Deutsch
EnglishDriving for your Honda CR-V 2006-2010
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Driving
This section gives you tips on
Driving Guidelines......................... 312
Preparing to Drive......................... 313
Starting the Engine........................ 314
Automatic Transmission............... 315
Parking............................................ 320
Braking System.............................. 321
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) ................ 322
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA ),
aka Electronic Stability
Control (ESC), System ......... 324
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
(TPMS)....................................... 326
Towing a Trailer ............................ 329
Towing Your Vehicle Behind a
Motorhome................................. 334
Off-Highway Driving
Guidelines................................... 336
starting the engine under various
conditions, and how to operate the
automatic transmission. It also
includes important information on
parking your vehicle, the braking
system, the vehicle stability assist
(VSA ) system, the tire pressure
monitoring system (TPMS), and
facts you need if you are planning to
tow a trailer or drive off-highway.
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Driving Guidelines
Your vehicle has higher ground
clearance that allows you to travel
over bumps, obstacles, and rough
terrain. It also provides good
visibility so you can anticipate
problems earlier.
Do not modify your vehicle in any
way that would raise the center of
gravity.
Four-wheel drive models
Your vehicle is equipped with a four-
wheel drive (4WD) system. When
the system senses a loss of front-
wheel traction, it automatically
transfers some power to the rear
wheels. This gives you better
traction and mobility.
Do not carry heavy cargo on the
roof.
Because your vehicle rides higher
off the ground, it has a high center
of gravity that can cause it to roll
over if you make abrupt turns. Utility
vehicles have a significantly higher
roll over rate than other types of
vehicles.
You still need to exercise the same
care when accelerating, steering, and
braking that you would in a two-
wheel drive vehicle.
See page 336 for off-highway driving
guidelines.
To prevent rollovers or loss of
control:
Take corners at slower speeds
than you would with a passenger
vehicle.
Avoid sharp turns and abrupt
maneuvers whenever possible.
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Preparing to Drive
You should do the following checks
and adjustments before you drive
your vehicle.
5. Check the seat adjustment (see
pages 97 and 98 ).
6. Check the adjustment of the
inside and outside mirrors (see
page 114 ).
1. Make sure all windows, mirrors,
and outside lights are clean and
unobstructed. Remove frost, snow,
or ice.
7. Check the steering wheel
adjustment (see page 81 ).
2. Check that the hood is fully closed.
8. Make sure the doors and the
tailgate are securely closed and
locked.
3. Visually check the tires. If a tire
looks low, use a gauge to check its
pressure.
9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that
your passengers have fastened
their seat belts (see page 15 ).
4. Check that any items you may be
carrying are stored properly or
fastened down securely.
10. When you start the engine, check
the gauges and indicators in the
instrument panel (see pages 61 to
68 ).
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Starting the Engine
1. Apply the parking brake.
4. Without touching the accelerator
pedal, turn the ignition key to the
START (III) position. Do not hold
the key in the START (III)
position for more than 15 seconds
at a time. If the engine does not
start right away, pause for at least
10 seconds before trying again.
2. In cold weather, turn off all
electrical accessories to reduce
the drain on the battery.
The engine is harder to start in cold
weather. Also, the thinner air found at
altitudes above 8,000 feet (2,400
meters) adds to this problem.
3. Make sure the shift lever is in
Park. Press on the brake pedal.
The immobilizer system protects your
vehicle from theft. If an improperly-
coded key (or other device) is used, the
engine’s fuel system is disabled. For
more information, see page 83 .
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Automatic Transmission
Shift Lever Position Indicators
The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for a
few seconds when you turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position. If it flashes while driving (in
any shift position), it indicates a
possible problem in the transmission.
Shifting
If the malfunction indicator lamp
comes on along with the ‘‘D’’
indicator, there is a problem with the
automatic transmission control
system. Avoid rapid acceleration, and
have the transmission checked by
your dealer as soon as possible.
RELEASE
BUTTON
U.S. model is shown.
SHIFT LEVER
These indicators on the instrument
panel show which position the shift
lever is in.
To shift from any position, press
firmly on the brake pedal and the
release button on the side of the
shift lever. You cannot shift out of
Park when the ignition switch is in
the LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I)
position.
CONTINUED
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Automatic Transmission
To shift from:
P to R
Do this:
Press the brake pedal and
press the shift lever release
button.
