Get Maintenance Guide for Honda CR-V SUV First Generation (1995-2000)

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Use this schedule if your vehicle is MAINLY driven in any of the following Severe Conditions; otherwise use the Normal Schedule. Service at the

indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C, D as required for each distance/time.

Severe Conditions:

Driving less than 5 miles (8 km) per trip or, in freezing temperatures, driving less than 10 miles (16 km) per trip.

Driving in extremely hot (over 90°F/32°C) conditions.

Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving.

Trailer towing, driving with a roof rack, or driving in mountainous conditions.

Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads.

page 224

# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last

column, page 187 .

1 : See Timing Belt on page 221 to determi ne need for replacement.

*

2 : See Air Conditioning Filter on page 220 for replacement

*

information under special conditions.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

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# : See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last

column, page 187.

1 : See Timing Belt on page 221 to d etermi ne need for replacement.

*

2 : See Air Conditioning Filter on page 220 for replacement

information under special conditions.

Maintenance

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Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page 188 ) or severe

conditions (page 190 ). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.

CONTINUED

Maintenance

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Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

Maintenance

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Owner Maintenance Checks

You should check the following

items at the specified intervals. If

you are unsure of how to perform

any check, turn to the page given.

Engine oil level — Check every

time you fill the fuel tank. See

page 143.

Tires — Check the tire pressure

monthly. Examine the tread for

wear and foreign objects. See page

221.

Engine coolant level — Check the

radiator reserve tank every time

you fill the fuel tank. See page 144 .

Lights — Check the operation of

the headlights, parking lights,

taillights, high-mount brake light,

turn signals, brake lights, and

license plate lights monthly. See

page 228.

Windshield washer fluid — Check

the level in the reservoir monthly.

If weather conditions cause you to

use the washers frequently, check

the reservoir each time you stop

for fuel. See page 206 .

Automatic transmission — Check

the fluid level monthly. See page

207.

Brakes and clutch — Check the

fluid level monthly. See page 210 .

Maintenance

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Fluid Locations

ENGINE OIL

FILL CAP

BRAKE FLUID

(Gray cap)

CLUTCH FLUID

(5-speed Manual

Transmission only)

(Gray cap)

AUTOMATIC

TRANSMISSION

FLUID DIPSTICK

(Yellow loop)

WASHER FLUID

(Blue cap)

COOLANT

RESERVOIR

POWER STEERING

FLUID (Red cap)

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK

(Orange loop)

Maintenance

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Engine Oil

Recommended Oil

The API Service label also tells you

the service classification of the oil.

Always use an oil that is labeled "API

Service SJ." This service rating may

include other classifications, such as

CD. These additional classifications

are not a problem, as long as the

label also carries the SJ classification.

Adding Oil

Oil is a major contributor to your

engine's performance and longevity.

Always use a premium-grade deter-

gent oil. It is highly recommended

that you use Genuine Honda Motor

Oil in your vehicle for as long as you

own it.

ENGINE OIL FILL CAP

You can determine an oil's SAE

viscosity and Service Classification

from the API Service label on the oil

container.

To add oil, unscrew and remove the

engine oil fill cap on top of the valve

cover. Pour in the oil, and install the

A fuel-efficient oil is recommended

for your Honda. This is shown on the

API Service label by the words

engine oil fill cap. Tighten it securely. "Energy Conserving." This oil is

Wait a few minutes and recheck the

oil level. Do not fill above the upper

mark; you could damage the engine.

formulated to help your engine use

less fuel.

API SERVICE LABEL

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Engine Oil

The oil container may also display

the API Certification seal. Make sure

it says "For Gasoline Engines."

Synthetic Oil

The SAE numbers tell you the oil's

viscosity or weight. Select the oil for

your vehicle according to this chart.

You may use a synthetic motor oil if

it meets the same requirements

given for conventional motor oil:

energy conserving, a service

classification of SJ, and the proper

weight as shown on the chart. When

using synthetic oil, you must follow

the oil and filter change intervals

given in the maintenance schedule.

Additives

Your Honda does not need any oil

additives. Purchasing additives for

the engine or transmission will not

increase your vehicle's performance

or longevity. It only increases the

cost of operating your vehicle.

API CERTIFICATION MARK

Ambient Temperature

An oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 is

preferred for improved fuel economy

and year-round protection in your

Honda. You may use a 10W-30 oil if

the temperature in your area never

goes below 20°F ( — 7°C).

