Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Honda owners seeking detailed service information.
Competitors 1997:
Toyota RAV4, Suzuki Vitara, Ford Maverick, Nissan Pathfinder (early models).
Unique Selling Points:
Honda's reputation for reliability, practical interior, all-wheel-drive system (optional), fuel efficiency for its class.
Manual Benefit:
Licensed OE materials for accuracy, digital convenience, cost savings over professional repairs, comprehensive coverage.
Primary Regions Covered:
North America, Japan
Global Applicability:
Applicable to models sold in primary regions, with potential regional variations noted.
Estimated Page Count:
Digital format, equivalent to approximately 1000-1500 pages of printed technical information (estimation based on typical OE manual depth).
Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual (Software)
Format:
Online Digital Software (Web-based Access)
Access Duration:
1 Year Subscription
Compatibility:
PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet with internet connection and web browser.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (mechanical components).
Engine Management:
Engine Control Module (ECM), fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems, sensors, actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, transmission removal/installation, internal components, gear shift mechanism.
Transmission Automatic:
Transmission removal/installation, internal components, hydraulic control system, torque converter, electronic control.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle shafts, rear differential (if applicable, for 4WD models), propeller shaft, transfer case (for 4WD models).
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, control arms, shock absorbers, springs, sway bars.
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, hoses), steering column, tie rod ends.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc depending on market/trim), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS system (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, fuses, relays.
Body:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals.
HVAC:
Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant, controls).
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, timing belt inspection/replacement), fluid checks and top-offs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems, including component replacement and adjustments.
Diagnostics:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools, interpreting sensor data, and performing system checks.
Specifications Torque:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhaul, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork.
Engine Code:
B20B (primarily)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control)
Displacement:
1973 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
81.0 mm x 95.0 mm
Horsepower Hp:
126 hp @ 5500 rpm (typical for USDM B20B)
Torque Lb Ft:
133 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm (typical for USDM B20B)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor.
NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:
4 Stars (for models without side airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:
4 Stars (for models without side airbags)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims or as an option.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags. Side airbags optional on some models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants, three-point seatbelts for rear occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Not standard on this model, but aftermarket options exist.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Platinum Spark Plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 7 years. Failure results in catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil:
API Service SG, SH, or SF; SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.2 US quarts (4.0 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant:
Honda Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent phosphate-free silicate-free ethylene glycol based coolant.
Coolant Capacity:
6.4 US quarts (6.1 Liters)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Honda Genuine Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) or equivalent API GL-4 SAE 75W-80.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 (or Honda ATF DW-1 as a compatible successor).
Power Steering Fluid:
Honda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON-III ATF.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid.
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical failure point if not replaced at recommended intervals; causes severe engine damage.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some early models experienced premature wear or failure of the automatic transmission, especially in heavy-duty use or with neglected maintenance.
Cv Axle Wear:
Front CV axle boots can wear out, leading to joint damage and eventual failure.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Exhaust manifold can develop cracks due to heat cycles, leading to exhaust leaks and a ticking sound.
A C System Leaks:
Common for AC systems to develop refrigerant leaks over time, particularly at O-rings and seals.
Honda Philosophy:
Emphasis on engineering, reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality, often with innovative features.
Generation:
First Generation (1995-2001)
Concept:
Introduced as a compact SUV with a unibody construction and car-like handling, differentiating it from body-on-frame SUVs.
Manufacturing Locations:
Suzuka Factory, Japan; East Liberty Auto Plant, Ohio, USA (for North American market).
Production Years:
1995-2001