2023 SXS1000

Read this manual carefully, it contains important safety information.
Models sold in and used in California:

The removal or modification of evaporative emission-related parts
on this OHRV is illegal. Violators may be subject to civil and/or
criminal penalties as provided under California and federal law.
OW N E R’S
M A N UA L
2023 PIONEER 1000

CREW
Minimum recommended operator age: 16 Mfg. #

This owner’s manual should be considered a permanent part of the
vehicle and should remain with the vehicle when it is resold.
This publication includes the latest production information available

before printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right to make
changes at any time without notice and without incurring any
obligation.
No part of this publication may be reproduced without written

permission.
This vehicle pictured in this owner’s manual may not match your
actual vehicle.
© Honda Motor Co., Ltd. 2022

2023
Honda PIONEER SXS1000
M6D Six Passenger with Power Steering, Deluxe
OWNER’S MANUAL
Introduction
Congratulations on choosing your Honda Pioneer. When you own a
Introduction
Honda, you’re part of a worldwide family of satisfied customers–

people who appreciate Honda’s reputation for building quality into
every product.
Before you begin driving your vehicle, we recommend that you read
this owner’s manual. It’s full of facts, instructions, safety
information, and helpful tips. To help you find what you are looking
for, the manual contains a detailed list of contents at the beginning
of each section and an alphabetical index at the back of the book.
To protect your investment, we urge you to keep your vehicle well

maintained. Scheduled service is a must, of course, but it’s also
important to observe the break-in guidelines and perform all pre-
drive and other periodic checks detailed in this manual.
As you read this manual, you will find information that is preceded
by a NOTICE symbol. This information is intended to help you avoid
damage to your Honda, other property, or the environment.
Be sure to read the Warranties Booklet (page 271) so you

understand the coverages that protect your new Honda and are
aware of your rights and responsibilities.
If you have any questions or if you ever need special service or

repairs, remember that your dealer knows your Honda SXS best and
is dedicated to your complete satisfaction.
Please report any change of address or ownership to your dealer so

we will be able to contact you concerning important product
information.
You may also want to visit our website at
USA: www.powersports.honda.com.
Introduction
Introduction
• The following codes in this manual indicate each country.
SXS1000M6D
United States of America - 49 states,
A, II A
Australia, New Zealand
United States of America - 50 states
AC, II AC
(meets California)
• The illustrations herein are based on the SXS1000M6D AC type.

• The specifications may vary with each locale.
Introduction
A Few Words About Safety
Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And
operating your Honda safely is an important responsibility.
To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have

provided operating procedures and other information on labels and
in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards that
could hurt you or others.
Of course, it is not possible to warn you about all hazards associated

with operating or maintaining this vehicle. You must use your own
good judgment.
You will find important safety information in a variety of forms,

including:
Safety Labels — on the vehicle.
Safety Messages — boxed messages preceded by a safety alert

symbol 2 and one of three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or
CAUTION.
These signal words mean:
You WILL be KILLED or

3 DANGER SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t
follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY

3 WARNING HURT if you don’t follow
instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don’t

3 CAUTION follow instructions.

Safety Headings — such as “Important Safety Reminders” or
“Important Safety Precautions.”
Safety Section — “Driver & Passenger Safety,” beginning on

page 1.
Instructions — how to operate this vehicle correctly and safely.
In addition to the above, your owner's manual is full of information

that can help you safely operate and maintain your vehicle. So please
read it carefully.

Contents
These pages give an overview of the contents of your owner’s
Contents
manual.
The first page of each section lists the topics discussed in that
section.
Driver & Passenger Safety .........................................................1

The most important safety guidelines, how accessories and
modifications can affect your safety, and the location of safety-
related labels on your vehicle.
Instruments & Controls ............................................................11

The location, function, and operation of the indicators, driver
controls, and other operational components.
Before Driving...........................................................................77
The importance of wearing a seat belt, helmet, protective eyewear
and other protective gear, how to make sure you and your Honda
are ready to drive, plus load limits and guidelines on carrying cargo
and towing a trailer.
Basic Operation & Driving Guidelines .....................................89

How to start and stop the engine, select a driving mode and gear,
plus guidelines for driving on hills and other off-road situations.
Servicing Your Honda ............................................................111

Why your vehicle needs regular maintenance, what you need to
know before servicing your vehicle, a maintenance schedule, and
instructions for specific maintenance and adjustment items.
Tips ..........................................................................................211
How to store and transport your Honda, and how to be an
environmentally responsible driver.
Contents
Contents
Taking Care of the Unexpected.............................................221
What to do if you have a flat tire, your engine won’t start, etc.
Technical Information ............................................................251

ID numbers, technical specifications, and other technical facts.
Consumer Information (USA only) ........................................269

Information on warranties, emissions controls, how to get a service
manual, and how to contact Honda.
Index ........................................................................................275
Alphabetical listing of topics in the manual.
Quick Reference
Handy facts about fuel, engine oil, tire sizes, and air pressure.
Contents
Driver & Passenger Safety
This section presents some of the most important information and
Driver & Passenger Safety
recommendations to help you drive your Honda safely. Please take a

few moments to read these pages. This section also shows you the
location of safety labels on your vehicle.
Important Safety Information........................................................ 2

Accessories & Modifications.......................................................... 4
Safety Labels ................................................................................ 6
Driver & Passenger Safety 1

Important Safety Information
Protect yourself and your passenger(s) with the right preparation.
You’ll find many helpful recommendations throughout this manual.
We consider the following most important.
Follow Age and Size Recommendations
The driver should be at least 16 years old and tall enough to wear the
seat belt properly and reach all the controls. A passenger should also
be tall enough for the seat belt to fit properly and brace themselves,
if needed, placing both feet firmly on the floor.
Always Wear a Seat Belt
Wearing a properly positioned seat belt is your best protection

against injury in a crash or rollover.
Protect Your Head and Eyes
We recommend that occupants always wear a helmet with a chin

strap. We also recommend that you wear eye protection, boots,
gloves, and other protective gear (page 79).
Keep Doors and Side Nets Closed
Make sure the doors are closed and the side nets are rolled down
and secure to help keep the driver’s and passenger’s arms and legs
inside the occupant protective structure (OPS), should the vehicle tip
or turn over.
2 Driver & Passenger Safety

Important Safety Information
Never Carry a Passenger in the Cargo Area
Your vehicle was designed to either carry a driver and up to five

passengers. Never carry additional passengers in the cargo area, as
they could be thrown against or out of the vehicle and be seriously
hurt or killed.
Obey Loading Limits & Guidelines
Do not carry more than loading limits in the cargo bed (page 85),
and make sure all cargo is properly loaded as forward and centered
as possible and secured to prevent shifting.
Keep Your Vehicle in Safe Condition
It’s important to keep your vehicle properly maintained and in safe

operating condition. Having a breakdown can be difficult, especially
if you are stranded far from your base. To help avoid problems,
inspect your Honda before each use and perform all recommended
maintenance.
Don't Drink or Use Drugs and Drive
Alcohol or drugs and driving don't mix. Even one alcoholic drink can
reduce your ability to respond to changing conditions, and your
reaction time gets worse with every additional drink. The same is
true for drug use. Don't drink or use and drive, and don't let your
friends do it either.
Stay Off Public Roads
Your vehicle has been designed for use on private property and
designated off-highway areas. It does not have turn signals or many
other items required for use on either paved or unpaved public
roads.
Accessories & Modifications
Modifying your vehicle or using non-Honda accessories can make it
unsafe. Before you consider making any modifications or adding an
accessory, be sure to read the following information.
Accessories
We strongly recommend that you use only Honda Accessories that

have been specifically designed or approved and tested for your
vehicle. Because Honda cannot test all other accessories, you must
be personally responsible for the proper selection, installation, and
use of non-Honda accessories.
You should also be aware that accessories add weight, reducing the
amount of cargo and total weight you can carry, and can raise the
vehicle's center of gravity, increasing the risk of a rollover.
Check with your dealer for assistance, and always follow these
guidelines:
• Make sure the accessory does not obscure any lights, reduce
ground clearance, limit suspension travel or steering travel, or
interfere with operating any controls.
• Do not add any electrical equipment that will exceed the vehicle’s
electrical system capacity (page 257). A blown fuse can cause a
loss of lights or engine power (page 238).
WARNING 3 WARNING
Improper accessories or modifications can
cause a crash in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.
Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual

regarding accessories and modifications.

Accessories & Modifications
Modifications
We strongly advise you not to remove any original equipment or

modify your Honda in any way that could change its design or
operation. Such changes could seriously impair your vehicle’s
handling, stability, and braking and make it unsafe to drive.
We also advise you not to make any modifications or remove any

equipment (such as the spark arrester, muffler, or emissions control
system components) that would make your vehicle illegal in your
area.

Safety Labels
Your Honda comes with several labels that contain important
information.
You, and anyone else who operates or rides in the vehicle, should
read and understand this information before driving.
The labels should be considered permanent parts of the vehicle. If a

label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer
for a replacement.
Indicates something apparent.
Indicates something concealed.
radiator cap danger

Safety Labels
(USA - 49 states, Australia, (USA - 50 states [meets
New Zealand models) California] models)
loading warning
trailer hitch
OSHA

Safety Labels
rear passenger warning
tire & overload warning

Safety Labels
general warning tag

Safety Labels
shift & drive select general warning
general warning

Instruments & Controls
The items listed below are described in this section.
Operation Component Locations ................................................ 13

Indicators & Displays ................................................................... 17
Neutral Indicator...................................................................... 19
Reverse Indicator ..................................................................... 19
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Indicator...................................... 19
4WD Differential Lock Indicator ............................................... 19
High Coolant Temperature Indicator ........................................ 19
PGM-FI Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) ................................ 19
Seat Belt Indicator.................................................................... 19
Low Oil Pressure Indicator........................................................ 20
Clutch Temperature Indicator .................................................. 20
Multi-function Display.............................................................. 23
Speedometer ........................................................................... 24
Tachometer ............................................................................. 25
Fuel Gauge .............................................................................. 26
Odometer Display .................................................................... 27
Maintenance Minder Indicator ................................................. 32
Digital Clock ............................................................................ 33
Gear Position Display ............................................................... 35
AT Indicator, MT Indicator / LOW Indicator .............................. 36
TOW/HAUL Indicator ............................................................... 36
Drive Mode Indicator ............................................................... 37
Driver Controls ........................................................................... 38
Ignition Switch......................................................................... 38
Headlight Switch ..................................................................... 39
Shift Select Lever ..................................................................... 40
Drive Mode Select Lever........................................................... 41
AT/MT Switch .......................................................................... 43
TOW/HAUL Switch................................................................... 44
ON/OFF Switches ..................................................................... 45
Shift Paddles............................................................................ 46
Steering Wheel Adjustment Lever ............................................ 47
(cont’d)
Instruments & Controls 11
Doors ......................................................................................... 49
Side Nets .................................................................................... 51
Side Nets Set Up ...................................................................... 52
Front Side Nets ........................................................................ 54
Rear Side Nets ......................................................................... 55
Roll Up The Side Nets............................................................... 56
Seat............................................................................................ 58
Seat......................................................................................... 58
Seat Belts ................................................................................... 59
Seat Belts................................................................................. 59
Passenger Handhold ................................................................... 64
Passenger Handhold ................................................................ 64
Storage Compartments .............................................................. 65
Accessory Power Sockets ............................................................ 68
Cargo Bed Controls .................................................................... 70
Tailgate Levers ......................................................................... 70
Tie-Down Hooks ...................................................................... 71
Tilt Bed Lever ........................................................................... 72
Trailer Hitch ................................................................................ 74
Electric Power Steering (EPS) ....................................................... 75
12 Instruments & Controls

Operation Component Locations
front seat belt

(page 59) rear seat belt
(page 59)
passenger handhold
(page 64)
seats (page 58)
front door (page 49)

rear side net

(page 51)
front side net
(page 51)
tailgate levers
(page 70)
rear door
(page 49) cargo bed
(page 70)
tilt bed levers
(page 72)
trailer hitch
receiver
(page 74)

park/shift select lever

(page 40)
indicators & displays
(page 17) drive mode select lever
(page 41)
upshift paddle
downshift (page 46) AT/MT switch,
paddle TOW/HAUL switch
(page 46) (pages 43, 44)
steering wheel accessory power socket

adjustment lever headlight (page 68)
(page 47) switch
(page 39)
ignition switch ON/OFF switches
(page 38) (page 45)

accessory power socket

(page 68)

Indicators & Displays
The indicators and displays on your Honda SXS keep you informed,
alert you to possible problems, and make your driving safer and
more enjoyable. Refer to the indicators frequently. Their functions
are described on the following pages.
Lamp Check
The indicators come on and go off sequentially when you turn the
ignition switch to the ON (q) position.
If one of these indicators does not come on when it should, have

your dealer check for problems.

neutral indicator
seat belt indicator
PGM-FI
malfunction
reverse indicator indicator lamp
electric power (MIL)
steering (EPS)
indicator multi-function display
high coolant SEL/SET

temperature switch
indicator
4WD differential clutch temperature
lock indicator indicator
low oil pressure
indicator

Neutral Indicator
This indicator comes on and stays on when the transmission
is in neutral.
Reverse Indicator
This indicator comes on and stays on when the transmission
is in reverse.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Indicator

This indicator comes on when the ignition switch is turned on
and remains on until the engine is started.
This indicator comes on and stays on when there is abnormality in
the electric power steering system.
4WD Differential Lock Indicator

This indicator will turn on when the four-wheel differential
gears are engaged (page 37).
High Coolant Temperature Indicator

This indicator comes on and stays on when the coolant
temperature is high enough to adversely affect the service
life of the engine. If this indicator comes on while you are driving,
stop as soon as possible, turn the engine off, and let it cool.
PGM-FI Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)

This indicator comes on and stays on when there is a problem
with your vehicle’s engine system. If this happens, reduce
speed and take your vehicle to a dealer as soon as possible.
Seat Belt Indicator

This indicator starts blinking if the driver's seat belt is not latched
and remains blinking until the driver's seat belt is latched.
If the driver's seat belt is not latched properly, the maximum vehicle
speed will be limited by the seat belt speed limiting system (page 60).

Low Oil Pressure Indicator
This indicator comes on when the ignition switch is turned on
and remains on until the engine is started.
This indicator comes on and stays on when the DCT oil pressure is
low. If this indicator comes on while you are driving, stop as soon as
possible, turn the engine off and check for oil leaks and oil level.
This indicator also comes on when the emergency valve is operated.

(See more details about the emergency valve on page 230)
Clutch Temperature Indicator

This indicator comes on briefly when the ignition switch is
turned on.
If the indicator light does not go off after the indicator lamp check,
have your vehicle inspected by your dealer.
This indicator flashes when the clutch temperature is unusually high.
If the indicator flashes while driving, see page 237.

Multi-function This display includes the following
display functions.
Speedometer Shows driving speed in miles or
kilometers per hour (page 24).
Tachometer Shows the engine rpm (page 25).
Fuel gauge Shows approximate fuel supply available
(page 26).
Odometer display Shows the odometer, tripmeter A/B,
coolant temperature gauge, hour meter,
voltmeter, maintenance tripmeter, and
maintenance hour meter (page 27).
Maintenance Shows when specified maintenance
minder indicator interval is reached (page 32).
Digital clock Shows the time (hours and minutes)
(page 33).
Gear position Shows the gear position (page 35).
display
AT/MT/LOW/ Shows the transmission mode (page 36).
TOW/HAUL
indicator
Drive mode Shows the driving mode (page 37).
indicator
SEL/SET switch This switch is used to select the mode, to
change the mileage unit and adjust/reset
the digital clock, tripmeter A/B and hour
meter (page 23).

Display Check
When the ignition switch is turned ON (q), the multi-function display
will temporarily show all the modes and digital segments. This
indicates that the liquid crystal display is functioning properly.
If any part of this display does not come on during the display check,
have your dealer check for problems.
multi-function display

Multi-function Display
The multi-function display consists of the following function

displays:
• Speedometer • Gear position display
• Tachometer • AT indicator
• Fuel gauge • MT/LOW indicators
• Odometer display • TOW/HAUL indicator
• Maintenance minder • Drive mode indicator
indicator
• Digital clock
maintenance minder indicator gear position display

AT
drive mode indicator indicator TOW/HAUL
indicator
fuel gauge tachometer
digital clock MT/LOW indicators SEL/SET switch

speedometer
odometer display

Speedometer
This display shows speed in miles or kilometers per hour.
Mileage Unit Change

The speedometer, odometer, tripmeter A/B, and maintenance
tripmeter show in either “MPH” and “MILE” or “KM/H” and “KM”.
To change the mileage unit, press and hold the SEL/SET switch for
more than 5 seconds in TOTAL odometer mode (page 27) with the
vehicle stopped.
MPH
KM/H
KM
MILE
SEL/SET switch
Speedometer Blinking
If the speedometer digits and seat belt indicator blink simultaneously
while you are driving, the maximum vehicle speed will be limited to
no more than 15 mph (24 km/h) by the seat belt speed limiting
system (page 60).

Tachometer
This display shows the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm).
NOTICE
Do not operate the engine in the tachometer red zone. Excessive
engine speed can adversely affect engine life.
tachometer tachometer red zone

Fuel Gauge
The fuel gauge shows the approximate fuel supply available. The fuel
tank capacity is:
7.9 US gal (30 ℓ)
fuel gauge
When the last segment blinks, you should refill the tank as soon as
possible. The amount of fuel remaining when the blinking starts is
approximately:
1.69 US gal (6.4 ℓ)
Fuel gauge failure:

If the fuel system has an error, the fuel gauge indicators will be
displayed as shown in the illustrations.
If this occurs, see your dealer as soon as possible.

Odometer Display
This display includes the odometer, tripmeter A/B, coolant

temperature gauge, hour meter, voltmeter, maintenance tripmeter,
and maintenance hour meter.
Each time you press the SEL/SET switch, the mode will change as
shown in the illustration.
Odometer (page 28) Hour meter (page 31)
Tripmeter A (page 28) Voltmeter (page 31)
Tripmeter B (page 28) Maintenance tripmeter

(page 32)
Coolant temperature
gauge (page 29) Maintenance hour
When SXS When SXS is meter (page 32)
is moving not moving
If there are unusual indications with coolant temperature system,

and SEL/SET switch is not pressed for 10 seconds, it will
automatically switch to the coolant temperature system warning
display (page 30).

Odometer
The odometer shows the total miles or kilometers ridden with the
TOTAL display. The odometer locks when the readout exceeds
999,999.
TOTAL display odometer
Tripmeter A/B
The tripmeter A and tripmeter B show the number of miles or kilometers
ridden, since you last reset the tripmeter. The tripmeter returns to 0.0
when the readout exceeds 9,999.9.
To reset tripmeter A or B, press and hold the SEL/SET switch while

the display is in TRIP A or TRIP B mode, respectively.
TRIP A display tripmeter SEL/SET switch

TRIP B display tripmeter
Coolant temperature gauge

The coolant temperature gauge displays the coolant's temperature.
When the segment begins to move above the C (cold) display, the
engine is warm enough for the SXS to be ridden. When the coolant
temperature is low, the coolant temperature gauge will display “Lo”.
The normal operating temperature range is within the section
between the C and H displays.
coolant
temperature
gauge
coolant temperature C H
display
(cont’d)
If all sections of the coolant temperature gauge, including segment
H and the high coolant temperature indicator are on, the engine is
overheated. Stop the engine and check the reserve tank coolant
level.
Read pages 235 – 236 and do not drive the SXS until the problem
has been corrected.
NOTICE
Continuing to ride with an overheated engine can cause serious
engine damage.
high coolant
temperature
segment H indicator
Coolant temperature gauge failure:

If the coolant temperature system has an error, the coolant
temperature gauge will blink and appear in the display, and the high
coolant temperature indicator will turn on.
If this occurs, see your dealer as soon as possible.
high coolant temperature
indicator
coolant temperature gauge

Hour meter
The hour meter display shows accumulated hours while the ignition
is ON (q). The hour meter locks when the readout exceeds 99,999.9.
hour meter display hour meter
Voltmeter
The voltmeter display shows battery voltage with the VDC display.
VDC display
voltmeter

Maintenance Minder Indicator
The maintenance minder indicator appears in the display when the

mileage or operating hours on your Honda SXS reach the
maintenance interval specified on the maintenance schedule
(page 119).
Reset the indicator after each scheduled maintenance is performed.

If the scheduled maintenance is performed before the maintenance
minder indicator appears, be sure to reset the maintenance minder
after performing the scheduled maintenance.
Resetting the indicator:

To reset the indicator, press and continue to hold the SEL/SET switch
and turn the ignition switch to the ON (q) position. The indicator will
light up, and after 2 seconds will blink twice to indicate the
maintenance minder indicator is reset.
The maintenance tripmeter and maintenance hour meter will also reset.
See more details about the maintenance minder indicator on
page 117.
maintenance
minder indicator
maintenance
tripmeter
SEL/SET switch
maintenance
hour meter maintenance
minder indicator
Digital Clock
The digital clock shows the hour and minutes with the 12-hour clock
display.
To set the time:

1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON (q) position.
2. Change to the hour meter display (page 27).
digital clock SEL/SET switch

3. Press and hold the SEL/SET switch, and the hour digits will start
blinking. Press the SEL/SET switch until the desired hour is
displayed.
(cont’d)
4. Press and hold the SEL/SET switch, and the minute digits will start
blinking. Press the SEL/SET switch until the desired minute is
displayed.
5. Press and hold the SEL/SET switch, and the AM or PM will start
blinking. Press the SEL/SET switch to select AM or PM.
6. To complete setting the clock, press and hold the SEL/SET switch,
or turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position.

Gear Position Display
The gear position display shows the selected shift position by the
shift select lever (page 40).
The indicator displays P for park, N for neutral, R for reverse, H for
high-range, L for low-range, and 1 – 6 for gear positions (shift
paddles operation).
“–” will be displayed on the gear position display when the

transmission is not shifted into gear properly. Before driving, check
that the gear position is properly displayed on the gear position
display.
If the gear position display blinks, see If the Transmission Is Not

Functioning Properly page 227.
gear position display

AT Indicator, MT Indicator / LOW Indicator
These indicators display the transmission mode of the SXS.
The indicators display: AT for automatic shift mode, MT for manual

shift mode.
To switch between AT mode and MT mode, press the AT/MT switch

(page 43). When MT mode is selected in low-range (L), the LOW
indicator also comes on.
AT indicator
MT indicator LOW indicator
TOW/HAUL Indicator
When AT mode is selected and the shift select lever is in the high-
range (H) or low-range (L) position, pressing the TOW/HAUL switch
displays the TOW/HAUL indicator (page 44).
AT indicator
TOW/HAUL indicator

Drive Mode Indicator
The drive mode indicator displays the selected lever (pages 41, 99).
4WD differential lock indicator

This indicator comes on when the differential gears are engaged.
4WD differential lock drive mode indicator

indicator
drive mode
4WD Diff
select lever Turf 2WD 4WD
Lock
position
drive mode
indicator
4WD
differential
No indicator light.
lock
indicator

Driver Controls
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is a three-position, key-operated switch used to

start and stop the engine.
OFF (w) — The engine and all electrical circuits are off. The key can
be inserted and removed only when it is in this position.
ON (q) — The electrical circuits are on. You can use the accessory
power socket in this position.
START (p) — This position is used only to start the engine. The key
will automatically return to the ON (q) position when you let go of it.
ignition switch
OFF (w)
START (p)
ON (q)

Driver Controls
Headlight Switch
The headlight switch is located on the right side of the shift select
lever. This switch turns the headlights and taillights on and off, and
changes between low beam or high beam.
For example, if you change the headlight position from OFF to HI, push
the HI side of headlight switch twice. If you change the headlight
position from HI to LO, push the OFF side of headlight switch once.
HI (u)
LO (i)
OFF
headlight switch
HI LO
OFF
(u) (i)
Push “OFF” side of headlight switch
Push “u” side of headlight switch
OFF — The headlights and taillights are off.
LO (i) — The headlights and taillights are on. The headlights are
low beam.
HI (u) — The headlights and taillights are on. The headlights are
high beam.

