How do you turn off the CMBS on an Acura?

CMBS stands for Collision Mitigation Braking System, Acura’s automated braking feature designed to help reduce the severity of collisions in certain driving scenarios. This guide explains how to temporarily disable CMBS and what to expect, with notes that steps can vary by model and year.

In most Acura models, CMBS can be temporarily disabled using either a dedicated CMBS OFF button or through the Driver Assist settings in the infotainment system. The exact steps depend on the model year and trim, and in some configurations the system cannot be turned off while driving.

Below are the common methods and considerations for Acura vehicles such as the TLX, MDX, RDX, and ILX families. Always consult your owner’s manual for your exact year and trim to get model-specific instructions.

Methods to disable CMBS

There are two common approaches to turning CMBS off in Acura vehicles, and which method you have depends on the model and year.

Method A: Physical CMBS OFF button

Some Acura models include a dedicated CMBS OFF switch on the dashboard or center console. If your model has this button, you can disable CMBS with a quick hardware toggle.

1. Locate the CMBS OFF button (often on the lower left part of the dash near the steering wheel or adjacent to other driver-assist controls).


2. Press the button briefly to toggle CMBS off. A CMBS OFF indicator should appear in the instrument cluster or on the dashboard.


3. To re-enable CMBS, press the button again or follow the on-screen prompt. In some models, CMBS may automatically re-enable after certain driving conditions or a vehicle restart.

Not all trims include a physical CMBS OFF button. If you don’t see this button, proceed to Method B.

Method B: Via Driver Assist or Settings menu

For vehicles without a dedicated CMBS OFF switch, you can usually disable CMBS through the vehicle’s driver-assist settings in the infotainment system or instrument cluster.

1. Access the vehicle’s information display or touchscreen, typically via the steering wheel controls or center console menu.


2. Navigate to Settings (or Vehicle > Driver Assist/Collision Mitigation Braking System).


3. Find the CMBS option and toggle it OFF. You may need to confirm the action.


4. Check the instrument cluster or on-screen status to confirm CMBS is OFF. Re-enable CMBS by repeating the steps and turning the toggle back ON when needed.

Note: In some models, CMBS can only be disabled while the car is stationary or in Park, and it may automatically re-enable under certain conditions. If you’re unsure, consult your owner’s manual for the exact behavior on your year/model.

Safety considerations and model notes

Disabling CMBS removes a layer of automated braking designed to help mitigate frontal collisions. If you choose to turn CMBS off, maintain extra following distance, stay alert, and be prepared to brake manually. Some Acura models may restrict disabling CMBS under certain driving conditions or modes; if the option is unavailable, CMBS cannot be turned off in that configuration.

Common questions and troubleshooting

• Can CMBS be permanently turned off? In most models, CMBS can only be disabled temporarily; it will often re-enable automatically. Check your manual for specifics on your year and trim.


• What if the CMBS OFF option is grayed out? This can occur if the vehicle is in a mode or condition that requires CMBS to stay active, or if there’s a sensor issue. Refer to the manual or contact a dealer if the option isn’t selectable.


• Will disabling CMBS affect warranty? CMBS is a safety system; disabling it does not void warranties by itself, but continued reliance on manual braking should be exercised carefully. For model-specific guidance, consult your dealer.

Summary

Turning off CMBS on an Acura usually involves either a dedicated CMBS OFF button or a setting accessed through the Driver Assist menu. Availability and behavior vary by model year and trim, and in many cases CMBS can only be disabled under certain conditions (such as the vehicle being stationary). Always re-enable CMBS when driving in traffic, and consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions to ensure you’re following the correct procedure for your Acura. If you’re unsure or can’t locate the option, contact your dealership for precise guidance.

How do I turn off CMBS?

To turn off the collision mitigation braking system (CMBS), you can typically press and hold a physical button located to the left of the steering column, or you can turn it off through your vehicle's infotainment system's settings menu. The specific method depends on your vehicle's make and model. 
Using the physical button

• Locate the button: Find the physical CMBS or forward collision warning button, usually to the left of the steering wheel. 
• Press and hold: Press and hold the button for a few seconds until you hear an audible beep and a message appears on the driver information display confirming the system is off. 
• Check the display: A specific indicator light or symbol will appear in your instrument cluster to show that the system has been deactivated. 

