HONDA PASSPORT 2002 2.G Owners Manual

218Care and Maintenance
You usually do not need to remove
the radiator cap to check the engine
coolant level.
Removing the radiator cap
while the engine is hot can
cause the coolant to spray
out, seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and
radiator cool down before
removing the radiator cap.
Adding Engine Coolant
To add engine coolant, remove the
cap on the radiator reserve tank
and fill the tank up to the
maximum level mark. Add a
50/50 mixture of water and a good
quality ethylene glycol antifreeze.
If you need to add engine coolant
frequently, see your Honda dealer
for a cooling system check.
If the proper quality antifreeze
is used, there is no need to add
extra inhibitors or additives. They
may be harmful to the proper
operation of the system.
Cooling System Service
The cooling system should be
serviced at the intervals specified
in the Maintenance Schedule as
follows:
•Wash the radiator cap and filler
neck with clean water.
•Check the engine coolant level
in the radiator and have it tested
for freeze protection. Add
ethylene glycol antifreeze, if
needed, to maintain freeze
protection at
–33
F ( –36
C).
•Have the cooling system and
radiator cap tested for a
pressure capacity of 15 psi (105
kPa). If a replacement cap is
needed, use a cap specified for
your model.
•Tighten all radiator and heater
hose clamps and inspect all
hoses. Replace the hoses if they
are swollen, “checked, ” or
otherwise worn. Carefully
tighten the hose clamps at the
radiator. Overtightening could
bend or collapse the radiator
fittings.
•Clean the front of the radiator
core and air conditioning
condenser.
It is the owner ’s responsibility to:
•Maintain the cooling system
freeze protection at –33
F

219Care and Maintenance
(–36

C) to ensure protection
against corrosion and loss of
engine coolant from boiling.
This should be done even if
freezing temperatures are not
expected.
•Add ethylene glycol-based
antifreeze when antifreeze has
to be added because of engine
coolant loss or if more
protection against freezing at
temperatures lower than –33
F
(–36
C) is needed. Do not use
an alcohol-based or
methanol-based antifreeze, or
plain water. They boil at a
lower point, and do not provide
corrosion protection.
Thermostat
The engine coolant temperature is
controlled by a thermostat, which
stops engine coolant flow through
the radiator until a preset
temperature is reached. This
thermostat is installed in the
engine coolant inlet on the front
of the engine block. The same
thermostat is used in both winter
and summer.Brake Master Cylinder
Check the master cylinder fluid
level in the reservoir every time
you check the engine oil level.
The level should be between the
MAX and ADD level line. If the
level is lower than the
ADD level
line, fill to the
MAX level line
with
DOT-3 or DOT-4 fluid.
Other Required
Maintenance

220 Care and Maintenance
If the diaphragm inside the
reservoir cap is deformed, return
it to the original (collapsed)
condition, then tighten the cap.
It is normal for the brake fluid
level to go down slightly as the
front brake pads wear. So be sure
to keep the reservoir fluid at the
proper level.
If the reservoir needs frequent
refilling, it may indicate a serious
mechanical problem.
Brake fluid absorbs water from
the air. Never use brake fluid that
has been open to the air for an
extended period. Throw it away
and use new brake fluid from a
sealed container.

Brake fluid can damage your
vehicle’s paint. Thoroughly clean
up any brake fluid spills.
Shift-on-the-Fly System
The fluid level in the system should
be checked at the intervals shown
in the Maintenance Schedule.
FILLER
PLUG
Remove the filler plug and make
sure the fluid level is up to the
edge of the hole. If it is not, add
GL-5 gear oil to bring to that
level. Use the same
GL-5 gear oil
specified for the front axle (see
page 216).
Front Wheel Bearings
Clean and repack the front wheel
bearings whenever the front brake
pads are replaced. Due to the
weight of the tire and wheel
assembly it is recommended that
they be removed from the hub
before lubricating the bearings to
prevent damage to the oil seal.
“Long Fiber” grease should not be
used to lubricate the wheel bearings.
It can cause damage. Clean the old
grease out of the bearings and hubs
before repacking.

221Care and Maintenance
Hood Latch and Hinges
Lubricate the hood latch assembly
and hood hinge assembly as
follows:
1. Wipe off any accumulation ofdirt or contamination on the
latch parts.
2. Apply multipurpose-type grease (
NLGI No. 1 or 2) to
the hood latch pin cam.
3. Apply light engine oil to all pivot points in the release
mechanism.
4. Lubricate hood hinges with multipurpose-type grease
(
NLGI No. 1 or 2).
5. Check the hood hinges and latch mechanism to assure
they are working correctly.
Air Conditioning
Periodically have your Honda
dealer check your air conditioning
system to be sure there has been
no loss in cooling output. See
your Honda dealer if you suspect
that the system is not performing
as it should.
Body Lubrication
Normal use of a vehicle causes
metal-to-metal movement at certain
points in the body. Noise, wear and
improper operation at these points
will result when a protective film
of lubricant is not provided.
For exposed surfaces such as door
checks, door lock bolts, lock
striker plates, etc., apply a thin
film of light engine oil.
Any lubricant should be used
sparingly. After application, all excess lubricant should be
carefully wiped off.
The seat adjusters and seat track
should be lubricated with water-
resistant
EP chassis lubricant.
There are other points on the
vehicle body which may
occasionally require lubrication.
Window regulators and controls
are confined in the space between
the upholstery and the outside
door panel. Easy access to the
working parts may be made by
removing the trim. Door
weatherstrips and rubber hood
bumpers should be lightly coated
with a rubber lubricant.

