Honda CR-V (2018 year). Manual

448

Driving

Before Driving

Driving Preparation

Check the following items before you start driving.

• Make sure there are no obstructions on the windows, door mirrors, exterior

lights, or other parts of the vehicle.

Remove any frost, snow, or ice.

Remove any snow on the roof, as this can slip down and obstruct your field of
vision while driving. If frozen solid, remove ice once it has softened.

When removing ice from around the wheels, be sure not to damage the wheel
or wheel components.

• Make sure the hood is securely closed.

If the hood opens while driving, your front view will be blocked.

• Make sure the tires are in good condition.

Check air pressures, and check for damage and excessive wear.

2 Checking and Maintaining Tires P. 597

• Make sure there are no people or objects behind or around the vehicle.

There are blind spots from the inside.

■

Exterior Checks

Exterior Checks

NOTICE

When doors are frozen shut, use warm water around
the door edges to melt any ice. Do not try to force
them open, as this can damage the rubber trim
around the doors. When done, wipe dry to avoid
further freezing.
Do not pour warm water into the key cylinder.
You will be unable to insert the key if the water
freezes in the hole.

Heat from the engine and exhaust can ignite
flammable materials left under the hood, causing a
fire. If you've parked your vehicle for an extended
period, inspect and remove any debris that may have
collected, such as dried grass and leaves that have
fallen or have been carried in for use as a nest by a
small animal. Also check under the hood for leftover
flammable materials after you or someone else has
performed maintenance on your vehicle.

Continued

449

Before Driving

Driving Preparation

Driving

• Store or secure all items on board properly.

Carrying too much cargo, or improperly storing it, can affect your vehicle's
handling, stability, stopping distance, and tires, and make it unsafe.

2 Maximum Load Limit P. 451

• Do not pile items higher than the seat height.

They can block your view and may be thrown forward in the event of sudden
braking.

• Do not place anything in the front seat footwells. Make sure to secure the floor

mat.

An object or unsecured floor mat can interfere with your brake and accelerator
pedal operation while driving.

• If you have any animals on board, do not let them move around in the vehicle.

They may interfere with driving and a crash could occur.

• Securely close and lock all doors and the tailgate.

2 Locking/Unlocking the Doors from the Inside P. 144

• Adjust your seating position properly.

Adjust the head restraint, too.

2 Adjusting the Seats P. 197
2 Adjusting the Front Head Restraints P. 203

• Adjust the mirrors and steering wheel properly for your driving.

Adjust them while sitting in the proper driving position.

2 Adjusting the Steering Wheel P. 194
2 Adjusting the Mirrors P. 195

■

Interior Checks

Interior Checks

The headlight aim is set by the factory, and does not
need to be adjusted. However, if you regularly carry
heavy items in the cargo area or tow a trailer, have
the aiming readjusted at a dealer or by a qualified
technician.

450

Before Driving

Driving Preparation

Driving

• Be sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll under the

seats.

They can interfere with the driver's ability to operate the pedals, the operation
of the seats, or the operation of the sensors under the seats.

• Everyone in the vehicle must fasten their seat belt.

2 Fastening a Seat Belt P. 44

• Make sure that the indicators in the instrument panel come on when you start the

vehicle, and go off soon after.

Always have a dealer check the vehicle if a problem is indicated.

2 Indicators P. 80

451

Before Driving

Maximum Load Limit

Continued

Driving

Maximum Load Limit

The maximum load for your vehicle is 850 lbs (385 kg). See the Tire
and Loading Information label attached to the driver’s doorjamb.

This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and
accessories, and the tongue load if you are towing a trailer.

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit -
(1) Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and

cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your
vehicle’s placard.

(2) Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers

that will be riding in your vehicle.

(3) Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers

from XXX kg or XXX lbs.

(4) The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and

luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount
equals 1,400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in
your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load
capacity is 650 lbs.
(1,400 - 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs.)

Maximum Load Limit

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR):
The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, all
occupants, all accessories, all cargo, and the tongue
load.

2 Specifications P. 652

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR):
The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle axle.

2 Specifications P. 652

WARNING

Overloading or improper loading
can affect handling and stability
and cause a crash in which you
can be hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and other
loading guidelines in this manual.

Label Example

452

Before Driving

Maximum Load Limit

Driving

(5) Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being

loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the
available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in step 4.

(6) If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will

be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to
determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage
load capacity of your vehicle.

