1988 Honda Accord LXi Manual Transmission

The 1988 Honda Accord LXi with manual transmission is a front-wheel drive sedan featuring a 2.0L fuel-injected engine, 5-speed manual gearbox, power windows, power door locks, cruise control, air conditioning, and premium audio system. Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, this model represents Honda's commitment to quality engineering. Below are key sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Transmission Operation 3. Driving Instructions 4. Maintenance Schedule 5. Controls and Features 6. Fluid Requirements 7. Shifting Techniques 8. Common Issues 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Specifications

Key components: 2.0L EFI engine, 5-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive, power-assisted steering, dual overhead cam.

Feature	Description
Engine	2.0L 4-cylinder fuel-injected
Transmission	5-speed manual
Horsepower	110 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque	114 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection
Drive Type	Front-wheel drive
Fuel Capacity	15.9 gallons
Curb Weight	2620 lbs
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum
Suspension	Independent front, rear

Transmission Operation

Understanding the 5-speed manual gearbox and proper shifting techniques.

Gear Pattern: H-pattern with reverse in lower right position
Clutch Operation: Hydraulic clutch with smooth engagement
Shift Points: Recommended shift points for optimal performance
Reverse Gear: Push down and right to engage

WARNING! Always depress clutch fully when shifting. Do not rest hand on shift lever while driving.

Driving Instructions

Proper procedures for starting, shifting, and operating the manual transmission.

Starting: Depress clutch, shift to neutral, start engine
First Gear: Shift to 1st, release clutch smoothly while applying throttle
Upshifting: Accelerate to appropriate RPM, clutch in, shift up
Downshifting: Clutch in, shift down, rev-match if desired
Reverse: Complete stop, clutch in, shift to reverse

CAUTION! Never shift to reverse while moving forward. Always come to complete stop.

Maintenance Schedule

Transmission Fluid: Change every 30,000 miles
Clutch Fluid: Check monthly, replace every 2 years
Clutch Inspection: Every 15,000 miles
Shift Linkage: Lubricate every 10,000 miles
Transmission Mounts: Inspect every 30,000 miles
Clutch Master/Slave Cylinder: Check for leaks monthly
Synchros: No scheduled replacement - inspect if grinding occurs

Controls and Features

Manual transmission specific controls and operational features.

Gear Shift Pattern: 1 - 3 - 5 2 - 4 - R

Clutch Pedal: Hydraulic operation, smooth engagement point

Shift Knob: Leather-wrapped with gear pattern indicator

Clutch Interlock: Must depress clutch to start vehicle

Tachometer: Redline at 6500 RPM for shift reference

Fluid Requirements

Proper fluids for transmission maintenance and operation.

Transmission Fluid: Honda MTF or equivalent 10W-30 motor oil
Clutch Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Capacity: 2.1 quarts transmission fluid
Change Interval: 30,000 miles or 2 years

Tip: Use only recommended fluids to ensure proper shifting and longevity.

Shifting Techniques

Advanced shifting methods for smooth operation and performance.

Smooth Shifting: Release clutch gradually while applying throttle
Rev-Matching: Blip throttle during downshifts for smoother engagement
Double-Clutching: Optional technique for smoother downshifts
Hill Starts: Use parking brake for assistance on steep inclines
Engine Braking: Use lower gears for controlled deceleration
Skip Shifting: 1st to 3rd or 4th to 6th for fuel economy
Performance Shifting: Higher RPM shifts for maximum acceleration
Cold Weather: Allow extra warm-up time for smoother shifting

WARNING! Avoid aggressive shifting when transmission is cold. Allow proper warm-up.

Common Issues

Typical manual transmission problems and their indications.

Grinding Gears: Worn synchros or low fluid

Difficulty Shifting: Cable adjustment or clutch issues

Clutch Slipping: Worn clutch disc or pressure plate

Fluid Leaks: Seals or gaskets requiring replacement

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance procedures for transmission longevity.

Check fluid levels monthly. Listen for unusual noises. Address shifting issues promptly.

CAUTION! Do not overfill transmission fluid. Check level with vehicle on level surface.

Warranty Information

Original warranty coverage: 3 years/36,000 miles basic, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain. Transmission components covered under powertrain warranty. For service, contact authorized Honda dealership. Keep maintenance records for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Grinding when shifting	Low fluid/worn synchros	Check fluid level; have synchros inspected
Difficulty getting into gear	Clutch adjustment/worn clutch	Adjust clutch cable; inspect clutch components
Clutch pedal feels soft	Air in hydraulic system	Bleed clutch hydraulic system
Transmission noise	Low fluid/worn bearings	Check fluid level; inspect for bearing wear
Clutch slippage	Worn clutch disc	Replace clutch assembly

Service: Contact authorized Honda service center for transmission repairs

Support: Honda Customer Service 1-800-999-1009