Park (P) － This position mechani-
Reverse (R) － Press the brake
cally locks the transmission. Use
pedal and the release button on the
Park whenever you are turning off or side of the shift lever to shift from
starting the engine. To shift out of
Park, you must press on the brake
pedal and have your foot off the
accelerator pedal. Press the release
button on the side of the shift lever
to move it.
Park to reverse. To shift from
reverse to neutral, come to a
complete stop and then shift. Press
the release button before shifting
into reverse from neutral.
R to P
N to R
D to 2
2 to 1
Press the shift lever release
button.
1 to 2
2 to D
D to N
N to D
R to N
Move the shift lever.
If you have done all of the above and
still cannot move the lever out of
Park, see Shift Lock Release on
page 319 .
D
3
to D
Press the D button.
3
D to D
3
To avoid transmission damage, come
to a complete stop before shifting
into Park. You must also press the
release button to shift into Park. The
shift lever must be in Park before
you can remove the key from the
ignition switch.
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Automatic Transmission
Neutral (N) － Use neutral if you
need to restart a stalled engine, or if
it is necessary to stop briefly with
the engine idling. Shift to the Park
position if you need to leave your
vehicle for any reason. Press on the
brake pedal when you are moving
the shift lever from neutral to
another gear.
D3 Mode
Drive (D) － Use this position for
your normal driving. The
transmission automatically selects a
suitable gear (1 through 5) for your
speed and acceleration. You may
notice the transmission shifting up at
higher engine speeds when the
engine is cold. This helps the engine
warm up faster.
D3 SWITCH
D3 MODE INDICATOR
Press the D3 switch on the side of
the shift lever to turn this mode on
or off; the D3 mode indicator comes
on whenever the D3 mode is
selected.
When the D3 mode is on, the
transmission selects only the first
three gears. Use D3 mode when
towing a trailer, or to provide engine
braking when going down a steep hill.
D3 mode can also keep the
transmission from cycling between
third and fourth gears in stop-and-go
driving.
D3 mode can be turned on or off
only when the ignition switch is in
the ON (II) position and the shift
lever is in the D position.
CONTINUED
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Automatic Transmission
Shifting out from the D position will
cancel the D3 mode, and the D3
indicator will go out. Selecting the D
position again will resume the D3
mode and the indicator comes on.
Use second gear:
If you shift into first gear when the
vehicle speed is above 31 mph (50
km/h), the transmission shifts into
second gear first to avoid sudden
engine braking.
For more power when climbing.
To increase engine braking when
going down steep hills.
Turning the ignition switch to the
LOCK (0) position turns this mode
off. When you restart the engine,
select the D position and press the
D3 mode switch again to use this
mode.
For starting out on a slippery
surface or in deep snow.
Engine Speed Limiter
If you exceed the maximum speed
for the gear you are in, the engine
speed will enter into the tachometer’s
red zone. If this occurs, you may feel
the engine cut in and out. This is
caused by a limiter in the engine’s
computer controls. The engine will
run normally when you reduce the
rpm below the red zone.
To help reduce wheel spin.
When driving downhill with a
trailer.
The D3 mode indicator also comes
on for a few seconds when you turn
the ignition switch to the ON (II)
position.
First (1) － To shift from second to
first, press the release button on the
side of the shift lever. This position
locks the transmission in first gear.
By upshifting and downshifting
Second (2) － To shift to second,
press the release button on the side
of the shift lever. This position locks
the transmission in second gear. It
does not downshift to first gear
when you come to a stop.
through 1, 2, D , and D, you can
3
operate the transmission much like a
manual transmission without a
clutch pedal.
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Automatic Transmission
Shift Lock Release
RELEASE BUTTON
COVER
This allows you to move the shift
lever out of Park if the normal
method of pushing on the brake
pedal and pressing the release
button does not work.
1. Set the parking brake.
2. Remove the key from the ignition
switch.
SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT
3. Put a cloth on the edge of the shift
lock release slot cover. Using a
small flat-tipped screwdriver or
metal fingernail file, carefully pry
4. Insert the key in the shift lock
release slot.
6. Remove the key from the shift
lock release slot, then reinstall the
cover. Make sure the notch on the
cover is on the right side. Insert
the key back into the ignition
switch, press the brake pedal, and
restart the engine.
on the edge of the cover to remove 5. Push down on the key while you
it.
press the release button on the
shift lever and move the shift lever
out of Park to neutral.