Maintenance

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Engine Oil

Changing the Oil and Filter

OIL FILTER

Always change the oil and filter

according to the time and distance

(miles/kilometers) recommenda-

tions in the maintenance schedule.

The oil and filter collect contami-

nants that can damage your engine if

they are not removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requires

special tools and access from

underneath the vehicle. The vehicle

should be raised on a service station-

type hydraulic lift for this service.

Unless you have the knowledge and

proper equipment, you should have

this maintenance done by a skilled

mechanic.

OIL DRAIN BOLT

WASHER

1. Run the engine until it reaches

normal operating temperature,

then shut it off.

3. Remove the oil filter and let the

remaining oil drain. A special

wrench (available from your

Honda dealer) is required to

remove the filter.

2. Open the hood and remove the

engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil

drain bolt and washer from the

bottom of the engine. Drain the oil

into an appropriate container.

4. Install a new oil filter according to

instructions that come with it.

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Maintenance

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Engine Oil

5. Put a new washer on the drain bolt,

then reinstall the drain bolt.

Tighten it to:

7. Replace the engine oil fill cap.

Start the engine. The oil pressure

indicator light should go out within

five seconds. If it does not, turn off

the engine and reinspect your

work.

NOTICE

Improper disposal of engine oil can he

harmful to the environment. If you

change your own oil, please dispose of

the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed

container and take it to a recycling

center. Do not discard it in a trash bin

or dump it on the ground.

33 Ibf.ft (44 N.m , 4.5 kgf.m)

6. Refill the engine with the recom-

mended oil.

Engine oil change capacity

(including filter):

4.0 US qt (3.8 , 3.3 Imp qt)

8. Let the engine run for several

minutes and check the drain bolt

and oil filter for leaks.

9. Turn off the engine, let it sit for

several minutes, then check the oil

level. If necessary, add oil to bring

the level to the upper mark on the

dipstick.

Maintenance

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CoolingSystem

Adding Engine Coolant

Always use Genuine Honda

If the reserve tank is completely

empty, you should also check the

coolant level in the radiator.

Antifreeze/Coolant. If it is not

available, you may use another

major-brand non-silicate coolant as a

temporary replacement. Make sure it

is a high-quality coolant

RESERVE TANK

recommended for aluminum engines.

However, continued use of any non-

Honda coolant can result in

corrosion, causing the cooling

system to malfunction or fail. Have

the cooling system flushed and

refilled with Honda antifreeze/

coolant as soon as possible.

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.

If the coolant level in the reserve

tank is at or below the MIN line, add

coolant to bring it up to the MAX line.

Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

This coolant should always be a

mixture of 50 percent antifreeze and

50 percent water. Never add straight

antifreeze or plain water.

1. Make sure the engine and radiator

are cool.

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Maintenance

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CoolingSystem

Do not add any rust inhibitors or

other additives to your vehicle's

cooling system. They may not be

compatible with the coolant or

engine components.

RESERVE TANK

RADIATOR CAP

2. Turn the radiator cap counter-

clockwise, without pressing down

on it, until it stops. This relieves

any pressure remaining in the

cooling system.

4. The coolant level should be up to

the base of the filler neck. Add

coolant if it is low.

5. Put the radiator cap back on.

Tighten it fully.

3. Remove the radiator cap by

pushing down and turning

counterclockwise.

6. Pour coolant into the reserve tank.

Fill it to halfway between the MAX

and MIN marks. Put the cap back

on the reserve tank.

Maintenance

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CoolingSystem

Replacing Engine Coolant

The cooling system should be

DRAIN BOLT

completely drained and refilled with

new coolant according to the time

and distance recommendations in

the maintenance schedule. Only use

Genuine Honda Antifreeze/Coolant.

Draining the coolant requires access

to the underside of the vehicle.

Unless you have the tools and

knowledge, you should have this

maintenance done by a skilled

mechanic.

DRAIN PLUG

1. Turn the ignition ON (II). Turn

the heater temperature control

dial fully clockwise. Turn the

ignition off.

4. Loosen the drain plug on the

bottom of the radiator. The

coolant will drain through the

splash guard. Remove the drain

bolt and washer from the engine

block.

2. Open the hood. Make sure the

engine and radiator are cool to the

touch.

