Honda Fit (2019 year). Instruction

527

Checking and Maintaining Tires

DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)

Main

tenan

The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C.
Those grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement
as measured under controlled conditions on specified
government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked
C may have poor traction performance.

The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C,
representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its
ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions
on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high
temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and
reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire
failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which
all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels
of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum
required by law.

■

Traction

■

Temperature

Traction

Warning: The traction grade
assigned to this tire is based on
straight-ahead braking traction tests,
and does not include acceleration,
cornering, hydroplaning, or peak
traction characteristics.

Temperature

Warning: The temperature grade for
this tire is established for a tire that is
properly inflated and not
overloaded. Excessive speed,
underinflation, or excessive loading,
either separately or in combination,
can cause heat buildup and possible
tire failure.

528

Checking and Maintaining Tires

Wear Indicators

Main

tenan

Wear Indicators

The groove where the wear indicator is
located is 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) shallower than
elsewhere on the tire. If the tread has worn so
that the indicator is exposed, replace the tire.
Worn out tires have poor traction on wet
roads.

Tire Service Life

The life of your tires is dependent on many factors, including driving habits, road
conditions, vehicle loading, inflation pressure, maintenance history, speed, and
environmental conditions (even when the tires are not in use).

In addition to regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance, it is
recommended that you have annual inspections performed once the tires reach five
years old. All tires, including the spare, should be removed from service after 10
years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their condition or state of wear.

Example of a Wear
Indicator mark

529

Checking and Maintaining Tires

Tire and Wheel Replacement

Main

tenan

Tire and Wheel Replacement

Replace your tires with radials of the same size, load range, speed rating, and
maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire‘s sidewall). Using tires of a
different size or construction can cause certain vehicle systems such as the ABS and
Vehicle Stability Assist® (VSA®) system to work incorrectly.

It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that isn’t possible, replace the
front or rear tires in pairs.

Make sure that the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheels.

Tire and Wheel Replacement

WARNING

Installing improper tires on your vehicle can
affect handling and stability. This can cause
a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or
killed.

Always use the size and type of tires
recommended in this owner’s manual.

530

Checking and Maintaining Tires

Tire Rotation

Main

tenan

Tire Rotation

Rotating tires according to the maintenance messages on the information display

multi-information display

helps to distribute wear more evenly and increase tire life.

■

Tires without rotation marks

Rotate the tires as shown here.

■

Tires with rotation marks

Rotate the tires as shown here.

Tire Rotation

Tires with directional tread patterns should only be
rotated front to back (not from one side to the other).
Directional tires should be mounted with the rotation
indication mark facing forward, as shown below.

Whenever tires are rotated, you must calibrate the
TPMS.

2 TPMS Calibration P. 463

Front

Direction Mark

U.S. models

Front

* Not available on all models

531

Checking and Maintaining Tires

Winter Tires

Main

tenan

Winter Tires

If driving on snowy or frozen roads, mount all season marked M+S tires, snow tires,
or tire chains; reduce speed; and maintain sufficient distance between vehicles when
driving.

Be particularly careful when operating the steering wheel or brakes to prevent
skidding.

Use tire chains, snow tires, or all season tires when necessary or according to the law.

When mounting, refer to the following points.

For winter tires:
• Select the size and load ranges that are the same as the original tires.
• Mount the tires to all four wheels.
For tire chains:
• Install them on the front tires only.
• Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, we strongly recommend using the

chains listed below:

• Follow the chain manufacturer’s instruction when installing. Mount them as

tightly as you can.

• Check that the chains do not touch the brake lines or suspension.
• Drive slowly.

Cable-type: SCC Radial Chain SC1026

Winter Tires

NOTICE

Traction devices that are the wrong size or improperly
installed can damage your vehicle’s brake lines,
suspension, body, and wheels. Stop driving if they are
hitting any part of the vehicle.

When tire chains are mounted, follow the chain
manufacturer’s instructions regarding vehicle
operational limits.