If you need to use the shift lock
release, it means your vehicle is
developing a problem. Have the
vehicle checked by your dealer.
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Parking
Always use the parking brake when
you park your vehicle. Make sure
the parking brake is set firmly, or
your vehicle may roll if it is parked
on an incline.
Parking Tips
If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn
the front wheels away from the
curb.
Make sure the moonroof (if
equipped) and the windows are
closed.
If the vehicle is facing downhill,
turn the front wheels toward the
curb.
Turn off the lights.
Set the parking brake before you put
the transmission in Park. This keeps
the vehicle from moving and putting
pressure on the parking mechanism
in the transmission.
Place any packages, valuables, etc.
in the cargo area or take them
with you.
Make sure the parking brake is
fully released before driving away.
Driving with the parking brake
partially set can overheat or
damage the rear brakes.
Lock the doors and the tailgate.
If equipped
Check the indicator on the
instrument panel to verify that the
security system is set.
Never park over dry leaves, tall
grass, or other flammable
materials. The hot three way
catalytic converter could cause
these materials to catch on fire.
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Braking System
Your vehicle is equipped with disc
brakes at all four wheels. A power
assist helps reduce the effort needed
on the brake pedal. The anti-lock
brake system (ABS) helps you retain
steering control when braking very
hard.
Check your brakes after driving
through deep water. Apply the
brakes moderately to see if they feel
normal. If not, apply them gently and
frequently until they do. Be extra
cautious and alert in your driving.
Brake Pad Wear Indicators
The front and rear disc brakes on all
models have audible brake wear
indicators.
If the brake pads need replacing, you
will hear a distinctive, metallic
Braking System Design
screeching sound when you apply
the brake pedal. If you do not have
the brake pads replaced, they will
screech all the time. It is normal for
the brakes to occasionally squeal or
squeak when you apply them.
Resting your foot on the pedal keeps
the brakes applied lightly, builds up
heat, reduces their effectiveness and
reduces brake pad life. In addition,
fuel economy can be reduced. It also
keeps your brake lights on all the
time, confusing drivers behind you.
The hydraulic system that operates
the brakes has two separate circuits.
Each circuit works diagonally across
the vehicle (the left-front brake is
connected with the right-rear brake,
etc.). If one circuit should develop a
problem, you will still have braking
at two wheels.
Constant application of the brakes
when going down a long hill builds
up heat and reduces their effective-
ness. Use the engine to assist the
brakes by taking your foot off the
accelerator and downshifting to a
lower gear.
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Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
The anti-lock brake system (ABS)
helps prevent the wheels from
locking up, and helps you retain
steering control by pumping the
brakes rapidly, much faster than a
person can do it.
You will feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal when the ABS activates, and
you may hear some noise. This is
normal: it is the ABS rapidly
ABS Indicator
If this indicator comes on, the anti-
lock function of the braking system
has shut down. The brakes still work
like a conventional system, but
without anti-lock. You should have
your dealer inspect your vehicle as
soon as possible.
pumping the brakes. 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.
The electronic brake distribution
(EBD) system, which is part of the
ABS, also balances the front-to-rear
braking distribution according to
vehicle loading.
If the ABS indicator comes on while
driving, test the brakes as shown on
page 396 .
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.’’
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Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
If the ABS indicator and the brake
system indicator come on together,
and the parking brake is fully
released, the EBD system may also
be shut down.
Important Safety Reminders
ABS does not reduce the time or
distance it takes to stop the
vehicle. It only helps with the
steering control during braking.
A vehicle with ABS may require a
longer distance to stop on loose or
uneven surfaces, such as gravel or
snow, than a vehicle without anti-
lock.
Test your brakes as instructed on
page 396 . If the brakes feel normal,
drive slowly and have your vehicle
repaired by your dealer as soon as
possible. Avoid sudden hard braking
which could cause the rear wheels to
lock up and possibly lead to a loss of
control.
ABS will not prevent a skid that
results from changing direction
abruptly, such as trying to take a
corner too fast or making a sudden
lane change. Always drive at a safe
speed for the road and weather
conditions.
