Get Driving Guide for Honda CR-V SUV Third Generation (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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09/07/16 18:43:24 31SWA630_339

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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Driving for Your Honda CR-V SUV Third Generation (2006-2010)

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