3. Remove the radiator cap.

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Maintenance

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CoolingSystem

6. When the coolant stops draining,

tighten the drain plug at the

bottom of the radiator.

FILLER NECK

RESERVE TANK CAP

Apply non-hardening sealant to the

drain bolt threads, put a new

washer on the drain bolt, and

reinstall the bolt in the engine

block. Tighten it securely.

Tightening torque:

61 Ibf.ft (83 N.m , 8.5 kgf.m)

7. Mix the recommended antifreeze

with an equal amount of purified

or distilled water in a clean

container. The cooling system

capacity is:

Fill up to here

RESERVE TANK

HOLDER

8. Pour coolant into the radiator up

to the base of the filler neck.

5. Remove the reserve tank from its

holder by pulling it straight up.

Drain the coolant, then put the

tank back in its holder.

Automatic Transmission:

1.03 US gal (3.9 , 0.86 Imp gal)

Manual Transmission:

1.06 US gal (4.0 , 0.88 Imp gal)

Maintenance

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CoolingSystem

9. Start the engine and let it run for

about 30 seconds. Then turn off

the engine.

14.Remove the radiator cap.

RESERVE TANK

15.Pour coolant into the radiator up

to the base of the filler neck and

into the reserve tank up to the

MAX mark.

10.Check the level in the radiator,

add coolant if needed.

16.Start the engine and hold it at

1,500 rpm until the radiator fan

comes on. Turn off the engine.

Check the coolant level in the

radiator and add coolant if needed.

11.Fill the reserve tank to the MAX

mark. Install the reserve tank cap.

17.Install the radiator cap, and

tighten it fully.

12.Install the radiator cap, and

tighten it to the first stop.

18.If necessary, fill the reserve tank

to the MAX mark. Install the

reserve tank cap.

13.Start the engine and let it run until

the radiator fan comes on two

times. Then stop the engine.

Maintenance

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WindshieldWashers

Check the level in the windshield

washer reservoir at least monthly

during normal usage. In bad weather,

when you use the washers often,

check the level every time you stop

for fuel.

NOTICE

LEVEL GAUGE

Do not use engine antifreeze or a

vinegar/watersolution in the

windshield washer reservoir.

Antifreeze can damage \your vehicle's

paint, while a vinegar/water solution

can damage the windshieldwasher

pump.

Use only commercially-available

windshield washer fluid.

The windshield washer reservoir is

located behind the driver's side

headlight. Check the reservoir's fluid

level by removing the cap and

looking at the level gauge attached

to the cap.

Fill the reservoir with a good-quality

windshield washer fluid. This

increases the cleaning capability and

prevents freezing in cold weather.

Maintenance

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Transmission Fluid

Automatic Transmission

5. If the level is below the lower

mark, add fluid into the filler hole

to bring it to the upper mark.

Always use Honda Premium

DIPSTICK

Formula Automatic Transmission

Fluid (ATF). If it is not available,

you may use a DEXRON^®III

automatic transmission fluid as a

temporary replacement. However,

continued use can affect shift

quality. Have the transmission

drained and refilled with Honda

ATF as soon as it is convenient.

UPPER MARK

LOWER MARK

Check the fluid level with the engine

at normal operating temperature.

6. Insert the dipstick all the way back

into the transmission securely as

shown in the illustration.

3. Insert the dipstick all the way into

the transmission.

1. Park the vehicle on level ground.

Shut off the engine.

4. Remove the dipstick and check

the fluid level. It should be

between the upper and lower

marks.

The transmission should be drained

and refilled with new fluid according

to the time and distance recommen-

dations in the maintenance schedule.

2. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop)

from the transmission and wipe it

with a clean cloth.

Maintenance

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Transmission Fluid

5-speed Manual Transmission

If Honda MTF is not available, you

may use an API service SG, SH or SJ

grade motor oil with a viscosity of

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 as a

Correct level

FILLER BOLT

temporary replacement. An SG

grade is preferred, but an SH or SJ

grade may be used if SG is not

available. However, motor oil does

not contain the proper additives and

continued use can cause stiffer

shifting. Replace as soon as it is

convenient.

The transmission should be drained

and refilled with new fluid according

to the time and distance recommen-

dations in the maintenance schedule.

