Get Driving Guide for Honda Jazz 4 Door Second Generation (2009-2015)

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Driving

This section gives you tips on

starting the engine under various

conditions, and how to operate the

manual and automatic transmissions

(CVT). It also includes important

information on parking your vehicle,

the braking system, and facts you

need if you are planning to tow a

trailer.

Preparing to Drive......................... 246 Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)

Starting the Engine........................ 247

Starting in Cold Weather

System......................................... 264

Driving in Bad Weather................ 267

at High Altitude ..................... 248 Towing a Trailer ............................ 269

Manual Transmission.................... 248

Recommended Shift Points...... 249

Maximum Allowable Speeds.... 250

Automatic Transmission (CVT).. 251

Continuously Variable

Transmission (CVT)............. 251

Shift Lever Position Indicator.. 251

Shift Lever Positions................. 252

Honda CVT ＋ 7 Speed Mode.. 255

7-Speed Auto Shift Mode...... 255

7-Speed Manual Shift

Mode ................................... 256

Shift Lock Release..................... 258

Parking............................................ 259

Parking Tips........................... 259

The Braking System...................... 260

Brake Wear Indicators.............. 260

Brake System Design................ 261

Anti-lock Brakes ........................ 261

Important Safety

Reminders .......................... 262

ABS Indicator......................... 262

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Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checks

and adjustments every day before

you drive your vehicle.

5. Check the adjustment of the seat

(see page 124 ).

10. Turn the ignition switch to the ON

(II) position. Check the indicators

in the instrument panel.

6. Check the adjustment of the

inside and outside mirrors (see

pages 137 and 138 ).

1. Make sure all windows, mirrors,

and outside lights are clean and

unobstructed. Remove frost, snow,

or ice.

11. Start the engine (see page 247 ).

12. Check the gauges and indicators

in the instrument panel (see page

86 ).

7. Check the adjustment of the

steering wheel (see page 109 ).

2. Check that the bonnet and tailgate

are fully closed.

8. Make sure the doors are securely

closed.

3. Visually check the tyres. If a tyre

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 18 ).

4. Check that any items you may be

carrying with you inside are stored

properly or fastened down

securely.

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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. If the engine

does not start right away, do not

hold the key in the START (III)

position for more than 15 seconds

at a time. Pause for at least 10

seconds before trying again.

5. If the engine does not start within

15 seconds, or starts but stalls

right away, repeat step 4 with the

accelerator pedal pressed half-way

down. If the engine starts, release

pressure on the accelerator pedal

so the engine does not race.

2. In cold weather, turn off all

electrical accessories to reduce

the drain on the battery.

3. Manual transmission:

Push the clutch pedal down all the

way and shift the transmission to

neutral.

6. If the engine still does not start,

press the accelerator pedal all the

way down and hold it there while

starting in order to clear flooding.

As before, keep the ignition key in

the START (III) position for no

more than 15 seconds. Return to

step 5 if the engine does not start.

If it starts, lift your foot off the

accelerator pedal so the engine

does not race.

Automatic transmission (CVT):

Make sure the shift lever is in

Park. Press on the brake pedal.

The Immobilizer System (on some

types) protects your vehicle from

theft. If an improperly-coded key (or

other device) is used, the engine’s

fuel system is disabled. See

Immobilizer System on page 112 .

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Starting the Engine, Manual Transmission

Starting in Cold Weather at High

Altitude (Above 2,400 metres/

8,000 feet)

An engine is harder to start in cold

weather. The thinner air found at

high altitude above 2,400 meters

(8,000 feet) adds to the problem.

Use the following procedure:

1. Turn off all electrical accessories

Manual Transmission

to reduce the drain on the battery.

2. Push the accelerator pedal half-

way to the floor and hold it there

while starting the engine. Do not

hold the ignition key in the

START (III) position for more

than 15 seconds. When the engine

starts, release the accelerator

pedal gradually as the engine

speeds up and smooths out.