If your vehicle is equipped with summer tires, be
aware that these tires are not designed for winter
driving conditions. For more information, contact a
dealer.

WARNING

Using the wrong chains, or not properly
installing chains, can damage the brake
lines and cause a crash in which you can be
seriously injured or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s
manual regarding the selection and use of
tire chains.

532

Main

tenan

Battery

Checking the Battery

The battery condition is being monitored by the sensor on the negative terminal of
the battery. If there is a problem with the sensor, the warning message on the
information display

/multi-information display

will let you know. Have your vehicle

checked by a dealer.

Check the battery terminals for corrosion monthly.

If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected or goes dead:
• The audio system is disabled.

2 Audio System Theft Protection P. 208

• The clock resets.

2 Clock P. 122

Battery

WARNING: Battery post, terminals,
and related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds.
Wash your hands after handling.

When replacing the battery, the replacement must be
of the same specifications.
Consult a dealer for more information.

WARNING

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen
gas during normal operation.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to
explode with enough force to kill or
seriously hurt you.

When conducting any battery
maintenance, wear protective clothing and
a face shield, or have a skilled technician do
it.

* Not available on all models

533

Battery

Charging the Battery

Main

tenan

Charging the Battery

Disconnect both battery cables to prevent damaging your vehicle’s electrical system.
Always disconnect the negative (–) cable first, and reconnect it last.

Battery

When you find corrosion, clean the battery terminals
by applying a baking powder and water solution.
Clean terminals with a damp towel. Cloth/towel dry
the battery. Coat the terminals with grease to help
prevent future corrosion.

534

Main

tenan

Remote Transmitter Care

Replacing the Button Battery

If the indicator does not come on when the button is pressed, replace the battery.

1. Unscrew the cover with a small Phillips-

head screwdriver.

2. Open the remote transmitter.

Wrap the small flat-tip screwdriver with a
cloth to prevent scratching the
transmitter.

3. Remove the button battery with the small

flat-tip screwdriver.

4. Make sure to replace the battery with the

correct polarity.

■

Master Keys with Remote Transmitter

Replacing the Button Battery

NOTICE

An improperly disposed of battery can damage the
environment. Always confirm local regulations for
battery disposal.

Replacement batteries are commercially available or
at a dealer.

WARNING

CHEMICAL BURN HAZARD
The battery that powers the remote
transmitter can cause severe internal burns
and can even lead to death if swallowed.
Keep new and used batteries away from
children.
If you suspect that a child has swallowed
the battery, seek medical attention
immediately.

Screw

Battery type: CR1620

Battery

* Not available on all models

535

Remote Transmitter Care

Replacing the Button Battery

Main

tenan

1. Remove the built-in key.

2. Remove the upper half of the cover by

carefully prying on the edge with a coin.

Remove carefully to avoid losing the
buttons.

Wrap a coin with a cloth to prevent
scratching the smart entry remote.

3. Make sure to replace the battery with the

correct polarity.

■

Smart Entry Remote

Battery type: CR2032

Battery

* Not available on all models

536

Main

tenan

Heating and Cooling System

/Climate Control System

Maintenance

Air Conditioning

To ensure proper and safe operation, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE
J2845) recommends that the refrigerant system only be serviced by trained and
certified technicians.

Never repair or replace the air conditioning evaporator (cooling coil) with one
removed from a used or salvaged vehicle.

New replacement mobile air conditioning evaporators must be certified (and
labeled) as meeting SAE Standard J2842.

Dust and Pollen Filter

The heating and cooling system

/climate control system

is equipped with a dust

and pollen filter that collects pollen, dust, and other debris in the air. The
Maintenance Minder

messages will let you know when to replace the filter.

We recommend that you replace the dust and pollen filter sooner when using your
vehicle in areas with high concentrations of dust.

Heating and Cooling System

/Climate Control System

Maintenance

NOTICE

Vented refrigerant is harmful to the environment.
To avoid refrigerant from venting, never replace the
evaporator with one removed from a used or
salvaged vehicle.

Refrigerant in your vehicle’s air conditioning system is
flammable and can be ignited during servicing if
proper procedures are not followed.

