Honda Collision Mitigation Braking System Turn Off Permanently

The Honda Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), a component of the Honda Sensing suite, is designed to mitigate or prevent frontal collisions. While generally beneficial, there may be situations where a driver wishes to temporarily disable the system. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to temporarily disable CMBS in Honda vehicles. It is important to understand that permanently disabling CMBS is not recommended and may even be impossible through standard vehicle settings.

Understanding CMBS Operation

Before attempting to disable CMBS, a clear understanding of its operation is crucial. CMBS uses a radar sensor and a camera to detect vehicles and pedestrians in front of your Honda. If the system determines a collision is likely, it will issue visual and audible warnings. If the driver does not respond, CMBS may automatically apply the brakes to reduce the severity of the impact or prevent the collision altogether. This intervention is categorized into stages:

• Warning Stage: Visual and audible alerts are triggered.
• Braking Stage (Mild): The system applies light braking to encourage driver response.
• Braking Stage (Full): The system applies stronger braking to mitigate the collision.

The system is designed to operate in a variety of driving conditions and is most effective when the vehicle is traveling at a reasonable speed and the sensors are unobstructed.

Temporary CMBS Deactivation

While a permanent deactivation option is generally unavailable, temporary deactivation is possible in some Honda models, usually through the vehicle's infotainment system or steering wheel controls. The procedure can vary slightly depending on the specific model year and trim level, but the following steps provide a general outline:

Accessing the Settings Menu

The initial step involves navigating to the vehicle's settings menu. This is typically done through the infotainment screen located on the dashboard. Look for options such as "Settings," "Vehicle Settings," "Driver Assist," or "Safety Settings." Some models may use a physical button to access these menus more directly.

Example: In many newer Honda models, you would press the "Home" button on the infotainment system, then select "Settings," followed by "Vehicle," and then "Driver Assist System."

Locating the CMBS Setting

Once in the appropriate settings menu, you will need to locate the CMBS setting. This may be listed as "Collision Mitigation Braking System," "CMBS," or a similar variation. The exact wording may differ based on your vehicle's model and year. It is also possible the setting is within a sub-menu. Take care to scroll through all of the settings within a category if you don't see the option immediately.

Important: In some models, the CMBS setting might be integrated with other safety features, such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). You may need to explore related settings to find the CMBS control.

Disabling CMBS

Once you have located the CMBS setting, you should be able to disable it. This is usually achieved by toggling a switch, unchecking a box, or selecting an "Off" option. The system will often provide a confirmation message on the screen indicating that CMBS has been disabled. It's crucial to carefully read any on-screen prompts or warnings before proceeding.

Note: Disabling CMBS will typically trigger a warning light or message on the instrument panel, reminding you that the system is not active. This is a normal indication and serves as a reminder to re-enable the system when appropriate.

Using Steering Wheel Controls

Some Honda models allow you to temporarily disable CMBS using controls located on the steering wheel. These controls typically involve pressing buttons such as "Info," "Menu," or "Back," combined with directional buttons to navigate through a menu displayed on the instrument panel. Consult your owner's manual for the precise sequence of button presses required for your specific vehicle.

Example: You might need to press the "Info" button repeatedly until you reach the "Driver Assist System" menu, and then use the directional buttons to select and disable CMBS.

Re-enabling CMBS

Re-enabling CMBS typically involves repeating the steps outlined above, but this time selecting the "On" or "Enable" option for the CMBS setting. In some cases, CMBS may automatically re-enable itself the next time you start the vehicle. This is a safety feature designed to ensure that the system is active unless explicitly disabled each time you drive.

Caution: Always ensure that CMBS is re-enabled as soon as it is safe and appropriate to do so. The system is designed to enhance safety and reduce the risk of collisions.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter difficulties disabling or re-enabling CMBS, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Consult the Owner's Manual: The owner's manual is the most reliable source of information for your specific vehicle model and year. It will provide detailed instructions on how to operate all of the vehicle's features, including CMBS.
• Check for Error Messages: If there is a malfunction with the CMBS system, you may see an error message on the instrument panel. In this case, it is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified Honda technician.
• Ensure Sensors are Clean: The radar sensor and camera used by CMBS need to be clean and unobstructed in order to function properly. Make sure that the front of your vehicle is free from dirt, snow, ice, or any other obstructions.
• Software Updates: Sometimes, CMBS performance issues can be resolved with software updates. Consult your Honda dealer to see if there are any available updates for your vehicle's CMBS system.

Important Considerations and Practical Advice

While the temporary deactivation of CMBS is possible, it's important to understand the implications and exercise caution. CMBS is a valuable safety feature that can help to prevent or mitigate collisions. Consider the following:

• Avoid Permanent Deactivation: As mentioned earlier, permanently disabling CMBS is strongly discouraged and likely not possible through standard vehicle settings. The system is designed to enhance safety and should be kept active whenever possible.
• Understand the Limitations: CMBS is not a substitute for attentive driving. It is important to always remain alert and aware of your surroundings, and to maintain a safe following distance.
• Use Judgement: There may be specific situations where temporarily disabling CMBS is necessary, such as driving in very heavy snow or on unpaved roads where the system may generate false alerts. However, these situations should be rare.
• Re-enable the System Promptly: Always remember to re-enable CMBS as soon as it is safe and appropriate to do so. The system is there to protect you and your passengers.

In everyday life, understanding the capabilities and limitations of systems like CMBS empowers drivers to make informed decisions and prioritize safety. By following the guidelines outlined in this article and consulting your vehicle's owner's manual, you can effectively manage the CMBS system in your Honda and contribute to a safer driving experience for yourself and others.