2012 Honda Odyssey Quick Reference Guide

This owner's manual should be considered a permanent part of the vehicle and should remain with the vehicle when it is sold.

This owner's manual covers all models of your vehicle. You may find descriptions of equipment and features that are not on your particular model. Images throughout this owner's manual (including the front cover) represent features and equipment that are available on some, but not all, models. Your particular model may not have some of these features.

This owner's manual is for vehicles sold in the United States and Canada.

The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation.

Safe Driving

Your vehicle is equipped with many safety features designed to protect you and your passengers during a crash. These include a strong steel framework, crush zones, a collapsible steering column, and seat belt tensioners. For optimal protection, always wear your seat belt and ensure all passengers are properly restrained.

Important Safety Precautions

Always wear your seat belt. Airbags supplement, but do not replace, seat belts.
Restrain all children properly in the back seat. Infants and small children should use child seats, and larger children should use booster seats and seat belts until they fit correctly.
Be aware of airbag hazards. Sitting too close to an inflating airbag can cause serious injury.
Do not drink and drive.
Pay appropriate attention to driving. Avoid distractions like cell phone conversations.
Control your speed. Drive at a speed that is safe for current conditions.
Keep your vehicle in safe condition through regular checks and maintenance.

Seat Belts

Seat belts are the most effective safety device. They keep you connected to the vehicle and properly positioned for airbag protection. All seating positions are equipped with lap/shoulder seat belts. Ensure belts are worn properly: low across the hips and snug across the chest and shoulder.

Airbags

Your vehicle is equipped with front, side, and side curtain airbags. These are Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) designed to work with seat belts. Dual-stage, multiple-threshold airbags inflate at different rates depending on crash severity. Advanced airbag systems include sensors to adjust inflation force based on occupant position and weight. Never attempt to deactivate airbags.

Child Safety

Children 12 and under should always ride in the back seat, properly restrained. Infants must use rear-facing child seats until at least one year old and within the seat manufacturer's limits. Forward-facing child seats are for children at least one year old. Use LATCH-compatible child seats or seat belts with top tethers for secure installation. Always follow child seat manufacturer instructions.

Exhaust Gas Hazard

Vehicle exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a toxic gas. Never run the engine in enclosed spaces like garages. If driving with the tailgate open, ensure proper ventilation.

Safety Labels

Warning labels are located on various parts of the vehicle to alert you to potential hazards. Read and follow these labels carefully.

Instrument Panel

The instrument panel provides information about the vehicle's operation through gauges, indicators, and displays.

Indicators

Various indicators alert the driver to system status or potential issues:

Parking Brake and Brake System Indicator: Comes on when the parking brake is applied or if there's a brake fluid level issue.
Low Oil Pressure Indicator: Illuminates if engine oil pressure is low.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp: Indicates a problem with the emissions control system or engine misfire.
Charging System Indicator: Signals a problem with the battery charging system.
Seat Belt Reminder Indicator: Alerts if seat belts are not fastened.
Low Fuel Indicator: Warns when fuel is low.
ABS Indicator: Shows a problem with the Anti-lock Brake System.
SRS Indicator: Alerts to a potential issue with the Supplemental Restraint System (airbags and seat belt tensioners).
VSA® Indicator: Shows when Vehicle Stability Assist is active or if there's a system fault.
VSA® OFF Indicator: Illuminates when the VSA system is manually turned off.
Door and Tailgate Open Indicator: Lights up if any door or the tailgate is not fully closed.
TPMS Indicator: Alerts to low tire pressure or a Tire Pressure Monitoring System fault.
Daytime Running Lights Indicator: Indicates a DRL system issue.
System Message Indicator: Accompanied by a message on the multi-information display for various system alerts.
Turn Signal Indicators: Blink when turn signals are activated.
High Beam Indicator: Illuminates when high beams are on.
Lights On Indicator: Shows when exterior lights are on.
Fog Light Indicator: Illuminates when fog lights are activated.
Side Airbag Off Indicator: Shows when the passenger's side airbag is deactivated.
Immobilizer System Indicator: Alerts if the key is not recognized.
Security System Alarm Indicator: Blinks when the security system is armed.
Starter System Indicator: Signals a problem with the starter system.
Fuel Economy Indicator: Illuminates during efficient driving.
CRUISE MAIN / CRUISE CONTROL Indicators: Show cruise control status.
Washer Level Indicator: Warns when washer fluid is low.
Maintenance Minder Indicator: Indicates when scheduled maintenance is due.
Power Tailgate / Power Sliding Door Indicators: Signal issues with these systems.
BSI Indicator: Alerts to Blind Spot Information System status or faults.

Gauges and Displays

Gauges: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge provide real-time vehicle information.

Information Display*: Shows odometer, trip meters (A/B), outside temperature, instant and average fuel economy, range, and engine oil life. Settings can be customized.

Audio/Information Screen*: Displays audio status, trip computer data, and allows for setup options like wallpaper. Can be switched between different display modes.

