Road Test

2002 Honda Civic SiSECTION Road Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Acura MDX, 2005 Acura MDX, 2004 Acura MDX, and 2003 Acura MDX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Warm up the engine to normal operating temperature (the radiator fan comes on).
  2. Apply the parking brake, and block both rear wheels. Start the engine, then shift to the D5 position while pressing the brake pedal. Press the accelerator pedal, and release it suddenly. The engine should not stall.
  3. Repeat step  2 in all shift lever positions.
  4. Connect the HAS to the DLC (A), and go to the A/T data list.
    Fig 1: Identifying DLC Location
    G03640318Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  5. Test-drive the vehicle on a flat road in the D5 position. Check for abnormal noise and clutch slippage. While driving, check that the shift points occur at the proper speeds by monitoring the throttle position sensor voltage with the HAS and comparing your shift point speeds and voltage to those in the table. (The Accelerator pedal position sensor voltage represents the throttle opening.)

    Upshift: D5 Position 

    UPSHIFT - D5 POSITION

    Accelerator pedal position sensor voltage: 0.8 V 
    1st->2nd 13-14 mph (21-23 km/h)
    2nd->3rd 19-21 mph (30-34 km/h)
    3rd->4th 25-29 mph (40-46 km/h)
    4th->5th 45-48 mph (72-78 km/h)
    Lock up ON 48-51 mph (78-82 km/h)
    Accelerator pedal position sensor voltage: 2.25 V 
    1st->2nd 28-30 mph (45-49 km/h)
    2nd->3rd 45-49 mph (73-79 km/h)
    3rd->4th 67-71 mph (108-114 km/h)
    4th->5th 88-92 mph (142-148 km/h)
    Lock up ON 89-93 mph (144-150 km/h)
    Fully-opened throttle Accelerator pedal position sensor voltage: 4.5 V 
    1st->2nd 38-42 mph (61-67 km/h)
    2nd->3rd 68-72 mph (110-116 km/h)
    3rd->4th 105-109 mph (169-175 km/h)

    Downshift: D5 Position 

    DOWNSHIFT - D5 POSITION

    Accelerator pedal position sensor voltage: 0.75 V 
    Lock up OFF 45-48 mph (73-77 km/h)
    5th->4th 36-39 mph (58-62 km/h)
    4th->3rd 17-19 mph (29-33 km/h)
    3rd->1st 9-11 mph (12-16 km/h)
    Throttle position sensor voltage: 2.25 V 
    Lock up OFF 78-82 mph (127-133 km/h)
    Fully-opened throttle Accelerator pedal position sensor voltage: 4.5 V 
    5th->4th -
    4th->3rd 88-92 mph (142-148 km/h)
    3rd->2nd 58-61 mph (93-99 km/h)
    2nd->1st 29-33 mph (47-53 km/h)
  6. Accelerate to about 35 mph (57 km/h) so the transmission is in 4th or 5th, then shift from the D5 position to the 2 position. The vehicle should immediately begin to slow down from engine braking.
  7. Check for abnormal noise and clutch slippage in the following positions.
    1. (1st Gear) Position

      Accelerate from a stop at full throttle. Check that there is no abnormal noise or clutch slippage. Upshifts should not occur with the shift lever in this position.

    2. (2nd Gear) Position

      Accelerate from a stop at full throttle. Check that there is no abnormal noise or clutch slippage. Upshifts and downshifts should not occur with the shift lever in this position.

    1. R (Reverse) Position

      Accelerate from a stop at full throttle, and check for abnormal noise and clutch slippage.

  8. Test in P (Park) Position.

    Park the vehicle on a slope (about 16°), apply the brake, and shift into the P position. Release the brake; the vehicle should not move.

    NOTE: Always use the brake to hold the vehicle, when stopped on an incline in gear. Depending on the grade of the incline, the vehicle could roll backwards if the brake is released.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.