Where is the radar sensor on a Honda?
In most Honda vehicles equipped with Honda Sensing, the radar sensor is tucked into the front of the car, typically behind the bumper in the center area or behind the lower grille. It works with the windshield-mounted camera to enable adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation. The exact spot varies by model and year.
General location overview
The radar sensor is part of Honda Sensing, a driver-assistance system that relies on radar and a forward-facing camera. On many recent Hondas, you won’t see the sensor from the outside because it sits behind the bumper or behind a small plastic cover in the lower fascia. The center-front position is common, with the unit protected from debris by the bumper and shielding materials.
Common configurations by model and year
Note: The sensor’s exact location can vary by generation and trim, but the following placements represent typical arrangements on widely sold models in recent years.
- Honda Civic (2016–2021): radar sensor located in the lower front bumper center, behind a protective plastic cover in the lower fascia.
- Honda Accord (2018–2023): radar centered in the lower bumper near the grille opening, often behind a small shield or panel.
- Honda CR-V (2017–2023): radar housed in the center of the front bumper behind the lower grille opening.
- Honda HR-V (2021–present): radar placed behind the lower front bumper center, in line with the grille area.
- Honda Pilot (2016–present): radar system located behind the front bumper center within a recessed housing.
If the bumper or grille is replaced or undergoes impact work, the radar unit may be moved or require recalibration. A technician with proper diagnostic tools should handle any reinstallation to ensure proper alignment with the camera system.
How to identify visually and verify
Visual cues
Look for a small plastic panel or shield in the center of the front bumper or behind the lower grille. The radar sensor itself is usually a compact rectangular or circular module behind this cover. The windshield-mounted camera is clearly visible on the inside top edge of the windshield, near the rearview mirror, and is a separate component from the radar.
Verification and calibration
If you’ve had collision repair, bumper work, or misalignment concerns, the radar system may require calibration. A Honda dealership or trained auto shop with the manufacturer’s diagnostic tools can perform sensor alignment to restore proper operation of adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation.
Maintenance and safety considerations
Keep the sensor area clean and free of obstructions. Debris, bumper misalignment, or seal damage can affect radar performance. Do not attempt to modify or relocate the sensor yourself. Any service involving the bumper or fascia should include checks or recalibration of the Honda Sensing sensors to preserve system reliability.
Summary
Across most modern Honda models with Honda Sensing, the radar sensor is mounted in the front bumper’s center area, typically behind a protective cover in the lower fascia. The forward camera sits separately on the windshield. Because exact placement varies by model and year, consult your owner’s manual or a Honda service technician for model-specific details and required calibration after any bumper work.
How to clean a Honda radar sensor?
Up top they have a forward- facing. Camera. So all you do is you take a cloth i keep one right in the side door and you just wipe off the camera on the top of the windshield. There.
How to fix Honda Sensing problems?
You can often fix Honda Sensing problems by clearing the sensors and cameras for the malfunctioning features or by resetting the system.
Where is the radar sensor located?
Radar sensors are most commonly located behind the front bumper, in the front grille, or behind the vehicle's emblem on the front fascia. Their specific position varies by car model, so it is best to check the owner's manual for the exact location.
This video explains the location of the radar sensor in a Kia Niro EV: 39sCardinal KiaYouTube · Mar 20, 2024
Common locations
- Inside the front bumper: The sensor may be behind a panel or the bumper cover itself to protect it.
- Behind the front grille: It can be hidden behind a section of the grille, sometimes located near the manufacturer's emblem.
- Behind the emblem: In some models, the sensor is placed directly behind the front emblem.
This video demonstrates how to clean a radar sensor in a Honda Civic: 54sBrantford HondaYouTube · Dec 11, 2019
Important considerations
- Keep it clean: For the system to work correctly, the sensor's front surface must be kept clean from dirt, snow, ice, or any other obstruction.
- Do not block it: Avoid installing accessories like grille guards or applying stickers in the area of the sensor.
- Professional calibration: If the sensor's position is compromised due to damage, it may need to be inspected and recalibrated by a professional to ensure the advanced safety features function correctly.
Where is the radar on a Honda?
Honda Sensing™
Honda Sensing is a driver support system which employs the use of two distinctly different kinds of sensors, a radar sensor located at the lower part of the front bumper and a front sensor camera mounted to the interior side of the windshield, behind the rearview mirror.
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