How to turn on Honda collision mitigation braking system?
In most Honda models, there isn’t a separate “CMBS on” switch. Enable Honda Sensing (the broader safety suite) and CMBS activates automatically when a potential collision is detected. This article walks you through the typical steps, what to expect, and how variations by model year or trim can affect the process.
Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) uses radar and cameras to monitor the road ahead. If the vehicle senses an imminent collision, it will issue warnings to the driver and, if necessary, automatically apply braking to help reduce crash severity. CMBS works alongside other systems in Honda Sensing, such as Lane Keeping Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Is CMBS available on my Honda?
Most modern Honda models equipped with Honda Sensing include CMBS as part of the safety suite. If your car is a base trim or an older model without Honda Sensing, CMBS may not be available. Always check your owner's manual or the vehicle’s safety features list to confirm whether CMBS is included for your exact year and trim.
Steps to enable CMBS on most Honda models
Here are typical steps you’ll follow to ensure CMBS is active. Note that exact button names and menu paths can vary by model year and trim, so if something looks different in your car, consult the manual or your dealer.
- Start the engine and buckle your seat belt.
- Enable Honda Sensing. In many Hondas, press the MAIN button (often located on the left side of the steering wheel or center console) to turn on Honda Sensing. You should see the Sensing indicator illuminate on the dashboard.
- Verify CMBS is active. Look for CMBS-related indicators in the instrument cluster or on the multi-information display. The system is typically indicated as part of the Honda Sensing status.
- Adjust follow distance if you use Adaptive Cruise Control. If you want CMBS to work in tandem with ACC, set a comfortable following distance using the stalk or on-screen controls.
- Know how to temporarily disable if needed. Some models provide a separate CMBS OFF switch or an option in the Honda Sensing menu to deactivate CMBS while driving; in other models you may need to use the steering-wheel buttons or the vehicle settings screen to disable it.
- Drive as normal. CMBS remains Ready and will engage only when it detects an immediate collision risk and you are not actively braking in a way that prevents the system from operating.
If CMBS does not appear to be active after following these steps, verify that your vehicle’s Honda Sensing package is installed on your trim, check for any fault messages on the dash, and consider having the system inspected at a Honda service center if issues persist.
What to expect once CMBS is active
When CMBS is active, you may notice visual warnings and audible chimes if a collision risk is detected. If you don’t respond with braking or steering, the system can automatically apply braking to help mitigate a collision. Keep in mind that CMBS is a driver-assist feature meant to supplement, not replace, safe driving. Weather, road conditions, and sensor coverage can affect performance.
- Dash indicators and chimes alert you when the system detects a potential collision or when CMBS is actively braking.
- Automatic braking occurs to reduce impact severity if you do not respond in time.
- The system is designed to work with, not replace, your braking and steering input.
- CMBS may be limited or temporarily unavailable in certain conditions (heavy rain, snow, poor visibility, sensor obstructions).
- You can temporarily disable CMBS on some models, but it reactivates automatically when you restart the vehicle or re-enable Honda Sensing.
If you notice fault indicators or warning messages related to CMBS, consult your owner’s manual or contact a Honda service center for a diagnostic check.
Model-year and trim variations
General notes by model family
Honda Sensing, including CMBS, is widely offered across many Civic, Accord, CR-V, and Pilot models, but the exact steps to enable it and whether there is a dedicated CMBS OFF control can differ by year and trim. The basic pattern—activate Honda Sensing, confirm the system is shown as active, and then drive—remains common, with variations in button placement and menu layout.
- Civic and CR-V (recent years): Typically use a clearly labeled MAIN button to turn on Honda Sensing; CMBS becomes active when Sensing is on, and you may see a CMBS indicator in the instrument cluster.
- Accord (recent years): Similar steps with MAIN to enable Sensing; some trims provide explicit CMBS OFF switches in the dash or steering-wheel area.
- Older or base trims: If Honda Sensing isn’t installed, CMBS won’t be available; upgrading or selecting a higher trim is required to access the feature.
Because the exact steps and availability can vary, always refer to your specific model year manual for precise instructions and button placements.
Summary
Turn on Honda Sensing to activate CMBS on most modern Hondas. Look for the Sensing indicators on the dashboard, and be aware that CMBS is a driver-assist feature that can automatically brake to help mitigate collisions when a risk is detected, while still relying on you to brake and steer as needed. If you’re unsure whether CMBS is active in your vehicle, consult the owner’s manual or contact a Honda dealer for guidance tailored to your exact model and year.
