Yes. On most Honda CR-V models with Honda Sensing, you can temporarily disable the automatic braking (CMBS) using the Sensing controls; the setting typically resets when you restart the vehicle. This guide walks you through the common methods and what to expect.
What auto braking is and why you might disable it
Automatic braking, part of Honda’s Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), uses radar and camera data to detect potential collisions and apply the brakes to reduce impact. Some drivers disable it temporarily when driving in areas with frequent false alerts or nuisance braking, such as heavy traffic, construction zones, or parking lots with close vehicles. Note that turning off CMBS reduces a core safety feature, so use caution and re-enable it when appropriate.
Ways to disable auto braking on most CR-V models
The following steps describe common methods used across recent CR‑V generations. If your trim year differs, consult the owner’s manual for model-specific instructions.
- Use the dash-mounted Honda Sensing off toggle: locate the Sensing button (often labeled “Sensing” with a car icon) on or near the steering wheel. Press it briefly to toggle Honda Sensing features off, which typically disables CMBS for the current drive. You may see an indicator such as “Sensing OFF” or “CMBS OFF” on the instrument cluster.
- Temporary off through the vehicle’s information display: some CR‑V models let you turn off CMBS individually via the driver information display/menu. Navigate to Settings or Vehicle Settings, then find CMBS or Collision Mitigation Braking System and select Off. The system remains off until you re-enable it or restart the vehicle.
- Confirm the off state before warning that auto braking is deactivated: look for a CMBS OFF message or a lack of CMBS alerts while driving to verify that the system is indeed off.
The above steps typically apply for most recent CR‑V versions, but exact labeling and menu names can vary by year and trim. If you can’t locate the switch or the menu option, refer to the owner’s manual or contact a local Honda dealer for model-specific guidance.
Model-year and trim variations
Recent CR‑V models with Honda Sensing (approx. 2017–present)
On most 2017 and newer CR‑V models equipped with Honda Sensing, CMBS can be toggled off either via the Sensing button or through the vehicle’s settings menu. The feature is designed to be easily disabled for certain driving conditions but should be re-enabled for highway and normal driving to maintain active safety systems.
Older CR‑V models and early Honda Sensing iterations
Earlier CR‑V versions that had Honda Sensing or its predecessor systems may require using the Sensing off switch or navigating a different menu structure. In some cases, CMBS could not be turned off completely and could only be muted by deactivating the entire Honda Sensing suite. If your vehicle predates the current Sensing layout, consult the manual for the exact procedure.
Important safety notes and best practices
Disabling auto braking can increase your risk in unexpected traffic situations. Use discretion and re-enable CMBS as soon as practical. If you frequently need to disable it, consider discussing with a dealer whether a permanent tuning or software update is appropriate for your driving environment. Always stay attentive and maintain safe following distances, as driver awareness remains essential even with safety systems engaged.
Step-by-step quick reference
Here is a concise recap of common methods to disable auto braking on a CR‑V. The following lists are intended as quick references to the more detailed guidance above.
Short guide to temporary CMBS off via Sensing button. This list helps you disable CMBS quickly for the current drive.
- Find the Sensing button near the steering wheel.
- Press the Sensing button to toggle Honda Sensing off.
- Check the instrument cluster for CMBS OFF or Sensing OFF indicator.
- Drive with CMBS off, re-enable by pressing the button again or restarting the vehicle.
The quick reference for disabling CMBS via the vehicle settings menu is below. Use this when you need to turn CMBS off without relying on the dash button.
- Access the vehicle’s settings menu on the instrument cluster or infotainment screen.
- Navigate to Honda Sensing or CMBS settings.
- Select Off to disable CMBS; confirm the change if prompted.
- Re-enable by returning to the same menu and turning CMBS back On, or by restarting the vehicle.
Concluding note: Always re-check that CMBS is re-enabled when you return to typical driving conditions, and refer to your owner’s manual for precise steps tailored to your exact model and year.
Summary
Turning off auto braking on a Honda CR-V is possible on most models with Honda Sensing, typically through the Sensing dash button or the vehicle’s settings menu. The change is usually temporary for the current drive and may revert after ignition cycles. Because CMBS is a critical safety feature, re-enable it when normal driving resumes, and consult the owner’s manual or a Honda dealer if you’re unsure of the exact procedure for your year and trim.
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How to turn off auto stop Honda CR-V?
The Auto Idle Stop system is turned on every time you start the engine, even if you turned it off the last time you drove the vehicle. If you turn off the Auto Idle Stop system while it is activated, the engine will restart. If you hold the Auto Idle Stop OFF button, you can disable idle stop messages.
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Can you turn off brake assist on a Honda?
Press and hold the CMBS™ OFF button. A beep sounds and a message appears in the Multi-Information DisplayDriver Information Interface. The CMBS™ indicator appears when the system is off. CMBS is designed to reduce the severity of an unavoidable collision.
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How do I turn off the auto brake on my Honda CR-V?
Let go press and hold again one big beep that means it's been deactivated. Okay so now when I turn off the vehicle it will automatically leave it alone will not engage. Now from there.


