I just bought a 2003 EL, and am disappointed at the manual's generalization that ALL of Canada is the same condition: Severe. Sad, sad, sad... Yes, we all live in igloos too! ;-{)
I live in Victoria, less that 20 mi. from WA state. For US residents, it is recommended to follow the Normal Conditions, unless one or more of the listed severe conditions apply to your climate. I can honestly say that NONE of these conditions apply to my climate or driving habit.

So, here's the situation:
The guide says Canada = Severe Conditions, yet if I was 30 minutes to the east (over the US border), the Normal Conditions would apply.
Common sense tells me to use the maintenance schedule for my climate and driving conditions (Normal). The dealer tells me to use the Severe Schedule 'cause this is Canada. Unfortunately, the dealer is biased since the Severe Schedule means twice the business for him. I want to do what is best for my engine while not doing more than is really necessary.

Comments welcome.
-Mike

 

Hmmmm... It's only been 2 days but I expected something...
Am I the only Canuck questioning this guideline?
(Am I the only Canuck on this board?? ;-{)

-gotta go. There's a polar bear rummaging through the trash can... Sheesh! Can't a guy eat his whale blubber in peace... ;-{)

 

what are the conditions you live in?
i wouldnt listen to a dealer about anything on anything about cars
you can get a second opinion from a reputable mechanic

 

In a word: mild. But the point is that none of the severe conditions listed in the manual apply to my situation.
-Mike

 

what about temperatures and percipitation

 

Precipitation?!?

Page 183 of the manual states:

Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions if you drive your car MAINLY under one or more of the following conditions.

- Driving less than 8 km (5 miles) per trip or, in freezing temperatures, driving less than 16 km (10 miles) per trip.
- Driving in extemely hot [over 32C (90F)] conditions.
- Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving, such as a taxi or a commercial delivery vehicle.
- Driving with a car top carrier, or driving in mountainous conditions.
- Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads.

As I said in my first post, I live in Victoria. We might have a few days a year with 32C temps. I drive 100 kms (round trip) to work 5 days a week. It is paved highway driving. I don't have a car top carrier (no kidding).

I also own a 2001 CRV, and this exact same clause exists in that manual as well. I think this is the standard Honda/Acura line for defining conditions as Normal or Severe.