2000 Acura 1.6 EL Owner's Manual

The 2000 Acura 1.6 EL is a compact luxury sedan featuring a 1.6L SOHC 16-valve engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, power windows and locks, air conditioning, AM/FM stereo with CD player, anti-lock brakes, dual airbags, and comprehensive safety features. This manual covers operation, maintenance, safety information, and troubleshooting for your vehicle.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Controls 4. Driving Your Vehicle 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Fluid Specifications 7. Tire Information 8. Safety Features 9. Emergency Procedures 10. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key features: 1.6L 4-cylinder engine, automatic transmission, power steering, front-wheel drive, 4-door sedan configuration.

ComponentSpecification
Engine1.6L SOHC 16-valve inline-4
Transmission4-speed automatic
Fuel SystemMulti-point fuel injection
Fuel Capacity50 liters (13.2 gallons)
Seating Capacity5 passengers
Curb WeightApproximately 1,150 kg (2,535 lbs)
Overall Length4,445 mm (175 inches)
Wheelbase2,620 mm (103.1 inches)

Instrument Panel

The instrument cluster includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning indicators.

  1. Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in km/h and mph
  2. Tachometer: Displays engine RPM
  3. Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level
  4. Temperature Gauge: Shows engine coolant temperature
  5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery, brakes

WARNING! If any warning light illuminates while driving, stop the vehicle safely and investigate the cause.

Operating Controls

Familiarize yourself with all vehicle controls before driving.

  1. Ignition Switch: Start engine in PARK or NEUTRAL only
  2. Transmission Selector: P-R-N-D-2-1 positions
  3. Steering Wheel: Adjustable tilt mechanism
  4. Climate Control: Temperature, fan speed, mode selection
  5. Audio System: AM/FM radio, CD player, volume controls

CAUTION! Never shift to PARK while vehicle is moving.

Driving Your Vehicle

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Every 5,000 km/3 months: Oil and filter change, tire rotation, fluid checks

Every 10,000 km/6 months: Air filter inspection, brake system check

Every 20,000 km/12 months: Spark plug replacement, coolant service

Every 40,000 km/24 months: Transmission fluid change, timing belt inspection

Fluid Specifications

Use only recommended fluids for proper vehicle operation.

Fluid TypeSpecificationCapacity
Engine Oil5W-30 API SJ or higher3.8 liters (4.0 US qt)
Automatic TransmissionHonda ATF-Z12.7 liters (2.9 US qt)
Coolant50/50 Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant5.5 liters (5.8 US qt)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4As required
Power SteeringHonda Power Steering Fluid0.9 liters (1.0 US qt)

Tire Information

Proper tire maintenance ensures safety and fuel efficiency.

  1. Tire Size: P185/65R14 85H
  2. Inflation Pressure: 32 psi (220 kPa) front and rear
  3. Rotation: Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles)
  4. Tread Depth: Replace when below 1.6 mm (2/32 inch)
  5. Spare Tire: Compact temporary use only

Tip: Check tire pressure monthly when tires are cold.

Safety Features

Your Acura 1.6 EL includes comprehensive safety systems.

  1. Dual Airbags: Driver and front passenger
  2. Anti-lock Brakes: Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking
  3. Seat Belts: 3-point front and rear with pretensioners
  4. Child Safety: Rear door child-proof locks
  5. Security System: Factory anti-theft system
  6. Head Restraints: Adjustable front and rear

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Children 12 and under should ride in back seat.

Emergency Procedures

Know what to do in case of emergencies.

SituationAction
Flat TirePull over safely, use jack and spare tire in trunk
Dead BatteryUse jumper cables following proper procedure
OverheatingTurn off A/C, turn on heater, pull over when safe
Brake FailurePump brakes, use parking brake gradually, downshift
AccidentCheck for injuries, move to safety, exchange information

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, fuel issueCheck battery connections, ensure adequate fuel
Rough idleSpark plugs, air filterReplace spark plugs, check air filter
OverheatingLow coolant, thermostatCheck coolant level, inspect cooling system
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsHave brakes inspected and resurfaced
Poor fuel economyTire pressure, alignmentCheck tire pressure, wheel alignment

Service: Contact authorized Acura dealer for professional service

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-TO-ACURA

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