In addition, the total weight of the vehicle, all occupants,
accessories, cargo, and trailer tongue load must not exceed the
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the Gross Axle Weight
Rating (GAWR). Both are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

Load Limits Example

Example1

Max Load

850 lbs

(385 kg)

Passenger Weight

150 lbs x 2 = 300 lbs

(68 kg x 2 = 136 kg)

Cargo Weight

550 lbs

(249 kg)

Example2

Max Load

850 lbs

(385 kg)

Passenger Weight

150 lbs x 5 = 750 lbs

(68 kg x 5 = 340 kg)

Cargo Weight

100 lbs
(45 kg)

453

Continued

Driving

Towing a Trailer

Towing Preparation

Your vehicle can tow a trailer if you carefully observe the load limits, use the proper
equipment, and follow the towing guidelines. Check the load limits before driving.

■

Total trailer weight

Maximum allowable weight of the trailer,
cargo, and everything in or on it must not
exceed 1,500 lbs (680 kg). Towing loads in
excess of this can seriously affect vehicle
handling and performance and can damage
the engine and drivetrain.

■

Tongue load

The weight of the tongue with a fully loaded
trailer on the hitch should be approximately
10% of the total trailer weight.
• Excessive tongue load reduces front tire

traction and steering control. Too little
tongue load can make the trailer unstable
and cause it to sway.

• To achieve a proper tongue load, start by

loading 60% of the load toward the front
of the trailer and 40% toward the rear.
Readjust the load as needed.

■

Towing Load Limits

Towing Load Limits

Check if all loads are within limits at a public scale.
If a public scale is not available, add the estimated
weight of your cargo load to the weight of your
trailer (as quoted by the manufacturer), and the
tongue load.

Break-in Period
Avoid towing a trailer during your vehicle's first 600
miles (1,000 km).

Never exceed the gross weight ratings.
Gross weight information

2 Specifications P. 652

WARNING

Exceeding any load limit or improperly
loading your vehicle and trailer can cause a
crash in which you can be seriously hurt or
killed.

Check the loading of your vehicle and
trailer carefully before starting to drive.

Total Load

Tongue Load

Towing a Trailer

Towing Preparation

454

Driving

Towing equipment varies by the size of your trailer, how much load you are towing,
and where you are towing.

■

Hitches

The hitch must be of an approved type and properly bolted to the underbody.

■

Safety chains

Always use safety chains when you tow a trailer. Leave enough slack to allow the
trailer to turn corners easily, but do not allow the chains to drag on the ground.

■

Trailer brakes

Recommended for any trailer with a total weight of 1,000 lbs (450 kg) or more:
There are two common types of trailer brakes: surge and electric. Surge brakes are
common for boat trailers, since the brakes will get wet. If you choose electric brakes,
be sure they are electronically actuated. Do not attempt to attach trailer brakes to
your vehicle's hydraulic system, as it will lower braking effectiveness and create a
potential hazard.

■

Additional towing equipment

Many states and provinces/territories require special outside mirrors when towing a
trailer. Even if mirrors are not required in your locale, you should install special
mirrors if visibility is restricted in any way.

■

Towing Equipment and Accessories

Towing Equipment and Accessories

Make sure that all equipment is properly installed and
maintained, and that it meets federal, state, province/
territory, and local regulations.

Consult your trailer maker for proper installation and
setup of the equipment.
Improper installation and setup can affect the
handling, stability, and braking performance of your
vehicle.

Consult your trailer sales or rental agency if any other
items are recommended or required for your towing
situation.

The lighting and wiring of trailers can vary by type
and brand. If a connector is required, it should only
be installed by a qualified technician.

Trailer packages and products:

•

Ball mount, hitch plug, hitch pin etc.

•

Wiring harness kit

•

Trailer hitch kit

2 Trailer brakes P. 454

Are available at a dealer.

455

Towing a Trailer

Towing Preparation

Driving

■

Trailer light

Trailer lights and equipment must comply with federal, state, province/territory, and
local regulations. Check with your local trailer sales or rental agency for the
requirements in the area where you plan to tow.

We recommend that you have a dealer install a Honda wiring harness and converter.
They are designed for your vehicle.

The lighting and wiring of trailers can vary by type and brand. If a connector is
required, it should only be installed by a qualified technician.

Trailer light

The trailer lighting connector is located behind the
left side panel in the cargo area.
Even if you are planning to use the non-Honda trailer
lighting harness and converter, ask a dealer for the
correct connector and pins.