3. If the engine fails to start in step 2,

push the accelerator pedal to the

floor and hold it there while you

try to start the engine for no more

than 15 seconds. If the engine

does not start, return to step 2.

The manual transmission is syn-

chronized in all forward gears for

smooth operation. It has a lockout so

you cannot shift directly from fifth to

reverse. When shifting up or down,

make sure you push the clutch pedal

down all the way, shift to the next

gear, and let the pedal up gradually.

When you are not shifting, do not

rest your foot on the clutch pedal.

This can cause excessive clutch wear.

If the outside temperature is below

freezing, or if your vehicle has not

been driven for several days, warm

up the engine for a few minutes

before driving (prohibited in

Germany! §30 StVO).

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Manual Transmission

Come to a full stop before you shift

into reverse. You can damage the

transmission by trying to shift into

reverse with the vehicle moving.

Push down the clutch pedal, and

pause for a few seconds before

shifting into reverse, or shift into one

of the forward gears for a moment.

This stops the gears so they won’t

‘‘grind.’’

Recommended Shift Points

Drive in the highest gear that lets

the engine run and accelerate

smoothly. This will give you the best

fuel economy and effective emis-

sions control. The following shift

points are recommended:

Rapid slowing or speeding-

up can cause loss of control

on slippery surfaces. If you

crash, you can be injured.

Use extra care when driving

on slippery surfaces.

Shift up

Normal acceleration

When slowing down, you can get

extra braking from the engine by

shifting to a lower gear. This extra

braking can help you maintain a safe

speed and prevent your brakes from

overheating while going down a

steep hill. Before downshifting,

make sure the engine speed will not

go into the tachometer’s red zone in

the lower gear. Refer to the

1st to 2nd

2nd to 3rd

3rd to 4th

4th to 5th

24 km/h (15 mph)

40 km/h (25 mph)

64 km/h (40 mph)

75 km/h (47 mph)

Maximum Allowable Speeds Chart.

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Manual Transmission

Maximum Allowable Speeds

＊1 : 1.2 SOHC model (Except KY models)

＊2 : 1.3 /1.4 SOHC model

(Except KY, KZ, KN, KM, KX and

KP models)

＊3 : 1.5 SOHC VTEC model

＊4 : 1.2 SOHC model (KY model)

＊5 : 1.3 /1.4 SOHC model (KY, KZ, KN, KM,

KX and KP models)

The speeds in this table are the

maximum allowable speeds in each

gear. If you exceed these speeds, 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.

Gear

1st

Maximum allowable

speeds

＊1

47 km/h (29 mph)

＊2

49 km/h (31 mph)

＊3

51 km/h (32 mph)

46 km/h (29 mph)

85 km/h (53 mph)

88 km/h (55 mph)

93 km/h (58 mph)

82 km/h (51 mph)

127 km/h (79 mph)

125 km/h (77 mph)

131 km/h (82 mph)

124 km/h (77 mph)

＊4, ＊5

＊1

2nd

3rd

4th

＊2

KY model : Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar,

Saudi Arabia, U.A.E

KZ model : Brunei, Singapore

KN model : South Africa

KM model : Brazil

＊3

＊4, ＊5

＊1

Before downshifting, make sure the

vehicle will not exceed the maximum

allowable speed in the chart in the

lower gear to avoid engine damage.

＊2

＊3

KX model : Mexico

KP model : Argentina, Chile

＊4, ＊5

＊1

173 km/h (107 mph)

＊2

160 km/h (99 mph)

＊3

168 km/h (105 mph)

＊4, ＊5

158 km/h (99 mph)

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Automatic Transmission (CVT)

Continuously Variable

Shift Lever Position Indicator

The ‘‘D’’ indicator comes on for a

few seconds when you turn the

ignition switch to the ON (II)

Transmission (CVT)

(For some types)

Honda’s Continuously Variable

Transmission’s unique design

provides a smooth, constant flow of

power. It is electronically controlled

for more precise operation and

better fuel economy.

position. If it flashes while driving (in

any shift position), it indicates a

possible problem in the transmission.

