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Honda 1998 Accord Sedan User Manual

Honda 1998 Accord Sedan
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1998 Accord Sedan Online Reference Owner's Manual
Use these links (and links throughout this manual) to navigate through this reference.
For a printed owner's manual, click on authorized manuals or go to www.helminc.com.
Contents
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... i
A Few Words About Safety.................................................................................................................ii
Driver and Passenger Safety ..............................................................................................................3
Proper use and care of your vehicle's seat belts, and Supplemental Restraint System.
Instruments and Controls.................................................................................................................47
Instrument panel indicator and gauge, and how to use dashboard and steering column controls.
Comfort and Convenience Features
..............................................................................................103
How to operate the climate control system, the audio system, and other convenience features.
Before Driving..................................................................................................................................153
What gasoline to use, how to break-in your new vehicle, and how to load luggage and other cargo.
Driving ..............................................................................................................................................167
The proper way to start the engine, shift the transmission, and park, plus towing a trailer.
Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................191
The Maintenance Schedule shows you when you need to take your vehicle to the dealer.
Appearance Car
e..............................................................................................................................259
Tips on cleaning and protecting your vehicle. Things to look for if your vehicle ever needs body repairs.
Taking Care of the Unexpected......................................................................................................267
This section covers several problems motorists sometimes experience, and how to handle them.
Technical Informatio
n.....................................................................................................................293
ID numbers, dimensions, capacities, and technical information.
Warranty and Customer Relations (U.S. and Canada)................................................................307
A summary of the warranties covering your new Acura, and how to contact us.
Authorized Manuals (U.S. only)......................................................................................................313
How to order manuals and other technical literature.
Index...................................................................................................................................................... I
Service Information Summary
A summary of information you need when you pull up to the fuel pump.
Owner's Identification Form

Table of Contents

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Honda 1998 Accord Sedan Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandHonda
Model1998 Accord Sedan
CategoryAutomobile
LanguageEnglish

Summary

Owner's Identification Form

Introduction to the Owner's Manual

A Few Words About Safety

Driver and Passenger Safety

Important Safety Precautions

Key safety recommendations for occupants.

Vehicle Safety Features Overview

Overview of safety systems like cage, crush zones, airbags, and seat belts.

Protecting Adults Safely

Guidelines for proper adult occupant positioning and restraint in seats.

Protecting Children Safely

Guidance on safely restraining infants and children using appropriate seats.

Protecting Adults

Close and Lock the Doors

Procedure for securing vehicle doors for safety and security.

Adjust the Front Seats

How to adjust front seats for optimal safety and airbag interaction.

Adjust the Seat-Backs

Proper seat-back angle for seat belt effectiveness and safety.

Adjust the Head Restraints

How to position head restraints to prevent whiplash and crash injuries.

Fasten and Position the Seat Belts

Instructions for correctly fastening and positioning seat belts.

Proper Seat Belt Positioning Details

Detailed guidance on fitting lap and shoulder belts correctly for maximum protection.

Adjust the Steering Wheel

How to adjust the steering wheel for driver safety and airbag effectiveness.

Maintain a Proper Sitting Position

Importance of upright posture for occupant safety during crashes.

Advice for Pregnant Women

Safety recommendations for pregnant women regarding seat belt use.

Additional Safety Precautions for Adults

Precautions against sharing seat belts and using accessories.

Protecting Children

Child Restraint Requirements

Mandates for restraining infants and children in vehicles.

Child Seat vs. Seat Belt Usage

Guidelines on when to use child seats versus seat belts.

Children Should Sit in the Back Seat

Recommendations for placing children in the back seat for safety.

Passenger Airbag Risks to Children

Hazards of children in front seats due to passenger airbags.

U.S. Models Safety Labels

Location and importance of passenger airbag warning labels.

Driving with Multiple Children

Guidelines for seating and securing multiple children safely.

General Guidelines for Using Child Seats

Criteria for choosing a safe and appropriate child seat.

Child Seat Types for Infants and Small Children

Guidance on rear-facing vs. forward-facing seats for different age groups.

Placing a Child Seat

Summary of recommendations for child seat placement in the vehicle.

Airbag Risks to Children

Detailed explanation of airbag hazards for children in various seating positions.

Installing a Child Seat

Step-by-step instructions for securing a child seat using a vehicle seat belt.

Protecting Infants

Where to safely place rear-facing infant seats in the vehicle.

Protecting Small Children

Guidance on forward-facing seats and harness systems for small children.

