Automatic braking, also known as a collision mitigation braking system (CMBS), is a crucial safety feature that can significantly reduce the severity of accidents or even prevent them altogether. Honda has been a leader in integrating this technology into its vehicles. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of which Honda models offer automatic braking, the specifics of their systems, and answer frequently asked questions about this life-saving technology.
Honda Automatic Braking: A Comprehensive Overview
| Feature | Description | Availability (Model Year Varies - See Details Below) |
|---|---|---|
| Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) | Honda's primary automatic braking system. It uses radar and a camera to detect potential frontal collisions. If a collision is deemed imminent, the system provides visual and audible alerts. If the driver doesn't react, CMBS will automatically apply the brakes to reduce impact speed or, ideally, avoid the collision entirely. | Most newer Honda models (2015 and later, with increasing availability in subsequent years) |
| Forward Collision Warning (FCW) | A system that alerts the driver to a potential frontal collision. It typically works in conjunction with CMBS, providing an early warning before automatic braking is engaged. | Often paired with CMBS on Honda models. |
| Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow | Maintains a set following interval behind detected vehicles ahead. If the preceding vehicle slows or stops, ACC can automatically adjust the Honda's speed and even bring it to a complete stop. This feature relies on the same sensors used by CMBS. | Available on many newer Honda models, particularly higher trim levels. |
| Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM) | Uses a camera to identify lane markings and alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its detected lane without a turn signal. RDM can also gently steer the vehicle back into the lane and, in some situations, apply braking to prevent the vehicle from leaving the roadway. | Common on newer Honda models as part of the Honda Sensing suite. |
| Honda Sensing Suite | Honda's comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, which typically includes CMBS, FCW, ACC, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and RDM. | Widely available on newer Honda models. |
Detailed Explanations of Honda's Automatic Braking Features
Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): This is Honda's core automatic braking technology. CMBS uses a millimeter-wave radar sensor located in the front grille and a camera mounted near the rearview mirror to monitor the distance and closing speed to vehicles detected ahead. The system assesses the risk of a frontal collision based on these inputs. If the system detects a high probability of a collision, it will first provide visual and audible warnings to the driver. If the driver doesn't respond, CMBS will automatically apply the brakes to reduce the severity of the impact. The system is designed to assist the driver, not replace them, and the driver is always ultimately responsible for controlling the vehicle.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW): FCW acts as an early warning system, alerting the driver to a potential frontal collision before CMBS engages automatic braking. FCW typically provides visual and audible alerts if the system detects that the vehicle is approaching another vehicle too quickly. This gives the driver more time to react and take corrective action, such as braking or steering. FCW is often a component of the Honda Sensing suite and works in conjunction with CMBS.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow: While primarily a cruise control system, ACC with Low-Speed Follow utilizes the same radar and camera sensors as CMBS to maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle ahead. If the preceding vehicle slows down, ACC will automatically adjust the Honda's speed to maintain the set following interval. In some versions, particularly those with Low-Speed Follow, the system can even bring the Honda to a complete stop if the vehicle ahead stops. This is a significant safety feature, as it can help prevent rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic.
Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): RDM is designed to help prevent unintentional lane departures. It uses a camera to identify lane markings and monitors the vehicle's position within the lane. If the system detects that the vehicle is drifting out of its lane without a turn signal activated, it will first provide visual and audible alerts to the driver. If the driver doesn't respond, RDM can gently steer the vehicle back into the lane. In some situations, RDM can also apply braking to help prevent the vehicle from leaving the roadway altogether. This is particularly helpful on highways or roads with poorly marked lanes.
Honda Sensing Suite: Honda Sensing is not a single feature but rather a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies. It typically includes CMBS, FCW, ACC, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and RDM. By integrating these technologies, Honda Sensing provides a more holistic approach to safety, helping to prevent accidents and reduce the severity of those that do occur. The availability of Honda Sensing varies depending on the model and trim level, but it has become increasingly common on newer Honda vehicles.
Specific Model Availability (Examples - Check Specific Model Years and Trims):
- Honda Civic: The Civic began offering Honda Sensing (including CMBS) on certain trims starting around the 2016 model year.
- Honda Accord: The Accord also started incorporating Honda Sensing on select trims around the 2016 model year.
- Honda CR-V: Similar to the Civic and Accord, the CR-V began offering Honda Sensing (with CMBS) on certain trims starting around the 2016 model year.
- Honda Pilot: The Pilot also received Honda Sensing on select trims around the 2016 model year.
- Honda Odyssey: The Odyssey minivan also began offering Honda Sensing (including CMBS) on certain trims starting around the 2018 model year.
- Honda HR-V: The HR-V received Honda Sensing on specific trims around the 2019 model year.
Important Note: The availability of these features often depends on the specific trim level and model year. Always check the vehicle's specifications or consult with a Honda dealer to confirm whether a particular vehicle is equipped with automatic braking and other safety features. Furthermore, remember that these systems are designed to assist the driver, not replace them. The driver is always ultimately responsible for controlling the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is automatic braking?
Automatic braking is a safety feature that automatically applies the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a collision when the system detects an imminent crash.
How does Honda's automatic braking system work?
Honda's system (CMBS) uses radar and a camera to detect potential collisions and automatically applies the brakes if the driver doesn't react in time.
Is automatic braking standard on all new Hondas?
No, while it's becoming increasingly common, automatic braking is not standard on all new Honda models; availability varies by model and trim level.
Can automatic braking prevent all accidents?
No, automatic braking is designed to assist the driver and may not prevent all accidents, especially in extreme situations or if the system's sensors are obstructed.
Does Honda Sensing include automatic braking?
Yes, Honda Sensing, Honda's suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, typically includes the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which provides automatic braking.
Can I rely solely on automatic braking to avoid accidents?
No, you should never rely solely on automatic braking. Always be attentive and actively drive the vehicle. The system is there to assist you, not replace you.
How can I tell if my Honda has automatic braking?
Check the vehicle's specifications, consult with a Honda dealer, or look for the Honda Sensing logo on the vehicle. The owner's manual will also detail the car's safety features.
Conclusion
Honda has been actively integrating automatic braking technology, primarily through its Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) and the broader Honda Sensing suite, into its vehicle lineup. When considering a Honda purchase, it's essential to verify the specific model year and trim level to ensure the desired safety features, including automatic braking, are included, and remember that these systems are supplementary, requiring driver attentiveness for optimal safety.