Print
A simple bumper repair on a modern vehicle may not be as simple as it seems. New technologies like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and other advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) utilize sensors behind the bumper covers. The ability for these sensors to be able to see clearly requires special caution when considering a bumper repair. Many OEMs have different requirements when it comes to repairing bumper covers with ADAS. So, what does Honda/Acura say on the subject?
In regard to bumper repair where a blind spot radar sensor is present, Honda/Acura states: “Do not make any bumper repairs in the areas over or near the two radar units on vehicles equipped with the Blind Spot Information (BSI) System. The composition of the repair materials, and/or increased material thickness in the repaired area, may interfere with BSI radar unit operation.” Also, according to our contact at Honda/Acura “paint film thickness should be limited to a maximum of 300 microns (200 is preferred)."
Many recent Honda/Acura vehicles, which use a front millimeter wave radar sensor, have them located behind a grille or cover that is not the bumper. However, repair should still not be made. Per the 2019 Honda Accord repair manual, "If the radar cover is damaged or cracked, replace the cover and inspect the millimeter wave radar assembly and subassembly for any damages before proceeding."
American Honda released the AcuraWatch™ 360 Bumper Cover Repairs position statement on April 26, 2024. Per the Acura position statement: "American Honda recommends basecoat paint thickness of bumper covers to not exceed 40 microns." This applies to vehicles equipped with AcuraWatch 360.
For additional Honda/Acura information, check out the following pages:
Honda OEM Information
Acura OEM Information
Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:
- ADAS, Calibration, And Scanning Article Hotspot
- Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS
- Collision Information Website Access: Honda/Acura
- Honda/Acura ADAS Information Documents: UPDATE
- Locating ADAS Information: Honda/Acura - UPDATE
Related I-CAR Courses
Original article published June 6, 2019