Protecting Larger Children

How to check if a lap/shoulder belt fits a child properly.

Booster Seat Usage

When and how to use a booster seat for children too small for seat belts.

Additional Information About Seat Belts

Seat Belt System Components

Overview of the seat belt system's parts, including reminders.

Lap/Shoulder Belt Operation

How to fasten, unfasten, and use the lap/shoulder belt.

Seat Belt Maintenance and Warranty

How to check seat belt condition and details of Honda's warranty.

Additional Information About Your SRS

SRS Components Overview

Components of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), including airbags and sensors.

How Your Airbags Work

Explanation of how airbags detect collisions and inflate.

SRS Indicator Light Function

Meaning of the SRS indicator light and when to seek service.

SRS Service and Maintenance

Information on SRS service, airbag replacement, and system maintenance.

Additional Safety Precautions for SRS

Warnings about tampering with SRS components and airbag deployment hazards.

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Safety Labels Overview

Instruments and Controls

Control Locations Diagram

A visual guide to the location of various controls on the dashboard.

Indicator Lights Explained

Detailed explanation of various indicator lights and the lamp check procedure.

Vehicle Gauges Explained

Explanation of the vehicle's gauges like speedometer and fuel gauge.

Controls Near the Steering Wheel

Functions of steering column levers and dashboard controls.

Steering Wheel Controls Overview

Operation of cruise control and remote audio controls on the steering wheel.

Keys and Locks Overview

Description of vehicle keys, immobilizer system, and door lock functions.

Homelink Universal Transmitter Operation

Programming the transmitter to operate home devices like garage doors.

Seat Adjustments Overview

Guide to adjusting front seats, including manual and power operations.

Power Windows Operation

How to operate power windows using individual and master controls.

Moonroof Operation

How to operate the moonroof tilt and slide functions.

Mirrors Overview and Adjustment

Importance of clean and adjusted mirrors for visibility.

Parking Brake Operation

How to apply and release the parking brake.

Digital Clock Operation

How to set the clock and use the quick time setting feature.

Console Compartment Operation

How to open, close, and use the console compartment and its tray.

Beverage Holder Operation and Safety

How to open, close, and use beverage holders, including safety warnings.

Sun Visor Usage and Care

How to use and store the sun visor, including its extension.

Sunglasses Holder Operation

How to open and close the sunglasses holder.

Accessory Power Socket Usage

How to use the 12-volt accessory power socket and its limitations.

Interior Lights Overview

Modes of the ceiling light, spotlight, and courtesy lights.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling System Overview

Overview of the vehicle's heating and air conditioning system.

Climate Control System Operation

How the climate control system automatically adjusts for temperature.

Audio System Overview (AM/FM/Cassette)

Features of the standard AM/FM/Cassette stereo audio system.

Operating the Radio

How to turn on, adjust volume, and change bands (AM/FM) on the radio.

Finding Radio Stations

Methods for tuning to stations: TUNE, SEEK, SCAN, and Presets.

Storing Favorite Radio Stations (Presets)

How to store favorite radio station frequencies in the preset buttons.

Adjusting Sound Balance, Fader, and Tone

How to adjust speaker output strength and audio tone (treble/bass).

Operating the Cassette Player

How to insert and play cassettes, including tape search functions.

Operating the Optional CD Changer

How to operate the multi-disc CD changer and switch between it and the in-dash player.

Operating the CD Player

How to insert and play CDs, including track numbers and functions.

Protecting Compact Discs (CDs)

Guidelines for handling, cleaning, and storing CDs to prevent damage.

CD Player Error Indications

Table of CD player error codes and troubleshooting steps.

CD Changer Error Indications

Table of CD changer error codes and troubleshooting steps.

Operating the Cassette Player (Optional)

Features and operation of the optional cassette player.

Caring for the Cassette Player

How to maintain the cassette player and avoid contamination issues.

Remote Audio Controls Operation

How to control audio functions via steering wheel buttons.

Theft Protection for Audio System

How the audio system disables itself and requires a code after battery disconnection.

Security System Operation

How the security system protects the vehicle from theft and its alarm functions.

Before Driving Checks and Procedures

Vehicle Break-in Period Recommendations

Guidelines for breaking in a new vehicle or engine for optimal performance.

Gasoline Requirements and Types

Information on recommended unleaded gasoline, octane, and additives.

Filling the Fuel Tank Procedure

Steps for safely and correctly filling the fuel tank.

Opening the Vehicle Hood

Step-by-step instructions on how to safely open the vehicle's hood.