Check the fluid level with the

transmission at normal operating

temperature and the vehicle sitting

on level ground. Remove the

transmission filler bolt and carefully

feel inside the bolt hole with your

finger. The fluid level should be up

to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is

not, add Genuine Honda Manual

Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it

starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall

the filler bolt and tighten it securely.

Maintenance

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Rear Differential Fluid

(4WD models only)

securely.

FILLER BOLT

If the Dual Pump Fluid is not

available, you may use Honda

Premium Formula Automatic

Transmission Fluid (ATF) or a

quality DEXRON^®III ATF as a

temporary replacement. However,

continued use can cause noise,

vibration and performance problems.

Have the differential drained and

refilled with Genuine Honda Dual

Pump Fluid as soon as it is

Correct

level

convenient.

Check the fluid level with the rear

differential at normal operating

temperature and the vehicle sitting

on level ground. Remove the

The rear differential should be

drained and refilled with new fluid

according to the time and distance

recommendations in the mainte-

nance schedule.

differential fluid filler bolt and

washer and carefully feel inside the

bolt hole with your finger. The fluid

level should be up to the edge of the

bolt hole. If it is not, slowly add

Genuine Honda Dual Pump Fluid

until it starts to run out of the hole.

Reinstall the filler bolt and tighten it

Maintenance

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Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake System

Check the fluid level in the reser-

voirs monthly. There are up to two

reservoirs, depending on the model.

They are:

Always use Genuine Honda DOT 3

brake fluid. If it is not available, you

should use only DOT 3 or DOT 4

fluid, from a sealed container, as a

temporary replacement. However,

the use of any non-Honda brake fluid

can cause corrosion and decrease

the life of the system. Have the

brake system flushed and refilled

with Honda DOT 3 brake fluid as

soon as possible.

Brake fluid reservoir (all models)

Clutch fluid reservoir

(manual transmission only)

MAX

MIN

The brake fluid should be replaced

according to the time and distance

recommendations in the mainte-

nance schedule.

Brake fluid marked DOT 5 is not

compatible with your vehicle's

braking system and can cause

extensive damage.

The fluid level should be between

the MIN and MAX marks on the side

of the reservoir. If the level is at or

below the MIN mark, your brake

system needs attention. Have the

brake system inspected for leaks or

worn brake pads.

Maintenance

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Brake and Clutch Fluid, Power Steering

Clutch System

Power Steering

Always use Genuine Honda Power

Steering Fluid. If it is not available,

you may use another power steering

UPPER LEVEL

fluid as an emergency replacement.

However, continued use can cause

increased wear and poor steering in

cold weather. Have the power

steering system flushed and refilled

with Honda PSF as soon as possible.

A low power steering fluid level can

indicate a leak in the system. Check

the fluid level frequently and have

the system inspected as soon as

MIN

MAX

LOWERLEVEL

The fluid should be between the

MIN and MAX marks on the side of

the reservoir. If it is not, add brake

fluid to bring it up to that level. Use

the same fluid specified for the

brake system.

possible.

Check the level when the engine is

cold. Look at the side of the

reservoir. The fluid should be

between the UPPER LEVEL and

LOWER LEVEL. If it is below the

LOWER LEVEL, add power steering-

fluid to the UPPER LEVEL.

NOTICE

Turning the steering wheel to full left

or right lock and holding it there can

damage the power steering pump.

Low fluid level can indicate a leak in

the clutch system. Have this system

inspected as soon as possible.

Maintenance

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Air Cleaner Element

The air cleaner element should be

replaced according to the time and

distance recommendations in the

maintenance schedule.

Replacement

AIR CLEANER

ELEMENT

CLIPS

The air cleaner element is inside the

air cleaner housing on the right side

of the engine compartment.

2. Remove the old air cleaner

element.

Carefully clean the inside of the

air cleaner housing with a damp

rag.

To replace it:

1. Unsnap the two clips and remove

the air cleaner housing cover.

3. Place the new air cleaner element

in the air cleaner housing.

4. Align the tabs and reinstall the air

cleaner housing cover, snap the

two clips back into place.

Maintenance

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Hood Latch, Spark Plugs

Hood Latch

Spark Plugs

Replacement

The spark plugs in your vehicle

should be replaced according to the

time and distance recommendations

in the maintenance schedule.

SPARK PLUG CAP

Clean the hood latch assembly with a

mild cleaner, then lubricate it with a

multipurpose grease. Lubricate all

the moving parts, including the pivot.

