Seeing that amber warning light for your car’s safety system can be worrying. If you’re wondering “How Do I Reset My Honda Accord Collision Mitigation System?”, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to get it working again.
The system, often called CMBS (Collision Mitigation Braking System), is a key part of Honda Sensing. It helps prevent accidents. Sometimes, it needs a reset after a windshield replacement, sensor obstruction, or a minor glitch.
Let’s get your Accord’s safety features back online quickly and safely.
How Do I Reset My Honda Accord Collision Mitigation System
Resetting the system usually involves two main approaches. The first is a simple recalibration you can do yourself. The second might require a visit to a professional.
Always start with the easiest method. Often, the problem is a dirty sensor or a temporary error. A basic reset can clear it’s memory.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Gathering a few things first will make the process smoother. You won’t need special tools for the initial steps.
- Your Honda Accord keys
- A clean, microfiber cloth
- A safe, level place to park and drive
- About 15-30 minutes of time
- Your vehicle’s owner’s manual (for reference)
Initial Checks and Simple Reset
Before trying any resets, perform these critical checks. They solve the majority of issues.
- Clean the Sensor: The radar sensor is behind the Honda emblem on your grille. Gently clean it with a soft cloth. Remove any dirt, mud, or dead bugs.
- Clean the Windshield: The camera is mounted behind the windshield, near the rearview mirror. Ensure the glass is spotless inside and out in that area.
- Check for Obstructions: Remove any items on the dashboard that might block the camera’s view. Also, check for stickers or toll tags near the camera.
- Inspect Tire Pressure: Uneven or low tire pressure can sometimes trigger warnings. Ensure all tires are properly inflated to the door jamb’s recommended PSI.
The Basic Power Cycle Reset
This is the simplest software reset. It’s like restarting your computer.
- Park your Accord on a level surface and turn the engine off.
- Exit the vehicle and lock the doors using the key fob.
- Wait for at least 3-5 minutes. This allows the vehicle’s electronic systems to fully power down.
- Unlock the car, get in, and start the engine.
- Check your instrument cluster. The Collision Mitigation System warning light should go through a self-check and may turn off.
Using the Steering Wheel Controls
If the light persists, you can try to recalibrate the system using your multi-information display (MID).
- Start your engine, but keep the car in Park.
- Use the steering wheel buttons to navigate to the “Settings” menu on your instrument cluster.
- Look for an option called “Vehicle Settings” or “Driver Assist System Setup.”
- Find “Forward Collision Warning (FCW)” or “Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS).”
- Select it and look for an option to “Calibrate” or “Initialize.” Follow any on-screen prompts.
- If prompted to drive, see the next section.
The Driving Calibration Method
Sometimes, the system needs to recalibrate itself by driving. This is common after a battery disconnect.
- Start by ensuring your fuel tank is at least half full. This helps with vehicle balance.
- Find a clear, sunny day with good visibility. Avoid rain, fog, or snow.
- Locate a well-marked highway or straight road with minimal traffic.
- Drive at a steady speed between 30-60 mph for approximately 30 minutes.
- Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. The system needs to see clear lane lines and other vehicles.
- After the drive, park and turn off the car. Restart it to see if the warning has cleared.
This process allows the camera and radar to re-learn its surroundings. Be patient, as it may not reset immediately.
When to Visit a Professional
If all self-help methods fail, the issue might be more serious. Don’t ignore it, as your safety system is compromised.
- After a Windshield Replacement: The camera behind the windshield must be professionally recalibrated. This is the most common reason for a needed pro reset.
- After a Front-End Collision: Even a minor bump can misalign the radar sensor in the grille.
- Persistent Warning Lights: If the light remains on or flashes constantly, there could be a sensor fault.
- Error Messages: Messages like “Radar Obstructed” that won’t go away after cleaning indicate a deeper problem.
A certified Honda dealership or qualified auto technician has the proper tools and software to diagnose and fix these issues. They use precise targets to align the sensors correctly.
Understanding the Warning Lights
Knowing what the lights mean helps you decide on the right action.
- Solid Amber Light: This means the system is partially disabled. The sensor may be blocked, or a calibration is needed. It’s a caution.
- Flashing Amber Light: A warning that a collision is possible. The system is active and may apply brakes or provide alerts.
- Solid Red Light with Alert: An immediate collision warning. You should take manual braking action.
- Green Light/Indicator: The system is on and functioning normally. You might see this when the car is started.
Preventing Future Issues
Regular maintenance can keep your CMBS working reliably. A few habits make a big difference.
- Keep the front grille emblem and surrounding area clean, especially in winter (salt, grime) and after long trips.
- When cleaning the windshield, pay extra attention to the area around the rearview mirror. Use proper auto glass cleaner.
- Avoid mounting anything like phones or dashcams directly in front of the camera housing.
- If you get a windshield crack or chip in the camera’s field of view, get it repaired promptly. A replacement will require calibration.
- Follow your Accord’s recommended maintenance schedule. Technicians can sometimes run system diagnostics during service.
FAQs About Resetting Your Honda Accord Safety System
Can I reset the collision system myself after a battery change?
Yes, often the driving calibration method will work after a battery change. The system just needs to relearn. If the light stays on after a 30-minute highway drive, a professional check might be needed.
Why won’t my collision mitigation system reset?
If simple resets fail, the likely causes are: 1) A misaligned sensor from an impact you might not of noticed, 2) A faulty sensor unit itself, or 3) An required professional calibration after a windshield repair that wasn’t done. These require a technician.
How much does a professional calibration cost?
Costs vary, but a dealer calibration typically ranges from $300 to $600. It depends on labor rates and if any parts need replacing. Always get a quote first. Some auto glass shops offer calibration services at a lower rate.
Is it safe to drive with the CMBS light on?
You can still drive, but your collision warning and automatic braking features are disabled or limited. You should drive with extra caution and get the system fixed as soon as you can. Your conventional brakes work fine, but the assistive safety net is down.
What’s the difference between FCW and CMBS?
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) only provides visual and audible alerts. The Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) includes FCW but can also apply brake pressure and, in some cases, automatically brake to reduce impact severity. They are part of the same system.
Final Thoughts
Resetting your Honda Accord’s Collision Mitigation System is usually straightforward. Start with the basics: clean the sensors, perform a power cycle, and try a recalibration drive. These steps fix most common glitches.
Remember, for physical changes to your car like a new windshield or front-end work, professional calibration is not just recommended—it’s essential for the system to function accurately. Never ignore persistent warnings; this system is a vital safety tool designed to protect you and your passengers.
By following this guide, you can save time and money on unnecessary trips to the shop. But you also know when it’s time to call in the experts to ensure everything is working just as Honda intended.