1997 Acura Integra Owners Manual

The 1997 Acura Integra is a sport compact car featuring front-wheel drive, available in LS, GS, and Type R trims with 1.8L engines, manual or automatic transmissions, advanced safety features including dual airbags and ABS, comprehensive instrumentation, climate control system, audio system with CD/cassette, power accessories, and maintenance schedules. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Controls 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Instrument Panel 6. Driving Instructions 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 1.8L VTEC engine, manual/automatic transmission, power steering, ABS brakes, dual airbags, climate control, power windows/locks, audio system.

Feature	Description
Engine	1.8L 4-cylinder VTEC engine
Transmission	5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Brakes	Front disc/rear drum with ABS
Safety	Dual airbags, side impact protection
Climate Control	Manual or automatic temperature control
Audio System	AM/FM stereo with CD/cassette player
Power Accessories	Windows, door locks, mirrors
Instrumentation	Tachometer, speedometer, fuel/temp gauges
Seating	Bucket seats with adjustable positions
Lighting	Halogen headlights with auto-off feature

Vehicle Controls

Familiarize yourself with all vehicle controls before driving.

Ignition switch: Start engine with key in START position.
Steering wheel: Adjustable tilt for comfort.
Gear selector: P-R-N-D-2-1 for automatic; H-pattern for manual.
Parking brake: Engage when parked on inclines.

WARNING! Always fasten seat belts before starting vehicle. Ensure all controls are within easy reach.

First-Time Operation

Before first drive, perform pre-operation checks.

Adjust seating position: Ensure proper reach to pedals and steering wheel.
Mirror adjustment: Set side and rearview mirrors for maximum visibility.
Seat belt check: Ensure all occupants are properly restrained.
Instrument check: Verify all warning lights illuminate during start-up.
Climate control: Set temperature and fan speed as desired.

CAUTION! Never operate vehicle with warning lights illuminated. Address issues immediately.

Specifications

Engine: 1.8L DOHC 16-valve VTEC 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 170 hp @ 7600 rpm (Type R)
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Fuel Capacity: 13.2 gallons
Fuel Type: Premium unleaded recommended
Tire Size: P195/55R15 or P205/50R15
Curb Weight: 2,600-2,700 lbs
Dimensions: 172.4" L x 67.3" W x 52.6" H

Instrument Panel

Dashboard includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning indicators.

Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, brake, ABS, airbag, seat belt.

Controls: Headlight switch, turn signals, wiper controls, climate controls, audio system, cruise control. Gauges: Speedometer (0-140 mph), tachometer (0-8000 rpm), fuel level, coolant temperature. Warning indicators: Illuminate when issues detected; consult dealer if persistent.

Driving Instructions

Starting: Depress clutch (manual) or brake (auto), turn key to START. Shifting: Smooth gear changes; avoid over-revving.

Normal driving: Use D range for automatic; appropriate gear for manual.
Hill driving: Use lower gears for engine braking on descents.
Braking: Apply steady pressure; ABS will pulsate during hard stops.
Parking: Engage parking brake; shift to P (auto) or gear (manual).

Tip: Allow engine to warm up before aggressive driving.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow scheduled maintenance for optimal performance.

Oil change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles
Air filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
Spark plugs: Replace every 60,000 miles
Timing belt: Replace every 90,000 miles
Brake fluid: Replace every 2 years
Coolant: Replace every 3 years

WARNING! Use only Acura-approved fluids and parts. Keep maintenance records.

Safety Features

Dual airbags: Deploy in frontal impacts. ABS: Prevents wheel lock-up during braking. Seat belts: 3-point front and rear. Child safety: Rear seat child restraint anchors.

Care & Cleaning

Exterior: Wash with mild soap; wax regularly. Interior: Vacuum carpets; clean surfaces with damp cloth.

CAUTION! Avoid abrasive cleaners. Do not use high-pressure washers on seals.

Warranty Information

Basic warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles. Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles. Rust perforation: 5 years/unlimited miles. For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealer. Customer service: 1-800-382-2238.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/ignition	Check battery connections; ensure gear in Park/Neutral; try jump start.
Overheating	Coolant level/thermostat	Check coolant level; inspect for leaks; check radiator fan operation.
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Have brakes inspected; resurface or replace rotors.
Poor fuel economy	Driving habits/maintenance	Check tire pressure; replace air filter; avoid aggressive driving.
Electrical issues	Battery/alternator	Test battery and charging system; check fuses.

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealer for professional service.

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-382-2238