Follow the time and distance

1. Clean up any dirt and oil around

the spark plug caps.

2. Remove the spark plug cap by

pulling it straight out.

recommendations in the

Maintenance Schedule. If you are

not sure how to clean and grease the

latch, contact your Honda dealer.

3. Remove the spark plug with

a five-eighths inch (16 mm) spark

plug socket.

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Maintenance

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Spark Plugs

NOTICE

Tighten the spark plugs carefully. A

spark plug that is too loose can

overheat and damage the engine.

Overtightening can cause damage to

the threads in the cylinder head.

6. Install the spark plug cap.

7. Repeat this procedure for the

other three spark plugs.

Specifications:

4. Put the new spark plug into the

socket; then screw it into the hole.

Screw it in by hand so you do not

crossthread it.

5. Torque the spark plug. (If you do

not have a torque wrench, tighten

the spark plug two-thirds of a turn

after it contacts the cylinder head.)

Tightening torque:

NGK:

DENSO:

ZFR6F-11

KJ20CR-L11

Spark Plug Gap:

0.04 in (1.1 m m

13 lbf.ft (18 N .m, 1.8 kgf.m)

Maintenance

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Battery

Check the condition of your vehicle's

battery monthly. You should check

the color of the test indicator window,

and for corrosion on the terminals.

Check the battery terminals for

TEST INDICATOR WINDOW

corrosion (a white or yellowish

powder). To remove it, cover the

terminals with a solution of baking

soda and water. It will bubble up and

turn brown. When this stops, wash it

off with plain water. Dry off the

battery with a cloth or paper towel.

Coal the terminals with grease to

help prevent future corrosion.

Check the battery condition by

looking at the test indicator window

on the battery.

The label on the battery explains the

test indicator's colors.

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Maintenance

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Battery

If you need to connect the battery to

a charger, disconnect both cables to

prevent damage to the vehicle's

electrical system.

On EX model

If your vehicle's battery is

disconnected or goes dead, the audio

system will disable itself. The next

lime you turn on the radio you will

see " Code " in the frequency

display. Use the Preset buttons to

enter the five-digit code (see page

137).

The battery gives off explosive

hydrogen gas during normal

operation.

NOTICE

A spark or flame can cause the

battery to explode with enough

force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Charging the battery with the cables

connectedcan seriously damage your

vehicle's electronic controls. Detach

the battery cables before connecting

the battery to a charger.

If the terminals are severely cor-

roded, clean them with baking soda

and water. Then use a wrench to

loosen and remove the cables from

the terminals. Always disconnect the

negative ( — ) cable first and recon-

nect it last. Clean the battery termi-

nals with a terminal cleaning tool or

wire brush. Reconnect and tighten

the cables, then coat the terminals

with grease.

Wear protective clothing and a

face shield, or have a skilled

mechanic do the battery

maintenance.

Maintenance

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Table of Contents

Wiper Blades

Check the condition of the wiper

blades at least every six months.

Look for signs of cracking in the

rubber, or areas that are getting

hard. Replace the blades if you find

these signs, or they leave streaks

and unwiped areas when used.

WIPER ARMS

LOCK TAB

To replace the blade:

2. Disconnect the blade assembly

from the wiper arm by pushing in

the lock tab. Hold it in while you

push the blade assembly toward

the base of the arm.

1. Raise the wiper arm off the

windshield.

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Maintenance

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Wiper Blades

5. Slide the new wiper blade into the

holder until the tabs lock.

BLADE

6. Slide the wiper blade assembly

onto the wiper arm. Make sure it

locks in place.

7. Lower the wiper arm down against

the windshield.

REINFORCEMENT

3. Remove the blade from its holder

by grasping the tabbed end of the

blade. Pull firmly until the tabs

come out of the holder.

4. Examine the new wiper blades. If

they have no plastic or metal rein-

forcement along the back edge,

remove the metal reinforcement

strips from the old wiper blade and

install them in the slots along the

edge of the new blade.

Maintenance

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Air Conditioning System

Your vehicle's air conditioning is a

sealed system. Any major mainte-

nance, such as recharging, should be

done by a qualified mechanic. You

can do a couple of things to make

sure the air conditioning works

efficiently.

If the air conditioning does not get as

cold as before, have your dealer

check the system. Recharge the

system with Refrigerant HFC-134a

(R-134a). (See Specifications on page

279.)