Driver Controls
Shift Select Lever
Your Honda SXS is equipped with an automatically controlled 6-speed

transmission. The shift select lever, located on the right of the steering
wheel, has five positions: park (P), reverse (R), neutral (N), high-range
(H), and low-range (L).
shift select lever shift positions
park (P)
reverse (R)
neutral (N)
high-range (H)
low-range (L)
You should move the shift select lever only when the vehicle is
stopped with your foot on the brake pedal and with the engine
idling. Use a firm motion to select the appropriate gear. Have your
vehicle checked by a dealer if you experience any shifting problems.
NOTICE
Do not attempt to move the shift select lever with the engine speed
above idle or while the vehicle is moving, as you may damage the
transmission.

Driver Controls
Drive Mode Select Lever
The drive mode select lever, located on the right of the shift select
lever, has four drive mode positions: Turf, 2WD, 4WD and 4WD Diff
Lock (page 99).
drive mode select lever drive mode positions
4WD
4WD Diff Lock
2WD Turf
To check your present drive mode, look at the drive mode indicator
and 4WD differential lock indicator.
drive mode
4WD Diff
select lever Turf 2WD 4WD
Lock
position
drive mode
indicator
4WD
differential
No indicator light.
lock
indicator
(cont’d)
Driver Controls
You should change drive modes only when the vehicle is stopped
and the engine is idling.
NOTICE
Changing drive modes while the vehicle is moving could damage the
drivetrain.
After changing the drive mode, drive several yards, make right and
left turns, and make sure the indicators work properly. If the
indicators do not go out or come on according to the drive mode
position, see your dealer.

Driver Controls
AT/MT Switch
The AT/MT switch is below the drive mode select lever.

When the shift select lever is in the high-range (H) or low-range (L)
position, you can switch between AT mode and MT mode by
pressing the AT/MT switch.
AT/MT switch

Driver Controls
TOW/HAUL Switch
The TOW/HAUL switch is under the AT/MT switch.

When AT mode is selected and the shift select lever is in the high-
range (H) or low-range (L) position, you can switch between turning
TOW/HAUL mode on and off by pressing the TOW/HAUL switch.
When MT mode is selected, TOW/HAUL mode will not turn on even
if the TOW/HAUL switch is pressed.
TOW/HAUL switch

Driver Controls
ON/OFF Switches
The ON/OFF switches are below the drive mode select lever.
These switches are intended for 12-volt DC accessories rated for 3
amps or less.
ON/OFF switches

Driver Controls
Shift Paddles
Your Honda SXS is equipped with a pair of shift paddles that are
located behind the steering wheel.
downshift paddle (-) upshift paddle (+)
Pull the upshift paddle (+) to shift to a higher gear position and the
downshift paddle (-) to shift to a lower gear position.
In MT mode, the shift paddles are operated to drive the SXS.

In AT mode, you can drive the SXS without operating the shift
paddles. You can also operate the shift paddles to temporarily
change the gear position (See page 92 for more information.)

Driver Controls
Steering Wheel Adjustment Lever
Your Honda SXS is equipped with a height-adjustable steering

wheel. Adjust the steering wheel position so that you can
comfortably grip the steering wheel in an appropriate driving
posture.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Adjusting the steering wheel position while
driving may cause you to lose control of the
vehicle and be seriously injured in a crash.
Adjust the steering wheel only when the
vehicle is stopped.
NOTICE
The steering wheel position damper unit contains high pressure
nitrogen gas. Do not attempt to disassemble, service, or improperly
dispose of the damper. See your dealer.

Driver Controls
Adjust
1. Hold the steering wheel and pull the steering wheel adjustment
lever up toward you.
2. While pulling the steering wheel adjustment lever toward you,
adjust the steering wheel position.
Make sure you can see the gauges and indicators at the adjusted
position.
3. Release the steering wheel adjustment lever.
4. After adjusting the position, make sure you have securely locked
the steering wheel in place by trying to move it up and down.
steering wheel
steering wheel adjustment lever

Doors
Your Honda SXS is equipped with doors to help prevent branches,
gravel, or other debris from getting inside the driver’s compartment, and
to keep the driver’s and passenger’s legs and feet inside the vehicle if
your vehicle ever tips or overturns. Be sure all doors are securely closed
before driving your Honda SXS, and never remove a door.
If a door is damaged or does not close securely, see your dealer for
repair or replacement.
Do not drive the Honda SXS with the doors open or removed.
The left and right doors can be opened in the same manner.
Open
1. Pull up the handle.
2. Open the door.
Close
1. Close the door securely until the second latch click is heard.
2. Make sure the door is closed securely.
FRONT REAR
handle handle

Doors
If a door rattles when closed, turn the door stopper
counterclockwise to adjust the door. Each door has a double
latching mechanism. Adjust the door stopper so that it latches on
the second click.
The left and right doors can be adjusted in the same manner.
Adjust
1. Open the door (page 49).
2. Turn the door stopper counterclockwise to extend it, and
clockwise to retract it.
3. Make sure the door is closed securely until the second latch click
is heard.
FRONT REAR
door stopper door stopper

Side Nets
Your Honda SXS is equipped with side nets to help prevent branches
or other debris from getting inside the driver’s compartment, and to
keep the driver’s and passenger’s hands and arms inside the
occupant protective structure (OPS) if the vehicle ever tips or
overturns.
The side nets are secured to the OPS with side net D-rings and side
net buckles. To function properly, the side nets should be tight. If a
side net is loose, tighten the belts on the side net D-rings.
Be sure the side nets are properly latched before driving your Honda
SXS, and never remove side nets from the vehicle. Inspect the
condition of the side net and its mounting hardware. If there is wear,
deterioration, damage, or they do not latch and tighten securely, see
your dealer for repair or replacement.

Side Nets
Side Nets Set Up
The left and right side nets can be set up in the same manner.
Inspect the side nets and their mounting hardware for damage as
specified in the maintenance schedule on page 119.
Front
1. Fasten the side net buckle.
2. Open the doors (page 49).
3. Tighten the belts on the side net D-rings.
LEFT SIDE (right side similar)
side net D-ring belt side net D-ring belt
side net
side net D-ring
side net buckle belt

Side Nets
Rear
3. Tighten the belt on the side net D-rings.

belt side net D-ring side net
belt
side net buckle belt side net D-ring
side net D-ring

Side Nets
Front Side Nets
The left and right side nets can be opened in the same manner.
Open
1. Release the side net buckle.
2. Hook the side net D-ring onto the side net hook while lifting the
side net.
Close
1. Unhook the side net D-ring from the side net hook.
Always return the side nets to their normal positions, properly fasten
them, and tighten them before driving.

side net hook
side net D-ring
side net buckle

Side Nets
Rear Side Nets
The left and right side nets can be opened in the same manner.
Open
1. Release the side net buckle.
2. Hook the side net D-ring onto the side net hook while lifting the
side net.
Close
1. Unhook the side net D-ring from the side net hook.
side net hook side net D-ring
side net buckle

Side Nets
Roll Up The Side Nets
The side nets can be rolled up to make cleaning and maintaining

your Honda SXS a little easier.
Front Side Nets Roll Up

1. Release the side net buckle and side net D-rings.
2. Roll up the side net tightly, folding in the buckle and side net
D-ring belts on the way.
3. Hook the upper side net hook to the top edge of the side net.
Front Side Nets Roll Down

1. Unhook the upper side net hook.
2. Fasten the side net buckle and tighten the belt of the side net
D-rings.
side net D-rings
side net buckle side net hook

Side Nets
Rear Side Nets Roll Up
1. Release the side net buckle and side net D-rings.
2. Roll up the side net tightly, folding in the buckle and snap hook
on the way.
3. Hook the upper side net hook to the top edge of the side net.
Rear Side Nets Roll Down

1. Unhook the upper side net hook.
side net D-ring

side net buckle side net hook

Seat
Seat
Your Honda SXS is equipped with bench seats in front and rear. Your
Honda SXS has six seating positions and is designed to carry one
driver and up to five passengers.
3 CAUTION
Driving with cargo on the passenger seats can
interfere with the driver's ability to control
the vehicle.
Cargo on the passenger seats can be thrown

around causing injury or a crash.
Do not drive with any cargo on the passenger

seats. Properly secure all cargo in the cargo
area.

Seat Belts
Seat Belts
Your Honda SXS is equipped with lap/shoulder seat belts in each

seating position. A seat belt keeps you connected to the vehicle so
you won’t be thrown out during a crash or rollover. Together with a
proper helmet, a seat belt is your best protection against serious
injuries in any type of crash, so make sure you and your passengers
always buckle up before driving.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Not wearing a seat belt, or wearing one
improperly, can result in serious injury or
death in a crash or rollover.
Make sure the driver and any passengers

always wear their seat belts properly.
Of course, seat belts cannot completely protect you in every crash.

In most cases, seat belts can reduce your risk of serious injury.

Seat Belts
Seat Belt Speed Limiting System
When the driver's seat belt is not latched properly, the maximum
vehicle speed will be limited by the seat belt speed limiting system.
When the driver's seat belt is not latched, the seat belt speed limiting
system will:
• Limit the maximum vehicle speed to no more than 15 mph
(24 km/h).
• Cause the seat belt indicator and speedometer to blink
simultaneously.
To return the vehicle to normal operation the driver must:

1. Properly deploy and latch their seat belt.
2. Release the throttle for one second if the vehicle is moving.
The speed limitation will be removed and the seat belt indicator and
speedometer will stop blinking after the driver follows this procedure
and correctly deploys and fastens their seat belt.
To avoid speed limitations altogether, the driver should always

deploy and fasten their seat belt (and require all passengers to be
securely belted) before driving the vehicle and keep their seat belt
fastened while underway. If the driver unlatches their seat belt while
the vehicle is traveling at speeds greater than 15 mph (24 km/h), the
vehicle speed will be limited to 15 mph or less until the driver's seat
belt is deployed and properly latched and throttle is released for one
second.

Seat Belts
How you wear a seat belt also matters. For the best protection:
The front and rear seat belt can be weared in the same manner.
1. Insert the latch plate into the buckle, then tug on the belt to
make sure it is securely latched.
latch plate
buckle
2. Check that the belt is not twisted, because a twisted belt can
cause injuries.
3. Position the lap part of the belt as low as possible across your
hips, then pull up on the shoulder part of the belt to make sure
the lap part is snug. This keeps you connected to the vehicle and
lets your strong pelvic bones take the force of a crash.
4. Make sure the shoulder part of the belt goes over your shoulder
and rests against your chest.
To unlatch a seat belt, press the red button on the buckle.

Seat Belts
Seat Belt Locking Mechanism
The seat belts in your Honda SXS are equipped with a belt locking
mechanism.
The belt locking mechanism is in the holder of the latch plate. When
the seat belt is subjected to intense forces during a crash or rollover,
part of the holder locks the belt.
LOCK POSITION UNLOCK POSITION

(ORDINARY USE)
Unlock
1. To unlatch a seat belt, press the red button on the buckles.
2. Hold the latch plate and one side of the belt, and pull the other
side of the belt. Doing so unlocks part of the holder.

Seat Belts
If you have been driving in an extremely muddy or dusty area, be
sure to inspect your belt and remove any dirt or debris before letting
the belt retract into the retractor. Failure to do so could clog the
retractor and make it inoperable.
Each seat belt has an emergency locking retractor. In normal driving

conditions, the retractor lets you move freely in your seat while
keeping some tension on the belt. During a crash or rollover, the
retractor automatically locks the belt to help restrain your body.
Do not put any accessories on a seat belt, as that may reduce the
effectiveness of the belt and increase the chance of injury in a crash.
If a seat belt is worn in a crash, the seat belt assembly must be

replaced by your dealer. A belt that has been worn during a crash
may not provide the same level of protection in a subsequent
incident. The dealer should check the retractor and replace it if
needed.
Seat belt washing procedure

1. Fully extend seat belt.
2. Rinse entire length of the seat belt by spraying with water from a
low pressure hose.
3. Leave belt extended until dry.

Passenger Handhold
Passenger Handhold
The occupant protective structure (OPS) has a handhold to give a

passenger extra support when the vehicle travels over rough or
bumpy terrain. The passengers can also brace their feet against the
floorboard.
FRONT RIGHT FRONT/REAR CENTER
passenger passenger
handhold handholds
REAR passenger
handhold

Storage Compartments
Your Honda SXS has a document compartment, front underseat
storage, rear underseat storage, glove boxes, and drink holders
where you can carry small, lightweight items.
document compartment
drink holders glove boxes drink holders
drink holders

To open the document compartment, turn the knob clockwise. To
close the document compartment, turn the knob counterclockwise.
document compartment
close
open
document compartment cover knob
Cargo should not exceed:

50 lb (22.7 kg)
on the left, center and right underseat storage respectively.
FRONT UNDER SEAT
front left front center

underseat storage underseat storage front right
underseat storage

To access the rear underseat storage, remove the rear seat
(page 131).
Cargo should not exceed:

25 lb (11.4 kg)
REAR UNDER SEAT
rear underseat storage
The rear underseat storage is equipped with a drain plug. When

driving through water, the plug should be installed to help prevent
water from entering through the bottom of the storage area.
The rear underseat storage is not waterproof. Do not place items
that could be damaged by water in the rear underseat storage.
If water does accumulate, the drain plug can be removed to allow
for water removal.
Be careful not to flood this area when washing your vehicle.

Accessory Power Sockets
The accessory power sockets are located in the center of the lower
dash and the rear left side of the cargo bed. The socket is intended
for 12-volt DC accessories rated for 120 watts (10 amps) or less.
Exceeding the limit can blow the accessory socket fuse (see
page 238).
The socket can be used to power such items as a trouble light,

spotlight, CB radio, or cell phone, but not a heat-generating
accessory such as a car cigarette lighter.
socket cap

Accessory Power Sockets
socket cap
To use the accessory power socket, the engine must be running.
NOTICE
Using any heat-generating accessory or improperly rated accessory
can damage the socket.
Remember to close the cap when you are finished using an

accessory, and keep water or other fluids away from the socket.

Cargo Bed Controls
See page 85 for Loading Cargo when driving with cargo in the bed.
Tailgate Levers
Before lowering the tailgate, select a firm level surface and shift the
shift select lever into the park (P) position.
To lower the tailgate, pull each tailgate lever out and unhook the
hook as shown below. Reverse the process to secure the tailgate in
the upright position.
LIFT THE HOOK.
hook
PULL THE LEVER.

tailgate lever
TILT GENTLY.
Do not drive the Honda SXS with the tailgate lowered.

Cargo Bed Controls
Tie-Down Hooks
The cargo bed has tie-down hooks for securing items in the bed.
Before using the tie-down hooks, select a firm level surface and
move the shift select lever into the park (P) position.
tie-down hook

Cargo Bed Controls
Tilt Bed Lever
Before raising the cargo bed, select a firm level surface and move the
shift select lever into the park (P) position.
Your Honda SXS has a tilt bed lever on the left and right front side of
the bed. Pulling either lever will allow you to lift the front end of the
bed, making it easier to dump items out the rear or to maintain the
air cleaner or lubricate the cargo bed pivots and cargo bed strikers.
To raise the front of the cargo bed, first make sure that the tailgate
has been unlatched and lowered, then pull the lever up.
1. Pull up the tilt bed lever, then grasp the top of the bed.
2. Raise the front end of the cargo bed.
Do not drive the Honda SXS with the front end of the cargo bed
raised.

Cargo Bed Controls
SLOWLY LIFT UP THE CARGO BED.
top of the
bed
tilt bed lever tilt bed lever
To lower the cargo bed, make sure that the area under the front of
the cargo bed is clear, then manually push down on the top of the
bed.
Check that the bed is securely latched.
LOWER THE CARGO
top of the bed BED SLOWLY.
BE SURE IT IS LOCKED INTO PLACE.

Trailer Hitch
Your Honda SXS is equipped with a trailer hitch receiver that accepts
a 2-inch drawbar. You can purchase an approved drawbar from your
Honda dealer.
If a trailer is towed, use the TOW/HAUL mode. (page 96)
See page 87 for Towing a Trailer.
trailer hitch receiver

Electric Power Steering (EPS)
This SXS is equipped with an electronically controlled, electric
power-assisted steering system.
While the engine is running, the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system
provides power from the electric motor, which helps you turn the
SXS’s steering wheel easier.
The EPS system on this SXS utilizes an overheat protection feature to

prevent damage to system components. In certain extended,
repetitive high-load situations, the EPS indicator will illuminate and
the system will reduce or even disable power steering assist. The
steering will perform as a normal non-EPS system during this brief
period. If this occurs, safely stop the vehicle and allow the EPS system
to cool down until the EPS indicator goes off. After cooling down,
steering will return to normal EPS operation.
The EPS indicator should light when the ignition switch is turned on
and remain on until the engine is started.
The EPS indicator also lights when there is any abnormality in the EPS
system. If this occurs, the Electric Power Assist will not be available,
but the manual steering system will perform as usual.
If the EPS indicator lights at any time while riding, other than the
temporary overheat condition described above, reduce speed and
take your SXS to your dealer as soon as possible. Continuing to ride
with a EPS system problem can damage system components.
Do not modify your Electric Power Steering system. In case of a

malfunction, take your SXS to your dealer.

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Before Driving
Before driving your SXS, you need to make sure you and your vehicle
Before Driving
are both ready. This section discusses how to evaluate your driving
readiness and what items you should check on your vehicle. It also
includes important information about loading cargo.
Are You Ready to Drive?............................................................. 78

Age & Size Recommendations ................................................. 78
Protective Apparel ................................................................... 79
Get to Know Your Vehicle ....................................................... 80
Don’t Drink & Drive ................................................................. 80
Is Your Vehicle Ready to Drive?................................................... 81
Pre-drive Inspection ................................................................. 82
Loading Cargo............................................................................ 85
Load Limit................................................................................ 85
Loading Guidelines .................................................................. 86
Towing a Trailer.......................................................................... 87
Towing Limits .......................................................................... 87
Checking Loads ....................................................................... 87
Loading a Trailer ...................................................................... 88
Before Driving 77
Are You Ready to Drive?
Before driving your Honda SXS for the first time, we urge you to
carefully read this owner’s manual and the labels on your vehicle and
make sure you understand all the safety information.
Age & Size Recommendations
The driver should be at least 16 years old and tall enough to wear
their seat belt properly (page 59) and operate all the controls. A
passenger should also be tall enough to wear the seat belt properly
and ride with both feet on the floor.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Allowing a person who is too young or too
small to drive this vehicle or ride as a
passenger could result in serious injury or
death in a crash.
Follow all instructions and guidelines in this

owner’s manual regarding the proper age
and size for a driver and a passenger.
78 Before Driving
Protective Apparel
To help prevent head injury from striking an occupant protective

structure (OPS) or other hard object, we recommend that occupants
always wear a helmet secured with a chin strap.
To protect the eyes from brush and flying objects, we also

recommend that occupants wear impact-resistant goggles or a face
shield.
For your safety, we also recommend that you always wear boots,
gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket whenever you
drive.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Driving or riding in this vehicle without a
proper helmet, eye protection and other
protective gear can result in serious injury or
death in a crash.
Always wear a helmet secured with a chin

strap, eye protection (goggles or face shield)
and other protective gear when driving or
riding in this vehicle.
Before Driving 79
Get to Know Your Vehicle
Since all vehicles have unique characteristics, it’s important to learn

how this one operates and handles. We recommend that you take
time to practice using the different controls, and get accustomed to
how the vehicle accelerates, brakes, and turns in different driving
modes, on different surfaces, and on different terrain conditions.
Don’t Drink & Drive
It’s well known that alcohol and drugs can seriously affect a person’s
judgment, perception, and ability to safely operate any vehicle. We
therefore strongly recommend that you do not drive, or let anyone
else drive or ride in this vehicle, after consuming alcohol or drugs.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Operating this vehicle after consuming
alcohol or drugs can result in a crash in which
you or others can be seriously injured or
killed.
Never drive this vehicle after consuming

alcohol or drugs.
80 Before Driving
Is Your Vehicle Ready to Drive?
Before driving your Honda SXS, it’s important to inspect the vehicle
and correct any problem you find. A pre-drive inspection is a must,
not only for safety, but because having a breakdown can be a major
inconvenience.
If your vehicle has overturned or been involved in a crash, do not

drive it until it has been inspected by your dealer. There may be
damage or other problems you cannot see.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Improperly maintaining this vehicle or failing
to correct a problem before driving can cause
a crash in which you or someone else can be
seriously hurt or killed.
Always perform a pre-drive inspection and

correct any problems before you operate the
vehicle.
Before Driving 81
Pre-drive Inspection
Check the following items before driving your Honda SXS:
Oil Level Check the engine and sub-transmission oil levels and
add oil, if needed (pages 143, 153). Also check under
the vehicle for leaks.
Coolant Check the coolant level (page 162). If it is low, add a

50/50 mixture of silicate-free coolant and distilled
water.
Check for leaks.
Fuel Level Check the fuel gauge (page 26) and add fuel, if
needed (page 138). Make sure the fuel fill cap is
secure. Also, check for the smell of fuel or fumes - if
you smell any fuel, turn the ignition switch to the OFF
(w) position immediately, and see your dealer.
Brake Fluid Check the level (page 185). If it is near MIN, check the
brake pads for wear (page 187). If the brake pads are
within the specification, check for leaks in the braking
system (page 184).
Tires Check the air pressure of all tires and inflate them to
the proper pressure (page 191). Also inspect the tires
for damage or excessive wear (page 193). If necessary,
see your dealer.
Wheels Make sure the wheel nuts are properly tightened and
the wheels are not cracked or deformed (page 198).
Driveshafts Inspect the driveshafts and boots for damage, tears, or

leaks and see your dealer if any are found.
82 Before Driving
Steering Check the steering to make sure it turns smoothly in both
Gearbox and directions. Check that there is no binding or play in the
Boots steering. Check for any tears in the boots.
If any tears are found, see your dealer.
Underbody Check for and remove any debris stuck in the

underbody; take extra care in your inspection if the
vehicle was last driven in deep grass, brush, a wetland,
or flooded area. Check for any visible dents or cracks.
If any dents or cracks are found, see your dealer.
Suspension Check the condition of all suspension components. Be

sure to look for bends or oil leaks in the cushion damper.
Check for tears in the boots of the front arm ball joint.
Lights Make sure the headlights, taillights, and brake lights

are working properly.
Controls Check that all driving controls, including the accelerator

pedal, brake pedal, drive mode select lever, shift select
lever, and shift paddles are operating smoothly.
Tie-rod Ends The wheels need to be lifted off the ground to

correctly check the tie-rod ends, so it cannot be done
in the pre-drive inspection. To have the tie-rod ends
properly inspected, see your dealer.
Cargo Be sure items in the cargo bed are within the cargo
limit and are properly secured to prevent shifting
(pages 85, 86).
(cont’d)
Before Driving 83
Seat Belts Make sure all seat belts are in good condition and
operate properly. The seat belts must move smoothly
when pulled out, and retract on their own when
released.
The latch plates should click securely into the buckles and
release when the release buttons are pushed firmly.
Side Nets Make sure all side nets and their mounting hardware
are in good condition and that they latch and tighten
securely.
Exhaust Make sure no materials or debris are sticking to, or

System accumulating around, the exhaust system. If any such
debris is found, remove it so there's no chance for it to
catch on fire. Start the engine and listen for any leaks.
3 CAUTION
Exhaust system and catalyst operate at very
high temperatures.
You can be burned if you touch the exhaust
system or catalyst.
Do not touch the exhaust system or catalyst
without letting the system cool down.
NOTICE
Exhaust system and catalyst operate at very high temperatures.
Accumulated debris and vegetation that contact the exhaust/
catalyst can catch on fire.
Always conduct a pre-drive inspection and remove accumulated debris.
Remember to take care of any problem you find or have your dealer
correct it before you drive your Honda SXS.
84 Before Driving
Loading Cargo
Your vehicle was designed to carry cargo. However, carrying a load
that is too heavy or improperly loaded can adversely affect your
vehicle’s handling, stability, and stopping distance and make it
unsafe. Before carrying any type of cargo, be sure to read the
following pages.
Load Limit
See page 105 for guidelines on driving with cargo.
Maximum weight capacity = 1,750 lb (794 kg)

This includes the weight of cargo, occupants, accessories, and trailer
tongue load.
Maximum cargo weight = USA - 49 states, Australia,

New Zealand models:
1,000 lb (454 kg)
USA - 50 states [meets California]
models: 600 lb (272 kg)
This includes all items in the cargo bed, any accessories, and the
tongue load if you are towing a trailer (see page 87).
WARNING 3 WARNING
Overloading the cargo bed or failing to secure
cargo properly can cause a crash in which you
or others could be seriously hurt or killed.
Follow the cargo limits and loading guidelines

in this owner’s manual.
Before Driving 85
Loading Cargo
Loading Guidelines
• Make sure the tires are properly inflated (page 191).

