snow HONDA CIVIC 2012 9.G Owners Manual

17
Quick Reference GuideMaintenance (P 239)
Under the Hood (P 251)
● Check engine oil, engine coolant, and windshield washer
fluid. Add when necessary.
● Check brake fluid and clutch fluid.
● Check the battery regularly.
a Pull the hood release handle under the corner of the
dashboard.
b Locate the hood latch lever, pull the lever up, and lift up
the hood.
c When finished, close the hood and make sure it is firmly
locked in place.
Lights (P 268)
● Inspect all lights regularly.
Wiper Blades
(P 278)
● Replace blades if they leave streaks
across the windshield.
Tires (P 280)
● Inspect tires and wheels regularly.
● Check tire pressures regularly.
● Install snow tires for winter
driving.
* Not available on all models

116
Controls
Opening and Closing the Moonroof*
You can only operate the moonroof when the ignition switch is in ON (w
. Use the
switch in the front of the ceiling to open and close the moonroof. ■Automatic operation
To open: Pull the switch back firmly, then
release.
To close: Push the switch forward firmly, then
release.
The moonroof will automatically open or close
all the way. To stop the moonroof midway,
touch the switch briefly. ■ Manual operation
To open: Pull the switch back, and hold it
until the desired position is reached.
To close: Push the switch forward, and hold it
until the desired position is reached. ■ Tilting the moonroof up
To tilt: Push on the center of the moonroof
switch.
To close: Push the switch forward firmly, then
release.
■Opening/Closing the Moonroof1Opening/Closing the Moonroof
NOTICE
Opening the moonroof in below freezing
temperature or when it is covered with snow or ice
can damage the moonroof panel or motor.
The power moonroof can be operated for up to 10
minutes after you turn the ignition switch off.
Opening either front door cancels this function.
When resistance is detected, the auto reverse
function causes the moonroof to change directions,
then stop. Auto reverse stops sensing when the
moonroof is almost closed to ensure that it fully
closes. Make sure that all objects, including fingers,
are clear of the moonroof.
3WARNING
Opening or closing the moonroof on
someone's hands or fingers can cause
serious injury.
Make sure all hands and fingers are clear of
the moonroof before opening or closing it.
Open
CloseTilt
* Not available on all models

202
Driving
Before Driving
Driving Preparation
Check the following items before you start driving. •Make sure there are no obstructions on the windows, door mirrors, exterior
lights, or other parts of the vehicle.
uRemove any frost, snow, or ice.
uRemove any snow on the roof, as this can slip down and obstruct your field of
vision while driving. If frozen solid, remove ice once it has softened.
uWhen removing ice from around the wheels, be sure not to damage the wheel
or wheel components.
• Make sure the hood is securely closed.
uIf the hood opens while driving, your front view will be blocked.
• Make sure the tires are in good condition.
uCheck air pressure, check for damage and excessive wear.
2 Checking and Maintaining Tires P. 280
• Make sure there are no people or objects behind or around the vehicle.
uThere are blind spots from the inside.
■Exterior Checks1Exterior Checks
NOTICE
When doors are frozen shut, use warm water around
the door edges to melt any ice. Do not try to force
them open, as this can damage the rubber trim
around the doors. When done, wipe dry to avoid further freezing.
Do not pour warm water into the key cylinder.
You will be unable to insert key if the water freezes in
the hole.

uuWhen DrivinguVSA®
(Vehicle Stability Assist), aka ESC (Electronic Stability Control), System
224
Driving
This button is on the driver side control panel.
To turn the VSA ®
system on and off, press and
hold it until you hear a beep.
VSA ®
will stop and the indicator will come on.
To turn it on again, press the (VSA ®
OFF)
button until you hear a beep.
VSA ®
is turned on every time you start the
engine, even if you turned it off the last time
you drove the vehicle.
■VSA ®
On and Off1VSA ®
(Vehicle Stability Assist), aka ESC (Electronic Stability
Control), System
Without VSA ®
, your vehicle will have normal braking
and cornering ability, but it will not have VSA ®

traction and stability enhancement.
In certain unusual conditions when your vehicle gets
stuck in shallow mud or fresh snow, it may be easier
to free it with the VSA ®
temporarily switched off.
When the VSA ®
system is off, the traction control
system is also off. You should only attempt to free
your vehicle with the VSA ®
off if you are not able to
free it when the VSA ®
is on.
Immediately after freeing your vehicle, be sure to
switch VSA ®
on again. We do not recommend driving
your vehicle with the VSA ®
and traction control
systems switched off.
If the low tire pressure/TPMS *
, low tire pressure *
, or
TPMS indicator *
comes on or blinks, the VSA ®
system
comes on automatically. In this case, you cannot turn
the system off by pressing the button.
You may hear a motor sound coming from the
engine compartment while system checks are being
performed immediately after starting the engine or
while driving. This is normal.
VSA ®
OFF
Indicator
1.8  engine models
VSA ®
OFF
Indicator
2.4  engine models
* Not available on all models

