AcuraWatch System Malfunction: 'Collision Mitigation Braking System Problem' Warning on 2018 TLX

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 26, 3:34 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Acura TLX Technology Package

I'm getting a persistent warning message on my 2018 Acura TLX Technology Package that says 'Collision Mitigation Braking System Problem.' It pops up intermittently, sometimes staying on for an entire drive, and other times disappearing after a few minutes.

When the warning is active, it seems like other AcuraWatch features like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist are also disabled. I haven't been in any accidents, and the front of the car looks fine. I've tried cleaning the radar sensor area in the grille, but it hasn't helped.

Has anyone encountered this issue? Is it a sensor problem, or something else entirely? It's really concerning to have a safety system malfunction.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

The 'Collision Mitigation Braking System Problem' warning on your 2018 Acura TLX indicates an issue with the AcuraWatch suite of safety features. This system relies on multiple sensors, including a radar unit behind the front grille and a camera mounted at the top of the windshield.

Here are common causes and diagnostic steps:

  1. Environmental Factors: Heavy rain, snow, fog, or even direct sunlight can temporarily obstruct the sensors, causing the system to temporarily disable and display a warning. If the problem is intermittent and occurs only in certain weather, this might be the cause.
  2. Sensor Obstruction/Damage: While you've cleaned the radar, check for any physical damage to the radar unit itself (behind the lower grille) or the windshield-mounted camera. Even a small crack in the windshield near the camera or a misaligned radar unit can trigger this warning.
  3. Sensor Calibration: After any front-end work, windshield replacement, or even a minor bump, the radar and camera sensors may require recalibration. If the sensors are out of alignment, the system won't function correctly.
  4. Wiring or Connector Issues: Loose or corroded wiring to the radar unit or camera can cause intermittent communication issues, leading to the warning.
  5. Faulty Sensor or Module: In some cases, the radar unit, camera module, or the control module itself may be faulty and require replacement. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to CMBS often include codes like U0401 (Invalid Data Received from ECM/PCM), C1A60 (Radar Sensor Malfunction), or C1A61 (Camera Sensor Malfunction).

When to See a Shop: Since this is a safety system, it's highly recommended to have your Acura TLX inspected by a dealership or a shop specializing in ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) diagnostics. They have the specialized tools to scan for specific DTCs, check sensor readings, and perform necessary calibrations. Do not ignore this warning, as it impacts critical safety features.