NOTICE

Periodically check the engine's

radiator and air conditioning

Whenever you have the air conditioning

system serviced, make sure the service

facility uses a refrigerant recycling

system.This system capturesthe

refrigerant for reuse. Releasing

refrigerant into the atmosphere can

damagethe environment.

condenser for leaves, insects, and

dirt stuck to the front surface. These

block the air flow and reduce cooling

efficiency. Use a light spray from a

hose or a soft brush to remove them.

AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER

Run the air conditioning at least once

a week during the cold weather

months. Run it for at least ten

minutes while you are driving at a

steady speed with the engine at

normal operating temperature. This

circulates the lubricating oil con-

tained in the refrigerant.

NOTICE

The condenser and radiator fins bend

easily. Only use a low-pressurespray

or soft-bristle brush to clean them.

Maintenance

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Air Conditioning Filter, Drive Belts

Air Conditioning Filter

The belts should have the following

"play" or deflection.

Drive Belts

The air conditioning filter removes

pollen and dust that is brought in

from the outside through the heating

and cooling system.

POWER STEERING BELT

Alternator belt:

0.33 — 0.45 in (8.5 — 11.5 mm)

Compressor belt:

0.30 — 0.41 in (7.5 — 10.5 m m)

Power steering belt:

0.43 — 0.57 in (11.0 — 14.5 mm)

This filter should be replaced every

30,000 miles (48,000 km) under

normal conditions. It should be

replaced every 15,000 miles (24,000

km) if you drive primarily in urban

areas that have high concentrations

of soot in the air from industry and

diesel-powered vehicles. Replace it

more often if air flow from the

heating and cooling system becomes

less than usual. Have the air

If you see signs of wear or looseness,

have your dealer adjust or replace

the belts.

COMPRESSOR

BELT

ALTERNATOR BELT

Check the condition of the three

drive belts. Examine the edges of

each belt for cracks or fraying.

Check the tension of each belt by

pushing on it with your thumb

midway between the pulleys.

conditioning filter replaced by your

Honda dealer.

Maintenance

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Timing Belt, Tires

Timing Belt

Tires

Inflation

The timing belt should normally be

replaced at the intervals shown in

the maintenance schedule.

To safely operate your vehicle, your

tires must be the proper type and

size, in good condition with adequate

tread, and correctly inflated. The

following pages give more detailed

information on how and when to

check air pressure, how to inspect

your tires for damage and wear, and

what to do when your tires need to

bereplaced.

Keeping the tires properly inflated

provides the best combination of

handling, tread life and riding

comfort. Underinflated tires wear

unevenly, adversely affect handling

and fuel economy, and are more

likely to fail from being overheated.

Overinflated tires can make your

vehicle ride more harshly, are more

prone to damage from road hazards,

and wear unevenly.

Replace the belt at 60,000 miles (U.S.)

or 100,000 km (Canada) if you regu-

larly drive your vehicle in one or

more of these conditions:

In very high temperatures

(over 110°F, 43°C).

In very low temperatures

(under — 20°F, — 29°C).

We recommend that you visually

check your tires every day. If you

think a tire might be low, check it

immediately with a tire gauge.

Using tires that are excessively

worn or improperly inflated can

cause a crash in which you can

be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this

owner's manual regarding tire

inflation and maintenance.

CONTINUED

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Tires

Use a gauge to measure the air

Recommended Tire Pressures for

Normal Driving

If you check the pressure when the

tires are hot (the vehicle has been

driven several miles), you will see

readings 4 to 6 psi (30 to 40 kPa, 0.3

pressure at least once a month. Even

tires that are in good condition may

lose one to two psi (10 to 20 kPa, 0.1

The following chart shows the

recommended cold tire pressures for

most normal driving conditions and

speeds. Tire pressures for high

speed driving are the same as for

normal driving.

to 0.2 kgf/cm ) per month.

2

to 0.4 kgf/cm ) higher than the cold

2

Remember to check the spare tire at

the same time you check all the

other tires.

reading. This is normal. Do not let

air out to match the specified cold

pressure. The tire will be

underinflated.

Check the pressure in the tires when

they are cold. This means the vehicle

has been parked for at least three

hours. If you have to drive the

vehicle before checking the tire

pressure, the tires can still be

considered "cold" if you drive less

than 1 mile (1.6km).

