Driver assist systems and other safety systems on many late model Honda and Acura automobiles offer heightened safety and convenience for the vehicle driver and passengers. However, collision repair technicians must be aware of issues created if other than original equipment parts are used to repair vehicles with these systems. While non-OE parts may look the same, and fit in the same physical space on the vehicle, their use may present unforeseen circumstances causing the driver assist or other safety systems to operate abnormally, or not at all.

Windshield Replacement

Models Affected – Honda

2013-15 Accord – EX-L, Touring
2014-15 Accord – Hybrid EX-L, Touring
2014 Accord Plug-In – All
2014 Civic Hybrid – All
2013-15 Crosstour – EX-L
2015 CR-V – Touring
2014-15 Odyssey – EX-L, Touring

Models Affected – Acura

2014-15 MDX – Tech, Advance
2014-15 RLX – All
2014 RLX Hybrid – All
2015 TLX – Tech, Advance
2013 ZDX – All

The models listed above use one or more of the following systems: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane departure warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Road departure Mitigation (RDM). Depending on the model or trim level these systems either use a camera that’s mounted behind the rearview mirror, or a combination of that camera and a radar unit mounted in the front bumper or grill. Installing anything other than an original equipment replacement windshield may cause these systems to work abnormally. Most specifically, the camera will not be able to aim properly

Windshield Replacement / Head-Up Display

Models Affected – Acura

2014 RLX and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD®

The model listed above uses a head-up display system providing the driver an expanded view of the vehicle’s operating parameters projected onto the windshield. The windshield is specially designed to correctly project the HUD image and must be replaced with a HUD windshield. Installing anything other than an original equipment replacement windshield may result in the HUD appearing as a “double image.”

There is no visual difference between an OE HUD windshield and a non-HUD windshield. Both will physically fit into the same space. To insure the correct replacement windshield is installed, provide the vehicle’s VIN when ordering parts.

Side-Glass Replacement / Acoustic Glass

Models Affected – Acura

2014 RLX and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD®

The model listed above uses acoustic front side door glass for sound isolation on some trim levels. The glass has a sound insulation layer of PVB (polyvinyl-butyral) sandwiched between two layers of semi-tempered glass. Acoustic side glass is thinner than conventional side glass. It is similar to laminated windshield glass in that it does not shatter like conventional side window glass. To ensure the correct replacement glass is installed, provide the vehicle’s VIN number when ordering parts. Installing anything other than the original equipment replacement side glass may result a diminution of the vehicle’s cabin-noise reduction qualities.

CMBS Grille Differences

Models Affected – Honda

2015 CR-V – Touring

Models Affected – Acura

2014-15 MDX – Advance
2014-15 RLX – Advance
2015 TLX – Advance
2015 TLX – Advance

The models listed above are equipped with a Collision Mitigating Brake System™ (CMBS™) that uses a millimeter wave radar unit mounted in the front grille area. This unit senses through the front grille upper molding (Acura), or grille emblem (Honda CR-V). These parts are specially designed to prevent radar interference, which significantly increases their cost. Installation of the wrong grille parts will cause the CMBS indicator to come on and DTC P2583-97 (Dust or dirt on the millimeter wave radar) to set.