Avoid rapid acceleration, and have

the transmission checked by your

dealer as soon as possible.

This indicator on the instrument

panel shows which position the shift

lever is in.

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Automatic Transmission (CVT)

To shift from:

Do this:

Press the brake pedal and

press the release button.

Shift Lever Positions

Park (P) － This position mechani-

cally locks the transmission. Use

Park whenever you are turning off or

starting the engine. To shift out of

Park, you must press on the brake

pedal, have your foot off the accelera-

tor pedal, and press the release

P to R

SHIFT LEVER

R to P

N to R

S to L

L to S

S to D

D to N

D to S

N to D

R to N

Press the release button.

button on the front of the shift lever.

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

258 .

RELEASE BUTTON

You cannot shift out of Park with the

brake pedal depressed when the

ignition switch is in the LOCK (0) or

the ACCESSORY (I) position.

The shift lever has six positions. It

must be in Park or neutral to start

the engine. When you are stopped in

D, S, L, N or R, press firmly on the

brake pedal and keep your foot off

the accelerator pedal. When you

start along a slope to go uphill, be

sure to apply the parking brake in

addition to using the foot brake

because creeping may be less

effective.

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Automatic Transmission (CVT)

Reverse (R) － To shift from re-

verse to Park, see the explanation

under Park. To shift to reverse from

Neutral (N) － Use neutral if you

need to restart a stalled engine, or if

it is necessary to stop briefly with

neutral, come to a complete stop first. the engine idling. Always shift to

Press the release button before

shifting into reverse from neutral.

Park position if you need to leave the

vehicle for any reason. Press on the

brake pedal when you are moving

the shift lever from neutral to

another position.

Drive (D) － Use this position for

your normal driving. The transmis-

sion automatically adjusts to keep

the engine at the best speed for

driving conditions. To help the

engine warm up faster, the transmis-

sion will select ratios that allow the

engine to run at higher speeds when

it is cold.

You must also press the release

button to shift into Park. To avoid

transmission damage, come to a

complete stop before shifting into

Park. The shift lever must be in Park

before you can remove the key from

the ignition switch.

CONTINUED

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Automatic Transmission (CVT)

Sport (S) － Selecting Sport shifts

the transmission into a lower range

of ratios for better acceleration and

increased engine braking. Use Sport

Low (L) － To shift to Low, press

the release button on the front of the

shift lever. Use Low to get more

power when climbing, and for

For faster acceleration when in D or

S, the transmission will automatically

‘‘kick down’’ to a lower range of

ratios by pushing the accelerator

pedal to the floor.

when you are going down a steep hill. maximum engine braking when

going down steep hills.

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Automatic Transmission (CVT)

Honda CVT ＋ 7 Speed Mode

(For some types)

7-Speed Auto Shift Mode

This CVT is provided with a

seven-stage speed mode in the ‘‘D’’

and ‘‘S’’ position.

The 7 Speed Mode has two options;

the 7-speed auto shift mode and

7-speed manual shift mode.

By using the 7 Speed Mode Main

Switch, the transmission can be

shifted up and down automatically

through seven-stages. In the auto

shift mode, the steering shift switch

is ready to be activated. When this

switch is activated, the auto shift

mode will be cancelled and 7-speed

manual shift mode comes into

operation. In this mode, the driver

can shift up and down manually in

seven-stage speed with the use of

steering shift switches; much like a

manual transmission.

SHIFT INDICATOR

7 SPEED MODE MAIN SWITCH

As you press the 7 Speed Mode Main Under certain conditions, the auto

Switch, you activate the 7-speed auto

shift mode. Shifting of seven-stage

speed will take place depending on

the throttle opening and the vehicle

speed. The current stage is shown in

the shift indicator located in the

instrument panel.

shift mode may shift to the over-

drive in the ‘‘D’’ position. At this time,

the shift indicator displays ‘‘7’’.