ABS cannot prevent a loss of
The VSA system indicator may come
on along with the ABS indicator if
there is a problem with the anti-lock
brake system.
stability. Always steer moderately
when you are braking hard. Severe
or sharp steering wheel movement
can still cause your vehicle to veer
into oncoming traffic or off the road.
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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA ), aka Electronic Stability Control (ESC), System
The vehicle stability assist (VSA)
system helps to stabilize the vehicle
during cornering if the vehicle turns
more or less than desired. It also
assists you in maintaining traction
while accelerating on loose or
VSA Off Indicator
NOTE: The main function of the
VSA system is generally known as
Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
The system also includes a traction
control function.
When VSA is off, the VSA off
indicator comes on as a reminder.
Vehicle Stability Assist
(VSA) System Indicator
slippery road surfaces. It does this
If the low tire pressure indicator or
TPMS indicator comes on, the VSA
system automatically turns on even if
the VSA system is turned off by
pressing the VSA OFF switch (see
page 325 ). If this happens, you
by regulating the engine’s output and When VSA activates, you will see the
by selectively applying the brakes.
VSA system indicator blink.
When VSA activates, you may notice
that the engine does not respond to
the accelerator in the same way it
does at other times. There may also
be some noise from the VSA
hydraulic system. You will also see
the VSA activation indicator blink.
If this indicator comes on while
driving, pull to the side of the road
when it is safe, and turn off the
engine. Reset the system by
restarting the engine. If the VSA
system indicator stays on or comes
back on while driving, have the VSA
system inspected by your dealer.
cannot turn the VSA system off by
pressing the VSA OFF switch again.
Without VSA, your vehicle will have
normal braking and cornering ability,
but it will not have VSA traction and
stability enhancement.
The VSA system cannot enhance the
vehicle’s driving stability in all
situations and does not control your
vehicle’s entire braking system. It is
still your responsibility to drive and
corner at reasonable speeds and to
leave a sufficient margin of safety.
If the indicator does not come on
when the ignition switch is turned to
the ON (II) position, there may be a
problem with the VSA system. Have
your dealer inspect your vehicle as
soon as possible.
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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA ), aka Electronic Stability Control (ESC), System
VSA OFF Switch
VSA is turned on every time you
start the engine, even if you turned it
off the last time you drove the
vehicle.
VSA and Tire Sizes
Driving with varying tire or wheel
sizes may cause the VSA to
malfunction. When replacing tires,
make sure they are the same size
and type as your original tires (see
page 374 ).
VSA OFF SWITCH
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.
If you install winter tires, make sure
they are the same size as those that
were originally supplied with your
vehicle. Exercise the same caution
during winter driving as you would if
your vehicle was not equipped with
VSA.
This switch is under the driver’s side
vent. To turn the VSA system on and
off, press and hold it until you hear a
beep.
Immediately after freeing your
vehicle, be sure to switch the VSA on
again. We do not recommend driving
your vehicle with the VSA and
When VSA is off, the VSA off
indicator comes on as a reminder.
Press and hold the switch again. It
turns the system back on.
traction control systems switched off.
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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Your vehicle is equipped with a tire
pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
Low Tire Pressure
Indicator
Driving on a significantly under
inflated tire causes the tire to
overheat and can lead to tire failure.
Underinflation also reduces fuel
efficiency and tire tread life, and may
affect the vehicle’s handling and
stopping ability.
that turns on every time you start the When the low tire pressure indicator
engine and monitors the pressure in
your tires while driving.
is on, one or more of your tires is
significantly underinflated. You
should stop and check your tires as
soon as possible, and inflate them to
the proper pressure as indicated on
the vehicle’s tire information placard. Because tire pressure varies by
temperature and other conditions,
If you think you can safely drive a
short distance to a service station,
proceed slowly, and inflate the tire to
the recommended pressure shown
on the driver’s doorjamb.
Each tire has its own pressure
sensor (not including the spare tire).
If the air pressure of a tire becomes
significantly low while driving, the
sensor in that tire immediately sends
a signal that causes the low tire
pressure indicator to come on.
the low tire pressure indicator may
come on unexpectedly.
If the tire is flat, or if the tire
pressure is too low to continue
driving, replace the tire with the
compact spare tire (see page 382 ).
If you cannot make the low tire
pressure indicator go out after
inflating the tires to the specified
values, have your dealer check the
system as soon as possible.
