On Honda vehicles, cruise mode refers to the cruise control system, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). It helps you maintain a steady speed on highways and, with ACC, automatically adjusts speed to keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
Understanding cruise mode: standard vs adaptive
In Honda models, "cruise mode" typically covers two core technologies: standard Cruise Control, which holds a set speed, and Adaptive Cruise Control, which uses sensors to meter distance to the car in front. Many Honda models can combine ACC with Lane Keeping Assist for highway driving. Availability depends on model year and trim.
Standard Cruise Control
What it does: It maintains a steady speed you select, without you needing to keep your foot on the accelerator. It is most useful on long, straight highways with light traffic.
Adaptive Cruise Control
What it does: It maintains a chosen speed and automatically adjusts the throttle to keep a set following distance from the vehicle ahead. In certain conditions, it can slow to a stop and resume when traffic clears, depending on the model year and system. It relies on radar sensors and often a camera to monitor road conditions.
How to use cruise mode in a Honda
Below are the typical steps to engage and operate cruise mode in most Honda vehicles. Exact labels and button placements may vary by year and trim, so consult your owner's manual for your model.
- Turn on the cruise control system by pressing the steering wheel button labeled Cruise, Resume, or MAIN; the indicator light should illuminate on the dash.
- Accelerate to your desired speed, then press the SET/RES (or SET) button to lock in that speed.
- To increase or decrease speed, use the + and - controls (or move the lever up or down) while the system is active.
- To cancel the current set speed without turning the system off, press CANCEL or tap the brake pedal lightly; some cars require you to press a dedicated CANCEL button.
- To resume the previously set speed, press RES or SET after canceling or after a temporary brake hold.
- If your Honda is equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control, adjust the following distance using the distance control (often a separate button or a rocker switch with a row of bars on the instrument cluster).
Note: In ACC mode, the system will adjust your speed to traffic and may require driver intervention when road or traffic conditions change. Always stay attentive and be prepared to take manual control if needed.
Safety considerations and limitations
Cruise mode is a driver-assist feature, not a substitute for active driving. It may not detect stationary objects or pedestrians; it relies on sensors that can be blocked by weather or road conditions. Use on highways and open roads, and keep both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
Model variations and availability
The exact layout, naming, and capabilities of cruise mode features vary by Honda model and year. Standard Cruise Control is common across many trims, while Adaptive Cruise Control and its distance settings may be optional or standard on higher trims. For precise instructions, check your vehicle’s manual or the official Honda website for your model year.
Summary
Honda’s cruise mode centers on two core options: standard Cruise Control to maintain a steady speed, and Adaptive Cruise Control to automatically manage speed and following distance. Used properly, it can reduce driver workload on highways, but it does not replace attentive driving. Always verify the controls on your specific vehicle model to use cruise mode correctly.