CONTINUED

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Automatic Transmission (CVT)

To release the 7-speed auto shift

mode and return to the ordinary

automatic transmission (CVT),

either press the 7 Speed Mode Main

Switch or move the shift lever to

another position. When moving the

shift lever, be careful not to operate

incorrectly (see page 252 ).

7-Speed Manual Shift Mode

‘‘M’’ INDICATOR

STEERING SHIFT SWITCHES

(＋, － SWITCH)

(－)

(＋)

When the engine is stopped in the

7-speed auto shift mode, restarting

returns the system to the ordinary

automatic transmission (CVT).

SHIFT INDICATOR

7 SPEED MODE MAIN SWITCH

The following are the procedures to

change to the 7-speed manual shift

mode.

2. Press the 7 Speed Mode Main

Switch.

The currently-selected speed will

be shown in the shift indicator of

the instrument panel.

Move the shift lever to the ‘‘D’’ or

‘‘S’’ position.

1.

3. Press the steering shift switch (＋

or － switch).

Select the shift position that

matches the way of driving (see

The ‘‘M’’ indicator in the

pages

and

).

254

instrument panel will come on and

the selected speed will be shown

on the shift indicator.

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Automatic Transmission (CVT)

Execute this operation after

confirming that the ‘‘M’’ indicator is

illuminated.

If you stop without pressing the shift

switch, the speed will be

The 7-speed manual shift mode will

not function under the following

conditions.

automatically shifted down to the

2nd speed. If you want to start from

the 1st speed, press the － switch.

The 7-speed manual shift mode

allows shifting of the 1st to 7th

position.

When shifting up with the vehicle

stopped, you cannot go any further

than the 3rd speed.

To release the 7-speed manual shift

mode and return to the ordinary

automatic transmission (CVT),

either press the 7 Speed Mode Main

Switch or move the shift lever to

another position. When moving the

shift lever, be careful not to operate

incorrectly (see page 252 ).

To shift, press the steering shift

switch (＋ or － switch).

When shifting down during

To shift up, press the ＋ switch.

To shift down, press the － switch.

running, no shift-down will take

place when the shifting down

causes over-revving of the engine.

No more than two speeds can be

changed at a time.

No shift-up will take place when

less than the set-up engine

revolutions.

Under certain conditions, the manual

shift mode may shift to the over-

When the engine is stopped in the

7-speed manual shift mode,

drive in the ‘‘D’’ position. At this time, restarting returns the system to the

No shifting will take place when

pressing ＋ and － switches

simultaneously.

the shift indicator displays ‘‘7’’.

ordinary automatic transmission

(CVT).

If you keep depressing the

accelerator pedal without pressing

the shift switch, the speed will be

automatically shifted up just before

the tachometer’s red zone.

No shifting will take place when

pressing one of the two shift

switches with another shift switch

being pressed.

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Automatic Transmission (CVT)

Shift Lock Release

5. Remove the key from the Shift

Lock Release slot. Depress the

brake pedal and restart the engine.

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.

If you need to use the Shift Lock

Release, it means your vehicle is

developing a problem. Have the

vehicle checked by your dealer.

1. Turn off the engine and set the

parking brake.

2. Remove the key from the ignition

switch.

SHIFT LOCK

RELEASE SLOT

RELEASE BUTTON

3. Insert the key in the Shift Lock

Release slot next to the shift lever.

4. Push down on the key while you

press the release button on the

shift lever and move the shift lever

out of Park to neutral.

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Parking

Always use the parking brake when

you park your vehicle. The indicator

on the instrument panel shows that

the parking brake is not fully re-

leased; it does not indicate that the

parking brake is firmly set. Make

sure the parking brake is set firmly

or your vehicle may roll if it is

parked on an incline.

If the vehicle is facing uphill, turn

the front wheels away from the curb.

If you have a manual transmission,

put it in first gear.