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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
For example, if you check and fill
your tires in a warm area, then drive
in extremely cold weather, the tire
pressure will be lower than
information label and in the owner’s
manual (see page 371 ).
When you restart the vehicle with
the compact spare tire, the TPMS
indicator may also come on and stay
on after driving several miles
(kilometers).
Tire Pressure Monitoring
measured and could be underinflated
and cause the low tire pressure
indicator to come on. Or, if you
check and adjust your tire pressure
in cooler conditions, and drive into
extremely hot conditions, the tire
may become overinflated. However,
the low tire pressure indicator will
not come on if the tires are
System (TPMS) Indicator
This indicator comes on and stays on
if there is a problem with the tire
pressure monitoring system.
If this happens, the system will shut
off and no longer monitor tire
pressures. Have the system checked
by your dealer as soon as possible.
overinflated.
If the low tire pressure indicator or
TPMS indicator comes on, the VSA
system automatically turns on even if
the VSA system is turned off by
pressing the VSA OFF switch (see
page 325 ). If this happens, you
Refer to page 370 for tire inflation
guidelines.
Although your tire pressure is
monitored, you must manually check
the tire pressures monthly.
cannot turn the VSA system off by
pressing the VSA OFF switch again.
Each tire, including the spare, should
be checked monthly when cold, and
set to the recommended inflation
pressure as specified on the tire
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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Changing a Tire with TPMS
If you have a flat tire, the low tire
pressure indicator will come on.
Replace the flat tire with the
The low tire pressure indicator or
As required by the FCC:
the TPMS indicator will go off, after
several miles (kilometers) driving,
when you replace the spare tire with
the specified regular tire equipped
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference, and
compact spare tire (see page 382 ).
with the tire pressure monitor sensor. (2) this device must accept any
Each wheel (except the compact
spare tire wheel) is equipped with a
tire pressure sensor. You must use
TPMS specific wheels. It is
recommended that you always have
your tires serviced by your dealer or
qualified technician.
interference received, including
Never use a puncture-repairing agent
in a flat tire. If used, you will have to
replace the tire pressure sensor.
Have the flat tire repaired by your
dealer as soon as possible.
interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
After you replace the flat tire with
the compact spare tire, the low tire
pressure indicator stays on. This is
normal; the system is not monitoring
the spare tire pressure. Manually
check the spare tire pressure to be
sure it is correct. After several miles
(kilometers) driving with the
This device complies with Industry
Canada Standard RSS-210.
Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) this device may not cause
interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.
compact spare tire, the TPMS
indicator comes on and the low tire
pressure indicator goes off.
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Towing a Trailer
Your vehicle has been designed
primarily to carry passengers and
their cargo. You can also use it to
tow a trailer if you carefully observe
the load limits, use the proper
equipment, and follow the guidelines
in this section.
Load Limits
Exceeding any load limit or
improperly loading your vehicle
and trailer can cause a crash in
which you can be seriously hurt
or killed.
Break-In Period
Check the loading of your
vehicle and trailer carefully
before starting to drive.
Avoid towing a trailer during your
vehicle’s first 600 miles (1,000 km)
(see page 294 ).
Be sure to read the Off-Highway
Driving Guidelines section on page
336 if you plan to tow off paved
surfaces.
Total Trailer Weight: The
maximum allowable weight of the
trailer and everything in or on it
must not exceed 1,500 lbs (680 kg).
Towing a load that is too heavy can
seriously affect your vehicle’s
handling and performance. It can
also damage the engine and
drivetrain.
CONTINUED
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Towing a Trailer
To achieve a proper tongue load,
start by loading 60% of the load
toward the front of the trailer and
40% toward the rear, then re-adjust
the load as needed.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR) － The maximum
allowable weight of the vehicle, all
occupants, all accessories, all cargo,
and the tongue load is 4,560 lbs
(2,070 kg).
Checking Loads
The best way to confirm that all
loads are within limits is to check
them at a public scale. For public
scales in your area, check your local
phone book, or contact your trailer
dealer or rental agency for
assistance.
If you cannot get to a public scale,
you can estimate the total trailer
weight by adding the weight of your
trailer (as quoted by the
manufacturer) with everything in or
on the trailer.