You should get your own tire

pressure gauge and use it whenever

you check your tire pressures. This

will make it easier for you to tell if a

pressure loss is due to a tire problem

and not due to a variation between

gauges.

These pressures are also given on

the tire information label on the

driver's doorjamb.

Tubeless tires have some ability to

self-seal if they are punctured.

However, because leakage is often

very slow, you should look closely

for punctures if a tire starts losing

pressure.

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Tires

Inspection

Maintenance

In addition to proper inflation,

correct wheel alignment helps to

decrease tire wear. If you find a tire

is worn unevenly, have your dealer

check the wheel alignment.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

Every time you check inflation, you

should also examine the tires for

damage, foreign objects, and wear.

You should look for:

Bumps or bulges in the tread or

side of the tire. Replace the tire if

you find either of these conditions.

The tires were properly balanced by

the factory. They may need to be

rebalanced at some time before they

are worn out. Have your dealer

check the tires if you feel a consis-

tent vibration while driving. A tire

should always be rebalanced if it is

removed from the wheel for repair.

Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side

of the tire. Replace the tire if you

can see fabric or cord.

TREAD WEAR INDICATORS

Your vehicle's tires have wear indica-

tors molded into the tread. When the

tread wears down to that point, you

will see a 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) wide

band running across the tread. This

shows there is less than 1/16 inch

(1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire. A

tire that is this worn gives very little

traction on wet roads. You should

replace the tire if you can see the

tread wear indicator in three or more

places around the tire.

Excessive tread wear.

CONTINUED

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Tires

Tire Rotation

Front

When shopping for replacement

tires, you may find that some tires

are "directional." This means they

are designed to rotate only in one

direction. If you use directional tires,

they should be rotated only front-to-

back.

Make sure the installer balances the

wheels when you have new tires

installed. This increases riding

comfort and tire life. Your vehicle's

original tires were dynamic or "spin"

balanced at the factory. For best

results, have the installer perform a

dynamic balance.

Front

NOTICE

(Only on vehicles equipped with

aluminum wheels)

(For Non-directional (For Directional

Tires and Wheels) Tires and Wheels)

Improper wheel weights can damage

your vehicle's aluminum wheels. Use

only Genuine Honda wheel weights for

balancing.

To help increase tire life and

distribute wear more evenly, you

should have the tires rotated every

7,500 miles (12,000 km). Move the

tires to the positions shown in the

chart each time they are rotated.

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Tires

Replacing Tires and Wheels

The tires that came with your

vehicle were selected to match the

performance capabilities of the

vehicle while providing the best

combination of handling, ride

comfort, and long life. You should

replace them with radial tires of the

same size, load range, speed rating,

and maximum cold tire pressure

rating (as shown on the tire's

sidewall). Mixing radial and bias-ply

tires on your vehicle can reduce its

braking ability, traction, and steering

accuracy.

The ABS works by comparing the

speed of the wheels. When replacing

tires, use the same size originally

supplied with the vehicle. Tire size

and construction can affect wheel

speed and may cause the system to

work inconsistently.

Installing improper tires on your

vehicle can affect handling and

stability. This can cause a crash

in which you can be seriously

hurt or killed.

Always use the size and type of

tires recommended in this

owner's manual.

If you ever need to replace a wheel,

make sure the wheel's specifications

match those of the original wheel

that came on your vehicle. Re-

placement wheels are available at

your Honda dealer.

It is best to replace all four tires at

the same time. If that is not possible

or necessary, then replace the two

front tires or the two rear tires as a

pair. Replacing just one tire can

seriously affect your vehicle's han-

dling.

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Tires

Wheels and Tires

Winter Driving

Snow Tires

If you mount snow tires on your

Honda, make sure they are radial

tires of the same size and load range

as the original tires. Mount snow

tires on all four wheels to balance

your vehicle's handling in all weather

conditions. Keep in mind the traction

provided by snow tires on dry roads

may not be as high as your vehicle's

original equipment tires. You should

drive cautiously even when the roads

are clear. Check with the tire dealer

for maximum speed recommenda-

tions.

Tires that are marked "M + S" or

"All Season" on the sidewall have an

all-weather tread design. They

should be suitable for most winter

driving conditions. Tires without

these markings are designed for

optimum traction in dry conditions.

