1998 Acura Integra Owners Manual

The 1998 Acura Integra is a sport compact car featuring a 1.8L DOHC VTEC engine, front-wheel drive, 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, power windows and locks, air conditioning, AM/FM stereo with cassette player, power moonroof, anti-lock brakes, driver and passenger airbags, and sport-tuned suspension. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 1.8L DOHC VTEC engine, 5-speed manual transmission, power steering, anti-lock brakes, dual airbags, power windows, air conditioning, AM/FM stereo with cassette.

FeatureDescription
Engine1.8L DOHC VTEC 4-cylinder
Transmission5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
BrakesFront disc/rear drum with ABS
AirbagsDriver and front passenger
SteeringPower-assisted rack and pinion
SuspensionIndependent front and rear
Audio SystemAM/FM stereo with cassette player
Climate ControlManual air conditioning
Power FeaturesWindows, door locks, moonroof
ExteriorProjector headlights, fog lights

Vehicle Operation

Familiarize yourself with basic vehicle operation before driving.

  1. Starting the engine: Insert key, depress clutch (manual), turn to START position.
  2. Shifting gears: Manual - use clutch pedal; Automatic - select P, R, N, D, 2, 1.
  3. Parking: Apply parking brake, shift to P (automatic) or 1st/reverse (manual).
  4. Headlights: Turn knob on steering column for parking/headlights.

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Never leave children unattended in vehicle.

Instrument Panel

Dashboard includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights.

  1. Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph/kmh.
  2. Tachometer: Displays engine RPM - avoid redline.
  3. Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level - refuel when low.
  4. Temperature Gauge: Monitor engine temperature - normal operating range.
  5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, brake, ABS indicators.

CAUTION! Address warning lights immediately to prevent damage.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Steering wheel: Horn, cruise control. Dashboard: Climate controls, audio system, hazard lights.

Audio System: Power, volume, bass/treble, balance/fader, AM/FM selection, cassette operation. Climate: Temperature control, fan speed, air distribution, A/C button. Lights: Headlight switch, fog light switch, interior dimmer.

Seat Adjustment: Manual height and recline. Mirrors: Manual day/night rearview, power side mirrors. Windows: Power window switches on driver door.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended maintenance for optimal performance.

  1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
  2. Tire Rotation: Every 7,500 miles
  3. Air Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
  4. Spark Plugs: Replace every 60,000 miles
  5. Timing Belt: Replace every 90,000 miles
  6. Brake Fluid: Replace every 2 years
  7. Coolant: Replace every 3 years

Tip: Keep maintenance records for warranty and resale value.

Driving Tips

Optimize performance and fuel economy with proper driving techniques.

  1. Break-in Period: Vary speed during first 600 miles.
  2. Fuel Economy: Maintain steady speed, avoid rapid acceleration.
  3. Winter Driving: Use winter tires in snow conditions.
  4. High Performance: VTEC engagement around 5,800 RPM.
  5. Braking: Allow greater distance in wet conditions.

WARNING! Do not exceed posted speed limits. Drive responsibly.

Safety Features

Dual airbags, 3-point seat belts, side impact protection, child seat anchors, anti-lock brakes.

Care & Cleaning

Exterior: Wash with car shampoo, wax regularly. Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean upholstery with mild detergent.

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

Warranty Information

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles. Rust Perforation: 5 years/unlimited miles. For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealership. Keep maintenance records for validation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignitionCheck battery connections; ensure clutch depressed (manual); try jump start.
OverheatingCoolant level/thermostatCheck coolant level; inspect for leaks; check radiator fan operation.
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsHave brakes inspected; resurface or replace rotors.
Poor fuel economyDriving habits/maintenanceCheck tire pressure; replace air filter; avoid aggressive driving.
Electrical issuesBattery/alternatorTest battery and charging system; check fuses.

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealer for professional service.

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA

1998 Acura Integra Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025