The air conditioner label is found under the hood:

2 Safety Labels P. 74
2 Specifications P. 574

Dust and Pollen Filter

If the airflow from the heating and cooling system

climate control system

deteriorates noticeably, and

the windows fog up easily, the filter may need to be
replaced. Please contact a dealer for replacement.

* Not available on all models

537

Continued

Main

tenan

Cleaning

Interior Care

Use a damp cloth with a mixture of mild detergent and warm water to remove dirt.
Use a clean cloth to remove detergent residue.

Use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean the seat belts.
Let the belts air dry. Wipe the loops of the seat belt anchors using a clean cloth.

Wipe using a glass cleaner.

■

Cleaning Seat Belts

Interior Care

Do not spill liquids inside the vehicle.
Electrical devices and systems may malfunction if
liquids are splashed on them.

Do not use silicone based sprays on electrical devices
such as audio devices and switches.
Doing so may cause the items to malfunction or
cause a fire inside the vehicle.
If a silicone based spray is inadvertently used on
electrical devices, consult a dealer.

Depending on their composition, chemicals and
liquid aromatics may cause discoloration, wrinkles,
and cracking to resin-based parts and textiles.
Do not use alkali solvents or organic solvents such as
benzene or gasoline.

After using chemicals, make sure to gently wipe them
away using a dry cloth.
Do not place used cloths on top of resin based parts
or textiles for long periods of time without washing.

Be careful not to spill fluids, such as water or glass
cleaner, on or around the cover of the front sensor
camera.

Models with front sensor camera

Loop

■

Cleaning the Window

Cleaning the Window

Wires are mounted to the inside of the rear window.
Wipe along the same direction as the wires with a
soft cloth so as not to damage them.

Cleaning

Interior Care

538

Main

tenan

The driver’s floor mat hooks over floor
anchors, which keep the mat from sliding
forward. To remove a mat for cleaning, turn
the anchor knobs to the unlock position.
When reinstalling the mat after cleaning, turn
the knobs to the lock position.

Do not put additional floor mats on top of
the anchored mat.

To properly clean leather:
1. Use a vacuum or soft dry cloth first to remove any dirt or dust.
2. Clean the leather with a soft cloth dampened with a solution comprised of 90%

water and 10% neutral soap.

3. Wipe away any soap residue with a clean damp cloth.
4. Wipe away residual water and allow leather to air dry in the shade.

■

Floor Mats

Floor Mats

If you use any floor mats that were not originally
provided with your vehicle, make sure they are
designed for your specific vehicle, fit correctly, and
are securely anchored by the floor anchors.
Position the rear seat floor mats properly. If they are
not properly positioned, the floor mats can interfere
with the front seat functions.

Lock

Unlock

■

Maintaining Genuine Leather

Maintaining Genuine Leather

It is important to clean or wipe away dirt or dust as
soon as possible. Spills can soak into leather resulting
in stains. Dirt or dust can cause abrasions in the
leather. In addition, please note that some dark
colored clothing can rub onto the leather seats
resulting in discoloration or stains.

* Not available on all models

539

Cleaning

Exterior Care

Continued

Main

tenan

Exterior Care

Dust off the vehicle body after you drive.
Regularly inspect your vehicle for scratches on painted surfaces. A scratch on a
painted surface can result in body rust. If you find a scratch, promptly repair it.

Wash the vehicle regularly. Wash more frequently when driving in the following
conditions:
• If driving on roads with road salt.
• If driving in coastal areas.
• If tar, soot, bird droppings, insects, or tree sap are stuck to painted surfaces.

• Make sure to follow the instructions indicated on the automated car wash.
• Remove the audio antenna.

2 Audio Antenna P. 209

• Fold in the door mirrors.

• Keep sufficient distance between the cleaning nozzle and the vehicle body.
• Take particular care around the windows. Standing too close may cause water to

enter the vehicle interior.

• Do not spray high pressure water directly into the engine compartment. Instead,

use low pressure water and a mild detergent.

