In most Honda models with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) as part of Honda Sensing, you can quickly disengage ACC by braking or pressing Cancel, and you can fully disable the system using the MAIN switch. The exact steps can vary by model year and trim, so this guide covers the common methods and highlights model-specific differences.
What ACC does in a Honda
Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a set speed while automatically adjusting throttle to keep a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. When integrated with Honda Sensing, ACC works alongside features like Lane Keeping Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition. ACC is typically engaged via the steering-wheel controls, and can be turned off or paused using several controls on the dash or steering wheel, depending on your model year.
Quick ways to turn ACC off
The following methods cover the most common ways drivers disengage ACC across Honda models. Use the one that is most convenient in your situation.
- Brake pedal: Gently press the brake to disengage ACC immediately. The vehicle will revert to manual control until you re-engage ACC or resume cruising manually.
- CANCEL button on the steering wheel: Press CANCEL to disengage ACC without turning off the entire cruise control system; you can resume later with RES/SET.
- MAIN switch (Honda Sensing toggle): Press the MAIN button to turn Honda Sensing off, which disables ACC and other assistive features; press MAIN again to re-enable the system.
- OFF or CRUISE OFF (older trims): Some older models use a separate OFF or CRUISE OFF switch to disable cruise control/ACC.
Note: If you simply press CANCEL or the brake, ACC is disengaged but some models may retain the last set speed for a quick resume. To re-engage, use RES/SET or reactivate via MAIN and then ACC on compatible models.
Model-specific notes
Newer Hondas with the MAIN toggle
Most 2016-2024+ Honda models equipped with Honda Sensing have a MAIN switch on the steering wheel. Turning the MAIN button off disables the entire Honda Sensing suite, including ACC. To re-enable, press MAIN again, then reactivate ACC using the RES/SET controls if desired. If you only want to pause ACC but keep other features active, use CANCEL or braking rather than turning the whole system off.
Older Hondas or trims with fewer controls
Some older vehicles or specific trims may rely on a Cruise Control ON/OFF or OFF button rather than a MAIN toggle. In these cases, you can typically disengage ACC by braking or pressing OFF/CANCEL if available. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact controls on your year and trim, as there can be variations.
Summary
To turn off ACC on a Honda, you can brake to disengage, press the CANCEL button, or use the MAIN switch to disable Honda Sensing altogether. Model-year and trim differences exist, so if you’re unsure, check your owner’s manual or contact a dealer. When you’re ready to resume or re-enable ACC, use the RES/SET controls or turn Honda Sensing back on via MAIN, depending on your vehicle.