Parking Tips

Make sure the sunroof (on some

types) and the windows are closed.

Turn off the lights.

If the vehicle is facing downhill, turn

the front wheels toward the curb. If

you have a manual transmission, put

it in reverse gear.

Place any packages, valuables, etc.,

in the luggage area, or take them

with you.

If your vehicle has an automatic

transmission (CVT), 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 － making it

easier to move the shift lever out of

Park when you want to drive away.

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 tailgate with

the key or the remote transmitter

(on some types).

Never park over dry leaves, tall

grass, or other flammable materi-

als. The three way catalytic con-

verter gets very hot, and could

cause these materials to catch on

fire.

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The Braking System

Your vehicle is equipped with front

disc brakes. The brakes on the rear

wheels may be disc or drum,

depending on the model. A power

assist helps reduce the effort needed

on the brake pedal. The ABS (on

some types) helps you retain

steering control when braking very

hard.

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 downshifting to a lower

gear and taking your foot off the

accelerator pedal.

Brake Wear Indicators

The front disc brakes on all models

have audible brake wear indicators.

On some types, they are also on the

rear brakes.

When the brake pads need replacing,

you will hear a distinctive metallic

‘‘screeching’’ sound when you apply

the brakes. If you do not have the

brake pads replaced, they will begin

screeching all the time.

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. Since a

longer distance is needed to stop

with wet brakes, be extra cautious

and alert in your driving.

Put your foot on the brake pedal only

when you intend to brake. Resting

your foot on the pedal keeps the

brakes applied lightly, causing them

to build up heat. Heat build-up can

reduce how well your brakes work. It

also keeps your brake lights on all

the time, confusing drivers behind

you.

Your brakes may sometimes squeal

or squeak when you apply them

lightly. Do not confuse this with the

brake wear indicators. They make a

very audible ‘‘screeching.’’

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The Braking System

Brake System Design

Anti-lock Brakes

You should never pump the

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.

(For some types)

brake pedal; this defeats the

ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) helps

to prevent the wheels from locking

purpose of the ABS. Let the ABS

work for you by always keeping firm,

up and skidding during hard braking, steady pressure on the brake pedal

allowing you to retain steering con-

trol.

as you steer away from the hazard.

This is sometimes referred to as

‘‘stomp and steer.’’

When the front tyres skid, you lose

steering control; the vehicle

continues straight ahead even

though you turn the steering wheel.

The ABS helps to prevent lock-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

pumping the brakes.

Front

Activation varies with the amount of

traction your tyres have. On dry pave-

ment, you will need to press on the

brake pedal very hard before you ac-

tivate the ABS. However, you may

feel the ABS activate immediately if

you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

The ABS also balances the front-to-

rear braking distribution according

to vehicle loading.

CONTINUED

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The Braking System

Important Safety Reminders

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. Slow down and allow a greater

distance between vehicles under

those conditions.

ABS Indicator

ABS INDICATOR

ABS does not reduce the time or

distance it takes to stop the

vehicle; it only helps with steering

control during braking. You should

always maintain a safe following dis-

tance from other vehicles.

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,

prudent speed for the road and

weather conditions.

The ABS is self-checking. If anything

goes wrong, the ABS indicator on

the instrument panel comes on (see

page 93 ). This means the anti-lock

function of the braking system has

shut down. The brakes still work like

a conventional system without anti-

lock, providing normal stopping

ability. You should have the dealer

inspect your vehicle as soon as

possible if this indicator stays on

after you start the engine, or comes

on while driving.

ABS cannot prevent a loss of sta-

bility. Always steer moderately

when you are braking hard. Severe

or sharp steering wheel movement

can still cause your vehicle to veer in-

to oncoming traffic or off the road.

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The Braking System

If the ABS indicator and the brake

system indicator come on together,

and the parking brake is fully

released, the front-to-rear braking

distribution system may also shut

down.

For some types

The VSA indicator will come on

along with the ABS indicator.