Using the infotainment system

• Access settings: From the home screen, navigate to the "Settings" menu. 
• Find the driver assist option: Look for a "Vehicle," "Driver Assist," or "Safety" menu. 
• Adjust the system: Select "Collision Mitigation Braking System" or "Forward Collision Warning" and choose the option to turn it off. 

This video shows how to turn off the CMBS using the infotainment system: 55sJoel WilliamsYouTube · Oct 16, 2024
Important considerations

• Automatic reset: In most cases, the system will automatically turn back on each time you start the engine, so you will need to repeat the deactivation process. 
• Permanent disabling: Disabling the system permanently is not typically an option through the standard settings, though some manufacturers may have different procedures. 
• Check your owner's manual: The most accurate instructions will be in your vehicle's owner's manual, which can provide details specific to your model, say Reddit users. 

What is the CMBS warning light on my Acura?

The "CMBS" light on an Acura indicates a problem with the Collision Mitigation Braking System, which can happen due to a sensor obstruction, sensor malfunction, or a fault in the brake light switch. To troubleshoot, first check if the front of the radar or camera is dirty or blocked by snow, mud, or other debris and clean it. If the issue persists, you may need to have the system inspected by a technician.
 
You can watch this video to learn about common causes of CMBS problems: 51sDmitry SapkoYouTube · Aug 17, 2024
Possible causes of the CMBS light

• Blocked sensors: The system relies on a front-facing radar sensor (in the grille) and/or a camera (on the windshield). The light may come on if the sensor is covered by dirt, mud, snow, fog, a sticker, or other debris. 
• Sensor or system malfunction: The sensor may be faulty, misinterpreting objects or failing to detect hazards. 
• Brake light switch issue: Problems with the brake light switch can also trigger the CMBS light, as the two systems are interconnected. 
• Driving conditions: The system may automatically shut off under certain conditions, such as driving on a winding road for an extended period, or driving with the parking brake engaged, which would cause the light to illuminate. 

This video explains how to use the Collision Mitigation Braking System: 58sHondaYouTube · Jun 16, 2022
What to do

1. Inspect and clean the sensors: Check the front grille and the area around the front-mounted camera on the windshield for any dirt, debris, or obstructions. Clean them thoroughly. 
2. Check for other system messages: Look for other indicators on your dashboard, such as a brake system warning, which might provide more information. 
3. Have the system diagnosed: If the light remains on after cleaning the sensors, there is likely a more serious issue. It is recommended to have a qualified technician inspect the system to diagnose and fix the problem. 

How to turn off CMBS Acura RDX?

1. Can assist you when there is a possibility of your vehicle colliding with a vehicle or a pedestrian detected in front of yours.
2. The system has three alert stages for a possible collision.
3. Determine the warning timing.
4. Select Forward Collision Warning Distance.
5. Press and hold the CMBS™ OFF button.

How do I turn off ACC on my Acura MDX?

To turn off ACC on an Acura MDX, you can press the brake pedal, press the "CANCEL" or "MAIN" button on the steering wheel, or press and hold the "INTERVAL" button to switch to standard cruise control. A quick way to cancel ACC is by pressing the brake or "CANCEL" button, which disengages it instantly. 
Methods to turn off ACC 
This video demonstrates how to turn off adaptive cruise control: 53sCrazy Honda ChrisYouTube · Apr 8, 2022

• Press the brake pedal: This will immediately disengage both standard and adaptive cruise control. 
• Press the "CANCEL" or "MAIN" button: The "CANCEL" button will disengage ACC instantly, while the "MAIN" button may turn the system off completely depending on your specific model year and settings. 
• Press and hold the "INTERVAL" button: On many Acura models, pressing and holding this button will switch the system from Adaptive Cruise Control to standard cruise control, according to this YouTube video and Acura's 2017 MDX manual. 
• Press the "On/Off" button: Some models have a dedicated "On/Off" button on the steering wheel that will completely turn the cruise control system off. 

You can also watch this video to learn how to adjust safety features in your Acura: 1mSchaller AcuraYouTube · Mar 30, 2023
Tips for using ACC

• Stay attentive: ACC is a driver-assistance feature, not a substitute for the driver's full attention. 
• Keep sensors clean: The system relies on a front radar unit and a windshield-mounted camera. Keep these sensors clean for proper operation. 
• Understand limitations: ACC may cancel automatically in certain conditions, such as on roads with sharp turns or heavy stop-and-go traffic.