On most Honda vehicles, you can turn off cruise control by braking, pressing the CANCEL button, or flipping the MAIN switch to OFF to completely disable the system.
In Honda terminology, Cruise Main is the power switch that enables the cruise control system. When MAIN is ON, you can set or resume speeds with the SET/RES controls, and the system will maintain your chosen speed. Pressing CANCEL or applying the brake temporarily disengages the system without turning it off completely. To completely shut it down, switch MAIN to OFF. Models with Honda Sensing and adaptive cruise control use the same disengagement basics but the exact layout can vary by year and trim.
Understanding Cruise Main and Its Controls
Cruise Main powers the cruise control system. The design typically includes a MAIN button, a SET/RES button, a CANCEL button, and a brake pedal. The exact layout depends on model and year, but the core behavior is consistent: brake or CANCEL disengages; MAIN OFF turns the system off; MAIN ON enables it again for use.
Ways to Turn Off Cruise Control
Use one of these common methods to disengage Cruise Control in most Honda models. They are quick and safe for most driving conditions.
- Brake pedal: Gently press the brake to disengage the system. This is the standard, immediate way to stop cruise control without turning off the system.
- CANCEL button: Press the CANCEL button on the steering wheel to temporarily disengage while leaving MAIN turned ON. You can resume later with RES/SET.
- Main switch to OFF: Flip the MAIN switch to OFF to completely disable the cruise control system until you turn MAIN back ON.
After disengaging, you can usually resume or re-engage once you reach your desired speed by using RES/SET or turning MAIN ON and then setting a new speed.
Resuming or Re-engaging Cruise Control
To resume a previously set speed after braking or cancelling, press the RES/SET switch or briefly tap the accelerator if your car supports it. If you had OFF, turn MAIN ON again and then press RES/SET to establish a new cruising speed. Adaptive cruise control will maintain a safe following distance based on your settings.
Model-Year and Trim Notes
Most recent Honda models (Civic, Accord, CR-V, Pilot, HR-V, and Ridgeline) place Cruise Main on the steering wheel area with physical MAIN, RES/SET, and CANCEL controls. Some older Hondas or special trims may use a stalk or dash-mounted switch for the MAIN control. Honda Sensing-equipped vehicles use the same disengagement methods, but the exact button placement can vary by year and trim. If you’re unsure, consult the owner’s manual or contact a dealer for precise instructions for your exact model and year.
Practical tip
If you frequently use cruise control, take a moment to locate MAIN, RES/SET, and CANCEL in your car and confirm how the system behaves before driving on highways.
Safety Reminder
Always stay attentive and ready to take manual control. Cruise control is a convenience feature that can reduce fatigue on long highway drives, but it should be used in appropriate conditions and with full attention to road conditions and traffic.
Summary
To turn off Cruise Main on a Honda, use one of these options: brake to disengage, press CANCEL to temporarily disconnect, or switch MAIN to OFF to completely disable the system. To re-engage, switch MAIN back ON and set your speed with RES/SET, or resume with RES/SET after disengagement. Check your specific model’s manual for exact layout, as positions can vary by year and trim. Safety first: keep eyes on the road and be ready to take control at any time.