Market Segment:
Entry-level luxury sedan, positioned to compete with established European and American luxury brands, offering a balance of performance, refinement, and reliability.
Key Competitors:
Infiniti G20, Lexus ES 250/300, BMW 3 Series (E30/E36), Mercedes-Benz 190E.
Defining Characteristics:
Smooth V6 engine, front-wheel drive platform, comfortable and well-appointed interior, distinctive styling with pop-up headlights.
Engine:
Complete engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, and exhaust systems.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (4-speed) repair, operation, and diagnosis, including torque converter, valve body, and electronic controls.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, axles, and differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, geometry, alignment, and shock absorber/strut replacement.
Brakes:
Disc brake system (front and rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, hydraulic circuits, and bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, linkage, and column.
Electrical:
Complete automotive electrical system, including battery, charging, starting, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, and body controls.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, repair, and refrigerant handling (including R-12 precautions).
Body:
Body and chassis repair, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, and interior trim removal/installation.
Diagnostics:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures, trouble codes (DTCs), and troubleshooting charts for all major systems.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug service, belt adjustments.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, and suspension bushing replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, utilizing diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based analysis.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, timing procedures, electrical connector pinouts, and component tolerances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including power distribution, grounds, sensors, actuators, and ECUs.
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair information, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed explanations of system operation.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Optional Transmission:
No manual transmission option was offered in North America.
Transmission Control:
Electronic control with multiple shift modes (e.g., Sport, Economy).
Atf Type:
Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 (or equivalent, check specific manual for superseded part numbers)
Atf Capacity:
Approximately 3.4 US quarts (3.2 liters) for a drain and fill.
Length:
Approx. 186.6 inches (4740 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.5 inches (1385 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.3 inches (2700 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3250-3450 lbs (1474-1565 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Not prominently specified, but typical for a sedan of its class.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific oil type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months. Drain and fill with correct ATF.
Engine Coolant Change:
Initial 105,000 miles (170,000 km), then every 52,500 miles (85,000 km) or 3-5 years.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 105,000 miles (170,000 km). Use NGK PFR7B or equivalent.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 1 (Blue) or equivalent with ethylene glycol and corrosion inhibitors.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Honda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON II/III ATF.
Common Problems:
Torque converter shudder, aging suspension bushings, potential for fuel injector issues, AC system leaks (especially R-12 refrigerant), electrical component failures (e.g., window regulators, door lock actuators).
Timing Belt:
The Vigor uses a timing belt. It is crucial to replace it according to the service interval (typically 90,000-105,000 miles or 7-8 years) to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Water pump and tensioner should be replaced concurrently.