitionswitch ON (II). If it comes on at anyother time, it indic

Brake System IndicatorThe Brake System indicator lightcomes on when you turn the ignitionON (II). If the parking brake is notset, it goes off after yo

Closing the MoonroofIf the electric motor will not closethe moonroof, do the following:1. Check the fuse for the moonroofmotor (see page 254). If the

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

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* 1 : On Type SH* 2 : On Canadian modelsTaking Care of the UnexpectedMain MenuTable of Contents

Protecting ChildrenU.S. ModelsTo remind you of the passenger'sairbag hazards, and that childrenmust be properly restrained in theback seat, your

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

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

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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.MANUAL TRANSMI

Specifications* 1 : Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in theengine.Reserve tank capacity:0.16 US gal (0.6 l , 0.13 Imp gal)

Specifications* 1 : Except Type SH* 2 : Type SHTechnical Informationpage 256page 257* 1 : Except high-mount brake light installed in rear spoiler* 2 :

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

Protecting ChildrenIf You Must Drive with SeveralChildrenYour car has two seating positions inthe back seat where children can beproperly restrained.I

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

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

If you are planning to take yourHonda outside the U.S. or Canada,contact the tourist bureaus in theareas you will be traveling in to findout about the

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 four systems: PGM-FI,Ignition Timing Control, ExhaustGas Recirculati

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

Warranty and Customer RelationsCustomer RelationsInformation... 274U.S. Zone Office Map... 275Canada 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 ChildrenGeneral Guidelines for UsingChild SeatsThe following pages give generalguidelines for selecting and installingchild seats for infan

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

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 ManualsService Manual:This manual covers maintenance and recommendedprocedures for repair to engine and chassis components.It is written fo

IndexAccessories and Modifications... 133Accessories... 133Additional Safety Precautions.. 134Modifications...

IndexBatteryCharging SystemIndicator... 55, 249Jump Starting... 244Maintenance...

IndexCleaningAluminum Wheels... 229Carpeting... 230Exterior...

IndexEmergency Brake... 89Emergency Flashers... 65Emergency Towing... 258Emission Con

IndexHalogen Headlight Bulbs... 214Hazard Warning Flashers... 65HeadlightsAiming... 213Da

IndexLocksAnti-theft Steering Column... 73Fuel Fill Door... 127Glove Box... 79Power D

Protecting Children3. The child seat should fit thevehicle seating position (orpositions) where it will be used.Due to variations in the design ofchil

IndexProtecting Adults... 12Additional Safety Precautions... 19Advice for Pregnant Women... 19Protecting Children...

IndexShift Lock Release... 151Side Marker Lights, BulbReplacement in... 217Signaling Turns...

IndexTransmissionChecking Fluid Level,Automatic... 191Checking Fluid Level,Manual... 192

Service Information SummaryGasoline:Premium unleaded gasoline,pump octane number of 91 orhigher.Fuel Tank Capacity:15.9 US gal (60 l ,13.2 Imp gal)Rec

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

Protecting ChildrenPlacing a Child SeatThis page briefly summarizesHonda's recommendations on whereto place rear-facing and forward-facing child

Protecting ChildrenInstalling a Child SeatAfter selecting a proper child seat,and a good position to install the seat,there are three main steps inins

Protecting ChildrenProtecting InfantsChild Seat TypeOnly a rear-facing child seat providesproper support for a baby's head,neck, and back. Infant

Protecting ChildrenRear-Facing Child Seat InstallationThe lap/shoulder belts in the backseats have a locking mechanism thatmust be activated to secure

Protecting Children4. After confirming that the belt islocked, grab the shoulder part ofthe belt near the buckle and pullup to remove any slack from t

Protecting ChildrenRear-Facing Child Seat InstallationTipsFor proper protection, an infant mustride in a reclined, or semi-reclinedposition. To determ

Protecting ChildrenProtecting Small ChildrenChild Seat TypeA child who can sit up withoutsupport, and who fits within the childseat maker's weigh