222Care and Maintenance
Front (4WD Only) and Rear
Propeller Shaft
Lubricate the sliding yoke with
EP chassis grease. Lubricate
universal joints with grease
containing MoS
2 (molybdenum
disulfide-type grease) at the
intervals shown in the
Maintenance Schedule. Also
check the propeller shaft
flange-to-pinion bolts for proper
torque of 64 N⋅ m (46.3 lb-ft).
Most lubrication recommendations
and procedures for four-wheel drive-
equipped vehicles are the same
for the corresponding components
in conventional drive vehicles.
Exhaust System
Check the complete exhaust
system and nearby body areas for
damaged, missing, or
mispositioned parts, open seams, holes, loose connections, or other
deterioration that could allow
exhaust fumes to seep into the
passenger compartment or cause
heat build-up in the floor pan. Any
necessary corrections should be
made immediately. For continued
safety, exhaust system pipes and
resonators rearward of the muffler
must be replaced whenever a new
muffler is installed.
Fuel Line and Fuel Tank/Cap
Inspect the fuel tank, cap and lines
for damage that could cause
leakage. Inspect the fuel cap and
gasket for correct sealing ability
and indications of physical
damage. Replace any damaged or
malfunctioning parts.
Drive Belt
Check the belt driving the
alternator, power steering pump,
and air conditioning compressor.
Look for cracks, fraying, and
wear. Replace as necessary.
Timing Belt
The timing belt should normally
be replaced at the intervals shown
in the Maintenance Schedule.
Valve Clearance
Incorrect valve clearance will
result in increased engine noise
and lower engine output, thereby
adversely affecting engine
performance.

223Care and Maintenance
Spark Plugs
Replace the spark plugs with the
type specified in the “Technical
Data” section.
Clutch
Check the clutch play at the pedal.
Lubricate the clutch pedal bushing
and clevis pin, at the intervals
shown in the Maintenance
Schedule, with water-resistant
chassis lubricant. If you hear a
squeaking noise coming from the
area of the bushing or clevis pin at
the clutch pedal arm when the
clutch pedal is depressed,
lubricate it with water-resistant
EP
chassis grease.
Check the fluid level in the clutch
reservoir at the interval shown in
the Maintenance Schedule. If the
fluid is low in the reservoir, it should be filled to the maximum
level line with
DOT-3 or DOT-4
fluid.
Fluid or Lubricant Levels
Check the fluid or lubricant level
in the brake master cylinder,
clutch master cylinder, power
steering reservoir, rear axle,
engine and transmission,
windshield washer reservoir and
engine coolant at specified
intervals.
Power Steering
Check the fluid level in the power
steering fluid reservoir as
recommended in the Maintenance
Schedule. The fluid level should
be between the “
MIN” and
“
MAX” marks on the reservoir.
Use only automatic transmission
fluid labeled
DEXRON III.

224Care and Maintenance
Wheel Alignment
Proper wheel alignment improves
tire mileage. Your vehicle’s
suspension parts should be
inspected often and aligned when
needed (see the “Technical Data”
section). Improper alignment will
cause the front tires to roll at an
angle that will result in faster tire
wear.
Proper tire balancing provides the
best riding comfort and helps
reduce tire tread wear.
Out-of-balance tires can cause
annoying vibration and uneven
tire wear such as cupping and flat
spots.
Washing Your Vehicle
The best way to preserve your
vehicle ’s finish is to keep it clean by
frequent washings. Wash the vehicle
with lukewarm or cold water.
Do not use hot water or wash in
direct sunlight. Do not use strong
soap or chemical detergents. All
cleaning agents should be promptly
flushed from the surface and not
allowed to dry on the finish.
Polishing and Waxing
Your Vehicle
Polishing is recommended to
remove accumulated residue and
eliminate any “weathered”
appearance.
Your Honda dealer offers several
polishes and cleaners that have
proven to maintain the original
finish appearance and durability.
Protection of Exterior
Bright Metal Parts
Bright metal parts should be cleaned
regularly to keep their luster.
Washing with water is all that is
usually needed. However, chrome
polish may be used on chrome or
stainless steel trim, if necessary. A
coating of wax, rubbed to a high
polish, is recommended for all bright
metal parts.
Care of Aluminum Wheels
Aluminum wheels have a
clear-coat finish similar to paint.
Use a chamois skin, sponge or
other soft material when washing
the wheels.
Foreign Material Deposits
Calcium chloride and other salts,
ice melting agents, road oil and
tar, tree sap, bird droppings,
Exterior