• Place all items on the floor of the cargo bed, and as far forward
and centered as possible.
• Use the tie-down hooks (page 71) to secure any items that could
shift position while you are driving.
• Do not let items extend over the side rails, as they could get
caught on something.
• Be aware that carrying tall, heavy items will significantly raise the
vehicle’s center of gravity, increasing the chance of a rollover.
• Never let a passenger ride in the cargo area or hang onto the side
of the vehicle, even for a short distance. The person could be
thrown off the vehicle or cause a crash.
• Before driving with heavy cargo or towing heavy loads,
shift the shift select lever into low-range (L) position, and
use the TOW/HAUL mode.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Driving with a passenger in the cargo area can
result in very serious injury or death if the
person is thrown against the vehicle or out of
the bed.
A passenger should only ride in the

passenger’s seat and wear their seat belt
properly.
86 Before Driving
Towing a Trailer
Your vehicle can pull a trailer as well as carry cargo, provided you
follow the load limits and guidelines below.
Towing Limits
There are two main types of limits that apply to towing a trailer:
Maximum total trailer weight = 2,500 lb (1,134 kg)

This includes the weight of the trailer and everything in it or on it.
Maximum tongue load = 250 lb (113 kg)

The weight that the fully loaded trailer places on the tongue.
The tongue load also affects the total weight you can carry in the
vehicle and the cargo bed. See “Maximum Weight Capacity” on
page 85.
Checking Loads
Total Trailer Weight

Check the weight of a fully loaded trailer or estimate the total by
adding the weight of the trailer (as quoted by the trailer maker) with
the weight of all items placed in or on the trailer.
Before Driving 87
Towing a Trailer
To achieve a proper tongue load, start by placing 60 percent of the
load toward the front of the trailer and 40 percent toward the rear,
then readjust the load as needed.
Loading a Trailer
• Always use a proper trailer hitch. Do not tow by attaching a rope

or cable to the vehicle’s frame.
• Secure all items inside the trailer so they cannot shift while
driving.
• Before driving with heavy cargo or towing heavy loads, shift the
shift select lever into low-range (L) position, and use the
TOW/HAUL mode.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Exceeding a load limit or improperly towing a
trailer can cause a crash in which you can be
Follow all load limits and towing guidelines in

this owner’s manual.
88 Before Driving
Basic Operation & Driving
Guidelines
This section gives information on how to start and stop your engine.
Basic Operation & Driving Guidelines
It also provides guidelines for operating on different types of terrain,

driving with cargo, and towing a trailer.
Basic Operation .......................................................................... 90

Starting & Stopping the Engine................................................ 90
Shifting Gears.......................................................................... 92
Selecting a Drive Mode ............................................................ 99
Parking .................................................................................. 100
Driving Guidelines .................................................................... 101
Safe Driving Precautions ........................................................ 101
Off-road Driving Considerations............................................. 103
Basic Driving .......................................................................... 105
Driving on Hills ...................................................................... 106
Driving Through Water .......................................................... 109
Driving at Night ..................................................................... 110
Basic Operation & Driving Guidelines 89

Basic Operation
Starting & Stopping the Engine
For safety, we recommend that you start the engine in a well-

ventilated area. If that is not practical, move the vehicle outdoors as
soon as possible. The engine’s exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a
colorless and odorless gas that can cause illness and even death.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Running the engine of your vehicle while in an
enclosed or even partially enclosed area can cause
a rapid build-up of toxic carbon monoxide gas.
Breathing this colorless, odorless gas can quickly

cause unconsciousness and lead to death.
Only run your vehicle's engine when it is

located in a well ventilated area outdoors.
The starter motor will operate when the shift select lever is in the
park (P) or neutral (N) position, or the brake pedal is pressed.
You should do the following checks and adjustments before you
drive your vehicle.
Before START:
1. Make sure the doors, side nets, tailgate, and front hood are
securely closed.
2. Make sure the cargo bed is securely lowered.
3. Check that any items you may be carrying are stored properly or
fastened down securely.
4. Fasten your seat belt. Check that any passenger has fastened
their seat belt as well.
5. When you start the engine, check the indicators in the instrument panel.
90 Basic Operation & Driving Guidelines

Basic Operation
Starting the engine:
1. Move the shift select lever into the park (P) position.
2. Press on the brake pedal.
3. To start the engine, without touching the accelerator pedal, insert
the key and turn the ignition switch to the START (p) position.
Immediately after the engine starts, let go of the key. The switch
returns to the ON (q) position.
Do not hold the key in the START (p) position for more than 5
seconds at a time.
If the engine does not start after 5 seconds, turn the key back to
the OFF (w) position and wait about 10 seconds before turning it
to START (p) again.
4. If the engine does not start within 5 seconds, or starts but stalls right
away, repeat step 3 with the accelerator pedal pressed halfway down.
If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so
the engine does not race.
5. If the engine fails to start, press the accelerator pedal all the way
down, and hold it there while starting to clear flooding. If the
engine still does not start, return to step 3.
ignition switch
OFF (w)
START (p)
ON (q)

Basic Operation
Stopping the engine:
To stop the engine, turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position.
Remember to shift into the park (P) position and remove the key if
you plan to leave the vehicle.
Shifting Gears
You can move forward or in reverse by shifting the shift select lever
from P or N, to R, H, or L.
Your Honda SXS is equipped with a dual clutch transmission, which
is an automatically controlled 6-speed transmission.
When the shift select lever is in the high-range (H) or low-range (L)
position, you can switch between AT mode and MT mode by
pressing the AT/MT switch. In AT mode, you can use the shift
paddles to temporarily select a gear.
To avoid damaging the transmission, move the shift select

lever only when the vehicle is stopped and the engine is
idling.
Select a driving mode appropriate for your driving environment and
driver visibility.
NOTICE
Under extreme constant high load usage, the temperature of the
clutch can rise over the allowable temperature limit for the clutch
material. In this usage condition, clutch slippage and burning may
occur and the clutch temperature indicator may flash.
To avoid damaging the clutch, follow the proper usage of the sub-
transmission dual range as described.
To prevent clutch damage, do not use the throttle to hold the vehicle
stationary on an incline or try to tow an immovable object.
If the clutch temperature indicator flashes while driving, see
page 237.
Basic Operation
Shift Position and Meter Display
gear: P
meter:
gear: R
meter:
gear: N
meter:
gear: H gear: 1-6

mode: AT mode: MT
gear: H
meter: mode: AT, TOW/HAUL meter:
meter:
gear: L gear: 1-6

mode: AT gear: L mode: MT
meter: mode: AT, TOW/HAUL meter:
meter:
shift the shift select lever

push the AT/MT switch
push the TOW/HAUL switch
shift override using shift paddles is available. during
shift override, shifted gears (1 – 6) are displayed

Basic Operation
Selecting a Shift Position
Your Honda SXS has five shift select lever positions: park (P), reverse
(R), neutral (N), high-range (H), and low-range (L).
Park:
Used when parking or starting the engine.
Reverse:
Used when driving in reverse.
Neutral:
Used when idling the engine during a temporary stop.
High-range:
Used when driving forward on hard surfaces or with light
cargo.
You can switch between AT mode and MT mode by pressing the AT/
MT switch. You can also select TOW/HAUL mode by pressing the
TOW/HAUL switch in AT mode.
Low-range:
Used when driving forward in the following situations:
• When driving with heavy cargo or towing heavy loads
• When ascending steep hills
• When driving over large obstacles
• When driving at a constant low speed (5 mph [8 km/h] or below)
You can switch between AT mode and MT mode by pressing the AT/
MT switch. You can also select TOW/HAUL mode by pressing the
TOW/HAUL switch in AT mode.
To avoid damaging the sub-transmission, move the shift

select lever only when the vehicle is stopped and the engine
is idling.

Basic Operation
Selecting a AT/MT Mode
Your Honda SXS has 2 transmission modes: AT mode and MT mode.
AT mode:
This mode automatically shifts the gears with optimal timing
according to your driving conditions.
You can temporarily shift up or down by operating the shift paddles
while driving in AT mode. At the same time, the shifted gear is
shown on the gear position display.
MT mode:
In this mode, the gears are shifted manually through shift paddle
operation.
• Clasping the shift paddle does not continuously shift the gears.
To continue shifting, release your fingers from the shift paddle,
and then clasp the shift paddle again.
• The gears do not shift up automatically in MT mode. Do not allow
the engine to exceed the rev limit.
• The gears shift down automatically when you slow down, even in
MT mode.
• You will start from the 1st gear when MT mode is selected.
For details on shift paddle operation in MT mode, see page 98.
When using the AT/MT switch to switch between AT mode and MT

mode, be sure the shift select lever is in the high-range (H) or low-
range (L) position.

Basic Operation
Selecting TOW/HAUL Mode
TOW/HAUL mode:
Your Honda SXS has TOW/HAUL mode.
When using the TOW/HAUL switch, shift the shift select lever to the
high-range (H) or low-range (L) position, and select AT mode.
When TOW/HAUL mode is turned on, the TOW/HAUL indicator
comes on.
Use high-range in the following situations:

• Driving forward at mid speed with moderate passenger/cargo/
trailer loading and/or moderate hills.
Use low-range in the following situations:

• Driving at a constant low speed (5mph [8 km/h] or below).
• Driving with heavy passenger/cargo/trailer loading.
• Ascending or descending steep hills.
• Driving over large obstacles.

Basic Operation
Temporarily changing gears by operating the shift paddle while AT
mode is selected
You can temporarily change gears by operating the shift paddles
even while AT mode is selected.
When operating the shift paddles while AT mode is selected, the
“H” or “L” displayed in the gear position display of the multi-
function display changes to a gear position number (1 – 6). (The AT
indicator stays on)
Because the gear change is temporary, the vehicle automatically
returns to normal AT mode under the following conditions:
• When the shift paddles are not operated for a prescribed time
• When the vehicle speed is reduced and automatically downshifts
• When the AT/MT switch is pressed
• When the TOW/HAUL switch is pressed
• When the shift select lever is operated
Shift Limit:
During MT mode, downshifts may not be executed if they cause the
engine to exceed the rev limit.
NOTICE

Basic Operation
Operating the shift paddles while driving in MT mode.
To upshift the transmission, pull the right side upshift paddle once.
To downshift the transmission, pull the left side downshift paddle
once.
GEAR SHIFTING SEQUENCE
downshift paddle (-) upshift paddle (+)
After starting the engine and letting it warm up, follow this
procedure:
1. Press the brake pedal.
2. With the throttle closed, select the shift select lever into high-
range (H) or low-range (L) position, and then select MT mode by
pressing the AT/MT switch.
3. Release pressure from the brake pedal and increase engine speed
by gradually pressing the accelerator pedal.
4. When speed increases, shift to 2nd gear by pulling the upshift
paddle once.
5. Repeat this sequence to progressively upshift to 3rd, 4th, 5th,
and 6th (top) gear.
6. To downshift, pull the downshift paddle once.

Basic Operation
Selecting a Drive Mode
Turf
This mode supplies power to the rear wheels only. This mode is for
driving on turf.
2WD
This mode supplies power to the rear wheels, and locks the rear
differential. This mode is best for surfaces that provide good
traction.
4WD
This mode supplies power to the front and rear wheels, and locks the
rear differential.
Steering will require slightly more effort than with 2WD. This mode
is recommended for driving on surfaces that provide relatively poor
traction.
4WD Diff Lock
This mode supplies power to the front and rear wheels, and locks the
rear and front differential.
As a result, steering will require extra space and effort. Select this
mode to maximize available traction.
Before using the drive mode select lever to change from one mode
to another, be sure the vehicle is stopped and the engine is idling.
See page 41 for additional information.

Basic Operation
Parking
Your Honda SXS is equipped with an auto leveling rear shock

absorber. (See page 183 for more information)
Look for a clear, level parking area with a firm surface. Parking on
top of obstructions or terrain features taller than about 7.9 inches
(200 mm) could result in the SXS1000 becoming stuck if the cargo
bed is loaded and the vehicle settles (up to 4.5 inches [114 mm])
while parked. Avoid parking on a slope or on loose or slippery
surfaces, if possible. If you must park on a slope, block the wheels to
help keep the vehicle from sliding.
After bringing your vehicle to a stop:

1. Keep your foot on the brake pedal while you shift into the park (P)
position.
2. Slowly release the brake pedal.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position, and remove the key.

Driving Guidelines
Your Honda SXS has been designed with many safety features to
help protect you. These include a strong occupant protection
structure, seat belts, doors, and side nets. However, no safety system
can prevent all injuries.
The following pages contain important precautions and driving

guidelines to help you make good decisions and operate your vehicle
safely.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Failure to follow the driving guidelines in this
owner’s manual can lead to a crash or
overturn in which you or others can be
Follow all safe-driving guidelines in this

owner’s manual.
Safe Driving Precautions
Before driving your Honda SXS for the first time, please review the
“Driver & Passenger Safety” section (page 1), the “Before Driving”
section (page 77), and the precautions below.
We also recommend that you complete the Recreational Off-

Highway Vehicle (ROV) E-Course. The free course is available at
www.ROHVA.org. The two-hour ROV E-Course is a multi-media,
interactive, online safety course that reinforces:
• Key risk factors associated with ROV operation
• Safe driving practices that will reduce risk of injury
• The best resources for learning about your particular vehicle

Driving Guidelines
The ROHVA (Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association) also
offers the hands-on ROV Basic Driver Course (RBDC). Information on
and registration for the RBDC is available at www.ROHVA.org.
Off-highway Use Only

Your Honda SXS was designed for use on a wide variety of terrain
and situations. However, it should not be driven on any public road,
paved or unpaved, because it is not equipped to legally or safely
drive on such roads.
Remember to obey all local off-road regulations, obtain permission
before driving on someone else’s private property, and respect all No
Trespassing signs.
Control Speed
Driving at excessive speed for the terrain or other conditions
increases the chance of a crash or overturn. Always reduce speed
when driving on hilly terrain, or when carrying cargo or towing a
trailer.
Use Extra Care on Unfamiliar Terrain

When driving in a new area, keep your speed low and check the
terrain ahead for possible problems, such as large rocks, bumps,
holes, or drop-offs. Don’t drive fast on unfamiliar terrain or when
visibility is limited. If you drive in an area with other vehicles, be sure
to keep a safe distance to avoid a collision.
Do Not Perform Stunts

Keep all four wheels on the ground at all times. Showing off or
attempting to perform stunts could lead to a crash or overturn in
which the driver, a passenger, or others could be seriously hurt or
killed.

Driving Guidelines
Off-road Driving Considerations
Your Honda SXS was designed and intended for off-road use. In the
event that you must drive on a paved surface, be aware that your
Honda SXS will feel and handle different than it does on dirt. The
tires will also wear much faster.
Vehicle Design
The Honda SXS handles somewhat differently from on-highway
vehicles due in part to features that allow it to perform its role as an
off-highway recreational vehicle. For example, this Honda SXS has a
higher center of gravity than vehicles designed for use only on
pavement. It is also equipped with large low-pressure tires that allow
good traction in sand, loose dirt, wet grass and other low-traction
surfaces.
These advantages come at some cost. Because your vehicle is taller

and rides higher off the ground, it may easily tip or roll over if you
make abrupt turns or drive on sloped terrain.
Off-highway Environments
Driving on private property, or in approved off-highway areas,
means you leave a generally predictable and orderly world behind.
You won’t find lane markers or traffic signals, and no one will be
there to warn you of trouble ahead. It’s up to you to assess situations
and drive within limits. The terrain has limits (it may be too steep or
bumpy, for example). The vehicle has limits (e.g., traction, stability,
and power). And you may be limited by lack of experience.

Driving Guidelines
Surface Considerations
The kind of surface you drive on can affect how your vehicle handles.
For example, on loose or soft surfaces you’ll need more time and
distance to accelerate, turn, or brake to a stop.
Avoid any sudden sharp turns, particularly on pavement and other

hard surfaces. Always slow down after moving from one type of
surface to another until you get accustomed to how your vehicle
handles.
Reading the Terrain

Because visual information comes in unpredictable ways off-road,
you need to stay alert, constantly survey the terrain, and go slow
enough to analyze situations and make good decisions.
As your eyes search the terrain ahead, watch for changes in surface
conditions. One minute you can be on firm soil and the next in soft
sand or deep mud. A path can quickly change from level to bumpy,
slope at a dangerous angle, or disappear in a drop-off. Always keep
your eyes open for holes, washouts, or obstacles that could upset or
damage the vehicle.
Controlling Speed
Whether you travel off-road or on pavement, the general rule is to
keep your speed low. Of course, you’ll need enough speed to keep
moving forward, but too much speed can lead to problems.
When driving off-road at higher speeds, you have less time to read
the terrain and make good decisions. The drive can also be more
bumpy, and there’s a greater chance of the vehicle sliding if you
brake or turn quickly on wet soil, gravel, or another slippery surface.
Never go faster than conditions allow.
When driving at a constant low speed (5 mph [8 km/h] or below),
shift the shift select lever into low-range (L) position.

Driving Guidelines
Driving with Cargo or Pulling a Trailer
The added weight of carrying cargo or pulling a trailer will affect
how your vehicle accelerates, brakes, and handles. The added
weight and length of a trailer will affect your directional control.
Please follow these guidelines whenever you carry cargo or pull a

trailer:
• Do not exceed the cargo limit and towing limits (see page 85 for
loading cargo and page 87 for towing a trailer).
• When driving with heavy cargo or towing heavy loads, shift the
shift select lever into low-range (L) position, and use the
TOW/HAUL mode.
• When driving with moderate cargo or towing moderate loads,
shift the shift select lever into high-range (H) position, and use
the TOW/HAUL mode.
• Keep speed low, particularly when driving on hills.
• Allow extra distance to accelerate, turn, and slow or stop.
• Do not drive across a steep slope with a trailer.
Basic Driving
Making Turns
The basic turning technique for Honda SXS is to drive at low speed
and gradually adjust the amount of steering to suit the surface. Do
not make sudden sharp turns, either off-road or on pavement.
If your vehicle ever skids sideways during a turn, steer in the direction
of the skid. Also, avoid hard braking or accelerating until you have
regained directional control.
Braking
The best off-road braking technique is to gently push down on the
brake pedal, then increase pressure as more braking is needed. Light
braking may be all you need on soft surfaces, such as sand or loose
dirt. Avoid hard braking on any surface.

Driving Guidelines
Driving on Hills
Hills present some of the greatest challenges and hazards, especially

if you are carrying cargo or pulling a trailer. If you are new to off-
road driving, start with gentle inclines, take time to learn how your
vehicle handles on slopes, and read the information that follows.
Even if you have previous off-road driving experience, the guidelines

below should serve as important reminders.
Approaching a Hill
When you approach a hill, you need to decide whether it is one that
you, your passengers, your cargo and your vehicle can handle. For
example, ask yourself:
• Is the hill too steep? Is the incline constant, or are there places
where it gets suddenly steeper? If you run out of power, you may
not be able to continue forward.
• Is there enough traction for you to make it to the top without
spinning the wheels or sliding backwards?
• Are there obstacles, such as rocks or ruts, that could upset your
vehicle and make it roll over?
• If there is no safe predetermined path, can you drive straight up
the hill without turning?
• Do you know what is on the other side of the hill?
If you do not know the answers to these questions before beginning

an ascent, you should stop and walk up the hill to find out.

Driving Guidelines
Driving Up a Hill
If you decide that it is safe to drive your Honda SXS up a hill:
• Select an appropriate drive mode for the hill. When ascending
steep hills, shift the shift select lever into low-range (L) position.
• Approach the hill with enough speed to smoothly start up the hill.
• Maintain a steady speed as you climb the hill.
• Reduce speed as you approach the top, and watch for other
vehicles that may be approaching the top from the other side of
the hill.
NOTICE
If You Stall Going Up a Hill

If a hill is steeper than you expected, traction is poor, or you don’t
maintain sufficient speed, you may begin to stall. If that happens:
• Stop the vehicle and shift into the park (P) position.
• If you have passenger(s), you may want to have them get out and
move away from the vehicle.
• If you are headed straight up the hill, shift into the reverse (R)
position, and slowly back straight down the hill, gently using the
brake pedal to control speed.
Driving Down a Hill

Before driving down a hill, as with driving up a hill, you need to
evaluate whether you can make it safely to the bottom and away
from the slope.
Ask yourself:
• Is the hill too steep to maintain speed and steering control?
• Is the surface too rough or too slippery?
• Can you drive straight down without turning?
• Is there a safe exit when you reach the bottom of the hill?

Driving Guidelines
If you decide it is safe to drive down a hill:
• Hold the steering wheel firmly and drive straight back down the
hill.
• Gently apply the brakes to help control speed, but do not “ride”
the brakes.
Crossing a Hill
Before traversing a hill, consider these facts:
• A hill that you can drive straight up or down can be too steep to
drive across.
• When you drive straight up or down a slope, the length of the
wheelbase reduces the chance of tipping over backward or
forward, but when you drive across a slope, the vehicle’s
narrower track and higher center of gravity increases the chance
of tipping or rolling over.
• If you drive across a slope and an uphill wheel hits a bump, or a
downhill wheel drops into a hole, your vehicle will tip downward
even more.
If you can’t clearly see all terrain conditions (good traction, no

bumps, holes or other obstacles, etc.), stop and walk the slope
before you drive on it. If you have any doubt whether you can safely
drive across a slope, don’t do it. Find another route.
Avoiding Obstacles
When driving off-road, always watch for bumps, pot holes, rain ruts
and other obstacles. Large bumps and holes can bounce you around
and cause you to lose control or get stuck. Slow down whenever you
drive on rough terrain.