Protecting ChildrenIf it is necessary to put a forward-facing child seat in the front, movethe vehicle seat as far to the rear aspossible, be sure th

Protecting Children2. To activate the lockabl e retractor,slowly pull the shoulder part of thebelt all the way out until it stops,then let the belt fe

Protecting ChildrenTo deactivate the lockingmechanism in order to remove achild seat, unlatch the buckle,unroute the seat belt, and let the beltfully

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

Protecting ChildrenChecking Seat Belt FitTo determine if a lap/shoulder beltproperly fits a child, have the childput on the seat belt. Follow theinstr

Protecting ChildrenDo not put any accessories on a seatbelt. Devices intended to improveoccupant comfort or reposition theshoulder part of a seat belt

Protecting ChildrenWhen Can a Larger Child Sit in FrontThe National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration and TransportCanada recommend that all childr

Protecting ChildrenUsing Child Seats with TethersU.S. ModelsYou car has two places on the rearshelf where a tether anchor can beinstalled. A tether an

Protecting ChildrenWhen installing tether hardware,make sure the toothed washer is onthe bottom of the bolt. Tighten thebolt to:16 lbf.ft (22 N.m,2.2

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

Additional Information About Your Seat BeltsAll seat belts have an emergencylocking retractor. In normal driving,the retractor lets you move freely in

Additional Information About Your Seat BeltsSeat Belt MaintenanceFor safety, you should check thecondition of your seat belts regularly.Pull each belt

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

Additional Information About Your SRSSince both airbags use the samesensors, both airbags normallyinflate at the same time. However, itis possible for

Your Car at a GlanceDOOR LOCKSWITCHES(P.74)DIGITAL CLOCK(P.90)MIRRORCONTROLS(P.88)POWERWINDOWSWITCHES(P.85)FUEL FILLDOOR RELEASE(P.127)TRUNK RELEASEHA

Additional Information About Your SRSHow the SRS Indicator LightWorksThe purpose of the SRSlight is to alert you to apotential problem with yourSuppl

Additional Information About Your SRSAdditional Safety PrecautionsDo not attempt to deactivate yourairbags. Together, airbags andseat belts provide th

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

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

Control LocationsMIRRORCONTROLS(P.88)POWERWINDOWSWITCHES(P.85)FUEL FILLDOOR RELEASE(P.127)DOOR LOCKSWITCHES(P.74)DIGITAL CLOCK(P.90)TRUNK RELEASEHANDL

Indicator LightsThe instrument panel has manyindicators to give you importantinformation about your ear.* 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

Indicator LightsSupplemental RestraintSystem IndicatorThis indicator lights when you turnthe ignition switch ON (II). If itcomes on at any other time,

Indicator LightsU.S. Anti-lock BrakeSystem (ABS)IndicatorThis light normally comes on for afew seconds when you turn theignition switch ON (II), and w

Your Car at a GlanceCRUISECONTROL(P. 67)INSTRUMENT PANELBRIGHTNESS(P. 63)HAZARD WARNINGLIGHTS(P. 65)WINDSHIELDWIPERS/WASHERS(P. 64)MOONROOF(P. 87)HEA

Indicator LightsTrunk-open IndicatorThis light comes on if the trunk lid isnot closed tightly.Door-open IndicatorThis light comes on if either door is

GaugesTACHOMETERSPEEDOMETERFUEL GAUGETEMPERATUREGAUGEODOMETERMAINTENANCEREQUIRED INDICATORTRIP METERRESET BUTTONSpeedometerU.S. ModelsThis shows your

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

GaugesMaintenance Required IndicatorThis indicator reminds you that it isnearing 7,500 miles (12,000 km)since the last scheduled maintenance.Refer to

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 WheelInstrument Panel BrightnessThe dial on the dashboard to the leftof the instrument panel controls thebrightness of the

Controls Near the Steering WheelWindshield WipersThe right lever controls the wind-shield wipers and washers. Therotary switch at the end of the lever

Controls Near the Steering WheelWindshield WashersTo clean the windshield, pull back onthe wiper control lever. The washersspray until you release th