They may not provide adequate

performance in winter driving.

For the best performance in snowy

or icy conditions, you should install

snow tires or tire chains. They may

be required by local laws under

certain conditions.

Wheels:

15 x 6JJ

Tires:

205/70R15 95S

See page 280 for information about

DOT Tire Quality Grading.

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Tires

Tire Chains

Install the chains only on the front

tires. Mounting any type of chains on

the rear tires will damage the body

and suspension. When installing the

chains, follow the manufacturer's

instructions and mount them as

tightly as you can. Drive slowly when

they are installed. If you hear them

coming in contact with the body,

stop and investigate them. Make

sure the chains are installed tightly,

and that they are not contacting the

brake lines or suspension. Remove

the chains as soon as you begin

driving on cleared roads.

NOTICE

Mount snow chains on your vehicle

when warranted by driving condi-

tions or required by local laws.

Chains that are the wrong size or

design, or are improperly installed, can

damage your vehicle's brake lines,

suspension,body, and wheels. Stop

driving if they are hitting any part of

the vehicle.

Use only SAE class "S" chains. Only

certain brands of chains will fit your

CR-V without coming in contact with

the body or causing mechanical

damage. Before buying any types of

chains, you should consult with your

Honda dealer about the designs and

brands that will work on your CR-V.

Also, make sure you purchase the

correct size for your tires.

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Lights

Check the operation of your vehicle's

exterior lights at least once a month.

A burned out bulb can create an

unsafe condition by reducing your

vehicle's visibility and the ability to

signal your intentions to other

drivers.

FRONT PARKING LIGHT

TURN SIGNAL/SIDE MARKER LIGHTS

HEADLIGHT

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Lights

Check the following:

HIGH-MOUNT BRAKE LIGHT

TURN SIGNAL LIGHT

STOP/TAILLIGHTS

Headlights (low and high beam)

Parking lights

Taillights

Brake lights

High-mount brake light

Turn signals

Back-up lights

Hazard light function

License plate light

Side marker lights

Daytime running lights

(Canadian models)

If you find any bulbs are burned out,

replace them as soon as possible.

Refer to the chart on page 279 to

determine what type of replacement

bulb is needed.

LICENSE PLATE LIGHT

BACK-UP LIGHT

SIDE MARKER LIGHT

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Lights

Headlight Aiming

To check these settings:

HORIZONTAL ANGLE GAUGE

The headlights were properly aimed

when your vehicle was new. You

should check their aim if you

regularly carry heavy items in the

trunk. Each headlight assembly has

horizontal and vertical adjustment

indicators. These are set to their "0"

positions after the headlights are

aimed at the factory.

1. Make sure the fuel tank is full.

Park the vehicle on level ground.

2. The driver or someone who

weighs the same should be sitting

in the driver's seat for all checks

and adjustments.

Load your vehicle with the items

you normally cany.

3. Open the hood.

4. Pull the inner fender off (see page

233).

5. Check the horizontal angle gauge.

The line on the adjustment screw

indicator should line up with the

"0" mark on the gauge.

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Lights

VERTICAL ANGLE GAUGE

VERTICAL ADJUSTMENT

HORIZONTAL ADJUSTMENT

6. Check the vertical angle gauge.

The bubble should be centered

underneath the longest scribe

mark on the gauge.

7. If either indicator is not aligned

with its "0" mark as described, an

adjustment can be made using a

Phillips-head screwdriver to

8. If you cannot get an indicator to

align, have your Honda dealer

inspect the vehicle for body

damage or suspension problems.

realign it with the "0" mark. Please

refer to the illustrations.

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Lights

Replacing a Headlight Bulb

Your vehicle has halogen headlight

bulbs, one on each side. When

replacing a bulb, handle it by its steel

base and protect the glass from

contact with your skin or hard

objects. If you touch the glass, clean

it with denatured alcohol and a clean

cloth.

NOTICE

Halogen headlight bulbs get very hot

when lit. Oil, perspiration, or a scratch

on the glass can cause the bulb To

overheatand shatter.

1. Open the hood.

2. Remove the electrical connector

from the bulb by squeezing the

connector on both sides to unlock

the tab. Pull the connector straight

off.

3. Remove the rubber weather seal

by pulling on the tab.

Maintenance

Maintenance for Your Honda CR-V SUV First Generation (1995-2000)

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