Whenever I thought of a reliable automotive brand, without a second thought, I chose Honda. Why? From excellent engineering to top-notch reliability, Honda’s legacy is unmatched, with a global reputation. Its Accord line-up has continued leading Honda as a comfortable family sedan in the automotive industry.
Since nothing in the world is perfect, the same applies to Honda’s performance. Several owners reported honda accord fcw system failed issues, leaving the drivers concerned about the safety and reliability.
This article is a must-read even if you own a Honda Accord and wonder whether the vehicle needs help. This issue can obstruct your Accord car’s camera or radar system, worsening the situation if not treated in time.
Don’t worry, the fcw system failed 2014 honda accord problem is treatable, but you need to know what it is and how to proceed. Carefully go through this article without wasting any more time, and let your doubts be cleared.
A Brief of Accord’s FCW System?
Before we proceed with the topic, it is essential to start from the basics, that is, understanding the FCW system. FCW stands for Forward Collision Warning, a vital part of Honda Sensing, the brand’s advanced driver-assistance mechanism.
What does it actually do? Isn’t that what you want to know? Well, I got you here! Basically, its job is to monitor the vehicles and incoming obstacles in the path using a front-facing camera and radar sensors. It works when the system finds a potential collision and alerts drivers through the audio and visual warnings. This way, the mechanism helps the drivers to act suddenly and handle the steer to avoid disasters.
It is noteworthy that early FCW mechanisms provided warnings but did not apply the brake, as seen in automatic emergency braking systems. With technological advancements, the system has greatly improved and included automatic brakes alongside warnings for convenience. A glance at the available types of FCW systems is given in the table below.
| FCW Variant | Models Featured | Description |
| Camera-Based | Early to Pre-2013 | It uses a camera mounted on a windshield to monitor vehicles ahead. Moreover, this system worked best for clear and daylight weather conditions. |
| Radar-Based | Mid-2010s | This system utilized a millimeter-wave radar sensor usually mounted on the front grille for better detection. Best for low-light and adverse conditions. |
| Camera + Radar | Honda Sensing from 2016 onwards | It’s the standard mechanism in most Accord trims and works by integrating a front camera (object detection) and radar (speed/distance measurement), offering more accurate analysis. |
| Adaptive FCW with CMBS (Collision Mitigation Braking System) | Current | The advanced FCW variant operates alongside CMBS and automatically applies brakes with warnings. |
With time and technological advancements, the FCW’s variant improved massively to provide more refined detection and safety. Nowadays, FCW not only provides warnings, but also applies brakes automatically to avoid massive collisions ahead of the driver’s response.
What Does FCW System Failed Mean on a Honda Accord?
A failed FCW system in Honda’s mid-size sedan means the mechanism isn’t working correctly. This part of the Honda Sensing uses a front camera and radar systems to detect and avoid potential collisions. Still, you can’t access this safety feature if any of these get defective.
While you can still drive the vehicle, the FCW safety features will not work correctly, increasing safety risks, such as accidents. In such cases, you should act promptly and fix the issue before it worsens the situation, causing irreversible problems or severe collisions.
Common Reasons for A Faulty FCW System
Wondering if your vehicle has an identical FCW system issue? Well, there are multiple causes of this driver-assistance faults that you must know before you head towards the fixing process.
1. Obstructed Sensors or Camera
What would be your answer if I asked you whether you drive your Accord during rainy weather or in muddy areas? Well, your answer will be obvious: Yes! Well, there is the issue! Water droplets, dirt, snow or even mud can reach the windshield camera or sensors and block the system’s view. Replacing your windshield or hitting a pothole while driving can misalign the sensor and cause a malfunction.
2. Electrical or Software Issues
The FCW system failure can appear when there’s a fault in the wiring or when there are errors in sensor communication. In addition, outdated software can bring in issues, causing the safety feature to misbehave and increasing risks while you drive on the road.
3. Weak Electrical Supply
Car components, like the Accord car, indeed run on battery-generated electricity or alternators. Since the FWD operates from electric, if there’s any issue in the electric wiring or supply, the issue can appear. Sometimes, other driver-assistance systems get affected too due to the poor electrical supply.
4. Faulty Internal Systems
Your vehicle can have instances where its ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) module itself fails, causing the FCW system to work abnormally and raises safety concerns. However, this scenario is pretty rare, but if it happens, you must proceed with the replacement process.
How to Check Whether My Accord’s FCW System is Defective?
The simplest way to detect a faulty FCW system is by analysing the dashboard warnings like the “FCW System Failed”, “Collision Mitigation Problem” or any other related ADAS messages on the display.
If you are not getting any similar signs, let me tell you a secret that will help you detect whether a fcw system failed 2014 honda accord problem exists. Drive the latest generation Accord behind any vehicle at a moderate speed on an empty road. Observe that if the system fails to alert you, it means that there’s something wrong with the FCW. Moreover, you can check for dirt or dust, as they can cause damage or misalign the front camera and sensors.