Checking Engine Oil Level

How to check the engine oil level, including dipstick location and procedure.

Engine Coolant Level Check

How to check the coolant level in the reserve tank and radiator.

Fuel Economy Factors

How vehicle condition and driving habits affect fuel mileage.

Vehicle Condition and Maintenance

Importance of maintaining the vehicle for optimal operating condition.

Driving Habits for Fuel Economy

Tips on driving moderately and using the highest gear for better fuel economy.

Accessories and Modifications Overview

Information on accessories, modifications, and potential risks.

Vehicle Modifications and Safety

Warnings against modifying vehicle design, ride height, or steering system.

Carrying Cargo Safely

Overview of storage areas and importance of safe cargo stowage.

Vehicle Load Limit Calculation

Maximum load capacity and how to calculate cargo weight.

Driving

Preparing to Drive Daily Checks

Essential checks for windows, lights, tires, and fluid levels before driving.

Starting the Engine Safely

Procedures for starting the engine, including manual and automatic transmissions.

5-speed Manual Transmission Operation

How to operate the 5-speed manual transmission, including shifting.

Automatic Transmission Operation

How to operate the automatic transmission and its gear positions.

Shift Lever Position Indicator

How to read the indicator showing the current transmission gear position.

Park (P) and Reverse (R) Operations

How to shift into and out of Park and Reverse safely.

Drive (D3) Operation for Specific Conditions

When to use D3 for towing or engine braking, and how to downshift for acceleration.

Maximum Allowable Speeds by Gear Position

Maximum speeds for each gear position to avoid engine over-revving.

Parking the Vehicle Safely

Proper use of the parking brake and parking on inclines.

The Braking System Overview

Explanation of the braking system, including wear indicators.

ABS Safety Reminders

Key safety advice regarding ABS, including following distance.

Driving in Bad Weather

Driving techniques and precautions for rain, fog, and snow conditions.

Towing a Trailer Guidelines

Critical limits for trailer weight, tongue load, and GVWR for safe towing.

Trailer Hitch Requirements and Installation

Importance of proper trailer hitch size, construction, and expert installation.

Towing Safety Considerations

Safety advice for towing, including increased stopping distance and turning radius.

Maintenance

Maintenance Safety Fundamentals

Explains why regular maintenance is crucial for safety and vehicle longevity.

Important Safety Precautions for Maintenance

Critical safety rules covering exhaust, hot parts, moving parts, fire, and eye protection.

Maintenance Schedule Overview

Schedules for vehicle maintenance based on driving conditions and time/mileage.

Maintenance Schedule (Normal Conditions)

Recommended maintenance tasks for normal driving conditions based on mileage/time.

Maintenance Schedule (Severe Conditions)

Recommended maintenance tasks for severe driving conditions based on mileage/time.

Required Maintenance Record Log

Log pages for recording completed maintenance services for normal and severe schedules.

Owner Maintenance Checks Checklist

List of regular checks for fluids, tires, lights, and other items owners should perform.

Fluid Locations (4-Cylinder Models)

Diagrams showing the location of engine oil, coolant, brake, and other fluid reservoirs.

Fluid Locations (6-Cylinder Models)

Diagrams showing fluid reservoir locations for 6-cylinder models.

Engine Oil: Adding and Recommended Types

How to add engine oil and select the correct API service and viscosity grade.

Changing the Oil and Filter

Process and requirements for changing engine oil and filter, recommending professional service.

Cooling System Overview

How to add engine coolant to the reserve tank and radiator.

Radiator Cap Removal Safety

Critical safety warning about removing the radiator cap only when the engine is cool.

Replacing Engine Coolant

Process for draining and refilling the cooling system, recommending professional service.

Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check

How to check the washer fluid level and use the correct fluid.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Check (4-Cylinder)

How to check the automatic transmission fluid level and add fluid if needed.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Check (6-Cylinder)

How to check the automatic transmission fluid level and add fluid if needed.

5-speed Manual Transmission Fluid Check

How to check the manual transmission fluid level and add if necessary.

Brake Fluid Check and Maintenance

How to check brake fluid level and the importance of using DOT 3 fluid.

Clutch Fluid Check

How to check the clutch fluid level and its relationship to leaks.

Power Steering Fluid Check

How to check the power steering fluid level and potential leak indicators.

Air Cleaner Element Maintenance

When to clean or replace the air cleaner element for optimal performance.

Air Cleaner Element Replacement (4-Cylinder)

Steps for replacing the air cleaner element in 4-cylinder models.