231
uuBrakinguABS (Anti-lock Brake System)
Driving
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)
Helps prevent the wheels from locking up, and helps you retain steering control by
pumping the brakes rapidly, much faster than you.
The electronic brake distribution (EBD) system, which is part of the ABS, also
balances the front-to-rear braking distribution according to vehicle loading.
You should never pump the brake pedal. Let the ABS work for you by always
keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal. This is sometimes referred to as
"stomp and steer." ■ABS operation
The brake pedal may pulsate slightly when the ABS is working. Keep holding the
pedal firmly down. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very
hard before the ABS activates. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately
if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.
When the vehicle speed goes under 6 mph (10 km/h), the ABS stops.
■ABS1ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)
NOTICE
The ABS may not function correctly if you use an
incorrect tire type and size.
When the ABS indicator comes on while driving,
there may be a problem with the system.
While normal braking is not affected, there is a
possibility of the ABS not operating. Have the vehicle checked by a dealer immediately.
The ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes
to stop the vehicle. It only helps with steering control
during hard braking.
In the following cases, your vehicle may need more
stopping distance than a vehicle without the ABS: • When driving on rough road surfaces, including
when driving on uneven surfaces, such as gravel or
snow.
• When tire chains are installed.
You may hear a motor sound coming from the
engine compartment while system checks are being
performed immediately after starting the engine or
while driving. This is normal.

233
Driving
Parking Your Vehicle
When Stopped 1.Always use the parking brake when you park your vehicle.
2. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly, or your vehicle may roll if parked on an
incline.
Parking 1.Depress the brake pedal firmly with the shift lever in
(D .
2. Apply the parking brake while holding the brake pedal down.
3. Move the shift lever to
(P .
4. Turn off the engine.
1Parking Your Vehicle
Do not park your vehicle near flammable objects,
such as dry grass, oil, or timber.
Heat from the exhaust can cause a fire.
1When Stopped
NOTICE
The following can damage the transmission: •Depressing the accelerator and brake pedals
simultaneously.
• Holding the vehicle in place when facing uphill by
depressing the accelerator pedal.
• Moving the shift lever into
(P before the vehicle
stops completely.
Automatic transmission models
1Parking
Raise the wiper arms when snow is expected.Automatic transmission models

237
Driving
Fuel Economy
Improving Fuel Economy
Fuel economy depends on several conditions, including driving conditions, your
driving habits, the condition of your vehicle, and loading. Depending on these and
other conditions, you may or may not achieve the rated fuel economy of this vehicle.
You can optimize your fuel economy with proper maintenance of your vehicle.
Always maintain your vehicle in accordance with the messages displayed on the information display *
/multi-information display *
.
• Use the recommended viscosity engine oil, displaying the API Certification Seal.
• Maintain the specified tire pressure.
• Do not load the vehicle with excess cargo.
• Keep your vehicle clean. A buildup of snow or mud on your vehicle's underside
adds weight and increases wind resistance.
■Maintenance and Fuel Economy
1Improving Fuel Economy
Direct calculation is the recommended method to
determine actual fuel consumed while driving.
In Canada, posted fuel economy numbers are
established following a simulated test. For more
information on how this test is performed, please visit
http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/
Miles driven Gallons of
fuel Miles per
Gallon
100 Liter Kilometers L per 100 km
* Not available on all models

288
uuChecking and Maintaining TiresuWinter Tires
Maintenance
Winter Tires
If driving on snowy or frozen roads, mount all season marked ”M+S” tires, snow
tires, or tire chains; reduce speed; and maintain sufficient distance between vehicles when driving.
Be particularly careful when operating the steering wheel or brakes to prevent
skidding.
Use tire chains, snow tires, or all season tires when necessary or according to the law.
When mounting, refer to the following points.
For winter tires: • Select the size and load ranges that are the same as the original tires.
• Mount the tires to all four wheels.
For tire chains:• Install them on the front tires only.
• Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, we strongly recommend using the
chains listed below:
• Follow the chain manufacturer's instruc tion when installing. Mount them as
tightly as you can.
• Check that the chains do not touch the brake lines or suspension.
• Drive slowly.
Cable-type: SCC Radial Chain SC1030
Cable-type: SCC Radial Chain SC1032
1Winter Tires
NOTICE
Traction devices that are the wrong size or improperly
installed can damage your vehicle's brake lines,
suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if they are
hitting any part of the vehicle.
When tire chains are mounted, follow the chain
manufacturer's instructions regarding vehicle
operational limits.
If your vehicle is equipped with summer tires, be
aware that these tires are not designed for winter
driving conditions. For more information, contact a dealer.
3WARNING
Using the wrong chains, or not properly
installing chains, can damage the brake
lines and cause a crash in which you can be
seriously injured or killed.
Follow all instruction s in this owner's
manual regarding the selection and use of
tire chains.
Models with P195/65R15 tires
Models with P205/55R16 tires
Models with P215/45R17 tires
Models with 215/45ZR17 tires