If you have recently had the windshield repaired, it can interfere with the sensor’s functionality, causing faults in the vehicle’s FCW mechanism. Besides FCW, if you notice defects on other electric components, don’t delay to test your battery and ensure whether it works properly.
You can refer to an OBD-II scanner, usually used to monitor ADAS/FCW fault codes and confirm the root issue.
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Suggestion: Top Vehicle Recalls by Manufacturer in 5 Years In the US
How to Fix the “FCW System Failed” Issue in Honda’s Accord?
Well, if you are reading this section, it’s obvious that you are suffering with the FCW system failure issue. Don’t feel sad! You’re not alone here! This time is not to panic, but to check what you can best do to fix things and transform your Accord as new as it was. If you’re done with removing the dirt from the sensors and camera, you can check out the below methods that would probably fix the issue.
Fix 1: Vehicle Restart or System Reset
You can simply turn-off your Honda’s mid-size sedan and let it rest for sometime. After a few minutes, you can restart it and check if it works. Additionally, sometimes a simple reset clears software glitches and temporary sensors. It might be a simple fix, but it works and does wonders for your vehicle.
An automotive expert, Tom K, shared on JustAnswer that a simple diagnostic reset and monitoring can fix the problem.
“Reset the system via the vehicle’s diagnostic tool after cleaning or repairs.”
Fix 2: Inspect the Battery Health
A low-voltage or a weak battery can cause the FCW to work abnormally. In such cases, your job will be to test and replace the battery if required and check if the issue persists. Many owners did a battery reset and got rid of the FCW problem. They quoted:
“First, disconnect your battery for 30 minutes (let everything restart… best to do it when you know you aren’t going anywhere soon).”
Another Internet user stated that cleaning and tightening the battery connection can also do the work from your end.
“One of the connections was loose so he cleaned it and tightened it. Fixed it for a while, but if I idle too long the error comes back on.”
Fix 3: Replace Defective Components
A faulty camera, radar sensors or ADAS control module can sometimes fix the issue if you replace it correctly. According to the sources, some users noticed problems in the VSA and ABS modules and shared their experience:
“I ended up fixing it by sending it off to Module Master for a rebuild. Much cheaper option (only $250 + shipping)… Requires some basic mechanical knowledge.”
“Whatever computer module that controlled the FCW system and the stability control just failed… It was the VSA Modulator. The part was between $1 400 and $1 500.”
Additionally, Tom K indicated that module faults can lead to such issues.
“A brand new ABS module typically costs between $1 200 and $1 300. A used one is priced around $300 to $400. Additionally… a couple of hours of labor required for installation and programming.”
Fix 4: Valve or Injector Maintenance
Still, the 2014 Honda Accord FCW system failed problem is bothering you? That’s sad! It’s the time to do the unexpected!
You can check and adjust the valve, or even replace the fuel injector, as doing so would sweep the issue away from the vehicle. An Internet user shared a similar solution on Reddit and shared the experience as follows:
“Problem was the valves were overtightened; so they did a valve adjustment, and my fuel injectors were replaced for free under manufacturer’s warranty. Honda drives like new again…”
Also Read: MTC Style Side Skirts BMW F87 M2 Gloss Black Performance Upgrade
Fix 5: Seek Technician Help
If you’re noticing the continuous FCW system failed 2014 Honda Accord issue, you shouldn’t wait even a second and look for professional diagnostics. Seeking a technician’s assistance will put a full stop to the defect and further damage. Doing so will prevent the FCW issue from compromising your vehicle’s safety and increase its durability.
FAQs
Is it Safe to Drive With the Failed FCW System?
According to the sources, driving your Honda Accord with a faulty FCW mechanism is possible, but not recommended, as it is unsafe. The system notifies you of potential collisions and gives you additional time to react and prevent the disaster. In addition, defective FCW can affect other safety features, such as collision mitigation braking (CMB).
What is the Approximate Honda Accord FCW System Repair Cost?
The cost required to treat a faulty FCW system depends on the repair type and severity. It is found that easy fixes, including cleaning sensors or resetting the system, can be done within $100. However, moderate diagnosis can take $100 to $300, while the modular replacement can increase the figure to $1,500.
How Do You Reset the FCW System?
You must turn off the vehicle’s engine and clean the camera and sensors to ensure they are fine. Next, you should restart your Accord to check if the issue has gone. If not, immediately disconnect the battery, allow the vehicle to reset, and restart after 15 minutes.
Will My Honda Warranty Cover FCW System Repairs?
Most Honda factory warranties cover FCW system repairs if the failure is due to a defective sensor, part or issues in the vehicle’s software. However, accidental damages, aftermarket alterations, and calibration issues might not be covered. It is suggested that you check your warranty booklet or contact your Honda dealer for clarification.
The Final Words
In the end, I hope that you have the answer to how to fix the FCW System failed 2014 Honda Accord. A default FCW system can cause multiple problems for the vehicle’s occupants and pedestrians. In such cases, you need to buckle yourself up and patiently follow the steps properly. If still not fixed, you must immediately visit the nearest Honda dealer or other reputable repair store.