Air Cleaner Element Replacement (6-Cylinder)

Steps for replacing the air cleaner element in 6-cylinder models.

Spark Plug Replacement (4-Cylinder Models)

How to replace spark plugs in 4-cylinder engines, including cleaning and torque.

Spark Plug Specifications and Torque (4-Cylinder)

Details on spark plug specifications, gap, and correct torque values.

Spark Plug Replacement (6-Cylinder Models)

How to replace spark plugs in 6-cylinder engines, including cover removal.

Spark Plug Specifications and Torque (6-Cylinder)

Spark plug specifications, gap, and torque for 6-cylinder engines.

Battery Condition Checks

How to check battery condition via the test indicator window and terminal corrosion.

Battery Terminal Cleaning and Maintenance

How to clean corroded terminals and reconnect/disconnect battery cables.

Battery Charging Precautions

Warnings about charging the battery with cables connected and audio system code entry.

Wiper Blade Condition and Replacement

How to check wiper blade condition and instructions for replacing them.

Air Conditioning System Maintenance

How to maintain AC efficiency, including condenser cleaning and weekly operation.

Air Conditioning Filter Replacement

When to replace the air conditioning filter based on mileage and driving conditions.

Drive Belts Inspection and Tension

How to check drive belts for cracks/fraying and their proper tension.

Timing Belt and Balancer Belt Replacement

When to replace timing and balancer belts based on mileage and conditions.

Tire Safety and Inflation

Importance of proper tire type, size, condition, and inflation for safe operation.

Tire Inflation Procedures and Checks

How to measure and check tire pressure, including cold vs. hot readings.

Recommended Tire Pressures for Normal Driving

Recommended cold tire pressures for various models and speeds.

Tire Inspection for Wear and Damage

How to inspect tires for wear indicators, bumps, cuts, and cracks.

Tire Rotation Recommendations

How often and in what pattern to rotate tires to increase life and distribute wear.

Replacing Tires and Wheels

Guidelines for selecting replacement tires and wheels, and mixing tire types.

Wheels and Tires Specifications

Specifications for vehicle wheels and tire sizes for different models.

Winter Driving with Tires

Suitability of M+S tires and when to use snow tires or tire chains.

Exterior Lights Operation Check

How to check the operation of vehicle exterior lights monthly for safety.

Headlight Aiming Adjustment Checks

How to check headlight aim, especially when carrying loads or towing.

Replacing a Headlight Bulb

Step-by-step instructions for replacing headlight bulbs, including safety notices.

Replacing Front Turn Signal and Side Marker Bulbs

How to replace bulbs for front turn signals and side marker lights.

Replacing a Parking Light Bulb

Steps for replacing parking light bulbs located under the headlight.

Replacing Rear Bulbs in Fenders

How to replace stop/taillight or turn signal bulbs located in the rear fenders.

Replacing Rear Bulbs in Trunk Lid

How to replace taillight or back-up light bulbs located in the trunk lid.

Replacing High-mount Brake Light Bulb

How to replace the bulb for the high-mount brake light.

Replacing Rear License Bulb

How to replace the bulb for the rear license plate light.

Replacing Interior Light Bulbs

How to replace bulbs for interior lights like ceiling, door, vanity mirror, and spotlights.

Replacing the Trunk Light Bulb

How to replace the bulb for the trunk light.

Storing Your Vehicle for Extended Periods

Steps to prepare and store the vehicle indoors or outdoors to prevent deterioration.

Appearance Care

Exterior Care Guide

How to wash, wax, and clean exterior surfaces like wheels and paint.

Waxing Your Vehicle

How and when to wax the vehicle for finish protection and shine.

Interior Care Guide

How to clean and maintain interior surfaces like carpets, fabric, vinyl, and leather.

Corrosion Protection Measures

Factors causing corrosion and simple maintenance to prevent it.

Body Repairs and Corrosion Resistance

Importance of using Genuine Honda parts and quality workmanship for body repairs.

Taking Care of the Unexpected Situations

Compact Spare Tire Usage Precautions

Specific precautions when using the compact spare tire, including speed and traction limits.

Flat Tire Change: Preparation and Safety

Steps to prepare for changing a flat tire, including parking and safety measures.

Locating the Jacking Point

How to find the correct jacking point on the vehicle's body.

Raising the Vehicle with the Jack

How to use the jack and extension to raise the vehicle safely.

Removing Wheel Nuts and Flat Tire

Steps for removing wheel nuts and the flat tire from the hub.