Driving Guidelines
Driving Through Water
Before driving through water, stop and make sure that:

• The water is not more than about 10 inches (25 cm) deep.
• The water is not flowing too fast. Deep rushing water can sweep
you downstream. Even very shallow rushing water can wash the
ground from under your tires and cause you to lose traction and
possibly roll over.
• Both banks have gradual slopes and good traction, so you can
enter the stream and exit safely.
• The surface under the water appears to provide good traction.
Remember, the water may hide hazards, such as rocks, holes,
mud, or slippery vegetation.
If you decide you can safely cross the water:

• Proceed at a slow, steady speed.
• Watch for submerged obstacles, including slippery rocks and
holes.
• Avoid getting the spark plugs or air cleaner wet, as this would
cause the engine to stop.
NOTICE
Water entering the air intake system can cause severe engine
damage.
If the engine stalled while driving through water, inspect the vehicle
before starting the engine. Refer to If Your Honda SXS Becomes
Immersed in Water, page 248.

Driving Guidelines
Driving at Night
If you drive your Honda SXS at night, always drive slower and more
cautiously than you would in daylight.

Servicing Your Honda
To help keep your Honda SXS in good shape, this section includes a
Maintenance Schedule for required service and step-by-step

instructions for specific maintenance tasks. You’ll also find important
safety precautions, information on fuels and oils, and tips for
keeping your Honda looking good.
For information about replacing fuses, see page 238.
(USA only)
For information about the exhaust emission and noise requirements
of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and California
Air Resources Board (CARB), see page 261.
USA Only
Maintenance, replacement or repair of the emission control
devices and systems may be performed by any repair
establishment or individual using parts that are “certified” to
EPA standards.
Before You Service Your Honda

The Importance of Maintenance ............................................... 113
Maintenance Safety.................................................................. 114
Important Safety Precautions ................................................. 115
Maintenance Schedule ............................................................. 116
Maintenance Record................................................................. 121
Service Preparations
Maintenance Component Locations ......................................... 122
Tool Kit .................................................................................... 127
Owner’s Manual Storage .......................................................... 128
Front Hood............................................................................... 129
Front/Rear Seat Removal ........................................................... 131
Air Cleaner Outer Cover Removal ............................................. 132
(cont’d)
Servicing Your Honda 111
Rear Mudguard Lid Removal..................................................... 133
Clip Removal ............................................................................ 134
Jack-Up Point & Support Point .................................................. 136
Service Procedures
Fluids, Filters & Lubricants
Fuel .......................................................................................... 137
Engine Oil & Filters ................................................................... 140
Sub-Transmission Oil ................................................................ 153
Front Final Gear Oil................................................................... 157
Rear Final Gear Oil .................................................................... 159
Coolant .................................................................................... 161
Air Cleaner ............................................................................... 166
Lubrication ............................................................................... 170
Engine
Accelerator Pedal...................................................................... 175
Spark Plugs............................................................................... 177
Spark Arrester .......................................................................... 180
Exhaust System......................................................................... 182
Chassis
Suspension ............................................................................... 183
Brakes ...................................................................................... 184
Tires ......................................................................................... 190
Wheels ..................................................................................... 198
Driveshaft Boots ....................................................................... 199
Electrical
Battery ..................................................................................... 200
Appearance Care...................................................................... 205
112 Servicing Your Honda

Before You Service Your Honda
The Importance of Maintenance

A well-maintained Honda SXS is essential for safe, economical, and
trouble-free operation. It will also help reduce air pollution. Careful
pre-drive inspections and good maintenance are especially
important because your Honda SXS is designed to be driven over
rough off-road terrain.
To help you properly care for your Honda SXS, this section of the
manual provides a Maintenance Schedule. The service intervals in
this schedule are based on average operation conditions.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Improperly maintaining this Honda SXS or
failing to correct a problem before you drive
can cause a crash in which you can be
Always follow the inspection and

maintenance recommendations and
schedules in this owner’s manual.
Frequent servicing of the air cleaner is especially important to help

you avoid a possible costly engine repair.
If your Honda SXS overturns or is involved in a crash, be sure your
dealer inspects all major parts, even if you are able to make some
repairs.

Maintenance Safety
This section includes instructions on how to perform some important
maintenance tasks. If you have basic mechanical skills, you can
perform many of these tasks with the tools provided with your
Honda SXS.
Other tasks that are more difficult and require special tools are best
performed by professionals. Removing the wheels should normally
be handled only by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.
Instructions are included in this manual only to assist in emergency
service.
Some of the most important safety precautions follow. However, we

cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in
performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you
should perform a given task.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Failure to properly follow maintenance
instructions and precautions can cause you to
be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the procedures and

precautions in this owner’s manual.

Maintenance Safety
Important Safety Precautions
• Make sure the engine is off before you begin any maintenance or
repairs. This will help eliminate several potential hazards:
Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. Be sure
there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.
Burns from hot parts. Let the engine and exhaust system cool
before touching.
Injury from moving parts. Do not run the engine unless
instructed to do so.
• Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have
the tools and skills required.
• To reduce the possibility of a fire or explosion, be careful when
working around gasoline. Use only non-flammable solvent, not
gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away
from all fuel-related parts.
Remember that your Honda dealer knows your Honda SXS best and
is fully equipped to maintain and repair it. To ensure the best quality
and reliability, use only new Honda Genuine Parts or other
equivalents for repair and replacement. If you have the tools and
skills required for additional maintenance jobs, you can purchase an
official Honda Service Manual (page 270).

Maintenance Schedule
The required Maintenance Schedule that follows specifies how often
you should have your Honda SXS serviced and what things need
attention. It is essential to have your Honda SXS serviced as
scheduled to maintain safe, dependable performance, and proper
emission control.
The service intervals in this Maintenance Schedule are based on

average driving conditions. Some items will need more frequent
service if you drive in unusually wet or dusty areas or at full throttle.
Consult your dealer for recommendations applicable to your
individual needs and use.
Some items in the Maintenance Schedule can be performed with

basic mechanical skills and hand tools. Procedures for these items
are provided in this manual. Other items involve more extensive
procedures and may require special training, tools, and equipment.
We recommend that you have your dealer perform these tasks
unless you have advanced mechanical skills and the required tools
and equipment. Procedures for such items in this schedule are
provided in an official Honda Service Manual available for purchase
(page 270).
If you do not feel capable of performing a given task or need

assistance, remember that your Honda dealer knows your Honda
SXS best and is fully equipped to maintain and repair it. If you decide
to do your own maintenance, use only Honda Genuine Parts or their
equivalents for repair or replacement to ensure the best quality and
reliability.

Perform the pre-drive inspection (page 82) and owner maintenance
in this section at each scheduled maintenance period.
Maintenance Minder Messages on the Multi-function Display

The maintenance minder indicator appears in the multi-function
display when the mileage or operating hours on your Honda SXS
reaches the maintenance interval specified on the maintenance
schedule.
Maintenance Minder Indicators:

Initial Maintenance
Appears at 100 miles (150 km) or 20 operating
hours, whichever comes first. See Initial
Maintenance on the maintenance schedule.
Regular Maintenance Interval 1
Appears 600 miles (1,000 km) or 100 operating
hours after the Initial Maintenance is performed
and maintenance minder is reset (page 32). See
Regular Maintenance Interval for 100, 300, and
500 operating hours (or corresponding mileage
interval, whichever comes first) in the
maintenance schedule.
Regular Maintenance Interval 2
Appears 600 miles (1,000 km) or 100 operating
hours after Regular Maintenance Interval 1 is
performed and maintenance minder is reset
(page 32). See Regular Maintenance Interval for
200, 400, and 600 operating hours (or
corresponding mileage interval, whichever comes
first) in the maintenance schedule.

• The Initial Maintenance indicator appears only once over the life
of the vehicle.
• The Regular Maintenance Interval 1 and 2 indicators will appear
alternately over the life of the vehicle.
• Consider the total mileage and operating hours shown on the
odometer/hour meter, along with your vehicle maintenance
history, to determine the appropriate Regular Maintenance
Interval to follow on the maintenance schedule.
Each item on the maintenance schedule requires some mechanical

knowledge. Certain items (particularly those marked * and **) may
require more technical information and tools. Consult your dealer.
* Should be serviced by your dealer, unless the owner has the

proper tools and service data, and is mechanically qualified.
Refer to the official Honda Service Manual (page 270).
** In the interest of safety, we recommend these items be serviced
only by your dealer.
Summary of Maintenance Schedule Notes:
NOTES:
Note 1 Inspect valve clearance per the maintenance interval and
more frequently if the engine becomes noisy.
Note 2 Service more frequently when operating in dusty areas, sand
or snow.
Note 3 Service more frequently when operated in muddy
conditions.
Note 4 Check the underbody whenever the under guard has been
hit.

Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given).
Initial
Regular maintenance interval
maintenance
FREQUENCY ×100 mi 1 6 12 18 24 30 36 Note
Refer
(Whichever comes first) ×100 km 1.5 10 20 30 40 50 60
to
Hours 20 100 200 300 400 500 600
page
ITEMS Month 1 12
Check engine oil and coolant Check oil and coolant at fuel stop 143,
162
Check tires Check inflation and condition once a month 191
Check side net adjustment t t t t t t t 51
Check brake fluid Check fluid level once a month 185
Replace engine oil and oil filter t t t t 145
Check sub-transmission oil t t t t 153
Replace sub-transmission oil Every 2 years (regardless 155
of mileage)
Replace DCT oil filter t t 150
* Inspect valve clearance t t t 1 —
* Clean spark arrester t t t t t t 180
Replace air cleaner element t 2 167
Clean sub air cleaner element t t 2 169
Check spark plug t t t t t t 177
* Inspect idle speed t t t —
Check fuel lines and
* t t —
connections
Check front and rear brakes t t t 3 184
Check front and rear final gear 157,
t t t
oil 159
* Should be serviced by your dealer, unless the owner has the proper tools and service data,
and is mechanically qualified. Refer to the official Honda Service Manual (page 270).
Note 1 Inspect valve clearance per the maintenance interval and

more frequently if the engine becomes noisy.
Note 2 Service more frequently when operating in dusty areas, sand
or snow.
Note 3 Service more frequently when operated in muddy
conditions.

Service the items listed at the indicated distance (or time, if given).
Initial
Regular maintenance interval
maintenance
FREQUENCY ×100 mi 1 6 12 18 24 30 36 Note
Refer
(Whichever comes first) ×100 km 1.5 10 20 30 40 50 60
to
Hours 20 100 200 300 400 500 600
page
ITEMS Month 1 12
Lubricate all hinges, latches, and 170
t t
pivots
Inspect the following items: —
** Suspension components —
Wheels 198
Driveshaft boots 199
Accelerator pedal and brake t t 175,
pedal 188
Brake light switch 189
Exhaust system 182
Battery terminal condition 201
Check parking lock system
* t t —
adjustment
* Check shift lever adjustment t t —
Inspect the following items: —
** Tie-rod ends —
* Steering gearbox and boots t —
* Brake hoses and lines —
* SxS underbody 4 —
* Inspect evaporative emission
Every 2 years
control system —
(regardless of mileage)
(USA - 50 states [meets California])
Replace the following items: —
Front and rear final gear oil 158,
Every 2 years
160
(regardless of mileage)
* Engine coolant 164
* Brake fluid —
* Should be serviced by your dealer, unless the owner has the proper tools and service data,
and is mechanically qualified. Refer to the official Honda Service Manual (page 270).
** In the interest of safety, we recommend these items be serviced only by your dealer.
Note 4 Check the underbody whenever the under guard has been
hit.

Maintenance Record
Keeping an accurate maintenance record will help ensure that your
Honda SXS is properly maintained. Retain detailed receipts to verify
the maintenance was performed. If the Honda SXS is sold, these
receipts should be transferred with the Honda SXS to the new
owner. Make sure whoever performs the maintenance completes
this record. All scheduled maintenance, including the 100-mile (150
km) or 20 hours initial maintenance, is considered a normal owner
operating cost and will be charged for by your dealer. Use the space
under Notes to record anything you want to remind yourself about
or mention to your dealer.
Miles (km) or ODO or Date Performed Notes

hours HOUR By:
100 (150) or
20
600 (1,000) or
100
1,200 (2,000) or
200
1,800 (3,000) or
300
2,400 (4,000) or
400
3,000 (5,000) or
500
3,600 (6,000) or
600
4,200 (7,000) or
700
4,800 (8,000) or
800

Maintenance Component
Service Preparations
Locations
Indicates something visible.
brake pedal owner’s manual
(page 188) (page 128)
front seat accelerator pedal
(page 131) (page 175)
rear seat sub-transmission oil fill cap/

(page 131) dipstick (page 153)

Locations
fuse box battery

sub air cleaner main fuse (page 200)
(page 169) (page 238)
front hood
(page 129)
tool kit
(page 127)
fuel fill cap

(page 138)
front final gear oil fill cap

front final gear oil drain plug
(pages 157, 158)

Locations

engine oil dipstick

(page 143)
brake fluid engine oil fill cap
reservoir tank (page 143)
(page 185)
brake light switch

rear final gear oil fill cap
(page 189)
rear final gear oil drain plug
(pages 159, 160)
engine oil drain bolts

(page 145)

Locations
coolant reserve tank

(page 161)
sub-transmission oil drain bolt

driveshaft boots
(page 153)
(page 199)

Locations

spark plugs
(page 177)
air cleaner spark arrester

(page 166) (page 180)
driveshaft boots
(page 199)

Tool Kit
The tool kit is stored under the front hood.
To access the tool kit, remove the front hood (page 129), and
remove the rubber band.
After using the tool kit, be sure to use the rubber band to fasten the
tool kit securely.
An optional, larger tool kit may be available. Check with your

dealer’s parts department.
UNDER FRONT HOOD
tool kit rubber band

Owner’s Manual Storage
Your Honda SXS provides storage for the owner’s manual so you’ll
have it with you for easy reference. Store your owner’s manual in the
storage compartment on the inside of the glove box.
The owner’s manual should be stored in the plastic bag.
Be careful not to flood this area when washing your Honda SXS.
RIGHT SIDE
glove box owner’s manual

Front Hood
Refer to Safety Precautions on page 115.
The front hood must be removed to access the tool kit, to add
coolant, to clean the sub air cleaner, to lubricate the shift select lever
pivots and drive mode select lever pivots, battery maintenance, to
check the color label and to replace a fuse.
Removal
1. Lift the tabs on knobs up, turn the knobs 1/4 clockwise or 1/4
counterclockwise.
2. Remove the front hood.
Installation
1. Insert the hooks into the slots.
2. Turn the knobs 1/4 counterclockwise or 1/4 clockwise.
knobs
hooks
slots front hood

Front Hood
If the front hood rattles when closed, turn the hood stopper
counterclockwise to adjust front hood.
Adjust
1. Remove the front hood (page 129).
2. Turn the hood stoppers counterclockwise to extend them, and
clockwise to retract them.
3. Make sure the front hood is installed securely.
hood
stopper

Front/Rear Seat Removal
The front and rear seat can be removed in the same manner.
The rear seat must be removed to check the sub-transmission oil, to

add the sub-transmission oil, and to access the rear underseat
storage.
Removal
2. Pull the seat lock lever at the front center of the seat.
3. Pull the front of the front seat upward then slide it slightly
forward.
FRONT SEAT shown
grommets hooks
seat lock lever
prongs
front seat
Installation
1. Insert the hooks into the frame and the prongs into the
grommets of the front seat.
2. Press down on the front seat until it locks.

Air Cleaner Outer Cover Removal
The air cleaner outer cover must be removed to replace the air
cleaner and for spark plug maintenance.
Removal
1. Lift the cargo bed (page 72).
2. Remove the clips (page 134).
3. Remove the prong from the grommet.
Installation
1. Insert the prong into the grommet.
2. Install the clips.
3. Lower the cargo bed.
UNDER CARGO BED

clips air cleaner outer cover clips
grommet prong

Rear Mudguard Lid Removal
The rear mudguard lid must be removed to add the engine oil and to
access the emergency valve.
Removal
2. Remove the clips (page 134).
3. Remove the rear mudguard lid.
Installation
1. Install the rear mudguard lid.
2. Install the clips.
UNDER CARGO BED
clips
rear mudguard lid

Clip Removal
Clip removal and installation:
Removal
1. Press down on the center pin to release the lock.
2. Pull out the clip of the hole.
1 2
Installation
1. Push the bottom of the center pin.
2. Insert the clip into the hole.

3. Press down on the center pin to lock the clip.

Clip Removal
Removal
1. Pull up the center pin to release the lock.
2. Pull out the clip of the hole.
1 2
Installation
1. Insert the clip into the hole.
2. Press down the center pin securely to lock the clip.
1 2

Jack-Up Point & Support Point
When jacking up and supporting this vehicle, the following jack-up

points and support points should be used.
WARNING 3 WARNING
The vehicle can easily roll off a jack, seriously
injuring anyone underneath.
Follow the directions for changing a tire

exactly, and never get under the vehicle when
it is supported only by the jack.
When using a jack, always abide by the following instructions.

• Do not leave the engine running.
• Move the drive mode select lever into 4WD Diff Lock position and
move the shift select lever into the park (P) position.
• Use only on a firm level surface.
• Place a jack only at the specified jack-up point.
• Do not leave any person or cargo in the vehicle.
• Do not place any object above or under a jack.
support point support point
jack-up point jack-up point

ServiceFilters
Fluids, Procedures
& Lubricants
Fuel
Fuel Recommendation
type unleaded
pump octane number 86 (or higher)
Use only unleaded fuel in your Honda. The use of leaded fuel will
damage the catalytic converter(s). If you drive your Honda in a
country where leaded fuel might be available, take precautions to
use only unleaded fuel.
Your engine is designed to use any unleaded gasoline that has a

pump octane number of 86 or higher. Gasoline pumps at service
stations normally display the pump octane number. For information
on the use of oxygenated fuels (USA only), see page 265.
For information on the use of Petrol Containing Alcohol (Australia &

New Zealand only), see page 267.
Use of lower octane gasoline can cause persistent pinging or spark

knock (a loud rapping noise) which, if severe, can lead to engine
damage. Light pinging experienced while operating under a heavy
load, such as climbing a hill, is no cause for concern.
If pinging or spark knock occurs at a steady engine speed under

normal load, change brands of gasoline. If pinging or spark knock
persists, consult your dealer.
Never use stale or contaminated gasoline or an oil/gasoline mixture.

Avoid getting dirt, dust, or water in the fuel tank.

Fuel
Fuel Capacity
Fuel tank capacity:

7.9 US gal (30 ℓ)
When there is only one segment left in the fuel gauge (page 26), fuel
will be low and you should refuel as soon as possible.
Refueling Procedure
RIGHT SIDE
bottom of filler neck
fuel fill cap
1. Open the right side rear door (page 49).

2. Turn the fuel fill cap counterclockwise.
3. Add fuel until the level reaches the bottom of the filler neck.
Avoid overfilling the tank. There should be no fuel in the filler
neck.
Fuel
WARNING 3 WARNING
Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive.
You can be burned or seriously injured when
handling fuel.
• Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks and

flames away.
• Only handle fuel outdoors.
• Wipe up spills immediately.
4. (A, II A type)
After refueling, turn the fuel fill cap clockwise securely and close
the door.
(AC, II AC type)
After refueling, turn the fuel fill cap clockwise until it clicks and
close the door.
If you replace the fuel fill cap, use a Honda Genuine replacement
part or equivalent.
NOTICE
Gasoline can damage camouflage coating, painted, and matte
painted surfaces.
Do not allow spilled gasoline to pool on camouflage, painted, and
matte painted bodywork. Also, do not allow gasoline soaked rags to
be placed on camouflage, painted, and matte painted bodywork.

Engine Oil & Filters
Engine oil quality is a major factor that affects both the performance
and the service life of the engine.
Using the proper oil (page 141) and filter and regularly checking,
adding, and changing oil will help extend your engine’s life. Even the
best oil wears out. Changing oil helps get rid of dirt and deposits in
the engine. Operating the engine with old or dirty oil can damage
your engine. Running the engine with insufficient oil can cause
serious damage to the engine and transmission.
Change the engine oil as specified in the maintenance schedule on

page 119. When running in very dusty conditions, oil changes
should be performed more frequently than specified in the
maintenance schedule.

Oil Recommendation
API classification SJ or higher except oils labeled as

energy conserving or resource
conserving on the circular API
service label
viscosity (weight) SAE 10W-30
JASO T 903 MA
standard
suggested oil* Pro Honda GN4 4-stroke oil (USA &
Canada) or Honda 4-stroke oil, or
an equivalent motorcycle oil.
* Suggested oils are equal in performance to SJ oils that are not

labeled as energy conserving or resource conserving on the
circular API service label.
• Your Honda SXS does not need oil additives. Use the
recommended oil.
• Do not use oils with graphite or molybdenum additives. They may
adversely affect clutch operation.
• Do not use API SJ or higher oils displaying a circular API energy
conserving or resource conserving service label on the container.
They may affect lubrication and clutch performance.
Not recommended Recommended
• Do not use non-detergent, vegetable, or castor-based racing oils.

Other viscosities shown in the following chart may be used when the
average temperature in your driving area is within the indicated
range.
JASO T 903 standard

The JASO T 903 standard is an index for engine oils for 4-stroke
motorcycle engines.
There are two classes: MA and MB.
Oil conforming to the standard is labeled on the oil container. For
example, the following label shows the MA classification.
oil code
oil
classification

Checking & Adding Engine Oil
Check the engine oil level each day before operating your Honda
SXS and add, if needed.
1. Park your Honda SXS on a firm, level surface. Shift the shift select
lever into the park (P) position.
2. Start the engine in a well-ventilated area and let it idle for 3 – 5
minutes. Stop the engine and wait 2 – 3 minutes.
3. The dipstick can be accessed by lifting the bed (page 72).
4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean.
5. Insert the dipstick without screwing it in, then remove the
dipstick and check the oil level. The oil level should be between
the upper level mark and the lower level mark on the dipstick.
UNDER CARGO BED
LEFT SIDE
dipstick
upper level mark

lower level mark
(cont’d)
6. If required, remove the rear mudguard lid (page 133) and oil fill
cap, and then add the specified oil into the oil fill cap hole, up to
the upper level mark on the dipstick. Do not overfill.
7. Reinstall the oil fill cap and dipstick, and then install the rear
mudguard lid.
NOTICE
Running the engine with an improper oil level can cause serious
engine damage.
UNDER CARGO BED

CENTER
oil fill cap

Changing Engine Oil & Filters
Your Honda SXS’s oil filter has very specific performance

requirements. Use a new Honda Genuine oil filter specified for your
model or a filter of equal quality.
NOTICE
Using the wrong oil filter may result in leaks or engine damage.
This procedure requires mechanical skill and professional tools such

as a torque wrench and access from underneath the vehicle, as well
as the means for disposing of the drained fluid (page 219). If you do
not have the skills or the tools, see your dealer.
Your Honda SXS is equipped with two oil filters: an engine oil filter
and a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) oil filter.
When changing the engine oil, also change the engine oil filter.
Also change the DCT oil filter for every two times the engine oil and
oil filter are changed.