Controls Near the Steering WheelMake sure the rear window is clearand you have good visibility beforestarting to drive.The defogger and antenna wires

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Steering Wheel ControlsCruise ControlCruise control allows you to maintaina set speed above 25 mph (40 km/h)without keeping your foot on theaccelerato

Steering Wheel Controls3. Press and release the SET/decelbutton on the steering wheel. TheCRUISE CONTROL light on theinstrument panel comes on toshow

Steering Wheel ControlsEven with the cruise control turnedon, you can still use the acceleratorpedal to speed up for passing. Aftercompleting the pass

Keys and LocksKeysYour car comes with two masterkeys and a valet key.Th e master key fits all the locks onyour vehicle:IgnitionDoorsTrunkTrunk release

Keys and LocksLearning KeyYou should also receive a small casecontaining a learning key. It is usedby the Honda dealer to code replace-ment keys to yo

Keys and LocksThis indicator will also blink severaltimes when you turn the ignitionswitch from ON (II) to ACCESSORY(I) or LOCK (0).The system may not

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 LocksSTART (III) — Use this positiononly to start the engine. The switchreturns to ON (II) when you let go ofthe key.The engine will not star

Keys and LocksTo lock the passenger's doo r whengetting out of the car, push the locktab in and close the door. To lock thedriver's door, re

Keys and LocksThe ceiling light (if the ceiling lightswitch is in the center position) willcome on when you press theUNLOCK button. If you d o not ope

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

Keys and LocksReinstall the cushion ring. Align themark on the cover with themark on the transmitter,then set the cover in place and turn itclockwise.

Keys and LocksTrunkYou can open the trunk in two ways:Pull the trunk release handle tothe left of the driver's seat.Use the master key to open th

Keys and LocksGlove BoxOpen the glove box by pulling thebottom of the handle. Close it with afirm push. Lock or unlock the glovebox with the master ke

Seat AdjustmentsFront Seat AdjustmentsSee pages 13 — 14 for important safetyinformation and warnings about how toproperly position seats and seat-back

Seat AdjustmentsDriver's Seat Height AdjustmentSee pages 13 — 14 for important safetyinformation and warnings about how toproperly position seats

Seat AdjustmentsHead RestraintsSee page 15 for important safetyinformation and a warning about how toproperly position the head restraints.The front

Seat HeatersOn Canadian modelsBoth front seats are equipped withseat heaters. The ignition switchmust be ON (II) to use them. Pushthe front of the swi

Folding Rear SeatThe back of the rear seat folds down,giving you direct access to the trunk.The seat-back can be released frominside the car or inside

Folding Rear Seat, Power WindowsMake sure both rear shoulder beltsare positioned in front of the rearseat-back whenever the seat-back isin its upright

Power WindowsThe master control panel also con-tains these extra features:AUTO — To open the driver'swindow fully, push the windowswitch firmly d

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

MoonroofUse the switch on the dashboard toopen and close the moonroof. Theignition switch must be ON (II).Push and hold the switch toopen the moonroof

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

Mirrors, Parking BrakeAvailable on all Canadian modelsThe outside mirrors are heated to re-move fog and frost. With the ignitionswitch ON (II), turn o

Digital ClockThe digital clock displays the timewith the ignition switch ON (II).To set the clock:1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) todisplay the ti

Beverage HolderThe front beverage holder is locatedon the center console.The partition in the beverage holdercan be moved forward or backward.If you w

Beverage Holder, Console CompartmentThe rear seat also has a beverageholder in the armrest on the driver'sside.Console CompartmentTo open the con

Coin Box, Accessory Power SocketCoin BoxThe coin box is located next to thebeverage holder. Open the lid bylifting it up.To remove the coin box for em

Ashtrays, Interior LightsAshtrays(Optional)A front ashtray, which is available asan option, can be used as areplacement for the coin box.Use the ashtr

Interior LightsTurn on the spotlight by pushing thebutton next to each light. Push thebutton again to turn it off. You canuse the spotlights at all ti

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