225Care and Maintenance
chemicals from industrial
chimneys, and other foreign
matter may damage your vehicle
’s
finish if allowed to remain on
painted surfaces.
Prompt washing may not
completely remove all of these
deposits. Additional cleaners may
be needed. When using chemical
cleaners developed for this
purpose, be certain they are safe
for use on painted surfaces.
Finish Damage
Any stone chips, fractures or deep
scratches in the finish should be
repaired promptly. Exposed metal
will corrode quickly and may
develop into a major repair
expense. Minor chips and scratches
can be repaired using touch-up
materials available from your
Honda dealer.
Corrosion Protection
Your vehicle has been designed
and built to resist corrosion.
Special materials and protective
finishes were applied to most
parts of your vehicle when it was
built to help maintain its good
looks, strength and reliable
operation. However, some parts
that are normally not visible (such
as certain parts under the vehicle
and under the hood) are strong
enough so that surface rust will
not affect their reliability. So
corrosion protection is not needed
or used on these parts. By
omitting unneeded rust protection
on such parts and applying extra
protection where it is needed
most, the best value is assured for
the vehicle buyer.
Sheet Metal Damage
If your vehicle is damaged and
requires sheet metal repair or
replacement, make sure the body
repair shop applies anti-corrosion
material to the parts repaired or
replaced so that corrosion
protection is restored. (Also see
“Finish Damage.”)
Underbody Maintenance
Corrosive materials used for ice
and snow removal and dust
control can collect on the
underbody. If these materials are
not removed, accelerated
corrosion (rust) can occur on
underbody parts such as fuel lines,
frame, floor pan, and exhaust
system even though they have

226Care and Maintenance
been coated with corrosion
protectants.
At least every spring, flush these
materials from the underbody
with plain water. Take care to
thoroughly clean any areas where
mud and other debris can collect.
Sediment packed in closed areas
of the frame should be loosened
before being flushed.
With the use of modern trim
materials it is very important that
proper cleaning techniques and
cleaners be used. Failure to do
this on the first cleaning may
result in water spots, spot rings or
setting of stains, all of which
make it more difficult to remove
on a second cleaning.
The portion of the following
cleaning instructions that are in
ALL CAPITAL LETTERS are
especially important and
MUST
be followed.
Dust and loose dirt that
accumulate on interior fabrics
should be removed often with a
vacuum cleaner or soft brush.
Vinyl or leather trim should be
wiped regularly with a clean
damp cloth. Normal trim soil,
spots or stains can be cleaned with
conventional cleaners.
Remember These Basic Steps
Before Cleaning
1. Remove stains as quickly as possible before they become
“set.”
2. Use a clean cloth or sponge and change to a clean area
often. (
A SOFT brush may be
used if stains persist.)
3. Use solvent-type cleaners only in a well ventilated area; also,
do not saturate the stained
area.
4. If a ring forms after spot cleaning, clean the entire area
IMMEDIATELY.
5. Follow specific instructions onthe cleaning products’ labels.
Interior

227Care and Maintenance
Cleaning Fabric
Cleaning General Soilage or
Water Spots From Fabric Trim
Multipurpose powdered cleaner is
excellent for this type of cleaning
and for cleaning panel sections
where small cleaning rings may
be left from spot cleaning.
•Vacuum the area thoroughly to
remove loose dirt.
•ALWAYS clean a full trim
assembly or complete trim
section. Mask surrounding trim
along stitch or welt-lines.
•Mix the multipurpose
powdered cleaner in strict
accordance with the directions
on the label of its container.
Mix in proportion for smaller
quantities.
•USE SUDS ONLY ON A
CLEAN SPONGE OR SOFT
BRISTLE BRUSH. DO NOT
SATURATE FABRIC OR RUB
HARSHLY WITH THE
BRUSH
.
•
IMMEDIATELY AFTER
CLEANING, WIPE OFF
EXCESS CLEANER WITH A
SLIGHTLY DAMP ABSORBENT
TOWEL OR CLOTH
.
•
IMMEDIATELY AFTER
WIPING, FORCE-DRY THE
FABRIC WITH AN AIR HOSE,
HEAT DRYER, OR HEAT
LAMP
. Use caution if you are
using a heat dryer or heat lamp
so you do not damage the
fabric.
•When trim materials that have a
sheen or lustrous finish are dry,
wipe them with a soft, clean
cloth to restore the sheen. Spot Cleaning Fabric
With Solvent Cleaner
Before trying to remove a spot or
stain from fabric, determine as
accurately as you can what kind of
spot or stain it is and how long it
has been there. Some spots or
stains can be removed with water
or mild soap solution (see
“Removal of Specific Stains
”).
Spots or stains should always be
removed as soon as possible.
Some types of stains or soilage,
such as lipstick, inks and grease,
are very difficult (sometimes
impossible) to completely remove.
When cleaning this type of stain or
soilage be sure not to enlarge the
soiled area. Fabric cleaner (solvent
type) is excellent for spot-cleaning
grease, oil or fat stains.