■

Washing the Vehicle

■

Using an Automated Car Wash

■

Using High Pressure Cleaners

Washing the Vehicle

Do not spray water into the air intake vents.
It can cause a malfunction.

Air Intake Vents

Cleaning

Exterior Care

540

Main

tenan

A good coat of automotive body wax helps protect your vehicle’s paint from the
elements. Wax will wear off over time and expose your vehicle’s paint to the
elements, so reapply as necessary.

If you get gasoline, oil, engine coolant, or battery fluid on resin coated parts, they
may be stained or the coating may peel. Promptly wipe it away using a soft cloth and
clean water.

Wipe using a glass cleaner.

Aluminium is susceptible to deterioration caused by salt and other road
contaminants. When necessary, as early as possible use a sponge and mild detergent
to wipe away these contaminants. Do not use a stiff brush or harsh chemicals
(including some commercial wheel cleaners). These can damage the protective finish
on aluminium alloy wheels, resulting in corrosion. Depending on the type of finish,
the wheels also may lose their luster or appear burnished. To avoid water stains,
wipe the wheels dry with a cloth while they are still wet.

■

Applying Wax

■

Maintaining the Bumpers and Other Resin Coated Parts

■

Cleaning the Window

■

Maintaining Aluminum Wheels

Applying Wax

NOTICE

Chemical solvents and strong cleaners can damage
the paint, metal, and plastic on your vehicle. Wipe
away spills immediately.

Maintaining the Bumpers and Other Resin Coated Parts

Ask a dealer about the correct coating material when
you want to repair the painted surface of the parts
made of resin.

* Not available on all models

541

Cleaning

Exterior Care

Main

tenan

The inside lenses of exterior lights (headlights, brake lights, etc.) may fog temporarily
if you have driven in the rain, or after the vehicle has been run through a car wash.
Dew condensation also may build up inside the lenses when there is a significant
enough difference between the ambient and inside lens temperatures (similar to
vehicle windows fogging up in rainy conditions). These conditions are natural
processes, not structural design problems in the exterior lights.
Lens design characteristics may result in moisture developing on the light lens frame
surfaces. This also is not a malfunction.
However, if you see large amounts of water accumulation, or large water drops
building up inside the lenses, have your vehicle inspected by a dealer.

■

Fogged Exterior Light Lens

542

Main

tenan

Accessories and Modifications

Accessories

When installing accessories, check the following:
• Do not install accessories on the windshield. They can obstruct your view and

delay your reaction to driving conditions.

• Do not install accessories over areas marked SRS AIRBAG, on the sides or backs

of the front seats, on front or side pillars, or near the side windows.
Accessories installed in these areas may interfere with proper operation of the
vehicle’s airbags or may be propelled into you or another occupant if the airbags
deploy.

• Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits or interfere with

proper operation of your vehicle.

2 Fuses P. 564

• Before installing any electronic accessory, have the installer contact a dealer for

assistance. If possible, have a dealer inspect the final installation.

Modifications

Do not modify your vehicle in a manner that may affect its handling, stability, or
reliability, or install non-genuine Honda parts or accessories that may have a similar
effect.

Even minor modifications to vehicle systems can affect overall vehicle performance.
Always make sure all equipment is properly installed and maintained, and do not
make any modification to your vehicle or its systems that might cause your vehicle
to no longer meet federal, state, province, territory, and local regulations.

The on-board diagnostic port (OBD-II/SAE J1962 connector) installed on this vehicle
is intended to be used with automobile system diagnostic devices or with other
devices that Honda has approved. Use of any other type of device may adversely
affect the vehicle’s electronic systems or allow them to be compromised, possibly
resulting in a system malfunction, drained battery, or other unexpected problems.

Do not modify or attempt to repair any of the electrical components.

Accessories and Modifications

Honda Genuine accessories are recommended to
ensure proper operation on your vehicle.

WARNING

Improper accessories or modifications can
affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, and
performance, and cause a crash in which
you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s
manual regarding accessories and
modifications.

Honda Fit (2019 year). Instruction - part 34