Drain the Engine Oil:
1. Make sure the Honda SXS is parked on a firm, level surface. Shift
the shift select lever into the park (P) position, and jack up and
support your Honda SXS (page 136).
3. Remove the rear mudguard lid (page 133).
4. Remove the oil fill cap.
UNDER CARGO BED
CENTER
oil fill cap

5. Place an oil drain pan under the engine oil drain bolts.
6. Remove the engine oil drain bolts and sealing washers.
UNDER BODY
sub-transmission oil drain hole
(Do not remove for engine oil change.)
FORWARD BACKWARD
sealing washer
engine oil drain

bolt (oil tank)
engine oil drain sealing washer
bolt (oil pan)
NOTICE
Be sure not to drain sub-transmission oil unless intending to do
so. The engine and sub-transmission oils are not the
connected.
(cont’d)
Install a New Engine Oil Filter:
Place shop towels under the oil filter cover because oil will flow out.
7. Remove the engine oil filter cover (ENG marked) and O-ring by
removing the bolts. Let the remaining oil drain out. Discard the oil
filter in an approved manner (page 219).
8. Apply engine oil to a new O-ring and install it to the engine oil
filter cover. Install a new oil filter.
Use only the Honda Genuine oil filter or a filter of equivalent
quality specified for your model. Using the wrong Honda filter,
inserting a filter in backwards, using a filter with no OUTSIDE
markings, or a non-Honda filter which is not of equivalent quality
may cause engine damage.
9. Install a new filter with the OUTSIDE mark facing outward,
reinstall the spring and engine oil filter cover making sure the
bolts are tightened to the specified torques:
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
NOTICE
Improper installation of the oil filter can cause serious engine
damage.
LEFT SIDE OUTSIDE mark

spring oil filter
O-ring
bolts
engine oil filter cover

10. Pour the drained oil into a suitable container and dispose of it in
an approved manner (page 219).
NOTICE
Improper disposal of drained fluids is harmful to the environment.
11. When changing the DCT oil filter, proceed to step 12 in Install a
New DCT Oil Filter on the next page. If you are not changing the
DCT oil filter, proceed to step 16 in Add Engine Oil on page 152.
(cont’d)
Install a New DCT Oil Filter:
Place shop towels under the oil filter cover because oil will flow out.
12. Remove the DCT oil filter cover (DCT marked) and O-ring by
removing the bolts. Let the remaining oil drain out. Discard the oil
filter in an approved manner (page 219).
13. Apply engine oil to a new O-ring and install it to the DCT oil filter
cover. Install a new oil filter.
Use only the Honda Genuine oil filter or a filter of equivalent
quality specified for your model. Using the wrong Honda filter,
inserting a filter in backwards, using a filter with no OUTSIDE
markings, or a non-Honda filter, which is not of equivalent
quality, may cause engine damage.
14. Install a new filter with the OUTSIDE mark facing outward,
reinstall the spring and DCT oil filter cover making sure the bolts
are tightened to the specified torques:
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
NOTICE
Improper installation of the oil filter can cause serious engine
damage.
LEFT SIDE OUTSIDE mark
spring oil filter
O-ring
bolts
DCT oil filter cover

NOTICE
(cont’d)
Add Engine Oil:
16. Reinstall the drain bolts and new sealing washers and tighten the
bolts to the specified torques:
22 lbf·ft (30 N·m, 3.1 kgf·m)
17. Lower your Honda SXS safely.
18. Fill the crankcase with the recommended oil, approximately:
engine oil filter change: 6.08 US qt (5.75 ℓ)
engine & DCT oil filters change: 6.1 US qt (5.8 ℓ)
19. Reinstall the oil fill cap and dipstick.
20. Start the engine and let it idle for 3 – 5 minutes.
21. Stop the engine and after 2 – 3 minutes, check the oil level. Make
sure the oil is between the upper and lower level marks on the
dipstick. If necessary, add more oil but do not overfill.
22. Reinstall the oil fill cap, dipstick and rear mudguard lid.
24. Check that there are no oil leaks.
If a torque wrench is not used for installation, see your dealer as

soon as possible to verify proper assembly.
UNDER BODY
FORWARD BACKWARD
sealing
washer
drain bolt
(oil pan) drain bolt
(oil tank)
sealing washer

Sub-Transmission Oil
Oil Recommendation
The recommended sub-transmission oil is the same as the engine oil

(page 141).
Checking & Adding Sub-Transmission Oil
Check the sub-transmission oil level each day before operating your
Honda SXS and add, if needed.
2. Remove the rear seat (page 131).
3. Remove the seat under lid.
seat under lid
4. Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick from the transmission cover and
wipe it clean.
5. Insert the dipstick without screwing it in, then remove the oil fill
cap/dipstick and check the oil level. The oil level should be
between the upper level mark and the lower level mark on the oil
fill cap/dipstick.
(cont’d)
UNDER REAR SEAT
CENTER
oil fill cap/dipstick
upper level mark
lower level mark
6. If the oil level is near or below the lower level mark, add the
specified oil into the oil fill cap hole, fill to the upper level mark
on the dipstick. Do not over fill.
7. Reinstall the oil fill cap/dipstick.
8. Install the seat under lid.
9. Install the rear seat.
NOTICE
Running the engine with an improper oil level can cause serious
engine damage.

Changing Sub-Transmission Oil
This procedure requires mechanical skill and professional tools such

as a torque wrench, and access from underneath the vehicle, as well
as the means for disposing of the drained fluid (page 219). If you do
not have the skills or the tools, see your dealer.
1. Make sure the Honda SXS is parked on a firm, level surface. Shift
the shift select lever into the park (P) position, and jack up and
support your Honda SXS (page 136).
2. Remove the rear seat (page 131) and the seat under lid, then
remove the oil fill cap/dipstick.
3. Place an oil drain pan under the sub-transmission drain bolt.
4. Remove the sub-transmission oil drain bolt and sealing washer.
UNDER BODY
engine oil drain hole
(Do not remove for sub-
sub-transmission oil drain hole transmission oil change.)
FORWARD BACKWARD
drain bolt
sealing washer
(cont’d)
Pour the drained oil into a suitable container and dispose of it in an
approved manner (page 219).
5. Reinstall the drain bolt and new sealing washer and tighten the
bolt to the specified torque:
21 lbf·ft (29 N·m, 3.0 kgf·m)
6. Lower your Honda SXS safely.
7. Fill the sub-transmission case with the recommended oil,
approximately:
1.22 US qt (1.15 ℓ)
8. Insert the dipstick without screwing it in, then remove the oil fill
cap/dipstick and check the oil level. Make sure the oil is between
the upper level mark and lower level mark on the dipstick. If
necessary, add more oil but do not overfill.
9. Reinstall the oil fill cap/dipstick.
10. Reinstall the seat under lid and the rear seat.
11. Check that there are no oil leaks.
If a torque wrench is not used for installation, see your dealer as

soon as possible to verify proper assembly.
NOTICE

Front Final Gear Oil
Oil Recommendation
API classification GL-5

type hypoid gear oil
suggested oil Honda shaft drive oil or an equivalent
Checking Oil
Check the final gear oil level every 1,800 miles (3,000 km) or 300
hours of operating your Honda SXS and add, if needed.
2. Remove the oil fill cap and O-ring.
3. Make sure the oil level is at the lower edge of the oil fill inspection
hole.
4. Apply a thin coat of grease to a new O-ring and insert it into the
oil fill cap groove.
5. Install and tighten oil fill cap to the specified torque:
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
LEFT FRONT
lower edge of oil fill
inspection hole
oil fill cap/O-ring

Front Final Gear Oil
Changing Oil
Change the oil with the front final gear at normal operating
temperature to assure complete and rapid draining.
1. Park the Honda SXS on a firm, level surface. Shift the shift select
2. Place an oil drain pan under the oil drain plug.
3. Remove the oil fill cap, O-ring, drain plug, and sealing washer.
4. After the oil has completely drained, reinstall the drain plug with
a new sealing washer and tighten it to the specified torque:
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
5. Fill the front final gear with the recommended oil.
11.5 US oz (340 cm3)
6. Make sure the oil level is at the lower edge of the oil fill inspection hole.
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
NOTICE
LEFT FRONT sealing washer
lower edge of oil
fill inspection hole
oil drain
oil fill cap/O-ring plug

Rear Final Gear Oil
Oil Recommendation
API classification GL-5

type hypoid gear oil
suggested oil Honda shaft drive oil or an equivalent
Checking Oil
Check the rear final gear oil level every 1,800 miles (3,000 km) or
300 hours of operating your Honda SXS, and add if needed.
2. Remove the oil fill cap and O-ring.
3. Make sure the oil level is at the lower edge of the oil fill inspection
hole.
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
RIGHT REAR lower edge of oil
oil fill cap oil/

O-ring

Rear Final Gear Oil
Changing Oil
Change the oil with the rear final gear at normal operating
temperature to assure complete and rapid draining.
1. Park the Honda SXS on a firm, level surface. Shift the shift select
2. Place an oil drain pan under the oil drain plug.
3. Remove the oil fill cap, O-ring, drain plug, and sealing washer.
4. After the oil has completely drained, reinstall the drain plug with
a new sealing washer and tighten it to the specified torque:
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
5. Fill the rear final gear with the recommended oil.
15.9 US oz (470 cm3)
6. Make sure the oil level is at the lower edge of the oil fill inspection hole.
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
NOTICE
RIGHT REAR lower edge of oil sealing washer
oil drain
oil fill cap/
plug
O-ring
Coolant
Your Honda SXS’s liquid cooling system dissipates engine heat
through the coolant jacket that surrounds the cylinder and cylinder
head.
Maintaining the coolant will allow the cooling system to work

properly and prevent freezing, overheating, and corrosion.
Coolant Recommendation
Use Pro Honda HP Coolant or an equivalent high-quality ethylene

glycol antifreeze containing corrosion protection inhibitors
specifically recommended for use in aluminum engines. Check the
antifreeze container label.
Use only distilled water as a part of the coolant solution. Water that
is high in mineral content or salt may be harmful to the aluminum
engine.
NOTICE
Using coolant with silicate inhibitors may cause premature wear of
water pump seals or blockage of radiator passages. Using tap water
may cause engine damage.
The factory provides a 50/50 solution of antifreeze and distilled

water in this Honda SXS. This coolant solution is recommended for
most operating temperatures and provides good corrosion
protection.
Decreasing the concentration of antifreeze to less than 40% will not

provide proper corrosion protection.

Coolant
Increasing the concentration of antifreeze is not recommended
because it decreases cooling system performance. Higher
concentrations of antifreeze (up to 60%) should only be used to
provide additional protection against freezing. Check the cooling
system frequently during freezing weather.
Checking & Adding Coolant
Check the engine coolant level every day before operating your
Honda SXS and add, if needed.
1. Make sure the vehicle is parked on a firm, level surface.

2. With the engine at normal operating temperature, check the
coolant level in the reserve tank. It should be between the MAX
and MIN level marks.
If the reserve tank is empty, or if coolant loss is excessive, check
for leaks and see your dealer for repair.
LEFT FRONT
MAX level
mark
MIN level
mark
reserve tank

Coolant
4. Remove the reserve tank cap.
Always add coolant to the reserve tank. Do not attempt to add
coolant by removing the radiator cap.
UNDER FRONT HOOD
LEFT FRONT
reserve tank cap
5. Add coolant to the reserve tank as required to bring the coolant

level to the MAX level mark.
6. After adding coolant, install the reserve tank cap and install the
front hood.

Coolant
Coolant Replacement
Coolant should be replaced by your dealer, unless you have the

proper tools and service data, and are mechanically qualified. Refer
to the official Honda Service Manual.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Removing the radiator cap while the engine is
hot can cause the coolant to spray out,
seriously scalding you.
Always let the engine and radiator cool down

before removing the radiator cap.
To properly dispose of drained coolant, refer to You & the

Environment, page 219.
NOTICE

Coolant
Radiator Core
Check the air passages for clogging or damage. Remove insects,

mud, or any obstruction with low water pressure. Have the radiator
checked by your dealer if more than 20% of the radiator surface air
flow is restricted.
Clean the radiator core after driving your Honda SXS in mud.
To clean the radiator core:

2. Wash the radiator core with low water pressure.
NOTICE
Do not apply high pressure water directly to the radiator core. High
pressure water can damage the radiator core fins.

Air Cleaner
This vehicle is equipped with a viscous type air cleaner which cannot
be cleaned with compressed air or any chemicals without degrading
its performance.
Service the air cleaner more frequently if you drive in unusually wet
or dusty areas. Your dealer can help you determine the correct
service interval for your driving conditions.
Your Honda SXS’s air cleaner has very specific performance

requirements. Use a new Honda Genuine air cleaner specified for
your model or an air cleaner of equal quality.
NOTICE
Using the wrong air cleaner may result in premature engine wear.

Air Cleaner
Replacing Air Cleaner
NOTICE
Clean the air cleaner housing cover prior to removal.
Remove the air cleaner to the right side.
When removing the air cleaner, be careful not to allow foreign
objects to drop into the air intake ducts.

2. Remove the air cleaner outer cover (page 132).
3. Clean the air cleaner housing cover and then remove it by
removing the bolts.
UNDER CARGO BED
Bolts
air cleaner housing cover
Bolts
(cont’d)
Air Cleaner
4. Pull the air cleaner out to the right side by loosen the bolt.
When removing the air cleaner, be careful not to allow foreign
objects to drop into the air intake ducts.
air cleaner
air cleaner housing
bolt
air intake ducts

5. Insert a new air cleaner into the air cleaner housing and tighten
the bolt. Make sure that the air cleaner is properly seated in the
air cleaner housing.
6. Install the air cleaner housing cover and tighten the screws to the
specified torque:
3.8 lbf·ft (5.2 N·m, 0.5 kgf·m)
7. Install the air cleaner outer cover.

Air Cleaner
Cleaning Sub Air Cleaner

2. Remove the clip (page 135).
3. Remove the sub air cleaner housing cover.
4. Pull the sub air cleaner out.
5. If there is any dirt or foreign object attached to the sub air
cleaner, clean it by tapping it. If it is damaged or deteriorated, see
your dealer for replacement.
6. Install the sub air cleaner.
7. Install the sub air cleaner housing cover and clip.
8. Install the front hood.
UNDER FRONT HOOD
sub air cleaner

housing cover sub air cleaner
clip

Lubrication
To keep moving parts functioning properly, coat them with a
multipurpose grease (without Teflon or molybdenum additives, such
as CRC 6-56 or an equivalent).
Provide lubrication when moving parts do not work smoothly. Also

lubricate according to the maintenance schedule (page 120).
Consult your dealer for more information about lubrication

procedures.
Apply grease to each pivot to prevent corrosion. Check for smooth

movement after lubrication. If the movement is not smooth after
applying grease, see your dealer.

Lubrication
Lubrication Points
Lubricate the cargo bed strikers as shown in the following

illustration.
Lift the cargo bed (page 72).
cargo bed strikers
Lubricate the front/rear seat latch as shown in the following

illustration. Remove the front/rear seat (page 131).
front/rear seat latch

Lubrication
Lubricate the steering wheel tilt pivots as shown in the following
illustration. Remove the clips (page 135) and the lower cover.
steering wheel tilt pivots
lower cover clips
Lubricate the brake pedal pivot and accelerator pedal pivot as shown
in the following illustration.
brake pedal pivot accelerator pedal pivot

Lubrication
Lubricate the shift select lever pivots as shown in the following illustration.
Remove the front hood (page 129).
UNDER FRONT HOOD shift select lever pivots
Lubricate the drive mode select lever pivots as shown in the

following illustration.
UNDER FRONT HOOD
drive mode select lever
drive mode select lever pivot pivots
drive mode select

lever pivot

Lubrication
Lubricate the door latch as shown in the following illustration. Open
the door (page 49).
door latch door latch

Engine
Accelerator Pedal
Accelerator Pedal Inspection
Your Honda SXS is equipped with an accelerator pedal position

sensor. When the openings of the accelerator pedal and throttle
valve do not match, the PGM-FI Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)
comes on and limits the vehicle to a safe controllable speed.
If the accelerator pedal has excessive play due to cable stretch or
incorrect adjustment, the openings of the accelerator pedal and
throttle valve will not match.
Check the accelerator pedal play periodically in accordance with the
Periodic Maintenance Chart, and adjust the play if necessary.
Inspection
Check the freeplay of the accelerator pedal.
Freeplay:
3/16 – 3/8 in (5 – 10 mm)
accelerator
pedal
3/16 – 3/8 in
(5 – 10 mm)

Accelerator Pedal
Adjustment
1. Slide the sleeve back to expose the throttle cable adjuster.
2. Loosen the lock nut.
3. Turn the adjuster to obtain the correct freeplay.
4. Tighten the lock nut and reinstall the sleeve.
5. After adjustment, check for smooth operation of the accelerator pedal.
LEFT FRONT
sleeve
decrease
freeplay
increase
freeplay
lock nut
throttle cable adjuster

Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Recommendation
standard spark plug LMAR7M-9S (NGK)
Use only the recommended type of spark plug in the recommended

heat range.
NOTICE
Using spark plugs with an improper heat range can cause engine
damage.
Spark Plug Inspection & Replacement

2. Remove the air cleaner outer cover (page 132).
3. Clean any dirt from around the spark plug base.
4. Disconnect the spark plug caps. Be sure to avoid damaging the
spark plug wires when disconnecting the caps.
5. Using a spark plug wrench provided in the tool kit, remove the
spark plugs.
6. Inspect the electrodes and center porcelain for deposits,
corrosion, or carbon fouling. If the corrosion or deposits are
heavy, replace the plug. Clean a carbon or wet-fouled plug with
a plug cleaner, if available, or a wire brush. Inspect the spark plug
electrodes for wear. The center electrode should have a flat tip
and sharp edges, and the side electrode should not be eroded. If
the electrodes and insulator tip appear unusually fouled or
burned, we suggest that you contact your dealer.
(cont’d)
Spark Plugs
7. Discard the spark plug if there is apparent wear or if the insulator
is cracked or chipped.
8. Using a wire-type feeler gauge, check the spark plug gap. If
adjustment is necessary, bend the side electrode carefully.
The gap should be:
0.03 – 0.04 in (0.8 – 0.9 mm)
UNDER CARGO BED
spark plug gap
0.03 – 0.04 in side
(0.8 – 0.9 mm) electrode
center
electrode
spark plug caps

Spark Plugs
9. With the plug washer attached, thread the spark plug in by hand
to prevent cross-threading.
10. Tighten the spark plug:
• If the old plug is good:
1/12 turn after it seats.
• If installing a new plug, tighten it twice to prevent loosening:
a) First, tighten the plug:
b) Then, loosen the plug.
c) Next, tighten the plug again:
NOTICE
An improperly tightened spark plug can damage the engine. If a
plug is too loose, the piston may be damaged. If a plug is too tight,
the threads may be damaged.
11. Connect the spark plug caps. Be sure to avoid pinching any
cables or wires.
12. Install the air cleaner outer cover.

Spark Arrester
The spark arrester must be serviced every 600 miles (1,000 km) or
100 operating hours to maintain its efficiency.
(USA only)
Regular servicing prevents carbon build up (which can diminish
engine performance) and also complies with USDA regulations for
regular maintenance to assure proper function. The spark arrester
prevents random sparks from the combustion process in your engine
from reaching the environment.
The use of safety glasses is recommended for this procedure.
Because of the possible fire hazard, check that there are no

combustible materials in the area before purging the spark arrester.

Spark Arrester
REAR
muffler bolt
1. Select a well-ventilated area free of combustible materials and

make sure the exhaust pipe is cool.
2. Remove the bolt.
3. Start the engine and rev it up approximately twenty times while
momentarily creating exhaust system back pressure by blocking
the end of the muffler with a shop towel.
4. Stop the engine and allow the exhaust pipe to cool.
5. Reinstall the bolt securely.

Exhaust System
Exhaust System Inspection
Stop the engine and check for any sign of exhaust gas leakage.
Listen for exhaust leaks near the muffler, which is located by the left
rear wheel well.
check for exhaust leakage

Chassis
Suspension
Your front and rear suspension systems use springs and hydraulic
damping devices that suspend your weight and most of the weight
of your Honda SXS.
The oil damper systems hydraulically control the natural compression

and rebound of the suspension springs so that traction and comfort
are maintained as the wheels ride over rough terrain.
The front and rear shock absorber assemblies include a damper unit
that contains high pressure nitrogen gas. Do not attempt to
disassemble, service, or dispose of the damper. See your dealer.
The way you drive your Honda SXS and the type of ride you want to
experience can also influence your suspension needs.
Your Honda SXS is equipped with an auto leveling rear suspension.

Based on the weight of the passengers or loads on the cargo bed,
the rear shock absorber automatically extends while driving to level
off the lowered rear of the vehicle. Manually adjusting the spring
pre-load is not necessary.
Auto Leveling Rear Suspension
Auto leveling rear suspension is a rear shock absorber equipped with

a mechanism that controls the level of the lowered rear body,
depending on the weight of rear passengers or loads on the cargo
bed.

Brakes
The hydraulic disc braking system on your Honda SXS dissipates the
heat generated by the friction of the brake pads on the disc as the
wheels are slowed.
As the front and rear brake pads wear, the brake fluid level will drop.
A leak in the system will also cause the level to drop.
There are no adjustments to perform, but fluid level and pad wear
must be inspected periodically. The system must also be inspected
frequently to ensure there are no fluid leaks.
If the brake pedal freeplay seems abnormal or the pedal feels

spongy, see your dealer to have the air bled from the system.
Brake Operation Check
Push down on the brake pedal to check that the controls operate
normally.
Check for damage to the brake pads and disc plate.
Brake Fluid Recommendation
brake fluid Honda DOT 4 Brake Fluid
The recommended brake fluid is Honda DOT 4 Brake Fluid, or any

brake fluid of equal quality and performance. Use fresh brake fluid
from a sealed container. Be sure to read the label before opening the
sealed container. An opened container may be contaminated or may
have absorbed moisture from the air.

Brakes
Fluid Level Inspection
Brake Fluid Level

If your inspection indicates a low fluid level, have your dealer inspect
the brake system for possible leaks or worn brake pads.
The brake fluid level will drop as the brake pads wear.
Do not add or replace brake fluid, except in an emergency. If you do

add fluid, have your dealer check the system as soon as possible.
NOTICE
Brake fluid can damage plastic and painted surfaces. Handle with care.
Check the fluid level on level ground.

1. Slide the brake fluid reservoir tank cap cover up a little to reveal
the MAX level mark. Do not remove the brake fluid reservoir tank
cap cover.
LEFT FRONT brake fluid reservoir tank cap cover
brake fluid
reservoir tank MAX level
mark
MIN level
mark
The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX level marks. If
the level is at or below the MIN level mark, check the brake pads for
wear (page 187).
(cont’d)
Brakes
2. Return the brake fluid reservoir tank cap cover to its normal
position.
Worn brake pads should be replaced. If the pads are not worn, have
your brake system inspected for leaks.
Wipe up spills immediately. Avoid contact with skin or eyes.

If brake fluid comes in contact with your eyes, wash them out with
clean water and immediately call a doctor.
If brake fluid comes in contact with your skin, wash with clean water
and, if necessary, call a doctor.
Other Inspections
• Make sure there are no fluid leaks.