Gross Axle Weight Ratings
(GAWR) － The maximum
Tongue Load: The weight that the
tongue of a fully-loaded trailer puts
on the hitch should be approximately
10% of the total trailer weight. Too
much tongue load reduces front-tire
traction and steering control. Too
little tongue load can make the
allowable weight of the vehicle, all
occupants, all accessories, all cargo,
and the tongue load must not exceed
If you normally pull the same load
2,310 lbs (1,050 kg) on the front axle, each time you tow a trailer, you can
and 2,290 lbs (1,040 kg) on the rear
axle.
use a suitable scale or a special
tongue load gauge to check the
tongue load the first time you set up
a towing combination (a fully loaded
vehicle and trailer), then recheck the
tongue load whenever the conditions
change.
trailer unstable and cause it to sway.
Gross Combined Weight Rating
(GCWR) － The maximum
allowable weight of the fully loaded
vehicle and trailer is 6,060 lbs (2,750
kg)
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Towing a Trailer
Towing Equipment and
slack to allow the trailer to turn
corners easily, but do not let the
chains drag on the ground.
Trailer Lights
Accessories
Trailer lights and equipment must
comply with federal, state, province/
territory, and local regulations.
Check trailer light requirements for
the areas where you plan to tow, and
use only equipment designed for
your vehicle.
Towing can require a variety of
equipment, depending on the size of
your trailer, how it will be used, how
much load you are towing, and
where you tow.
Discuss your needs with your trailer
sales or rental agency, and follow the
guidelines in this section. Also make
sure that all equipment is properly
installed and maintained, and that it
meets federal, state, province,
territory, and local regulations.
Trailer Brakes
There are two common types of
trailer brakes: surge and electric.
Surge brakes are common for boat
trailers, since the brakes will get wet.
If you choose electric brakes, be
sure they are electronically actuated.
Do not attempt to tap into your
vehicle’s hydraulic system. No
matter how successful it may seem,
any attempt to attach trailer brakes
to your vehicles hydraulic system
will lower braking effectiveness and
create a potential hazard.
Hitches
Any hitch used on your vehicle must
be properly bolted to the underbody.
Safety Chains
Always use safety chains when you
tow a trailer. Make sure the chains
are secured to the trailer and hitch,
and that they cross under the tongue
and can catch the trailer if it
See your trailer dealer or rental
agency for more information on
installing electric brakes.
CONTINUED
becomes unhitched. Leave enough
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Towing a Trailer
Since lighting and wiring vary by
trailer type and brand, you should
have a qualified technician install a
suitable connector between the
vehicle and the trailer. Improper
equipment or installation can cause
damage to your vehicle’s electrical
system and affect your vehicle
warranty.
Pre-Tow Checklist
TAILLIGHT
(RED)
LEFT TURN GROUND
When preparing to tow, and before
driving away, be sure to check the
following:
SIGNAL
(BLACK)
(ORANGE)
The vehicle has been properly
serviced, and the suspension and
the cooling system are in good
operating condition.
TRAILER BRAKE HAZARD RIGHT
(WHITE) LIGHT (PINK)
(LIGHT
TURN
SIGNAL
(BROWN)
Additional Towing Equipment
Many states and Canadian
The trailer has been properly
serviced and is in good condition.
GREEN)
provinces/territories require special
outside mirrors when towing a trailer.
Even if they don’t, you should install
special mirrors if you cannot clearly
see behind you, or if the trailer
creates a blind spot.
Your vehicle has a trailer lighting
connector located behind the left
side panel in the cargo area. Refer to
the drawing above for the wiring
color code and purpose of each pin.
All weights and loads are within
limits.
The hitch, safety chains, and any
other attachments are secure.
If you use a non-Honda trailer
lighting harness and converter, you
can get the connector and pins that
mate with the connector in your
vehicle from your dealer.
Ask your trailer sales or rental
agency if any other items are
recommended or required for your
towing situation.
All items in or on the trailer are
properly secured and cannot shift
while you drive.
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Towing a Trailer
The lights and brakes on your
vehicle and the trailer are working
properly.
Towing Speeds and Gears
conditioning off, reduce speed and, if
necessary, pull to the side of the
road to let the engine cool.
Drive slower than normal in all
driving situations, and obey posted
speed limits for vehicles with trailers.
Use the D position when towing a
Your vehicle tires and spare are
properly inflated, and the trailer
tires and spare are inflated as
recommended by the trailer
maker.