Right Turn Signal (Light Green)

Left Turn Signal (Light Blue)

Small (Violet)

Brake Light (Pink)

+B Trailer (White)

Grand (Black)

456

Towing a Trailer

Driving Safely with a Trailer

Driving

Driving Safely with a Trailer

• Have the trailer properly serviced and keep it in good condition.
• Make sure that all the weights and load in the vehicle and trailer are within limits.

2 Towing Load Limits P. 453

• Securely attach the hitch, safety chains, and other necessary parts to the trailer.
• Securely store all the items in and on the trailer so that they do not shift while

driving.

• Check if the lights and brakes on the trailer are working properly.
• Check the pressures of the trailer tires, including the spare.

• Drive slower than normal.
• Obey posted speed limits for vehicles with trailers.
• Use the

(

D position when towing a trailer on level roads.

• Turn more slowly and with a wider turning arc than normal.
• Allow more time and distance for braking.
• Do not brake or turn suddenly.

• Monitor your temperature gauge. If it nears the white (H) mark, turn off the

climate control system and reduce speed. Pull to the side of the road safely to cool
down the engine if necessary.

■

Things You Need To Know Before Towing a Trailer

■

Towing Speeds and Gears

■

Turning and Braking

■

Driving in Hilly Terrain

Driving Safely with a Trailer

Operating speed when towing a trailer is restricted
up to 65 mph (100 km/h).

Parking
In addition to the normal precautions, place wheel
chocks at each of the trailer's tires.

458

Driving

Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

General Information

Your vehicle has been designed primarily for use on pavement, however, its higher
ground clearance allows you to occasionally travel on unpaved roads. It is not
designed for trail-blazing, or other challenging off-road activities.

If you decide to drive on unpaved roads, you will find that it requires somewhat
different driving skills and that your vehicle will handle somewhat differently than it
does on pavement. Pay attention to the precautions and tips in this section, and get
acquainted with your vehicle before leaving the pavement.

Important Safety Precautions

To avoid loss of control or rollover, be sure to follow all precautions and
recommendations:
• Be sure to store cargo properly and do not exceed your cargo load limits.

2 Maximum Load Limit P. 451

• Whenever you drive, make sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts.
• Keep your speed low, and never go faster than the conditions allow.
• It’s up to you to continually assess the situation and drive within the limits.

Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

Failure to operate your vehicle correctly might result
in a crash or a rollover.

2 Important Handling Information P. 36
2 Precautions While Driving P. 467

WARNING

Improperly operating this vehicle on or the
off pavement can cause a crash or rollover
in which you and your passengers could be
seriously injured or killed.

• Follow all instructions and guidelines in

this owner’s manual.

• Keep your speed low, and don’t drive

faster than conditions permit.

459

Off-Highway Driving Guidelines

Avoiding Trouble

Driving

Avoiding Trouble

• Check Out Your Vehicle before you leave the pavement and make sure that all

scheduled maintenance has been completed. Pay special attention to the
condition of the tires, and check the tire pressures.

• Remember the route you choose presents limits (too steep or bumpy), you have

limits (driving skill and comfort), and your vehicle has limits (traction, stability, and
power). Failing to recognize these limits will likely put you and your passengers in
a hazardous situation.

• Accelerating and Braking should be done slowly and gradually. Trying to start

or stop too fast can cause a loss of traction and you could lose control.

• Avoiding Obstacles and Debris in the road reduces the likelihood of a rollover

or damage to your suspension or other components.

• Driving on Slopes increases your risk of a rollover, particularly if you attempt to

drive across a slope that is too steep. Going straight or down a slope is usually the
safest. If you can’t clearly see all conditions or obstacles on a slope, walk it before
you drive it. If there is any doubt whether you can safely pass, don’t try it. Find
another route. If you get stuck when climbing, do not try to turn around. Back
down slowly following the same route you took up the hill.

• Crossing a Stream - Avoid driving through deep water. If you encounter water

in your route (a small stream or large puddle, for example), evaluate it carefully
before going ahead. Make sure it is shallow, flowing slowly, and has firm ground
underneath. If you are not sure of the depth or the ground, turn around and find
another route. Driving through deep water can also damage your vehicle. The
water can get into the transmission and differential, diluting the lubricant and
causing an eventual failure. It can also wash the grease out of the wheel bearings.

• If You Get Stuck, carefully go in the direction that you think will get you

unstuck. Do not spin the tires as this will only make things worse and could
damage the transmission. If you are unable to free yourself, your vehicle will need
to be towed. Front and rear tow hooks are provided for this purpose.

460

Driving

When Driving

Starting the Engine

1. Make sure the parking brake is applied.

The electric parking brake indicator
comes on for 15 seconds when you pull
up the electric parking brake switch.

