Fweem@attbi.com (Old Bugger) wrote in message news:<ffe3337.0309132137.2457505c@posting.google.c om>...
> "Hai Pham" <haipham@netcarrier.com> wrote in message news:<1nP8b.1505$mo1.136150073@news.netcarrier.net >...
> > I bought my Honda CRV 03 last month. I was surprised that in the manual and
> > the dealer/salesman told me I can drive the CRV with constant speed during
> > break in. He also asked do not change oil before 5K miles. Anyone understand
> > why?
> > I also read in the manual it recommend to change the brake fluid at 36K, it
> > seems too early. Honda wants me to use Honda product even engine oil. Two
> > things they stress I have to use their products are automatic fluid and
> > coolant fluid. The even said in case I need to use other products I need to
> > drain it completely and put Honda product in !!!
> >
> > Hai
>
> I got a new Element last month and heard the same speech. Some of it I
> took with a grain of salt. I think I will go with their mileage
> recommendations for lubrication, or a little sooner, but I won't
> purchase the Honda lube and fluid products. That is just greed on the
> part of an auto manufacture. Good quality oil and fluids are fine. On
> sale, they are even better. It doesn't have to be a Honda name on the
> container to lube the engine and trans properly.
>
> Fweem on.

I suggest you read other forums and posts regarding at least Honda
fluids for ATF, power steering, and coolant (and Dual Pump fluid if
you have AWD). The Honda auto trans is not the same animal as other
auto trans, and the type Z fluid does provide smoother shifting. Many
who have tried generic power steering fluid have found that it attacks
the Honda seals and causes them to leak. Most coolants have silicates
and borates, which Honda coolant does not contain. These additives
can cause premature failure of the water pump.

Do what you want, but if you do, you take your chances. For me, when
I look at the time and money spent on keeping a car well maintained,
the increase to use certain Honda fluids is minimal. Now I do use
other brands of oil and brake fluid, but be careful on substituting
the ones listed above.