When driving down hills, reduce
your speed and use the D3 position.
Do not ‘‘ride’’ the brakes, and
remember it will take longer to slow
down and stop when towing a trailer.
trailer on level roads. D is the
3
proper shift lever position to use
when towing a trailer in hilly terrain.
(See ‘‘Driving on Hills’’ in the
following column for additional gear
information.)
Driving Safely With a Trailer
The added weight, length, and
height of a trailer will affect your
vehicle’s handling and performance,
so driving with a trailer requires
some special driving skills and
techniques.
If you must stop when facing uphill,
use the foot brake or parking brake.
Do not try to hold the vehicle in
place by pressing on the accelerator,
as this can cause the automatic
transmission to overheat.
Making Turns and Braking
Make turns more slowly and wider
than normal. The trailer tracks a
smaller arc than your vehicle, and it
can hit or run over something the
vehicle misses. Allow more time and
distance for braking. Do not brake or
turn suddenly as this could cause the
trailer to jackknife or turn over.
Handling Crosswinds and Buffeting
Crosswinds and air turbulence
For your safety and the safety of
others, take time to practice driving
maneuvers before heading for the
open road, and follow the guidelines
in this section.
caused by passing trucks can disrupt
your steering and cause the trailer to
sway. When being passed by a large
vehicle, keep a constant speed, and
steer straight ahead. Do not try to
make quick steering or braking
Driving on Hills
When climbing hills, closely watch
your temperature gauge. If it nears
the red (Hot) mark, turn the air
corrections.
CONTINUED
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Towing a Trailer, Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome
Backing Up
Towing Your Vehicle Behind a
Motorhome
Check the transmission fluid level
(see page 355 ). Do not overfill.
Start the engine.
Always drive slowly and have
someone guide you when backing up. Your vehicle can be towed behind a
Grip the bottom of the steering wheel, motorhome at legal highway speeds
then turn the wheel to the left to get
the trailer to move to the left, and
turn the wheel right to move the
trailer to the right.
Press on the brake pedal. Move
the shift lever through all its
positions.
up to 65 mph (100 km/h). Do not
exceed 65 mph (100 km/h).
Otherwise, severe transmission
damage will occur. To avoid damage
to the 4WD system, your vehicle
must be towed with all four wheels
on the ground (flat towing).
Shift to D position and hold for 5
seconds, then to N. Let the engine
run for 3 minutes, then turn it off.
Release the parking brake.
Leave the ignition switch in the
ACCESSORY (I) position so the
steering wheel does not lock.
Make sure the radio and any items
plugged into the accessory power
sockets are turned off so you do
not run down the battery.
Parking
Follow all normal precautions when
parking, including firmly setting the
parking brake and putting the
transmission in Park. Also, place
wheel chocks at each of the trailer’s
tires.
When purchasing a tow bar, make
sure you select a reputable
manufacturer and installer. Follow
the manufacturer’s attachment
instructions carefully.
Perform the following procedure
every day immediately before you
begin towing. Otherwise severe
automatic transmission damage will
occur.
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Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome
When towing your vehicle for long
the vehicle.
periods, remove the 7.5 A Accessory
Radio fuse to reduce drain on battery.
This fuse is located in the interior
fuse box and is shown as number 34
below.
The steering system can be damaged if
the steering wheel is locked. Leave the
ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I)
position, and make sure the steering
wheel turns freely before you begin
towing.
Severe transmission damage will occur
if the vehicle is shifted from reverse to
neutral and then towed with the drive
wheels on the ground.
INTERIOR FUSE BOX
ACCESSORY RADIO FUSE
Extended Towing
If you tow a CR-V behind a
motorhome, the transmission fluid
must be changed every 2 years or
30,000 miles (48,000 km), whichever
comes first.
If you tow more than 8 hours in one
day, you should repeat the above
procedure at least every 8 hours
(when you stop for fuel, etc.)
Failure to follow the recommended
instructions exactly will result in severe
automatic transmission damage. If you
cannot shift the transmission or start
the engine, your vehicle must be
transported on a flat-bed truck or
trailer.
Only remove the fuse after you have
performed the transmission shifting
procedure, and the key is in the
ACCESSORY (I) position. Store the
fuse in an obvious location (center
tray, coin pockets, etc) as a reminder
to re-install the fuse before driving
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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines
General Information
Important Safety Precautions
To avoid loss of control or rollover,
be sure to follow all precautions and
recommendations.
