Adjusting Honda Cr-V Side Camera Focus: A Step-By-Step Guide

Honda LaneWatch™ is a safety technology offered on many new Honda vehicles, including the CR-V. It helps drivers stay informed about what’s happening on the passenger side of their vehicle by using a camera installed below the right, passenger-side mirror to relay an image of the area on the side of the vehicle to the central display screen. This makes it easier and safer for drivers to change lanes or make turns. While Honda LaneWatch™ is a useful safety enhancement, it is not a substitute for the passenger-side mirror or safe driving practices. To ensure optimal performance of the Honda LaneWatch™ system, it is important to keep the camera lens clean and free of dirt or moisture.

Adjusting the camera's fixed and dynamic guideline settings

Adjusting the cameras' fixed and dynamic guideline settings is a straightforward process. The fixed guideline setting controls whether guidelines appear on the rearview camera feed when the transmission is put into reverse. You can turn this setting on or off as per your preference.

The dynamic guideline setting, on the other hand, determines whether the guidelines move according to the steering wheel direction. This feature is designed to project the arc the vehicle will take when backing up, providing valuable assistance during reverse parking or manoeuvring. As with the fixed guideline setting, you can choose to turn the dynamic guideline setting on or off.

It's worth noting that the dynamic guidelines feature is typically available on higher-end models, such as the CR-V Special Edition and above. Additionally, while the rearview camera is a valuable tool, it should not replace the need for drivers to be aware of their surroundings by looking over their shoulder and using the vehicle's mirrors.

To adjust these settings, you can follow these general steps:

• Access the audio/information screen or the diagnostic mode of the in-vehicle system. This process may vary depending on the specific model and year of your Honda CR-V.
• Locate the settings related to the rearview camera. This may be found under a "Monitor Check" or "Detailed Information and Settings" option.
• Look for the "Fixed Guideline" and "Dynamic Guideline" settings.
• Adjust the settings according to your preference. You can turn each setting on or off as needed.

In some models, you may also have the option to adjust the camera's picture quality, including brightness, contrast, and colour settings. These adjustments can further enhance your visibility during daytime and nighttime driving conditions.

Understanding the camera's restricted view

Firstly, the rear camera view has specific restrictions. You cannot see the corner ends of the bumper or what is underneath it. Its unique lens also distorts distances, making objects appear closer or farther than they are. This means that while the camera helps you see objects directly behind the vehicle, it doesn't replace the need to physically check your surroundings by looking over your shoulder and using the vehicle's mirrors.

Additionally, certain conditions can further restrict the rear view. Factors such as weather, lighting, and high temperatures may impact the camera's effectiveness. It's important to visually confirm that it is safe to drive before relying solely on the rearview display, as it doesn't provide all the information about conditions at the back of your vehicle.

Furthermore, the camera lens must be kept clean and free of dirt or moisture to ensure a clear view. Adjusting the camera settings, such as brightness, contrast, and guidelines, can also improve visibility, especially during low-light conditions or at night.

Understanding the restricted view of the Honda CR-V's camera is crucial for safe driving. While it provides valuable assistance, it should be used in conjunction with other safety measures to ensure a comprehensive awareness of your surroundings.

Using Honda LaneWatch™

Honda LaneWatch™ is an innovative technology offered on many new Honda vehicles. It helps drivers stay informed about what’s happening on the passenger side of their vehicle. Here's how to use and customise Honda LaneWatch™.

How to Use Honda LaneWatch™

Honda LaneWatch™ is automatically activated when you switch on your right turn signal. The camera turns on, and the video feed from the camera installed below the right, passenger-side mirror appears on your display screen, providing a clear view of your blind spot.

If you want to activate LaneWatch™ without turning on your right turn signal, you can do so by pressing the button at the end of your turn signal control. Pressing the button again will turn it off.

How to Change Honda LaneWatch™ Settings

To change the LaneWatch™ settings, follow these steps:

• Select 'Settings' on the HOME screen.
• Choose 'LaneWatch™'.
• Make your preferred changes.

Honda LaneWatch™: Important Notes

• Honda LaneWatch™ is an enhancement and not a substitute for safe driving practices and your passenger-side mirror.
• LaneWatch™ is a camera-based assist that projects a live feed of the vehicle's right-side blind spot on the car's infotainment screen.
• LaneWatch™ is being phased out in favour of blind-spot monitoring.

Cleaning the camera lens

Keeping your camera lens clean is essential for maintaining image quality. Here are some detailed instructions for cleaning the camera lens on your Honda CR-V:

Use a Blower or Soft-Bristled Brush:

Start by removing as much dust and dirt as possible from the lens. You can use a blower or a soft-bristled brush to gently blow away or brush off any loose particles. This step is important because it reduces the risk of scratching the lens when wiping it down later.

Apply a Lens Cleaning Solution:

Take a lens tissue or a cleaning cloth and apply a few drops of lens cleaning solution to it. You can also use isopropyl alcohol diluted with distilled water or a dedicated camera lens cleaning spray. Avoid using household glass cleaners like Windex, as they can damage the lens coatings.

Gently Wipe the Lens:

Using the cleaning cloth or tissue, gently wipe the lens surface in a circular motion, working from the centre outward. Ensure you only apply enough pressure to remove any smudges or grime. This step will effectively remove oil, fingerprints, and other marks from the lens.

Dry and Inspect the Lens:

Once you've finished wiping the lens, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to remove any remaining moisture. Then, inspect the lens surface to ensure that all smudges, fingerprints, and dirt have been removed. If necessary, repeat the cleaning process until the lens is streak-free.

Clean the Rear Element:

Don't forget to clean the rear element of the lens as well. It may be more recessed and challenging to access, but it's important to keep it clean. Use a similar process as before, being careful not to apply too much pressure and potentially damaging the lens.

Maintain Regular Cleaning:

Finally, incorporate regular cleaning into your routine, especially before important shoots. While it's essential to keep your lenses clean, avoid overdoing it, as excessive cleaning can also lead to scratches and damage over time.

Honda's blind-spot information system

Honda's Blind Spot Information System (BSI) is an innovative feature designed to increase driver awareness and safety. The system uses radar technology to scan for vehicles in the driver's blind spot, providing both visual and audible alerts to help prevent potential collisions when changing lanes.

The BSI typically functions alongside the Cross Traffic Monitor and uses radar to scan approximately 10 feet to each side of the vehicle and 15 feet back from the front doors. When the system detects a vehicle in the adjacent lane, it displays a visual warning on the side mirror. If the driver activates the turn signal to change lanes, the warning blinks and an audible beep sounds, alerting the driver to the potential hazard.

The BSI settings can be customised to the driver's preference. To adjust the settings, access the Settings menu on the Display Audio touchscreen, select Driver Assist System Setup, then Blind Spot Information. From there, you can choose from Audible and Visual Alert, just Visual Alert, or turn off BSI completely. It's important to note that BSI may not function properly at speeds below 20 mph, and it's always the driver's responsibility to visually confirm the absence of vehicles in the adjacent lane before changing lanes.

The Honda BSI is available on various models, including the Accord, Civic, Insight, CR-V, Odyssey, Passport, Pilot, and Ridgeline. While not standard on all models, the BSI is offered on certain trim levels, ensuring that Honda drivers have access to this valuable safety feature.

The BSI is an excellent example of Honda's commitment to safety, enhancing driver awareness and providing valuable assistance to help prevent accidents. While it's a useful tool, it's important to remember that it doesn't replace the driver's responsibility to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings at all times.

Frequently asked questions