342
INDEX
Trunk....................................................... 109
Outside Temperature Display .................... 85
Overheating .............................................. 311
P
Panic Mode ............................................... 113
Parking ...................................................... 233
Parking Brake ............................................ 229
Parking Brake and Brake System Indicator ............................................ 66, 315
Passenger Airbag Off Indicator ................. 47
Passing Indicators ..................................... 118
Power Windows ........................................ 114
Precautions While Driving ........................ 213
Rain ......................................................... 213
Pregnant Women ....................................... 33
Puncture (Tire) .......................................... 299
R
Radiator ..................................................... 262
Radio (AM/FM) .................................. 149, 158
Radio Data System (RDS) .................. 150, 160
Range .................................................... 81, 84
RDS (Radio Data System) .................. 150, 160
Readiness Codes (Emissions Testing) ....... 331
Rear Defogger/Heated Door Mirror
Button ...................................................... 123
Rear Seats (Folding Down) ....................... 132
Rearview Mirror ........................................ 125 Refueling
.................................................. 234
Fuel Gauge................................................ 78
Gasoline .................................. 234, 324, 326
Low Fuel Indicator ..................................... 68
Regulations ............................... 226, 283, 329
Remote Transmitter ................................. 101
Replacement
Battery .................................................... 290
Bulbs ....................................................... 268
Fuses ............................................... 318, 319
Tires ........................................................ 286
Wiper Blade Rubber ................................ 278
Reporting Safety Defects ......................... 330
Resetting a Trip Meter ......................... 80, 83
S
Safe Driving ................................................ 23
Safety Check ............................................... 27
Safety Labels ............................................... 63
Safety Message ........................................... 22
Seat Belts .................................................... 28
Adjusting the Shoulder Anchor.................. 32
Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners ................. 30
Checking................................................... 34
Fastening .................................................. 31
Installing a Child Seat with a Lap/
Shoulder Seat Belt ................................... 57
Pregnant Women ...................................... 33
Reminder .................................................. 29
Warning Indicator ............................... 29, 68 Seat Heaters
............................................. 139
Seats .......................................................... 126
Adjusting ................................................ 126
Front Seats.............................................. 126
Rear Seats ............................................... 132
Seat Heaters ........................................... 139
Security System ........................................ 112
Immobilizer System Indicator..................... 74
Security System Alarm Indicator ................ 74
SEL/RESET Knob .................................... 80, 82
Select Lever ................................ 15, 215, 217
Operation ................................. 15, 216, 217
Releasing ................................................ 310
Won’t Move ........................................... 310
Selecting a Child Seat ................................ 54
Selector Knob (Audio) ..................... 147, 155
Setting the Clock ........................................ 98
Shift Lever .................................. 15, 215, 217
Shift Position Indicator ...................... 67, 216
Shifting (Transmission) .................... 215, 217
Shoulder Anchor ........................................ 32
Side Airbags ............................................... 42
Cutoff System ........................................... 44
Off Indicator ............................................. 44
Side Curtain Airbags .................................. 45
Snow Tires ................................................ 288
Spare Tire ................................. 299, 325, 327
Spark Plugs ....................................... 324, 326
Specifications ........................................... 324
Specified Fuel ........................... 234, 324, 326
Speedometer .............................................. 78

344
INDEX
W
Wallpaper.................................................... 93
Warning and Information Messages ......... 76
Warning Indicator On/Blinking ................ 313
Warning Labels ........................................... 63
Warranties (Warranty Manual provided
separately) ............................................... 333
Watts ................................................. 324, 326
Wear Indicators (Tire) ............................... 285
Wheel Cover .............................................. 303
Wheel Nut Wrench (Jack Handle) ............ 302
Window Washers ...................................... 121
Adding/Refilling Fluid ............................... 267
Switch ..................................................... 121
Windows (Opening and Closing) ............. 114
Windshield ................................................ 121
Cleaning .................................................. 295
Defrosting/Defogging .............................. 142
Washer Fluid............................................ 267
Wiper Blades ........................................... 278
Wipers and Washers ................................ 121
Winter Tires ............................................... 288
Snow Tires ............................................... 288
Tire Chains .............................................. 288
Wipers and Washers ................................. 121
Checking and Replacing Wiper Blades ..... 278
WMA ......................................... 151, 161, 167
Worn Tires ................................................. 280