• Check for deterioration or cracks in the hoses and fittings. If the
hoses are worn or cracked, have them replaced by your dealer.

Brakes
Brake Pad Wear
Brake pad wear will depend upon the severity of usage and driving
conditions. The pads will wear faster in wet, sandy, or muddy
conditions.
Inspect the pads during all regular service intervals to determine the
pad wear.
Note that the pads are designed to make a metallic noise during
braking when they reach the wear limit.
If you hear a continuous metallic friction sound when applying the

brakes, the brake pads need to be replaced. Have the vehicle
checked by a dealer.

Brakes
Brake Pedal Inspection
Check that the brake pedal moves smoothly and does not feel
abnormally spongy. Refer to the maintenance schedule (page 119).
CHECK THAT THE BRAKE

PEDAL MOVES SMOOTHLY.
brake pedal

Brakes
Brake Light Switch Adjustment
Periodically check the operation of the brake light switch. It is

located near the brake fluid reservoir.
The brake light should turn on just before the brake works.
Adjustment is done by holding the switch body and turning the
adjusting nut. Turn the nut clockwise (direction A) if the switch
operates too late, and counterclockwise (direction B) if the switch
operates too soon.
LEFT FRONT
brake light switch
B
A

Tires
To safely operate your Honda SXS, your tires must be the proper type
and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly
inflated.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Using tires that are excessively worn,
improperly inflated, damaged, or overloaded
can cause a crash in which you can be
Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual

regarding tire inflation and maintenance.
The following pages give detailed information on how and when to

check your air pressure, how to inspect your tires for wear and
damage, and our recommendations for tire repair and replacement.

Tires
Air Pressure
Properly inflated tires provide the best combination of handling,

tread life, and driving comfort. Generally, underinflated tires wear
unevenly, adversely affect handling, and are more likely to fail from
being overheated. Overinflated tires make your Honda SXS drive
harshly, are more prone to damage from surface hazards, and wear
unevenly.
Make sure the valve stem caps are secure. If necessary, install new
caps.

Tires
Always check air pressure when your tires are “cold.” If you check air
pressure when your tires are “warm” — even if your Honda SXS has
only been driven for a few miles — the readings will be higher. If you
let air out of warm tires to match the recommended cold tire
pressures, the tires will be underinflated. Be sure to check tire
pressure at the driving site, since changes in altitude can affect air
pressure.
The recommended cold tire pressures are:
RECOMMENDED PRESSURE
FRONT 22 psi (150 kPa)
REAR 22 psi (150 kPa)

Tires
A manually operated tire pump should be used rather than the high
pressure system found in service stations. This will minimize the
possibility of tire damage from overinflation. If you use a high
pressure system at a service station, add air in small amounts and
check the pressure increase frequently to prevent possible tire
damage from overinflation.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Operating this Honda SXS with improper
tires, uneven tire pressure, damaged tires, or
overloading the tires may cause loss of
control, and you could be seriously injured or
killed.
• Always use the size and type of tires

specified in this owner’s manual for this
vehicle.
• Always maintain proper tire pressure as
described in this owner’s manual.
Inspection
Whenever you check the tire pressures, you should also look for:
• Bumps or bulges in the side of the tire or the tread. Replace any
tire that has a bump or bulge.
• Cuts, slits, or cracks in the tires. Replace the tire if you can see
fabric or cord.
• Nails or other foreign objects embedded in the side of the tire or
tread.
• Excessive tread wear.

Tires
If you hit a hard object while driving, stop as soon as you safely can
and carefully inspect the tires for damage.
Tread Wear
groove depth
3/16 in (4 mm)
To check the condition of a tire tread, measure the groove depth in

the center of the tire, or check the wear indicator.
For best performance, you should replace a tire before the tread
depth at the center reaches the following limits:
front 3/16 in (4 mm)

rear 3/16 in (4 mm)

Tires
Tire Repair
We strongly recommend that you replace, not repair, any tire that is
punctured or damaged. As discussed below, a tire that is repaired,
either temporarily or permanently, will have lower speed and
performance limits than a new or undamaged tire.
A temporary repair can sometimes be made in an emergency

situation. However, since a temporary repair may not hold, you must
drive very slowly, preferably without any cargo, and have the tire
replaced or permanently repaired as soon as possible. (For more
information on temporary repairs, see If You Have a Flat Tire,
page 232.)
A permanent repair, such as an internal plug patch, can be made if

a tire has only a small puncture in the tread area. With such a repair,
you should drive very slowly for the first 24 hours. However, you may
not be able to safely carry as much weight. If you choose to have a
tire repaired, be sure the repair work is performed by a professional.
If you have a tire professionally repaired at a non-Honda facility, we

recommend that you have the work checked by your Honda dealer.

Tires
Tire Replacement
The tires that came on your Honda SXS were designed to match the
performance capabilities of the vehicle and provide the best
combination of handling, braking, and comfort.
It is best to replace all four tires. However, if that is not possible, you
must replace the tires in pairs (front or rear) with tires of the same
size and type as the originals. Never replace just one tire.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Installing improper tires on your Honda SXS
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.

Tires
The recommended tires for your Honda SXS are:
27X9.00R14 NHS
front
ARMSTRONG DIRT MASTER
27X11.00R14 NHS
rear
ARMSTRONG DIRT MASTER
When you replace a tire, remember:

Have the tire replaced by your Honda dealer, if possible.
If you have a tire professionally replaced at a non-Honda facility, we
recommend that you have the work checked by your Honda dealer.

Wheels
Inspection
Check that the wheel nuts are tight and there are no cracks or
deformation in the wheel.
CHECK FOR CRACKS

OR DEFORMATION.
CHECK THAT THE WHEEL

NUTS ARE TIGHT

Driveshaft Boots
Check the rubber boots for tears or traces of splattered grease.

If necessary, have your dealer replace them.
FRONT steering shaft boots
front arm ball front arm ball

driveshaft boots
joint boots joint boots
REAR
driveshaft boots

Electrical
Battery
Your Honda SXS has a maintenance-free type battery. You do not
have to check the battery electrolyte level or add distilled water as
you would with a conventional-type battery.
NOTICE
Your battery is a maintenance-free type and can be permanently
damaged if the cap strip is removed.
Electrical accessories use current from the battery, some even when
the ignition is OFF (w). Limited operation of your Honda SXS also
allows the battery to discharge. If you have electrical accessories on
your Honda SXS, or do not drive frequently, we recommend that you
charge the battery frequently (see Battery Charging, page 204).
If you do not expect to drive your Honda SXS for at least two weeks,
we recommend you remove the battery, or at least disconnect the
battery cables (negative cable first).
If you plan to store your Honda SXS, see Battery Storage, page 201.
If your battery seems weak and/or is leaking electrolyte (causing slow

starting or other electrical problems), see your dealer.
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain

lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling.

Battery
Battery Storage
If you plan to store your Honda SXS, we recommend you remove the
battery and store it where it can be charged every 30 days to
maintain its service life.
If you do not remove the battery, we recommend disconnecting the

battery cables (negative cable first).
Check the terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To

remove it, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and
water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off
with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel.
You will get the best storage results from removing the battery and
slow charging it every 30 days (see Battery Charging, page 204).
Before you remove the battery, be sure to read all the information
that follows, as well as the information on the battery label.
WARNING 3 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.
Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or

have a skilled mechanic do the battery
maintenance.

Battery
The battery is located under the front hood.
Removal
1. Make sure the ignition switch is OFF (w).
3. Remove the battery holder by removing the bolts. Then, remove
the rubber cover.
4. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal lead from the battery first,
then disconnect the positive (+) terminal lead.
5. Remove the battery from the battery box.
6. Charge the battery (see the following section), unless you have
been driving regularly.
7. Store your battery in an easy-to-reach location off the floor, in an
area protected from freezing temperature and direct sunlight.
8. Clean the battery box after removing the battery for storage. Dry
the battery box.
9. Slow charge the battery (see following section) once every 30
days.
positive (+) terminal lead bolt negative (-) terminal lead
battery
rubber
cover
battery holder bolt

Battery
Installation
Reinstall in the reverse order of removal.
Be sure to connect the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-)
terminal.
Make sure the clock is set to the proper time after the battery is
reconnected (page 33).

Battery
Battery Charging
charger
Be sure to read the information that came with your battery charger
and follow the instructions on the battery. Improper charging may
damage the battery.
We recommend using a charger designed specifically for your

Honda, which can be purchased from your dealer. These units can
be left connected for long periods without risking damage to the
battery. However, do not intentionally leave the charger connected
longer than the time period recommended in the charger’s
instructions.
Avoid using an automotive-type battery charger. An automotive

charger can overheat a Honda SXS battery and cause premature
damage.

Appearance Care
Frequent cleaning and polishing will keep your Honda looking newer
longer.
Frequent cleaning also identifies you as an owner who values their
Honda SXS. A clean Honda SXS is also easier to inspect and service.
General Recommendations
• To clean your Honda SXS, you may use:

– water
– Hondabrite
– a mild, neutral detergent and water
– a mild spray and wipe cleaner/polisher
For matte painted surfaces, use a spray cleaner. Avoid using a
spray cleaner/polish.
– a mild spray and rinse cleaner/degreaser and water
• Avoid products that contain harsh detergents or chemical
solvents that could damage the metal, paint, plastic, and
camouflage coating on your Honda SXS.
• If your Honda SXS is still warm from recent operation, give the
engine and exhaust system time to cool off.
• Park in a shady area. Washing your Honda SXS in bright sunlight
may cause the finish to fade because water droplets intensify the
sun’s brightness. Spotting is also more likely because surface
water can dry before you have time to wipe it off.
• Clean your Honda SXS regularly to protect surface finishes.
• We recommend the use of a low pressure garden hose to wash your
Honda SXS. High pressure washers (similar to coin-operated car
washers) can damage certain parts of your Honda SXS.
NOTICE
High pressure water (or air) can damage certain parts of your Honda SXS.
(cont’d)
Appearance Care
• After cleaning, inspect for damage, wear, and leaks (fuel, oil,
coolant, and brake fluid).
Washing Your Honda SXS with a Mild Detergent
1. Rinse your Honda SXS thoroughly with cool water to remove

loose dirt.
2. Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix in a mild, neutral detergent,
such as dish washing liquid or a product made especially for
washing motorcycles or automobiles.
3. Wash your Honda SXS with a sponge or soft towel. As you wash,
check for heavy grime. If necessary, use a mild cleaner/degreaser
to remove the grime.
4. After washing, rinse your Honda SXS thoroughly with plenty of
clean water to remove any residue. Detergent residue can
corrode alloy parts.
5. Dry your Honda SXS with a chamois or a soft towel. Leaving
water on the surface to air dry can cause dulling and water spots.
As you dry, inspect for chips and scratches.
6. Start the engine and let it idle for several minutes. The engine
heat will help dry moist areas.
7. As a precaution, drive your Honda SXS at a slow speed and apply
the brakes several times. This will help dry the brakes and restore
normal braking performance.

Appearance Care
The headlights' inside lens may fog temporarily after washing or
while driving in the rain. This does not impact the headlight
function.
Any condensation inside the headlight should dissipate after a
few minutes of running the engine with the headlight(s) on.
However, if you see a large amount of water or ice accumulated
inside the lens(es), have your vehicle inspected by your dealer.

Appearance Care
Spray Cleaning Your Honda SXS
Avoid using spray cleaner products on the tires or suspension

components.
Suggestions for using spray cleaners:
Honda SXS condition Recommended Cleaning

Dust and fingerprint Apply a spray cleaner/polish*
smudges. and wipe paint, chrome, glass,
and clear plastic.
Light road grime. Spray any difficult-to-reach or
dirty areas with a spray
cleaner/degreaser.
Rinse and dry.
Apply a spray cleaner/polish*
and wipe with a non-abrasive
cloth.
Heavy grime. Oil leaks. Use a spray cleaner/degreaser.
Brake dust. If necessary, rub with a
sponge.
Rinse and dry.
Apply a spray cleaner/polish*
and wipe with a non-abrasive
cloth.
Dull, corroded chrome Apply a high quality chrome/
or aluminum. aluminum polish and wipe
with a non-abrasive cloth.
* For matte painted surfaces, use a spray cleaner. Avoid using a spray cleaner/polish.

Appearance Care
Aluminum Wheel Maintenance
Aluminum may corrode from contact with dirt, mud, or road salt.
Clean the wheels after driving through any of these substances. Use
a wet sponge and mild detergent. Avoid stiff brushes, steel wool, or
cleaners containing abrasives or chemical compounds.
After washing, rinse with plenty of water and dry with a clean cloth.
Then apply a mild, commercially available spray cleaner/polish or
wax.
For stained or dull-looking wheels, use a quality chrome/aluminum

polish to restore the finish.
Exhaust Pipe and Muffler Maintenance
The exhaust pipe and muffler are stainless steel but may become
stained by mud or dust. Make sure no flammable materials or debris
are sticking to the exhaust system. If any flammable materials or
debris is found, remove it.
To remove mud or dust, use a wet sponge and a liquid kitchen abrasive,
then rinse well with clean water. Dry with chamois or a soft towel.
If necessary, remove heat stains by using a commercially available

fine texture compound. Then, rinse by the same manner as removing
mud or dust.

Appearance Care
Finishing Touches
(Except for matte painted surface)

After washing your Honda SXS, consider using a commercially
available spray cleaner/polish or quality liquid or paste wax to finish
the job. Use only a non-abrasive polish or wax made specifically for
motorcycles or automobiles. Apply the polish or wax according to
the instructions on the container.
(USA only)
If a surface on your Honda SXS is chipped or scratched, your dealer has
touch-up paint to match your Honda SXS’s color. Be sure to use your
Honda SXS’s color code (page 253) when you buy touch-up paint.
If the frame has a chip that exposes the metal, first apply primer (to
prevent corrosion) and then apply the touch-up paint. Several thin
layers of touch-up paint are better than one thick coat.
Cleaning Matte Painted Surfaces
Use a soft cloth or sponge, plenty of water, and a mild detergent to

clean the matte paint. Dry with a soft cloth.
Do not use polishing compounds or wax containing polishing

compounds. These can damage or discolor the matte painted
surface.

Tips
Here’s some helpful advice on how to prepare for an off-road
Tips
adventure, how to transport and store your Honda, and how to be

an environmentally responsible Honda SXS owner.
Preparing for a Drive................................................................. 212

What to Take to the Operating Area...................................... 212
What to Take on the Trail ...................................................... 213
Transporting Your Honda ......................................................... 214
Storing Your Honda.................................................................. 215
Preparation for Storage.......................................................... 216
Removal from Storage ........................................................... 218
You & the Environment ............................................................ 219
Tips 211
Preparing for a Drive
A safe and enjoyable drive begins with good planning and
preparation. Always drive with at least one other person in case you
have trouble, and let someone know where you’re going and when
you expect to return.
Before driving in an unfamiliar area, find out in advance if you need

special permits, get maps so you can study the terrain, and talk to
other drivers who know the area. The Forest Service and the Bureau
of Land Management (USA only), driver’s clubs, and off-road
magazines are good sources of information.
What to Take to the Operating Area
Along with your Honda SXS and personal safety gear, you should
take along some tools and supplies in case you have a problem. For
some of the difficulties you might encounter, see Taking Care of the
Unexpected, which begins on page 221.
We recommend that you always take water, food, a first aid kit, and
your owner’s manual. Other items you should consider taking along
include:
• a tool kit
• tire repair supplies and tools
• wire, duct tape, and rope
• extra gasoline and a fire extinguisher
212 Tips
Preparing for a Drive
What to Take on the Trail
What you take with you during a ride depends on the kind of terrain,
how long you expect to drive, how far you might go from help, and
how experienced you or your companions are in making repairs.
If you decide to take some tools, spare parts, or other supplies on the
trail, be sure you can carry them safely and know how to use them.
Also, be sure to follow the loading guidelines and weight limit
(page 85).
Tips 213
Transporting Your Honda
Do not tow your Honda SXS behind a car or other vehicle except on
a trailer.
Follow these procedures:

1. Shift the shift select lever into the park (P) position and the drive
mode select lever into 4WD Diff Lock position.
2. Secure the vehicle with tie-down straps in the areas shown.
• Suitable tie-down straps are available from your dealer.
• Ordinary rope is not recommended because it can stretch
under load.
• Using tie-down straps in any other areas can damage your
Honda SXS.
3. Rock the vehicle back and forth to make sure the tie-down straps
are tight and the vehicle is secure.
214 Tips
Storing Your Honda
If you won’t be driving for an extended period, such as during the
winter, thoroughly inspect your Honda SXS and correct any problem
before storing it. That way, needed repairs won’t be forgotten and it
will be easier to get your Honda SXS running again.
(USA only)
For more information about storage, refer to the Honda Winter
Storage Guide, available from your dealer.
We suggest you perform the following procedures to keep your

Honda SXS in top condition. These storage procedures will reduce
the deterioration that can occur during storage.
Tips 215
Storing Your Honda
Preparation for Storage
1. Change the engine oil and filters (page 145).

2. Make sure the cooling system is filled with a 50/50 antifreeze
solution (page 161).
3. Fill the fuel tank. Make sure the fuel fill cap is properly installed.
4. To prevent rusting in the cylinder, perform the following:
• Remove the air cleaner outer cover (page 132), and disconnect
the spark plug caps from the spark plugs (page 177).
• Remove the spark plugs (page 177).
Do not connect the spark plugs to the spark plug caps.
• Pour a tablespoon (15 – 20 cc) of clean engine oil into the
cylinder and cover the spark plug holes with a piece of cloth.
• Turn the ignition switch to the START (p) position and crank
the engine several times to distribute the oil.
• Reinstall the spark plugs, spark plug caps, and air cleaner outer
cover.
216 Tips
Storing Your Honda
5. Remove the battery and charge it fully. Store it in an area
protected from freezing temperatures and direct sunlight. Slow
charge the battery (page 204) once a month.
WARNING 3 WARNING

hurt you.

maintenance.
6. Wash and dry your Honda SXS. Wax all painted surfaces (except
matte painted surface).
7. Inflate the tires to their recommended pressures (page 192).
8. Store your Honda SXS in an unheated area, free of dampness,
away from sunlight, with a minimum of daily temperature
variation.
9. Place your Honda SXS on blocks to lift all tires off the floor.
10. Cover your Honda SXS with a porous material. Avoid using plastic
or similar non-breathing, coated materials that restrict air flow
and allow heat and moisture to accumulate.
Tips 217
Storing Your Honda
Removal from Storage
1. Uncover and clean your Honda SXS.

2. If your Honda SXS has been stored for more than four months —
change the engine oil (page 145).
3. If your Honda SXS has been stored for more than two months —
ask your dealer to drain and replace the fuel.
4. Charge the battery (page 204) as required. Install the battery.
5. Perform a pre-drive inspection (page 82), then test-ride your
Honda SXS at low speeds.
218 Tips
You & the Environment
Owning and operating a Honda SXS can be enjoyable, but you must
do your part to protect nature. When you show respect for the land,
wildlife, and other people, you also help preserve off-road driving.
Following are tips on how you can be an environmentally responsible

Honda SXS owner.
• Tread Lightly. Stay on existing paths and trails, avoid surfaces

that are easily damaged, and drive only in areas approved for off-
road vehicles.
• Keep the Noise Down. Loud vehicles can be offensive. Drive as
quietly as possible, don’t remove your spark arrester, and don’t
modify the muffler or any other part of your air intake and
exhaust systems. Such modifications not only increase noise, they
also reduce engine performance and may be illegal.
• Choose Sensible Cleaners. Use a biodegradable detergent
when you wash your Honda SXS. Avoid aerosol spray cleaners
that contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which damage the
atmosphere’s protective ozone layer. Don’t throw cleaning
solvents away; see the following guidelines for proper disposal.
• Recycle Wastes. It’s illegal and thoughtless to put used engine
oil in the trash, down a drain, or on the ground. Used oil,
gasoline, and cleaning solvents contain poisons that can hurt
refuse workers and contaminate our drinking water, lakes, rivers,
and oceans. Before changing your oil, make sure you have the
proper containers. Put oil and other toxic wastes in separate
sealed containers and take them to a recycling center. Call your
local or state office of public works or environmental services to
find a recycling center in your area and to get instructions on how
to dispose of non-recyclable wastes.
Tips 219
220 Tips
Taking Care of the Unexpected
With all the challenges you can encounter off-road, there’s a chance
that something may go wrong. This section gives practical advice to

help you deal with a wide range of problems. Take time to read this
section before you drive. Also review the tips in Preparing for a Drive
(page 212).
General Guidelines ................................................................... 222

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start .......................................... 224
If the Transmission Is Not Functioning Properly ......................... 227
If You Have a Flat Tire............................................................... 232
If the High Coolant Temperature Indicator Lights ...................... 235
If the Clutch Temperature Indicator Flashes .............................. 237
If a Fuse Blows.......................................................................... 238
If You Crash ............................................................................. 243
If You Lose Your Key ................................................................ 244
If the Battery Is Low .................................................................. 245
If a Component Fails................................................................. 247
If Your Honda SXS Becomes Immersed in Water ....................... 248
If the Vehicle Speed Does Not Exceed 15 mph (24 km/h) .......... 249
Taking Care of the Unexpected 221

General Guidelines
Keeping your Honda SXS well maintained is the best way to reduce
the possibility of having a problem while driving. However, problems
can arise even with well-maintained machines.
Remember to take along your owner’s manual, the tool kit that
came with your Honda SXS, and any other items (such as tire repair
supplies and additional tools) that might help you solve a problem on
your own.
If something goes wrong during a drive, the first thing to do is stop

as soon as you safely can. Do not continue driving if you have a flat
tire, or you hear an unusual noise, or your Honda SXS just doesn’t
feel right. If you continue driving, you could cause more damage and
endanger your own safety.
After stopping, take time to assess the situation. Carefully inspect

your Honda SXS to identify the problem, then consider your options
before you decide what to do.
If a problem is relatively minor and you have the tools, supplies, and
skills to make a permanent repair, you may be able to fix it on the
trail and continue driving.
When a problem is more serious — or you don’t have the tools,

supplies, experience, or time to deal with it — you need to choose
the safest way to get yourself and your Honda SXS back home.
222 Taking Care of the Unexpected

Should you ever have a problem while driving, please follow these
guidelines:
• Always put personal safety first.
• Take time to assess the situation and your options before
deciding what to do.
• If the problem is relatively minor and you have the tools, supplies,
and skills to make a temporary repair, be sure to have permanent
repairs made as soon as possible.
• Do not continue driving if you are hurt or your Honda SXS is not
in safe driving condition.
Additional recommendations for specific problems follow.

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t
Start
Proper operation and maintenance can prevent starting and engine
performance problems. In many cases, the cause of the problem may
be a simple operational oversight.
If you have a problem starting the engine — or experience poor

engine performance — the following information may help you. If
you can’t correct the problem, see your dealer.
If your SXS won’t start, listen as you turn the ignition key to the
START (p) position. If you don’t hear the starter motor turning, refer
to the Starter motor doesn’t operate symptom. If you can hear the
starter motor working normally, refer to the Starter motor works,
but the engine won’t start symptom.