Test your brakes as instructed on

page 371 . 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.

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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System (For some types)

The Vehicle Stability Assist 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 slippery

road surfaces. It does this by

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.

VSA Activation Indicator

VSA ACTIVATION INDICATOR

regulating the engine’s output, and

by selectively applying braking.

When VSA activates, you may notice

that the engine does not respond to

the accelerator in the same way it

does at other times. You will also see

the VSA activation indicator blink.

When VSA activates, you will see the

VSA activation indicator blink.

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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System (For some types)

VSA System Indicator

If the VSA system 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, and watch the

VSA system indicator. If the

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.

VSA SYSTEM INDICATOR

indicator remains on, or comes back

on while driving, have the VSA

system inspected by your dealer.

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.

Immediately after freeing your

vehicle, be sure to switch the VSA on

again. We do not recommend driving

your vehicle with the VSA and

The VSA system indicator (see page

93 ) comes on and stays on when

there is a problem with the VSA

system. The VSA activation indicator

will also come on.

traction control systems switched off.

Without VSA, your vehicle will have

normal braking and cornering ability,

but it will not have VSA traction and

stability enhancement.

CONTINUED

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Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) System (For some types)

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 Tyre Sizes

Driving with varying tyre or wheel

sizes may cause the VSA to

malfunction. When replacing tyres,

make sure they are of the same size

and type as your original tyres (see

page 325 ).

Deactivate the VSA system if you

need to drive with the compact spare

tyre installed (see page 354 ).

If you install winter tyres, 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. Press it to turn the Vehicle

Stability Assist system on and off.

When VSA is off, the VSA activation

indicator comes on as a reminder.

Pressing the switch again turns the

system back on.

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Driving in Bad Weather

Driving Technique － Always drive

slower than you would in dry

Exercise extra caution when driving

in rain after a long dry spell. After

months of dry weather, the first

rains bring oil to the surface of the

roadway, making it slippery.

weather. It takes your vehicle longer

to react, even in conditions that may

seem just barely damp. Apply

smooth, even pressure to all the

controls. Abrupt steering wheel

movements or sudden, hard

application of the brakes can cause

loss of control in wet weather. Be

extra cautious for the first few

kilometers (miles) of driving while

you adjust to the change in driving

conditions. This is especially true in

snow. A person can forget some

snow-driving techniques during the

summer months. Practice is needed

to relearn those skills.

Rain, fog, and snow conditions re-

quire a different driving technique

because of reduced traction and

visibility. Keep your vehicle well-

maintained and exercise greater

caution when you need to drive in

bad weather.

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Driving in Bad Weather

Visibility － Being able to see

clearly in all directions and being

visible to other drivers are important

in all weather conditions. This is

more difficult in bad weather. To be

seen more clearly during daylight

hours, turn on your headlights and

fog lights.

Traction － Check your tyres

frequently for wear and proper

pressure. Both are important in

preventing ‘‘aquaplaning’’ (loss of

traction on a wet surface). In the

winter, mount snow tyres on all four

wheels for the best handling.

Watch road conditions carefully,

they can change from moment to

moment. Wet leaves can be as slip-

pery as ice. ‘‘Clear’’ roads can have

patches of ice. Driving conditions

can be very hazardous when the

outside temperature is near freezing.

The road surface can become

Inspect your windscreen wipers and

washers frequently. Keep the wind-

screen washer reservoir full of the

proper fluid. Have the windscreen

wiper blades replaced if they start to

streak the windscreen or leave parts

unwiped. Use the demister and air

conditioning (on some types) to keep

the windows from fogging up on the

inside (see pages 154 and 165 ).

Be very cautious when passing, or

being passed by other vehicles. The

spray from large vehicles reduces

your visibility, and the wind buffeting

can cause you to lose control.

covered with areas of water puddles

mixed with areas of ice, so your

traction can change without warning.

