2020-2025 Honda CR-V Camera & Sensor Guide: Forward, Rear & Blind Spot Issues

Understanding the Cameras and Sensors in Your CR-V

The 2020-2025 Honda CR-V uses a combination of cameras and radar sensors for its advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). It's crucial to distinguish between them, as they have different functions, failure symptoms, and replacement procedures. This guide covers the two main camera systems and the often-confused radar sensors.

• Forward-Facing Camera: Located behind the rearview mirror, this is the 'eye' for the Honda Sensing system.
• Rearview Backup Camera: Located on the tailgate above the license plate, this camera assists with reversing.
• Radar Sensors: These are not cameras. They use radio waves and are located in the front grille (for Adaptive Cruise Control) and behind the rear bumper corners (for the Blind Spot Information system).

1. Forward-Facing Camera (Honda Sensing)

What It Does

This single camera, mounted high on the windshield, constantly scans the road ahead. It identifies lane markings, other vehicles, pedestrians, and traffic signs. This information is used by systems like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), and the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) to help keep you safe.

Symptoms of Failure

• Multiple warning lights on the dashboard, such as "Collision Mitigation System Problem," "Lane Keeping Assist Problem," or "Adaptive Cruise Control Problem."
• Safety features become disabled and cannot be activated.
• Sudden, unexpected braking (known as "phantom braking") when no obstacle is present.
• Inaccurate traffic sign recognition.

Known Issues, Investigations, and TSBs

NHTSA Investigation (2020-2022 Models): The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has an ongoing investigation into unexpected activation of the automatic emergency braking system (phantom braking) on nearly 3 million Honda vehicles, including the 2020-2022 CR-V. This is a serious safety concern linked to the forward camera and radar systems.

Front Camera Failures: There are widespread owner reports and a class-action lawsuit investigation concerning premature failure of the forward-facing camera, leading to the loss of all Honda Sensing safety features. In many cases, owners report being quoted high repair costs by dealerships.

Replacement & Calibration

Installation involves carefully removing the interior trim around the rearview mirror, disconnecting the old camera, and installing the new one. The critical step is the static (in-shop) and/or dynamic (on-road) calibration that follows, which must be performed by a dealer or a qualified auto glass/ADAS repair facility.

2. Rearview Backup Camera

What It Does

This camera provides a live video feed of the area behind your vehicle when you shift into reverse. Most CR-V models offer multiple viewing angles (normal, top-down, and wide) to aid in parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.

Symptoms of Failure

• The screen is black or blue when in reverse.
• The camera image flickers, is distorted, or has lines running through it.
• The image intermittently switches from color to black and white.
• A warning message appears on the infotainment screen.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

TSB 25-071 (2023-2025 Models): A very common complaint on 6th generation CR-Vs is the backup camera image switching to black and white. Honda has released Technical Service Bulletin 25-071, which states the cause is an incorrect software setting in the audio unit. The fix is a software update performed by a dealer, not a camera replacement. If a dealer replaces the camera for this issue, the problem will likely persist.

In some cases discussed by owners, if the software update does not work, dealers have replaced the main audio unit to resolve the problem.

Replacement & Calibration

Replacing the rearview camera is a much more DIY-friendly task than the forward camera. It typically involves removing the inner tailgate trim panel to access the camera's mounting hardware 🎬 Watch: How to remove the tailgate trim and backup camera and electrical connector. No special calibration is usually required after replacement.

3. A Note on Radar Sensors (Not Cameras)

Many of the part numbers provided in the initial data, such as 36936-TLA-A21 and 36801-TNY-A03, are for radar sensors, not cameras.

• Rear BSI Radar: Located behind the left and right corners of the rear bumper cover, these sensors detect vehicles in your blind spots. Failure triggers a "Blind Spot Information System Problem" message. Part number 36936-TLA-A21 (and its successor 36936-TLA-A22) is the left-side rear radar sensor.
🎬 See how a professional calibrates the blind spot monitor system
• Front ACC Radar: Located in the front grille, often behind the Honda emblem, this sensor works with the forward camera for the Adaptive Cruise Control system. Part number 36801-TNY-A03 is a front milliwave radar unit.

Like the forward camera, replacing these radar units may require aiming or calibration by a qualified shop.

Buying a Used CR-V Camera: What to Check

Buying a used camera can save you money, but it comes with risks. Here’s what to look for.

Inspecting a Used Forward-Facing Camera

• High Risk Purchase: Due to the absolute requirement for expensive professional calibration, buying a used forward camera is risky. The cost of calibration can sometimes approach the cost of the part itself.
• Verify Part Numbers: This is the most critical step. There are many different camera part numbers based on model year, trim (LX, EX, Touring), and engine (1.5T, Hybrid). You MUST match the part number exactly. Ask the seller for the VIN of the donor vehicle to help a dealer confirm compatibility.
• Physical Inspection: Check the lens for any deep scratches or cloudiness. Inspect the housing and connectors for any signs of cracks or damage from an accident.

Inspecting a Used Rearview Camera

• Lower Risk Purchase: A used OEM rearview camera is a good value, as it typically does not require calibration.
• Check the Lens: Look for deep scratches, hazing, or signs of water intrusion inside the lens. A cloudy image is often due to a failed seal.
• Connector Pins: Ensure the electrical connector and its pins are clean, straight, and free of corrosion.
• For 2023+ Models: Remember that the common black-and-white image problem is a software issue. A used camera will NOT fix it. Do not buy a used camera to solve this specific problem.

Cost Comparison

Prices can vary significantly based on the specific camera and your location. The main cost driver for the forward camera is the mandatory calibration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

OEM Part Numbers

Part numbers vary greatly by year, trim, and specific system. The list below clarifies some of the numbers from the initial data and adds others found in research. Always confirm the exact part number with a dealer using your VIN before purchasing.