The parking brake must be applied to
start the engine.

2. Check that the shift lever is in

(

P, then

depress the brake pedal.

Although it is possible to start the vehicle
in

(

N with the parking brake applied, it is

safer to start it in

(

3. Turn the ignition switch to START

(

without depressing the accelerator pedal.

Models without smart entry system

Starting the Engine

Keep your foot firmly on the brake pedal when
starting the engine.

The engine is harder to start in cold weather and in
thinner air found at altitudes above 8,000 feet (2,400
meters).

When starting the engine in cold weather, turn off all
electrical accessories such as the lights, climate
control system, and rear defogger in order to reduce
battery drain.

If you live in a region where winter is extremely cold,
an engine block heater will improve starting and
warming of the engine. Consult a dealer for details.

If the exhaust system sounds abnormal or you can
smell exhaust gas inside the vehicle, have your vehicle
checked by a dealer. There may be a problem with
the engine or exhaust system.

Do not hold the key in START

(

e for more than 10

seconds.

•

If the engine does not start right away, wait for at
least 30 seconds before trying again.

•

If the engine starts, but then immediately stops,
wait at least 30 seconds before repeating step 3
while gently depressing the accelerator pedal.
Release the accelerator pedal once the engine
starts.

Brake Pedal

461

When Driving

Starting the Engine

Driving

1. Keeping your right foot on the brake pedal, put the shift lever in

(

D. Select

(

when reversing.

2. With the parking brake applied, release the brake pedal and gently depress the

accelerator pedal.

Make sure the parking brake indicator goes off.

2 Parking Brake P. 524

■

Hill start assist system

Hill start assist keeps the brake engaged briefly to help prevent the vehicle from
rolling on inclines as you move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator.

Move the shift lever to

(

S, or

(

L when facing uphill, or

(

R when facing

downhill, then release the brake pedal.

■

Starting to Drive

Starting the Engine

The immobilizer system protects your vehicle from
theft. If an improperly coded key (or other device) is
used, the engine's fuel system is disabled.

2 Immobilizer System P. 161

You can also release the parking brake by pressing
the electric parking brake switch while depressing the
brake pedal. When facing downhill, you can start
your vehicle more smoothly by manually releasing it
with the electric parking brake switch than by
releasing it with the accelerator pedal.

Hill start assist system

Hill start assist may not prevent the vehicle from
rolling downhill on a very steep or slippery slope, and
does not operate on small inclines.

Hill start assist is not a replacement for the parking
brake.

Hill start assist will operate even when VSA® is
switched off.

462

When Driving

Starting the Engine

Driving

Starting the Engine

1. Make sure the parking brake is applied.

The electric parking brake indicator
comes on for 15 seconds when you pull
up the electric parking brake switch.

The parking brake must be applied to
start the engine.

2. Check that the shift lever is in

(

P, then

depress the brake pedal.

Although it is possible to start the vehicle
in

(

N with the parking brake applied, it is

safer to start it in

(

Models with smart entry system

Starting the Engine

Keep your foot firmly on the brake pedal when
starting the engine.

The engine is harder to start in cold weather and in
thinner air found at altitudes above 8,000 feet (2,400
meters).

When starting the engine in cold weather, turn off all
electrical accessories such as the lights, climate
control system, and rear defogger in order to reduce
battery drain.

If you live in a region where winter is extremely cold,
an engine block heater will improve starting and
warming of the engine. Consult a dealer for details.

If the exhaust system sounds abnormal or you can
smell exhaust gas inside the vehicle, have your vehicle
checked by a dealer. There may be a problem with
the engine or exhaust system.

The immobilizer system protects your vehicle from
theft.
If an improperly coded device is used, the engine’s
fuel system is disabled.

2 Immobilizer System P. 161

Brake Pedal

Continued

463

When Driving

Starting the Engine

Driving

3. Press the ENGINE START/STOP button

without depressing the accelerator pedal.

You can turn the engine off when the vehicle is completely stopped.

1. Shift to

(

2. Press the ENGINE START/STOP button.

■

Stopping the Engine

Starting the Engine

Bring the smart entry remote close to the ENGINE
START/STOP button if the battery in the smart entry
remote is weak.

2 If the Smart Entry Remote Battery is Weak

P. 627

The engine may not start if the smart entry remote is
subjected to strong radio waves.

Do not hold the ENGINE START/STOP button to
start the engine.
If the engine does not start, wait at least 30 seconds
before trying again.

Honda CR-V (2018 year). Manual - part 29