CAUTION: Do not drive on the road

where water is deep. Driving through

deep water will cause damage to the

engine and electrical equipment and the

vehicle will break down.

Be careful when downshifting. If

traction is low, you can lock up the

drive wheels for a moment and cause

a skid.

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Towing a Trailer (European models)

Your vehicle has been designed

primarily to carry passengers and

their luggage. You can 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

The total weight of the trailer and

towbar (with/without brakes) plus

its luggage must not exceed the

maximum towing weight. See page

389 .

The trailer nose load should never

exceed 70 kg (155 lbs). This is the

amount of weight the trailer puts

on the towbar when it is fully-

loaded. As a rule of thumb for a

trailer weights of less than 700 kg

(1,550 lbs), the trailer nose load

should be 10 percent of the total

trailer package.

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Towing a Trailer (European models)

For example, if the trailer and its

load weigh 225 kg (500 lbs), the

trailer nose load should be 22.5 kg

(50 lbs). Adjust trailer’s luggage to

change the trailer nose load. Start

by putting approximately

60 percent of the luggage toward

the front and 40 percent toward

the rear. With a trailer package of

more than 700 kg (1,550 lbs), you

may need to adjust the luggage

weight toward the rear. Never

load the trailer so the back is

heavier than the front. This takes

weight off your vehicle’s rear axle

and reduces traction.

The maximum towing weight

must not exceed the specified limit

as shown on page 389 .

Exceeding load limits or

improperly loading your

vehicle and trailer can cause

a crash in which you can be

seriously injured or killed.

This weight will be estimated on

normal driving below 1,000 meters

elevation.

If you tow a trailer in mountainous

conditions, remember to reduce

10% of the combined vehicle and

trailer weights from the maximum

towing weight for every 1,000

meters of elevation.

Check the loading of your

vehicle and trailer carefully

before starting to drive.

Please consider that the instal-

lation of optionals (and trailer nose

load when towing a trailer) will

reduce the loading capacity.

The maximum permissible weight

must not exceed the specified limit

as shown on page 389 .

Towing a load that is too heavy can

seriously affect your vehicle’s

handling and performance. It can

also damage the engine and

drivetrain.

The maximum permissible weight

is total weight of the vehicle,

driver, passengers, luggage and

towbar.

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Towing a Trailer (European models)

Checking Loads

Towing Equipment and

Accessories

Towbars

The best way to confirm that vehicle

and trailer weights are within limits

is to have them checked at a public

scale.

Any towbar used on your vehicle

Towing can require a variety of

equipment, depending on the size of

your trailer, how it will be used, and

how much load you are towing.

must be properly bolted to the

underbody.

Refer to page 388 for the towbar

mounting points.

Using a suitable scale or a special

trailer nose load gauge, check the

total weight, the weight at each axle

and the trailer nose load the first

Discuss your needs with your trailer

sales or rental agency, and follow the

guidelines in the rest of this section.

Safety Chains

Always use safety chains. Make sure

they are secured to both the trailer

and towbar, and that they cross

under the trailer nose so that they

can catch the trailer if it becomes

unhitched. Leave enough slack to

allow the trailer to turn corners

easily, but do not let the chains drag

on the ground.

time you set up a towing combination Also make sure that all equipment is

(a fully-loaded vehicle and trailer),

then recheck the loads whenever the

conditions change.

properly installed and that it meets

the country’s regulations where you

are driving.

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Towing a Trailer (European models)

Trailer Brakes

Trailer Lights

Since lighting and wiring vary in

trailer type and brand, you should

also have a qualified technician

install a suitable connector between

the vehicle and the trailer.

If you are thinking of getting a trailer

that has 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

vehicle’s hydraulic system will lower

braking effectiveness and create a

potential hazard.

Your vehicle has a connector to

install an optional trailer lighting

connector. It is located in the

luggage area by the right tail-lights.

You can get an optional trailer

lighting connector for your vehicle

from your dealer.

Always consult your dealer before

connecting the trailer lights to your

vehicle’s lighting system.