Start
SYMPTOM: Starter motor doesn’t operate.
POSSIBLE CAUSE WHAT TO DO
transmission not in Shift into park (P) or neutral
park (P) or neutral (N) (N) position or press on the
position brake pedal.
blown fuse Replace with a new fuse of the
same rating (page 238).
battery lead loose Tighten the battery lead.
low battery Charge the battery (page 204).
If charging doesn’t help, see
your dealer.
faulty starter motor If all possible causes are
negative, the starter motor
may be faulty. See your dealer.
SYMPTOM: Starter motor works, but the engine won’t

start.
out of fuel Fill the fuel tank.
flooded engine See starting the engine step 5
(page 91).
loose or unconnected Install the spark plug caps
spark plug caps securely. If the engine still
won’t start, see your dealer.
loose battery cables Tighten the battery terminal
bolts.
weak battery Charge the battery (page 204).
If charging doesn’t help, see
your dealer.

Start
SYMPTOM: Engine starts, but runs poorly.
high coolant Check the high coolant
temperature temperature indicator. Refer
to If the High Coolant
Temperature Indicator Lights,
page 235.
runs erratically, misfires May damage catalytic
converter. See your dealer.
blubbers (rich fuel See your dealer.
mixture)
sooty exhaust (rich fuel See your dealer.
mixture)
detonates or pings If applicable, switch to the
under load recommended octane gasoline
(page 137) or change your
brand of gasoline. If the
problem persists, see your
dealer.
afterfires (backfires) May damage catalytic
converter. See your dealer.
pre-ignition (runs on May damage catalytic
after ignition switched converter. See your dealer.
OFF)
SYMPTOM: Engine starts, but runs poorly or dies when

hot.
poor or inadequate See your dealer.
fuel flow due to (ensure clean fuel supply)
clogged fuel filter

If the Transmission Is Not
Functioning Properly
If the gear position display is blinking, perform the following:
1. If you are driving your Honda SXS, stop at a safe place.
2. Shift the shift select lever to the park (P) position.
3. Check the pattern displayed on the gear position display, and
then perform the following.
P, R, N, H or L is blinking:
You can drive in either AT mode or MT mode. See your dealer as
soon as possible.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 is blinking:
At high-range (H) or low-range (L), you can drive only in the gear
position that is blinking. You can also drive in reverse (R).
To avoid damaging the clutch, we recommend that you drive in low-
range (L). The engine brake may not work, so please drive slowly.
See your dealer as soon as possible.
“–” is blinking:
Check for SXS failure again. Perform the following procedure.
1. Check that the shift select lever is at the park (P) position.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the START (p) position and then start
the engine.
4. Check the indication on the gear position display, and then
perform the following.
The gear position (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6) is blinking:

At high-range (H) or low-range (L), you can drive only in the gear
To avoid damaging the clutch, we recommend that you drive in low-
range (L). The engine brake may not work, so please drive slowly.
See your dealer as soon as possible.
(cont’d)
If “-” continues to blink:
Change the gear position by using the gear change tool, and tighten
the emergency valve. Perform the following procedure.
1. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position, and then stop
the engine.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON (q) position. Do not turn it to
the START (p) position.
3. Take out the gear change tool from the tool kit (page 127).
6. Set the gear change tool of the spindle which is located on the
crankcase.
7. To downshift, turn the gear change tool counterclockwise. To
upshift, turn the gear change tool clockwise. When you upshift
one position from the lowest downshift position, “E” blinks in
the gear position display.
If you cannot shift properly, shift the shift select lever to the high-
range (H) position, and while pushing the gear change tool in the
direction you want to rotate, rock the vehicle back and forth. When
the transmission shifts, return the shift select lever to the park (P)
position.

UNDER CARGO BED
gear change
tool downshift
(counterclockwise)
upshift
(clockwise)
9. Return the gear change tool to the tool kit.

10. Check that E is blinking. Next, tighten the emergency valve.
Proceed to E is blinking.
If “–” is not displayed in the gear position display and you change
the gear position by using the gear change tool, the DCT system will
automatically stop. To reactivate the system, turn the ignition switch
to the OFF (w) position, and then turn it back to the ON (q) position.

E is blinking:
Tighten the emergency valve. Perform the following procedure.
1. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position, and then stop
the engine.
3. Loosen the bolt and release the lock plate, and turn the
emergency valve all the way in.
UNDER CARGO BED

bolt
emergency valve lock plate
4. Tighten the bolt and the lock plate.

5. Install the rear mudguard lid.

6. Turn the ignition switch to the START ( ll ) position, and then start
the engine.
7. Check that the gear position (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6) is blinking.
8. At high-range (H) or low-range (L), you can drive only in the gear
To avoid damaging the clutch, we recommend that you drive in
low-range (L). The engine brake may not work, so please drive
slowly. See your dealer as soon as possible.
• When in the reverse (R), high-range (H), or low-range (L) position,

low oil temperatures will cause the vehicle to move slowly. Shift
into the park (P) position and warm up the engine.
• When restarting the engine, although E stops blinking, the gear
position (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6) blinks, and the low oil pressure
indicator comes on, you can drive the vehicle.

If You Have a Flat Tire
How you handle a flat tire on the trail depends on how serious the
tire damage is, and what tools and supplies you have with you.
If you have a slow leak or a minor puncture, use the plug method to
make a temporary repair. (The plug method is applied from the
outside of the tire and is the same as that for conventional tubeless
tires.)
A plug-type repair kit, available at most auto parts stores or service

stations, provides a plug, an installation tool, tire cement, and an
instruction sheet. Follow the instructions provided with the repair kit
to make a temporary repair.
As soon as possible, have the tire permanently repaired by your

dealer. Any tire that cannot be repaired should be replaced.
Whenever the Honda SXS is to be operated far from service facilities

or available transportation, we recommend that you carry a tire
pump and a repair kit with the vehicle.
If the leak is more serious, or a temporary repair doesn't hold, the

tire must be replaced. The tire will also need to be replaced if it is
damaged (page 193). Replacing a tire involves removing and re-
installing the wheel (page 233).
If you are unable to repair a flat tire on the trail, you will need to send
for help. We strongly recommend that you do not try to drive with a
flat tire. The Honda SXS will be hard to handle, and if the tire comes
off the rim, it may lock up the wheel and cause you to crash or
overturn.

Emergency Wheel Removal/Installation
wheel nuts
wheel rim
wheel nuts
Removal
1. Park your Honda SXS on a firm, level surface.
2. Loosen — but do not remove — the wheel nuts.
3. Raise the front (or rear) wheels off the ground (page 136).
4. Remove the wheel nuts.
5. Remove the wheel.
• Avoid getting grease, oil, or dirt on the disc or pad surfaces
when removing and installing each wheel. Any contamination
can cause poor brake performance or rapid pad wear after
reassembly.

Installation
1. Thoroughly clean hub and wheel.
2. Position the wheel.
3. Position the wheel nuts so that the tapered sides face the wheel
rim.
4. Hand-tighten the wheel nuts on the wheel, then lower the
Honda SXS to the ground before tightening the nuts in a
crisscross (rather than circular) pattern to the specified torque:
80 lbf·ft (108 N·m, 11 kgf·m)
If a torque wrench was not used for installation, see your dealer as
soon as possible to verify proper assembly. Improper assembly may
lead to loss of control and braking capability.

If the High Coolant Temperature
Indicator Lights
Normally, the high coolant temperature indicator will only light
momentarily when you turn the ignition ON (q). Occasionally, it may
flicker at or near idling speed.
High coolant temperature may be caused by restriction of air flow to
the radiator (such as mud caked on the radiator), extended idling, an
oil leak, a coolant leak, a low oil level, a low coolant level, or
extended operation under adverse conditions.
If all the sections of the coolant temperature gauge including
segment H and high coolant temperature indicator are on while
you’re driving, don’t ignore it. Pull safely to a stop. Stop the engine
as soon as it’s safe to do so, and let it cool.
NOTICE
Continuing to drive with high coolant temperature or an overheated
engine can cause serious engine damage.
• A steaming engine indicates a coolant leak. Shut the engine off

and wait until the steaming stops. Look for a leak, but don’t
touch the engine or radiator system. Let everything cool off first.
• Check for any restriction of air flow to the radiator.
• If there’s no obvious problem, leave the engine on so the fan and
coolant circulating system can continue working. Monitor the
coolant temperature gauge and high coolant temperature
indicator. The coolant temperature gauge and indicator may
return to normal after a brief stop with no load on the engine.
• Check the radiator fan.
If the fan is not working, turn the engine off. Remove the fuse
box cover (page 239) and check the radiator fan fuse. If the fuse
is blown, replace it with the proper (same rating) spare fuse. Start
the engine. If all the sections of the coolant temperature gauge
including segment H and high coolant temperature indicator stay
on, turn the engine off.
If the radiator fan is working, visually check the coolant level in
the reserve tank located under the front hood. It isn’t necessary
to touch the radiator system.
If the High Coolant Temperature
Indicator Lights
• If the reserve tank is low or empty, don’t drive without adding
coolant (page 162). After adding coolant, turn the engine on and
check the coolant temperature gauge and high coolant
temperature indicator.
If the indicator doesn’t turn off, do not drive. The engine needs
repair.
Transport your Honda SXS to a dealer (page 214).
If the temperature drops to normal, check the coolant level. If it
has gone down, add more coolant.
• Check for an oil leak.
• Check the oil level. If necessary, add the recommended oil
(page 141) to the upper level mark. If you must leave your Honda
SXS to get oil, secure it as much as possible.
• Start the engine, and check that the coolant temperature gauge
and high coolant temperature indicator are normal.
If the coolant temperature gauge and indicator return to normal,

resume driving. If there is a leak, do not drive the SXS until the leak
is repaired by your dealer.
If there’s a mild coolant leak, you can drive for a while. Carefully
watch the coolant temperature gauge and indicator. Be prepared to
stop and add more coolant or water. If the leak is bad, transport your
Honda SXS to your dealer (page 214).

If the Clutch Temperature
Indicator Flashes
The clutch temperature indicator flashes if the clutch temperature
becomes unusually high. If the indicator flashes, release the
accelerator pedal as soon as it is safe and apply the brakes.
Shift the transmission to neutral (N) or park (P) and allow the engine
to idle until the indicator stops flashing. Once the indicator stops
flashing, the vehicle is safe to operate. If the clutch temperature
indicator continues to flash, have your vehicle inspected by your
dealer.
The clutch temperature indicator may flash under certain conditions,

such as slow speed rock crawling, holding the vehicle stationary on
an incline with the accelerator pedal, when the vehicle is stuck and
the wheels are not turning, or attempting to pull an immovable
object.
NOTICE
Continuing to apply the accelerator pedal with the clutch
temperature indicator flashing can damage the clutch.

If a Fuse Blows
All of the electrical circuits on your Honda SXS have fuses to protect
them from damage caused by excess current flow (short circuit or
overload).
If something electrical on your Honda SXS stops working, the first

thing you should check for is a blown fuse.
blown fuse
blown fuse
Check all the fuses before looking elsewhere for another possible
cause of the problem. Replace any blown fuses and check
component operation.
The main fuse and circuit fuses are located in the fuse box under the
front hood.
The electric power steering (EPS) fuse is located under the front hood.
Recommended Fuses
main fuse 50 A
circuit fuses 30 A x 2, 15 A x 3, 10 A x 5
electric power steering (EPS) fuse 40 A

If a Fuse Blows
Main Fuse Access
1. To prevent an accidental short circuit, turn the ignition switch
OFF (w) before checking or replacing the fuses.
3. Remove the fuse box cover.
4. To access the main fuse, remove the bolts, and then pull the main
fuse out. If the main fuse is blown, see your dealer for this service.
UNDER FRONT HOOD
fuse box cover
main fuse bolts
(cont’d)
If a Fuse Blows
Circuit Fuse Access
5. To check or replace a circuit fuse, pull the fuses out one by one
with the fuse puller located behind the fuse box cover. If the fuse
is blown, replace it with a spare fuse of the same rating.
If you do not have a replacement fuse with the proper rating for the
circuit, install one with a lower rating.
NOTICE
Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly increases
the chance of damage to the electrical system.
6. Install the fuse box cover.

fuse puller
circuit fuses fuse box cover
spare
fuses
circuit fuse

If a Fuse Blows
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Fuse Access
1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF (w) before checking the fuse.
3. To access the EPS fuse, remove the fuse cover.
If the EPS fuse is blown, see your dealer for this service.
4. Install the fuse cover.
fuse cover
electric power steering (EPS) fuse

If a Fuse Blows
If you do not have a spare fuse and you cannot drive the Honda SXS
without fixing the problem, utilize a spare fuse of the same or lower
rating.
If you replace a blown fuse with a spare fuse that has a lower rating,
replace the fuse with the correct rating as soon as you can. Also
remember to replace any spare fuses that were installed.
If the replacement fuse of the same rating burns out in a short time,
there is probably a serious electrical problem on your Honda SXS.
Leave the blown fuse in that circuit and have your Honda SXS
checked by your dealer.

If You Crash
Personal safety is your first priority after a crash. If you or anyone else
has been injured, take time to assess the severity of the injuries and
whether it is safe to continue driving. If you cannot drive safely, send
someone for help. Do not drive if there is risk of further injury.
If you decide that you are capable of driving your SXS safely, first
evaluate the condition of your SXS. If the engine is still running, turn
it off and look it over carefully; inspect it for fluid leaks, check the
tightness of critical nuts and bolts securing such parts as the steering
wheel, control levers, brakes, and wheels.
If there is minor damage, or you are unsure about possible damage

but decide to try driving the Honda SXS back to your base, drive
slowly and cautiously.
Sometimes, crash damage is hidden or not immediately apparent.

When you get home, thoroughly check your Honda SXS and correct
any problems you find. Also, be sure to have your dealer check the
frame suspension, seat belts, and occupant protective structure after
any serious crash.

If You Lose Your Key
Be sure to record your key number. Store the spare key and recorded
key number in a safe location. You’ll need this number to have a
duplicate key made.
If you lose your key and aren’t carrying a duplicate, either get your
spare or have one made. If you don’t know your key number, call the
dealer where you purchased your Honda SXS. They may have it listed
in their records. If they don’t, transport your Honda SXS to them or
the nearest dealer. The dealer will probably have to remove the
ignition switch assembly to find the key number so they can make a
key for you.
key number

If the Battery Is Low
If the battery is low the starter motor won't operate or it may work
poorly, meaning you can't start the engine.
Jump starting your Honda SXS should be avoided.
Instead, the battery should be removed and recharged (page 204).
If you can’t charge the battery or it appears unable to hold a charge,
contact your dealer.
WARNING 3 WARNING
hurt you.

maintenance.
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain

lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling.
However, when there is no option other than jump starting, follow

the instructions given below.
NOTICE
If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can freeze.
Attempting to jump start with a frozen battery can cause it to
rupture.
Use a battery that is the same as the one in the vehicle or an

equivalent.

If the Battery Is Low
1. To prevent an accidental short circuit, turn the ignition switch
OFF (w).
3. Using a fully charged 12-volt battery, connect the positive (+) side
of the jumper cable to the charged battery, and connect the
positive (+) side on the other end of the jumper cable to the
positive (+) terminal of vehicle battery.
4. Connect the negative (-) side of the jumper cable to the charged
battery, and connect the negative (-) side on the other end of the
jumper cable to the front final gear case bracket.
5. After starting the engine, remove the negative (-) sides of the
jumper cable from the vehicle and the charged battery. Then,
remove the positive (+) sides of the jumper cable from the vehicle
battery and the charged battery.
• Do not let the positive (+) side of the jumper cable touch on the
negative (-) terminal.
• If the jumper cable is connected to the battery with the polarity
reversed, the battery can explode or the electrical system will
be seriously damaged.
UNDER FRONT HOOD
LEFT SIDE jumper cable
charged battery
vehicle battery front final gear case bracket

If a Component Fails
The brake lines, control cables, and other components can be
damaged as you drive in dense brush or over rocky terrain. Making a
trailside repair depends on how serious the damage is and what
tools and supplies you have with you.
• If any component in the brake system is damaged, you may have

reduced or limited stopping power. If you decide to continue
driving back to your base, do so cautiously and at a very low
speed.
• If you damage the accelerator cable or other critical component,
your Honda SXS may be unsafe to drive. Carefully assess the
damage and make any repairs that you can. But if there is any
doubt, it’s best to be conservative and safe.

If Your Honda SXS Becomes
Immersed in Water
If your Honda SXS becomes immersed in water (water level is above
the floorboard), inspect the vehicle to avoid severe engine damage
by following these steps:
1. Move your Honda SXS to dry land or at the very least, to a water
level below 10 inches (25 cm).
2. Check the sub air cleaner condition.
UNDER FRONT HOOD
sub air cleaner sub air cleaner
housing cover
clip
– If the sub air cleaner is wet, water may have entered the air
intake system. Do not start engine.
– If the sub air cleaner is dry, the engine can be restarted.
3. Take your Honda SXS to your dealer for service as soon as

possible, even if you succeeded in starting the engine.

If the Vehicle Speed Does Not
Exceed 15 mph (24 km/h)
If the driver's side seat belt is not latched properly, the maximum
vehicle speed will be limited to no more than 15 mph (24 km/h) by
the seat belt speed limiting system (page 60).
Also, the seat belt indicator and speedometer digits blink.
Make sure that the driver's side seat belt is latched properly.
If the problem persists, see your dealer.


Technical Information
This section contains dimensions, capacities, and other technical
Technical Information
data, plus information on government requirements and how to

break in your Honda SXS.
Vehicle Identification ................................................................ 252

Specifications ........................................................................... 254
Break-in Guidelines................................................................... 260
Emission Control Systems (USA only) ........................................ 261
Oxygenated Fuels (USA only) .................................................... 265
Petrol Containing Alcohol (Australia & New Zealand only)......... 267
Catalytic Converter ................................................................... 268
Technical Information 251

Vehicle Identification
Serial Numbers
The VIN and engine serial number may be required when ordering
replacement parts. You may record these numbers in the Quick
Reference section at the rear of this manual.
The VIN is stamped on the left side of the frame, located under the
rear cargo bed.
The engine number is stamped on the upper side of the rear

crankcase.
UNDER CARGO BED UNDER CARGO BED

LEFT SIDE CENTER
VIN engine number
252 Technical Information

Vehicle Identification
Color Label & Code
The color label is attached to the center front side of the frame,
located under the front hood.
The color code is helpful when ordering replacement parts. You may
record the color code in the Quick Reference section at the rear of
this manual.
UNDER FRONT HOOD
color label

Specifications
Dimensions
overall length 152.2 in (3,865 mm)
overall width 63.0 in (1,599 mm)
overall height 76.1 in (1,934 mm)
wheelbase 115.2 in (2,927 mm)
ground 12.6 in (320 mm)
clearance
curb weight A, II A: 1,936 lb (878 kg)
AC, II AC:1,940 lb (880 kg)

Specifications
Fuel & Lubricants
fuel unleaded gasoline, pump octane
recommendation number of 86 or higher
fuel tank capacity 7.9 US gal (30 ℓ)
engine oil after disassembly:
capacity 7.6 US qt (7.2 ℓ)
after draining:
5.8 US qt (5.5 ℓ)
after draining & engine oil filter change:
6.08 US qt (5.75 ℓ)
after draining, engine & DCT oil
filters change:
6.1 US qt (5.8 ℓ)
sub-transmission after disassembly:
oil capacity 1.5 US qt (1.4 ℓ)
after draining:
1.22 US qt (1.15 ℓ)
engine/sub- API Service Classification SJ or
transmission oil higher except oils labeled as energy
recommendation conserving or resource conserving
on the circular API service label, SAE
10W-30, JASO T 903 standard MA,
Pro Honda GN4 4-stroke oil (USA &
Canada) or Honda 4-stroke oil, or an
equivalent
cooling system Pro Honda HP Coolant (USA &
recommendation Canada) or an equivalent high
quality ethylene glycol antifreeze
containing corrosion protection
inhibitors specifically recommended
for use in aluminum engines
cooling system 5.0 US qt (4.7 ℓ)
capacity 4.1 US qt (3.9 ℓ) (after draining)

Specifications
Capacities
passenger driver and five passengers
capacity
maximum weight 1,750 lb (794 kg)
capacity driver, passenger, all cargo, and
accessories
Engine Specifications
displacement 60.9 cu-in (999 cm3)
bore & stroke 3.622 x 2.959 in
(92 x 75.148 mm)
compression ratio 10.0 : 1
spark plug LMAR7M-9S (NGK)
(standard)
spark plug gap 0.03 – 0.04 in (0.8 – 0.9 mm)
valve clearance intake: 0.006 ± 0.001 in
(cold) (0.16 ± 0.03 mm)
exhaust: 0.009 ± 0.001 in
(0.24 ± 0.02 mm)
idle speed 1,350 ± 100 rpm
(non-adjustable)

Specifications
Power Transmission
primary reduction 1.883
final reduction front 3.384
rear 3.375
transmission ratio 1st 2.764
2nd 2.047
3rd 1.583
4th 1.230
5th 0.968
6th 0.764
sub-transmission low 2.666
ratio high 1.960
reverse 2.640
final drive shaft
Chassis & Suspension

caster 3°
trail 0.6 in (16 mm)
tire size front: 27X9.00R14 NHS
ARMSTRONG
DIRT MASTER
rear: 27X11.00R14 NHS
ARMSTRONG
DIRT MASTER
tire pressure front: 22 psi (150 kPa)
(cold) rear: 22 psi (150 kPa)
Electrical
battery GYZ16H 12 V-16 Ah (10 HR)
generator 0.6 kW/5,000 rpm

Specifications
Lights
headlight 12 V 60/55 W × 2
brake/tail light LED
neutral indicator LED
reverse indicator LED
high coolant LED
temperature
indicator
PGM-FI malfunction LED
indicator lamp
(MIL)
electric power LED
steering (EPS)
indicator
seat belt indicator LED
clutch LED
temperature
indicator
4WD differential LED
lock indicator
low oil pressure LED
indicator
If there is a LED which is not turned on, see your dealer for
this service.
Fuses
main 50 A
circuit 30 A x 2, 15 A x 3, 10 A x 5
EPS 40 A

Specifications
Torque Specification
engine oil filter 9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
cover bolts
DCT oil filter 9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
cover bolts
engine oil drain bolts 22 lbf·ft (30 N·m, 3.1 kgf·m)
(oil pan and oil tank)
sub-transmission 21 lbf·ft (29 N·m, 3.0 kgf·m)
oil drain bolt
front final gear oil 9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
fill cap
front final gear 9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
oil drain plug
rear final gear oil 9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
fill cap
rear final gear oil 9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
drain plug
air cleaner 3.8 lbf·ft (5.2 N·m, 0.5 kgf·m)
housing cover
screws
wheel nuts 80 lbf·ft (108 N·m, 11 kgf·m)

Break-in Guidelines
Help assure your Honda SXS’s future reliability and performance by
paying extra attention to how you drive during the first operating
day or 15 miles (25 km).
During this period, avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

Emission Control Systems (USA
only)
Exhaust Emission Requirements
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and California Air
Resources Board (CARB) require that your SXS comply with
applicable exhaust emissions standards during its useful life, when
operated and maintained according to the instructions provided.
The Vehicle Emission Control Information Label is attached on the

right front side of the front fender under the front hood.
RIGHT FRONT SIDE OF THE FRAME
vehicle emission control information label

only)
Source of Exhaust Emissions
The combustion process produces carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of
nitrogen (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). Control of hydrocarbons and
oxides of nitrogen is very important because, under certain
conditions, they react to form photochemical smog when subjected
to sunlight. Carbon monoxide does not react in the same way, but it
is toxic.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. utilizes various systems to reduce carbon

monoxide, oxides of nitrogen and hydrocarbons.
Exhaust Emission Control System

The exhaust emission control system includes an oxygen sensor, a
three-way catalytic converter and a PGM-FI system.
No adjustment to this system should be made although periodic
inspection of the components is recommended.
The exhaust emission control system is separate from the crankcase
emission control system.
Evaporative Emission Control System

(USA - 50 states [meets California])
An evaporative emissions control system uses a canister filled with
charcoal to adsorb fuel vapor from the fuel tank while the engine is
off. The vapor is drawn into the engine and burned while driving.
Models sold in and used in California:

An add-on or modified part must be compliant with applicable ARB
evaporative emission control standards. A violation of this
requirement is punishable by civil and/or criminal punishment.
Crankcase Emission Control System

The engine is equipped with a Closed Crankcase System to prevent
discharging crankcase emissions into the atmosphere. Blow-by gas is
returned to the combustion chamber through the air cleaner and
throttle body.

only)
Problems That May Affect Exhaust Emissions
If you are aware of any of the following symptoms, have the vehicle
inspected and repaired by your dealer.
Symptoms:
1. Hard starting or stalling after starting
2. Rough idle
3. Misfiring or backfiring during acceleration
4. After-burning (backfiring)
5. Poor performance (driveability) and poor fuel economy
Federal regulations prohibit removing or disabling a device or

element of design that may affect your engine’s emission
performance unless your Honda will be used exclusively in
competition. If you modify your engine for use in sanctioned
competition events, you must deface or destroy the emission control
information label.
If you loan, sell, or give your competition modified Honda to

someone else, according to applicable law, you must inform the new
owner/driver in writing that the vehicle is to be used for competition
only.

only)
Noise Emission Control System
TAMPERING WITH THE NOISE CONTROL SYSTEM IS PROHIBITED:
State laws prohibit, or Canadian provincial laws may prohibit, the
following acts or the causing thereof: (1) The removal or rendering
inoperative by any person, other than for purposes of maintenance,
repair or replacement, of any device or element of design
incorporated into any new vehicle for the purpose of noise control
prior to its sale or delivery to the ultimate purchaser or while it is in
use; or (2) the use of the vehicle after such device or element of
design has been removed or rendered inoperative by any person.
AMONG THOSE ACTS PRESUMED TO CONSTITUTE TAMPERING ARE

THE FOLLOWING ACTS:
• Removal of, or puncturing the muffler, baffles, header pipes or
any other component which conducts exhaust gases.
• Removal of, or puncturing of any part of the intake system.
• Lack of proper maintenance.
• Removing or disabling any emissions compliance component, or
replacing any compliance component with a non-compliant
component.
Fuel Permeation Emission Control System

This vehicle complies with the Fuel Permeation Emission Control
regulations of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and
California Air Resources Board (CARB).
The fuel tank, fuel hoses, and fuel vapor charge hoses used on this
vehicle incorporate fuel permeation control technologies.
Tampering with the fuel tank, fuel hoses, or fuel vapor charge hoses
to reduce or defeat the effectiveness of the fuel permeation
technologies is prohibited by federal regulations.