Multi-Information Display*: Similar to the Information Display, it shows odometer, trip meters, outside temperature, fuel economy, range, and important messages. Features can be customized via the multi-information display.

Controls

Setting the Clock

The clock can be set using the CLOCK button or through the audio/information screen or navigation system.

Locking and Unlocking the Doors

Keys and remote transmitters are used to lock and unlock doors. Features include auto door locking/unlocking, childproof door locks, and a security system with an alarm and immobilizer.

Opening and Closing the Tailgate

The tailgate can be opened manually using the release button or automatically using the power tailgate function operated via the remote transmitter, dashboard switch, or tailgate button. Auto reverse features are included for safety.

Opening and Closing the Sliding Doors

Sliding doors can be operated manually or automatically via power sliding door switches, remote transmitter, or door handles. Auto reverse and childproof lock features enhance safety.

Opening and Closing the Windows

Power windows can be operated using switches on the doors. Auto-open/close and auto-reverse functions are available. Windows and moonroof can also be operated remotely using the key or transmitter.

Opening and Closing the Moonroof*

The moonroof can be opened, closed, or tilted using the switch on the ceiling. Automatic operation, manual control, and auto-reverse functions are provided.

Operating the Switches Around the Steering Wheel

Ignition Switch: Controls power to various vehicle systems (LOCK, ACCESSORY, ON, START).
Turn Signals: Operated by a lever on the steering column.
Light Switches: Control headlights, parking lights, and fog lights. Includes manual and automatic lighting control.
Wipers and Washers: Control front and rear wipers and washers.
Brightness Control: Adjusts instrument panel illumination.
Rear Defogger/Heated Door Mirror* Button: Clears fog from the rear window and mirrors.
Driving Position Memory System*: Stores and recalls preferred seat and mirror positions.
Adjusting the Steering Wheel: Allows for height and reach adjustment.
Adjusting the Mirrors: Includes interior rearview mirror and power door mirrors with reverse tilt function.

Adjusting the Seats

Seats can be adjusted manually or electronically. Proper adjustment is crucial for safety, especially concerning airbag deployment. Head restraints should also be adjusted correctly for whiplash protection.

Interior Lights/Interior Convenience Items

Interior Lights: Switches control interior and map lights (Off, On, Door Activated).
Interior Convenience Items: Includes glove box, removable center console*, cool box function in the center pocket*, beverage holders, accessory power sockets, AC power outlet*, coat hooks, cargo hooks, grocery bag hooks, sunglasses holder (with conversation mirror*), seat heaters*, integrated sunshades*, and rear A/C controls.

Heating and Cooling*

The heating and cooling system uses vents, fan speed, temperature control, and A/C functions. Modes include fresh air and recirculation. Defrosting functions are also available.

Climate Control System*

Automatic climate control maintains a set interior temperature, automatically adjusting fan speed and airflow. Includes AUTO, SYNC, and defrost functions.

Features

Audio System

The audio system includes AM/FM radio, CD player, USB/AUX input, and optional XM® and Rear Entertainment System*. Controls are available on the dashboard and steering wheel. Audio remote controls are also provided.

HomeLink® Universal Transceiver*

Allows programming of garage door openers and other radio-frequency devices.

Driving

Automatic Transmission

Shift lever positions (P, R, N, D, D3/D4) and their functions are explained. Proper shifting procedures are detailed.

VSA® OFF Button

The Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) system enhances traction and stability. It can be turned on or off using the VSA® OFF button.

Refueling

Instructions for refueling, including fuel recommendations (unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher) and fuel tank capacity (21 US gal / 79.5 L).

Cruise Control

Allows maintaining a set speed without using the accelerator pedal. Activated by the CRUISE button and set with DECEL/SET.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Monitors tire pressure and alerts the driver to low pressure. The system is automatically activated.

Maintenance

Under the Hood

Regular checks of engine oil, coolant, washer fluid, brake fluid, and battery are recommended.

Wiper Blades

Instructions for replacing wiper blades when they become worn.

Tires

Regular inspection of tires and wheels, checking tire pressures, and installing snow tires for winter driving are advised.

Lights

Regular inspection of all lights is recommended.

Handling the Unexpected

Flat Tire

Instructions for changing a flat tire using the compact spare tire.

Engine Won't Start

Guidance for jump-starting the engine with a booster battery if the battery is dead.

Overheating

Procedure for handling engine overheating, including safely stopping the vehicle and allowing it to cool.

Indicators Come On

Guidance on identifying and responding to various warning indicators on the instrument panel.

Blown Fuse

Instructions for checking for blown fuses when an electrical device is not operating.

Emergency Towing

Recommendation to call a professional towing service for vehicle towing.

Information

Specifications

Details on vehicle specifications are provided.

Identification Numbers

Information on vehicle identification numbers.

Warranty Coverages

Overview of warranty coverages.

Authorized Manuals

Information on obtaining authorized manuals.

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