Honda Civic

Opening the Hood

  1. Park the vehicle on a level surface, and set the parking brake.
  2. Pull the hood release handle under the driver’s side lower corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.
  3. Pull up the hood latch lever (located under the front edge of the hood to the center) and raise the hood. Once raised slightly, you can release the lever.
  4. Remove the support rod from the clamp using the grip and mount it in the hood. When closing, remove the support rod, stow it in the clamp, and gently lower the hood. Remove your hand at approximately 12 inches (30 cm) and let the hood close.

Notice: Do not open the hood when the wiper arms are raised; it may cause damage. Ensure the hood is securely latched when closing. Clean and lubricate latch if stiff. Do not press engine cover forcibly.

Warning: The hood support rod can become very hot. Use the foam grip to avoid burns.

Recommended Engine Oil

Oil is a major contributor to engine performance and longevity. Use Genuine Honda Motor Oil or another suitable viscosity commercial engine oil. Synthetic oil may also be used if labeled with the API Certification Seal and correct viscosity.

  • Genuine Honda Motor Oil
  • Premium-grade 0W-20 detergent oil with API Certification Seal

Engine Oil Additives

Your vehicle does not require oil additives; they may harm engine performance and durability.

Oil Check

Check engine oil level each time you refuel. Park on level ground and wait ~3 minutes after turning off engine.

  1. Remove the dipstick (orange).
  2. Wipe clean.
  3. Reinsert dipstick fully.
  4. Remove again and check level. Should be between upper and lower marks; add oil if necessary.

Adding Engine Oil

  1. Unscrew and remove engine oil fill cap.
  2. Add oil slowly.
  3. Reinstall and tighten fill cap.
  4. Wait 3 minutes and recheck dipstick.

Notice: Do not fill above upper mark. Wipe spills immediately.

Changing the Engine Oil and Oil Filter

  1. Run engine until normal operating temperature, then turn off.
  2. Open hood and remove engine oil fill cap.
  3. Remove Phillips-head and slotted screws on under cover and remove cover.

Notice: Dispose of used oil properly in sealed container at recycling center.

Engine Coolant

Premixed 50% antifreeze, 50% water. Do not add straight antifreeze or water. Check level at each refuel.

  1. Ensure engine and radiator are cool.
  2. Check reserve tank; add coolant if below MIN mark.
  3. Inspect cooling system for leaks.

Notice: Use Genuine Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. Do not add rust inhibitors. Let engine cool before removing reserve cap.

Transmission Fluid

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