Oxygenated Fuels (USA only)
Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an
ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred to as
oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standards, some areas of the
United States use oxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions.
If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it is unleaded and meets the
minimum octane rating requirement.
Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel’s contents.
Some states/provinces require this information to be posted on the
pump.
The following are percentages of oxygenates for non-road vehicles:
ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) up to 10% by volume.

You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume.
Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name
“Gasohol.”
Do not use gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol by volume.
The use of gasoline containing a higher percentage (e.g. E15, E20,
E85) of ethanol has not been approved for use in this vehicle and
may cause starting and/or performance problems and can also
damage metal, rubber, and plastic parts of the fuel system and are
not covered by the Distributor’s Limited Warranty.

Oxygenated Fuels (USA only)
Do not use gasoline containing METHANOL (methyl alcohol).
If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another

service station or switch to another brand of gasoline.
Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the use

of an oxygenated fuel containing more than the percentages of
oxygenates mentioned above are not covered under warranty.
Oxygenated fuels can damage paint and plastic. Be careful not to

spill fuel when filling the fuel tank. Wipe up any spills immediately.
NOTICE
Oxygenated fuels can damage paint and plastic. Damage caused by
spilled fuel is not covered by warranty.

Petrol Containing Alcohol
(Australia & New Zealand only)
If you decide to use a petrol containing alcohol (gasohol), be sure its
octane rating is at least as high as recommended.
Do not use gasohol that contains more than 10% ethanol.
Engine performance problems resulting from the use of fuels that

contain alcohol are not covered under the warranty. Honda cannot
endorse the use of fuels containing methanol since evidence of their
suitability is not yet complete.
Before buying fuel from an unfamiliar station, try to find out if the
fuel contains alcohol. If it does, confirm the type and percentage of
alcohol used. If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms
while using a petrol that contains alcohol, or one that you think
contains alcohol, switch to a petrol that you know does not contain
alcohol.

Catalytic Converter
This SXS is equipped with a three-way catalytic converter. The
catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts,
promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gases without
affecting the metals.
The catalytic converter acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit
must be an original Honda part or its equivalent.
The catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the

chemical reactions to take place. It can set fire to any combustible
materials that come near it. Park your SXS away from high grasses,
dry leaves, or other flammables.
A defective catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can

impair your engine’s performance. Follow these guidelines to protect
your SXS’s catalytic converter.
• Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded

gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the
catalytic converter ineffective.
• Keep the engine in good running condition. A poorly running
engine can cause the catalytic converter to overheat causing
damage to the converter or the SXS.
• If your engine is misfiring, backfiring, stalling, or otherwise not
running properly, stop driving and turn off the engine.
Have your SXS serviced as soon as possible.

Consumer Information (USA only)
This section contains information on your warranty and how to get
Consumer Information (USA only)
an official Honda service manual.
Authorized Manuals (USA only) ................................................ 270

Warranty Coverage (USA only) ................................................. 271
Warranty Service (USA only) ..................................................... 272
Contacting Honda (USA only) ................................................... 273
Your Honda Dealer (USA only) .................................................. 274
Consumer Information (USA only) 269

Authorized Manuals (USA only)
The Service Manual used by your authorized dealer is available from
your Honda dealer or Helm, Inc.
Also available but not necessary to service your model is the Honda
Common Service Manual which explains theory of operation and
basic service information for various systems on Honda motorcycles,
scooters, ATVs, SXSs and PWCs.
The Winter Storage Guide in conjunction with the Owner's Manual

and Service Manual can help you prepare your Honda motorcycle,
scooter, ATV, and SXS for winter storage.
These Honda manuals are written for the professional technician,

but most mechanically capable owners should find them easy to use
if they have the proper tools and observe proper safety standards.
Special Honda tools are necessary for some procedures.
Description
2023 Pioneer 1000 Crew Service Manual
Common Service Manual (61CSM00)
Winter Storage Guide (S9507)
2023 Pioneer 1000 Crew Owner’s Manual
Order online: www.helminc.com
Order Toll Free: 1-888-CYCLE93 (1-888-292-5393)

(NOTE: For Credit Card Orders Only)
Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM EST
270 Consumer Information (USA only)

Warranty Coverage (USA only)
Your new Honda is covered by these warranties:
• Honda SXS Limited Warranty
• Emission Control System Warranty
There are responsibilities, restrictions, and exclusions which apply to

these warranties. Please read the Warranties Booklet given to you by
your Honda dealer at the time of purchase. Be sure to keep your
Honda owner’s card with your Warranties Booklet.
It is important to realize that your warranty applies to defects in

material or workmanship of your Honda. Your warranty coverage
does not apply to normal wear or deterioration associated with using
the Honda SXS.
Your warranty coverage will not be voided if you choose to perform

your own maintenance. However, you should have the proper tools
and service information and be mechanically qualified. Failures that
occur due directly to improper maintenance are not covered.
Almost all of your warranty coverage can be extended through the

HondaCare® Protection Plan. For more information, see your dealer.

Warranty Service (USA only)
Please remember that recommended maintenance interval servicing
is not included in your warranty coverage. Additionally, your
warranty does not apply to the normal wear of items (such as brakes,
tires, etc.).
If you believe you have a problem with your Honda SXS, call the
service department of your dealer. Make an appointment for an
inspection and diagnosis. Remember, as the owner of the Honda
SXS, you will be asked to authorize that inspection. Your dealer will
give you the results of the inspection. If the problem is covered under
warranty, your dealer will perform the warranty repairs for you.
If you have questions about warranty coverage or the nature of the

repair, it is best to talk to the Service Manager of your dealer.
Sometimes, in spite of the best intentions of all concerned, a

misunderstanding may occur. If you aren’t satisfied with your
dealer’s handling of the situation, we suggest you discuss your
problem with the appropriate member of the dealership’s
management team. If the problem has already been reviewed with
the Service Manager, Parts Manager, Sales Manager, etc., contact
the Owner of the dealership or their designated representative.

Contacting Honda (USA only)
Your owner’s manual was written to cover most of the questions
you might ask about your Honda. Any questions not answered in the
owner’s manual can be answered by your dealer. If your dealer
doesn’t have the answer right away, they will get it for you.
If you have a difference of opinion with your dealer, please

remember that each dealership is independently owned and
operated. That’s why it’s important to work to resolve any
differences at the dealership level.
If you wish to contact Honda directly to comment on your

experiences with your Honda or with your dealer, please send your
comments using one of the following methods:
POST MAIL
Powersports Customer Relations,

American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
P.O. Box 2200, Torrance, CA 90509-2200
mailstop: 100-4W-5F
PHONE
Telephone: (866) 784-1870
ONLINE CUSTOMER SERVICE
Website: https://powersports.honda.com/contact-us
Please include the following information in your letter:

• name, address, and telephone number
• product model, year, and VIN
• date of purchase
• dealer name and address
We will likely ask your dealer to respond, or possibly acknowledge

your comments directly.
Your Honda Dealer (USA only)
Once you purchase your new Honda, get familiar with the
organization of your Honda dealer so you can utilize the full range of
services available.
The service department is there to perform regular maintenance and

unexpected repairs. It has the latest available service information
from Honda. The service department will also handle warranty
inspections and repairs.
The parts department offers Honda Genuine Parts, Pro Honda

products, Honda Accessories. The same quality that went into your
Honda can be found in Honda Genuine replacement parts. You’ll
also find comparable quality in the accessories and products
available from the parts department.
The sales department offers the HondaCare® Protection Plan to

extend almost all of your warranty coverage.
Your Honda dealer can inform you about competition and other
driving events in your area. You'll also find that your dealer is a
source of information about safety training available in your local
area.
We’re sure you’ll be as pleased with the service your Honda dealer
continues to provide after the sale as you are with the quality and
dependability of your Honda.

Index
Index
A
accessories ...................................................................................4
accessory power socket ..............................................................68
age and size recommendation ......................................................2
air cleaner outer cover removal .................................................132
air cleaner,
filter ......................................................................................166
sub filter ................................................................................169
air pressure, tire ........................................................................191
American Honda, contacting ....................................................273
apparel, protective ......................................................................79
appearance care .......................................................................205
AT indicator ................................................................................36
AT/MT switch .............................................................................43
authorized manuals ..................................................................270
B
battery .....................................................................................200
brakes,
fluid ......................................................................................184
pad wear ...............................................................................187
pedal inspection ....................................................................188
break-in guidelines ...................................................................260
C
capacity, fuel ............................................................................138
care, appearance ......................................................................205
cargo,
bed .........................................................................................70
limit .....................................................................................3, 85
catalytic converter ....................................................................268
cleaning, appearance care ........................................................205
climbing hills ............................................................................106
Index 275
Index
clip removal ..............................................................................134
color label ................................................................................253
compartment,
owner’s manual .....................................................................128
storage ....................................................................................65
tool kit ..................................................................................127
component fails ........................................................................247
consumer information ..............................................................269
coolant temperature gauge ........................................................29
crash, if you ..............................................................................243
crossing a hill ............................................................................108
customer service .......................................................................273
D
dipstick .............................................................................143, 153
doors ..........................................................................................49
drive mode .................................................................................99
drive mode indicator ...................................................................37
drive mode select lever ...............................................................41
driveshaft boots ........................................................................199
driving,
basic operations ......................................................................89
clothing ...............................................................................2, 79
precautions ...........................................................................101
preparing for .........................................................................212
safety ........................................................................................2
through water .......................................................................109
E
electric power steering (EPS) .......................................................75
electric power steering (EPS) indicator .........................................19
emission control systems ..........................................................261
276 Index
Index
engine,
number .................................................................................252
oil ..........................................................................................140
pinging ..................................................................................137
starting ....................................................................................90
stopping ..................................................................................90
sub-transmission ....................................................................153
won’t start ............................................................................224
environment .............................................................................219
F
final gear oil .....................................................................157, 159
flat tire .....................................................................................232
fuel,
fill cap ...................................................................................138
oxygenated ...........................................................................265
recommendation ...................................................................137
tank capacity .........................................................................138
fuses ........................................................................................238
G
gap, spark plug ................................................................178, 256
gasohol ....................................................................................265
gasoline ....................................................................................137
gear position display ...................................................................35
H
headlight switch .........................................................................39
Index 277
Index
hill,
approaching a hill ..................................................................106
crossing a hill .........................................................................108
driving down a hill .................................................................107
driving up a hill ......................................................................107
stopping on a hill ...................................................................107
hour meter .................................................................................31
I
identification, vehicle ................................................................252
ignition switch ............................................................................38
indicators,
4WD drive mode indicator .......................................................37
AT indicator .............................................................................36
clutch temperature indicator ............................................20, 237
differential lock indicator .........................................................19
electric power steering (EPS) indicator ......................................19
gear position display ................................................................35
high coolant temperature indicator ..................................19, 235
LOW indicator .........................................................................36
low oil pressure indicator .........................................................20
MT indicator ............................................................................36
neutral indicator ......................................................................19
PGM-FI malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) .................................19
reverse indicator ......................................................................19
seat belt indicator ....................................................................19
TOW/HAUL indicator ...............................................................36
inspection, pre-drive ...................................................................82
278 Index
Index
K
key,
lost ........................................................................................244
number .................................................................................244
kit, tool ....................................................................................127
L
labels, safety .................................................................................6
limit, cargo .............................................................................3, 85
loading guidelines ......................................................................86
LOW indicator ............................................................................36
low oil pressure indicator ............................................................20
lubrication,
engine oil ..............................................................................141
final gear oil ..................................................................157, 159
points ....................................................................................171
M
maintenance,
importance ............................................................................113
maintenance minder indicator .........................................32, 117
precautions ...........................................................................115
record ...................................................................................121
safety ....................................................................................114
schedule ................................................................................116
manual, service .........................................................................270
maximum weight limit ............................................................3, 85
modifications ................................................................................5
MT indicator ...............................................................................36
multi-function display .................................................................23
Index 279
Index
N
neutral indicator .........................................................................19
noise emission control systems .................................................264
numbers, serial .........................................................................252
O
obstacles, avoiding ...................................................................108
odometer ...................................................................................28
odometer display ........................................................................27
oil,
engine ...................................................................................141
final gear .......................................................................157, 159
owner’s manual storage ...........................................................128
oxygenated fuels ......................................................................265
P
parking .....................................................................................100
passenger,
handhold .................................................................................64
no carrying in cargo bed ............................................................3
pedal, accelerator .....................................................................175
petrol containing alcohol ..........................................................267
pinging, engine ........................................................................137
plug, spark ...............................................................................177
pre-drive inspection ....................................................................82
problems, unexpected ..............................................................222
protective apparel .......................................................................79
R
rear mudguard lid removal .......................................................133
removal, seat ............................................................................131
reverse indicator .........................................................................19
280 Index
Index
S
safety,
driving precautions ................................................................101
important precautions ...........................................................115
labels .........................................................................................6
schedule, maintenance .............................................................116
seat,
belts ........................................................................................59
removal .................................................................................131
serial numbers ..........................................................................252
service,
customer ...............................................................................273
manuals ................................................................................270
warranty ................................................................................272
shift paddle ................................................................................46
shifting .......................................................................................40
side nets .....................................................................................51
spark arrester ...........................................................................180
spark knock ..............................................................................137
spark plugs ...............................................................................177
specifications ............................................................................254
speedometer ........................................................................23, 24
speedometer display ...................................................................24
starting,
engine .....................................................................................90
troubleshooting .....................................................................224
steering wheel adjustment lever .................................................47
stopping engine .........................................................................90
storage,
owner’s manual .....................................................................128
SXS .......................................................................................215
under seat ...............................................................................67
sub-transmission .......................................................................153
Index 281
Index
switch,
headlight .................................................................................39
ignition ....................................................................................38
T
tailgate levers .............................................................................70
tires,
air pressure ............................................................................191
flat ........................................................................................232
repairing ................................................................................195
replacing ...............................................................................196
tread conditions ............................................................193, 194
tool kit .....................................................................................127
TOW/HAUL indicator ............................................................23, 36
TOW/HAUL switch ......................................................................44
trailer hitch .................................................................................74
trailer towing,
operational guidelines .............................................................87
weight limits ............................................................................87
transporting your Honda ..........................................................214
tripmeter A/B ..............................................................................28
trouble, unexpected .................................................................221
troubleshooting, starting ..........................................................224
turning, on level ground ...........................................................105
V
vehicle identification no. (VIN) ..................................................252
voltmeter ....................................................................................31
282 Index
Index
W
warning labels ..............................................................................6
warranty,
coverage ...............................................................................271
extended ...............................................................................271
service ...................................................................................272
washing your SXS .....................................................................206
water, driving through ..............................................................109
weight limit ................................................................................85
wheel removal ..........................................................................233
Index 283
Quick Reference
The following is a brief, but important collection of information you
Quick Reference
need to know about your Honda. You’ll also find space to record
important notes.
How To Avoid Costly Repairs
The engine of your Honda can be the most expensive component to

repair. Proper maintenance, especially the use of the recommended
fluids and filters, prevents premature wear and damage.
Frequent causes of costly repairs are:

• Engine oil — insufficient quantity, improper oil.
• Air cleaner — dirty, leaking because of improper installation
(poor seal).
Record important information on the following page:
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
Engine No.
VIN
Color Label
Owner’s Name
Address
City/State
Phone
Dealer’s Name
Address
City/State
Phone
Service Mgr.
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
Scheduled Initial: 100 miles (150 km)
Maintenance Regular: every 600 miles (1,000 km)
Pre-drive Each time before you drive (page 82):
Inspection oil level, coolant, fuel level, brake fluid, tires,
wheels, driveshafts, steering gearbox and
boots, underbody, suspension, lights,
controls, tie-rod ends, cargo, seat belts, side
nets, exhaust system
Fuel/Capacity Unleaded gasoline, pump octane number
86 or higher
7.9 US gal (30 ℓ)
Engine Oil/ API Service Classification SJ or higher except
Capacity, oils labeled as energy conserving or resource
Sub-Transmission conserving on the circular API service label,
Oil/Capacity SAE 10W-30, JASO T 903 standard MA, Pro
Honda GN4 4-stroke oil (USA & Canada) or
Honda 4-stroke oil, or an equivalent
engine oil
after draining:
5.8 US qt (5.5 ℓ)
after draining & engine oil filter change:
6.08 US qt (5.75 ℓ)
after draining, engine & DCT oil filters
change:
6.1 US qt (5.8 ℓ)
sub-transmission oil
after draining:
1.22 US qt (1.15 ℓ)
Maximum 1,750 lb (794 kg)
Weight Capacity driver, passenger, all cargo, and accessories
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
Tires Front: 27X9.00R14 NHS
ARMSTRONG
DIRT MASTER
Rear: 27X11.00R14 NHS
ARMSTRONG
DIRT MASTER
Tire Pressure (cold) Front: 22 psi (150 kPa)
Rear: 22 psi (150 kPa)
Spark Plugs standard:
LMAR7M-9S (NGK)
Coolant Ethylene glycol antifreeze (silicate-free)
for aluminum engines in 50/50 solution
with Pro Honda HP Coolant or an
equivalent distilled water
Fuses main: 50 A
circuit: 30 A x 2, 15 A x 3, 10 A x 5
EPS: 40 A
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
These symbols are used in Driver Controls section:
SYMBOL COMPONENT SEE PAGE

p START — ignition switch 38
q ON — ignition switch 38
w OFF — ignition switch 38
i Low beam — headlight switch 39
u High beam — headlight switch 39
Park — Reverse — Neutral — High
P, R, N, H, L 40
— Low — shift select lever
+ Up — right shift paddle 46
– Down — left shift paddle 46
Quick Reference
California Proposition 65 Warning
WARNING: Operating, servicing and

maintaining a passenger vehicle or off-highway
motor vehicle can expose you to chemicals
including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide,
phthalates, and lead, which are known to the
State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize
exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, do not idle
the engine except as necessary, service your
vehicle in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves
or wash your hands frequently when servicing
your vehicle. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/passenger-vehicle.
31HL8600 © 2022 Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
00X31-HL8-6000 All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S.A.

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Read this manual carefully, it contains important safety information.

Models sold in and used in California:

2023 PIONEER 1000

Minimum recommended operator age: 16 Mfg. #

This publication includes the latest production information available

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written

© Honda Motor Co., Ltd. 2022

Honda, you’re part of a worldwide family of satisfied customers–

To protect your investment, we urge you to keep your vehicle well

Be sure to read the Warranties Booklet (page 271) so you

If you have any questions or if you ever need special service or

Please report any change of address or ownership to your dealer so

• The illustrations herein are based on the SXS1000M6D AC type.

operating your Honda safely is an important responsibility.

To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have

Of course, it is not possible to warn you about all hazards associated

You will find important safety information in a variety of forms,

Safety Labels — on the vehicle.

Safety Messages — boxed messages preceded by a safety alert

These signal words mean:

You WILL be KILLED or

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY

You CAN be HURT if you don’t

A Few Words About Safety

Safety Section — “Driver & Passenger Safety,” beginning on

Instructions — how to operate this vehicle correctly and safely.

In addition to the above, your owner's manual is full of information

A Few Words About Safety

Driver & Passenger Safety .........................................................1

Instruments & Controls ............................................................11

Basic Operation & Driving Guidelines .....................................89

Servicing Your Honda ............................................................111

Technical Information ............................................................251

Consumer Information (USA only) ........................................269

recommendations to help you drive your Honda safely. Please take a

Important Safety Information........................................................ 2

Driver & Passenger Safety 1

Follow Age and Size Recommendations

Always Wear a Seat Belt

Wearing a properly positioned seat belt is your best protection

Protect Your Head and Eyes

We recommend that occupants always wear a helmet with a chin

Keep Doors and Side Nets Closed

2 Driver & Passenger Safety

Never Carry a Passenger in the Cargo Area

Your vehicle was designed to either carry a driver and up to five

Obey Loading Limits & Guidelines

Keep Your Vehicle in Safe Condition

It’s important to keep your vehicle properly maintained and in safe

Don't Drink or Use Drugs and Drive

Stay Off Public Roads

We strongly recommend that you use only Honda Accessories that

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual

4 Driver & Passenger Safety

We strongly advise you not to remove any original equipment or

We also advise you not to make any modifications or remove any

Driver & Passenger Safety 5

The labels should be considered permanent parts of the vehicle. If a

radiator cap danger

6 Driver & Passenger Safety