Mounting the Spare Tire and Tightening Nuts

How to mount the spare tire and tighten wheel nuts, including torque specifications.

Storing the Flat Tire and Tools

How to store the flat tire, jack, and tools securely after changing a tire.

Engine Won't Start Troubleshooting

Diagnosing starting issues based on starter motor sounds and checking fuses.

Starter Motor Operates Slowly or Not At All

Troubleshooting steps for when the starter motor is slow or silent.

Starter Operates Normally, Engine Won't Start

Troubleshooting steps when the starter works but the engine doesn't engage.

Jump Starting a Vehicle Battery

Step-by-step guide for safely jump starting a vehicle with a booster battery.

Connecting Jumper Cables to Batteries

Correct procedure for connecting jumper cables to both batteries, including terminal order.

Starting the Engine and Disconnecting Cables

How to start the vehicle and safely disconnect jumper cables after successful jump start.

Engine Overheating: Immediate Actions

What to do immediately if the engine temperature gauge indicates overheating.

Engine Overheating: Coolant Level and Radiator Checks

Steps to check coolant levels and radiator cap after overheating, emphasizing safety.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator Warning

What the low oil pressure indicator means and immediate actions to take.

Charging System Indicator Warning

What the charging system indicator means and how to reduce electrical load if it activates.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light)

What the malfunction indicator lamp signifies and potential causes like a loose fuel cap.

Brake System Indicator Light

What the brake system indicator means and immediate actions if the pedal feels abnormal.

Closing the Moonroof Manually

How to manually close the moonroof using the provided wrench if electric motor fails.

Fuses Overview and Location

Information about fuses protecting electrical circuits and their locations in fuse boxes.

Checking and Replacing Fuses

How to identify blown fuses and replace them using the fuse puller.

Emergency Towing Options and Safety

Description of acceptable towing equipment: flat-bed and wheel-lift.

Towing with Front Wheels on Ground

Procedures for towing when front wheels must remain on the ground, including speed limits.

Technical Information

Identification Numbers Location

Where to find vehicle identification numbers like VIN and engine numbers.

Engine and Transmission Number Locations

Location of engine and transmission identification numbers on the vehicle.

Vehicle Specifications: Dimensions, Capacities, Weights

Detailed specifications for vehicle dimensions, fluid capacities, and weight ratings.

Vehicle Specifications: Lights, Battery, Fuses, Engine, Alignment

Specifications related to lighting, battery, fuses, engine details, and wheel alignment.

Vehicle Specifications: Tires and Wheels

Specifications for tire sizes, pressures, and wheel dimensions for different models.

Tire Size Designation Explained

How to understand tire size markings (e.g., P195/65R15 89H).

Tire Speed Ratings Chart

Chart explaining different tire speed rating symbols and their maximum safe speeds.

DOT Tire Quality Grading (Treadwear, Traction, Temperature)

Explanation of DOT grading for treadwear, traction, and temperature performance.

Tire Temperature Grade Explained

What the temperature grades (A, B, C) mean regarding tire heat resistance.

Oxygenated Fuels Information

Information on oxygenated fuels like ethanol and MTBE, and their effects on engines.

Driving in Foreign Countries: Fuel Availability

Advice on finding unleaded gasoline and potential issues with leaded gasoline abroad.

Emissions Controls Overview

Explanation of systems controlling emissions like PCV, evaporative, exhaust, and catalytic converter.

Exhaust Emissions Controls Systems

Explanation of PGM-FI, Ignition Timing, EGR, and Catalytic Converter systems.

Three Way Catalytic Converter Function

How the catalytic converter works, its operating temperature, and maintenance.

Warranty and Customer Relations

Customer Relations Assistance Process

Steps to take when dissatisfied with dealership service and how to contact Zone Offices.

Information Needed for Contacting Honda

Key vehicle and purchase details required when contacting Honda for assistance.

New Vehicle and Emissions Warranties

Details on New Vehicle Limited Warranty and Emissions Control System Warranties.

Other Limited Warranties

Information on specific limited warranties for seat belts, rust, accessories, parts, battery, and muffler.

Reporting Safety Defects to NHTSA

Procedure for reporting vehicle safety defects to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Service Information Summary

Gasoline and Fuel Tank Capacity

Recommended gasoline type and fuel tank capacity.

Recommended Engine Oil and Change Intervals

Engine oil type, viscosity, and oil change recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Recommendations

Recommended fluids for automatic and manual transmissions, including capacities.

Tire Pressure Recommendations

Recommended cold tire pressures for different vehicle models.

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