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Towing a Trailer (European models)

Additional Trailer Equipment

There may be laws requiring special

outside mirrors when you are towing

a trailer. Check the local laws in the

country. Even if there are no legal

requirements, you should install

special mirrors if you cannot clearly

see behind you, or if the trailer

creates a blind spot.

Pre-Tow Checklist

The lights and brakes on your

When preparing to tow, and before

driving away, be sure to check the

following:

vehicle and the trailer are working

properly.

Your vehicle tyres and spare are

properly inflated, and the trailer

tyres and spare are inflated as

recommended by the trailer

maker.

The vehicle has been properly

serviced, and the tyres, brakes,

suspension, and cooling system

are in good operating condition.

Ask your trailer sales or rental

agency if any other items are

recommended or required for your

towing situation.

If you tow frequently, follow the

Severe Conditions maintenance

schedule.

Be sure to check regulations

concerning the maximum speed or

driving restrictions for vehicles

towing trailers. If you are driving

across several countries, check

each country’s requirements

before leaving home, because

regulations may vary.

The trailer has been properly

serviced and is in good condition.

All weights and loads are within

limits (see pages 269 and 270 ).

Operating speed when towing a

trailer is restricted to 100 km/h

(62 mph).

The towbar, safety chains, and any

other attachments are secure.

All items on and in the trailer are

properly secured and cannot shift

while you drive.

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Towing a Trailer (European models)

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.

Towing Speeds and Gears

For some types

Drive slower than normal in all

When driving uphill and downhill,

driving situations, and obey posted

use the 7-speed manual shift mode to

speed limits for vehicles with trailers. provide the proper engine power and

If you have an automatic

engine braking on each position.

Select seventh, sixth, fifth, fourth,

third, second or first position;

depending on the vehicle speeds and

road conditions.

transmission (CVT), use the ‘‘D’’

position or 7-speed manual shift

mode (for some types) when towing

a trailer on level roads. You can

select ‘‘S’’ position or 7-speed manual

shift mode (for some types) when

towing a trailer in hilly terrain. (See

‘‘Driving on Hills’’ in the next page

for additional gear information.)

For your safety and the safety of

others, take time to practice driving

manoeuvres before heading for the

open road, and follow the guidelines

discussed below.

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Towing a Trailer (European models)

Making Turns and Braking

Driving on Hills

If you must stop when facing uphill,

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.

When climbing hills, closely watch

your high temperature indicator. If

the indicator remains on, turn the air

conditioning off, reduce speed and, if

necessary, pull to the side of the

road to let the engine cool.

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 (CVT) to overheat.

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Towing a Trailer (European models)

On vehicles with manual transmission

When driving down hills, reduce

your speed and shift down to 2nd

gear (manual). Do not ‘‘ride’’ the

brakes, and remember it will take

longer to slow down and stop when

towing a trailer.

Handling Crosswinds and Buffeting

Parking

Crosswinds and air turbulence

caused by passing trucks can disrupt

your steering and cause trailer

swaying. When being passed by a

large vehicle, keep a constant speed

and steer straight ahead. Do not try

to make quick steering or braking

corrections.

Follow all normal precautions when

parking, including firmly setting the

parking brake and putting the

transmission in park (automatic) or

in 1st or reverse (manual). Also,

place wheel chocks at each of the

trailer’s tyres.

Driving on an uphill road of more

than 12% slope is not recommended

for your vehicle.

Towing a Trailer

(Except for European models)

Your vehicle is not designed to tow a

Backing Up

Always drive slowly and have

We recommend that you tow a

trailer on the road recommended by

the trailer association.

someone guide you when backing up. trailer.

Grip the bottom of the steering

wheel; 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.

On vehicles with automatic

transmission (CVT), use Low (L) or

7-speed manual shift mode (for some

types) to provide engine braking

when going down a steep hill.

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Driving for Your Honda Jazz 4 Door Second Generation (2009-2015)

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