Your vehicle has been designed
primarily for use on pavement. But
its higher ground clearance allows
you to occasionally travel on unpaved
roads, such as campgrounds, picnic
sites, and similar locations. It is not
designed for trail-blazing, mountain
climbing, or other challenging off-
road activities.
Improperly operating this
vehicle on or off pavement can
cause an accident or rollover in
which you and your passengers
could be seriously injured or
killed.
Be sure to store cargo properly
and do not exceed your cargo load
limits (see page 305 and 330 ).
Follow all instructions and
guidelines in this owner’s
manual.
Keep your speed low, and
don’t drive faster than
conditions permit.
Wherever you drive, make sure
you and your passengers always
wear seat belts.
If you decide to drive on unpaved
roads, you will find that it requires
somewhat different driving skills.
Your vehicle will also handle
Keep your speed low, and never
go faster than the conditions allow.
somewhat differently than it does on
pavement. So be sure to read this
owner’s manual, pay special attention
to the precautions and tips in this
section, and get acquainted with
your vehicle before you leave the
pavement.
It’s up to you to continually assess
the situation and drive within the
limits.
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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines
Check Out Your Vehicle
Accelerating and Braking
Avoiding Obstacles
Before you leave the pavement, be
sure to do all scheduled maintenance
and service, and inspect your vehicle
for any problems. Pay special
For better traction on all surfaces,
Debris in the road can damage your
accelerate slowly and gradually build
up speed. If you try to start too fast
on wet soil, mud, snow, or ice, you
suspension or other components.
Because your vehicle has a high
center of gravity, driving over a large
obstacle, or allowing a wheel to drop
into a deep hole can cause your
vehicle to tip or roll over.
attention to the condition of the tires, might not have enough traction to
and check the tire pressures.
get underway, and you may dig
yourself a hole. Starting with the
shift lever in second (2) gear will
help you have a smoother start on
snow or ice.
After you return to the pavement,
carefully inspect your vehicle to
make sure there is no damage that
could make driving it unsafe.
Recheck the condition of the tires
and the tire pressures.
Driving on Slopes
If you can’t clearly see all conditions
or obstacles on a slope, walk the
slope before you drive on it. If you
have any doubt whether or not you
can safely drive on the slope, don’t
do it. Find another route.
Keep in mind that you will usually
need more time and distance to
brake to a stop on unpaved surfaces.
Avoid hard braking. Do not ‘‘pump’’
the brakes; let the anti-lock braking
system pump them for you.
Remember
The route presents limits (too steep
or bumpy roads). You have limits
(driving skill and comfort). And your
vehicle has limits (traction, stability,
and power).
If you are driving up a hill and find
that you cannot continue, do not try to
turn around. Your vehicle could roll
over. Slowly back down the hill,
following the same route you took up
the hill.
Driving off-highway can be
hazardous if you fail to recognize
limits and take the proper
precautions.
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Off-Highway Driving Guidelines
Crossing a Stream
If You Get Stuck
4-Wheel Drive Vehicles
Avoid driving through deep water. If
you encounter water in your route (a
small stream or large puddle, for
Avoid driving on soft sand, deep mud, If you spin the wheels excessively
or other surfaces where you could
get stuck. If you do happen to get
trying to get unstuck, you may
overheat the components of the
4-wheel drive system. If this happens,
the 4-wheel drive system shuts off
and only the front wheels receive
power. If this happens, stop and
allow everything to cool down. The
4-wheel drive system will work again
after its temperature drops.
example), evaluate it carefully before stuck because of inclement weather
going ahead. Make sure it is shallow,
flowing slowly, and has firm ground
underneath. If you are not sure of
the depth or the ground, turn around
and find another route.
or other conditions, choose a safe
and appropriate course of action.
You should never use a jack to try
getting unstuck. A jack only works
on firm, level ground. Also, your
vehicle could easily slip off the jack
and hurt you or someone else.
Driving through deep water can also
damage your vehicle. The water can
get into the transmission and
differential, diluting the lubricant
and causing an eventual failure. It
can also wash the grease out of the
wheel bearings.
If you slip the clutch for a long time
while trying to get unstuck, you may
overheat and damage it.
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