Why does my Honda Odyssey 2017 Automobile Accessories system beep multiple times?
If your Honda Automobile Accessories system beeps multiple times when activated, this indicates a problem with a sensor. Refer to the table below for detailed troubleshooting steps.
This document is a user's information manual for the Honda Odyssey Backup Sensors, an accessory designed to assist drivers when backing up their vehicle. The manual emphasizes safety, proper usage, and maintenance of the sensor system.
The primary function of the backup sensors is to detect large stationary objects behind the vehicle while it is moving in Reverse at low speed and alert the driver with beeps. The system operates by emitting ultrasonic waves from sensors located on the rear bumper. It calculates the distance to detected objects by measuring the time it takes for these waves to reflect back to the sensors. The system provides three types of beeps—slow intermittent, quick intermittent, and continuous—which correspond to the proximity of an object to the corner and center sensors. For instance, a continuous beep indicates that an object is very close, specifically within 0.8 ft (25 cm) of a corner sensor or 1.6 ft (50 cm) of a center sensor.
To use the backup sensors, the driver must first apply the parking brake and set the power mode to ON by pressing the ENGINE START/STOP button twice (without starting the engine). Then, the backup sensor switch, typically located inside the vehicle, needs to be turned to the ON position. Finally, with a foot on the brake, the driver should push the Reverse button. The system is designed to emit an initial sound for about 1 second when Reverse is engaged, indicating that it is working properly. The manual recommends that users familiarize themselves with the different beep sounds and their corresponding distances by practicing backing into a parking space. It also suggests checking the obstacle detecting range of each sensor with the help of an assistant and a board, ensuring the system beeps appropriately as the board is brought closer to each sensor.
The manual highlights several system limitations that users should be aware of. The sensors may not detect all obstacles, especially people, animals, or objects directly under the bumper. Therefore, drivers are always advised to look behind them before backing up and not to rely solely on the sensors. The system may also not work effectively if the object has an odd shape or is made of a material that does not reflect ultrasonic waves, such as poles, rectangular lumber, cardboard cartons, bicycle tires, small trees, soft snow, curbstone, wire, rope, or chain link fences. Environmental factors can also affect performance; the sensors may not work near a garage door with electrical sensors, or if the ambient air temperature is below -4°F (-20°C) or above 122°F (50°C). Furthermore, the system might sound a warning even when there is no object behind the vehicle if the sensors are covered with snow, ice, mud, or dirt. When driving in Reverse, the sensors may sound continuously on rough surfaces, gravel roads, or on a hill. The system can also be affected by electrical equipment or devices generating ultrasonic waves, bad weather, loud noises (like vehicle horns, motorcycle engines, or air brakes), or when driving in rain or melted snow. When towing a trailer and driving in Reverse, the system may beep continuously, in which case the backup sensor switch should be turned OFF.
Maintenance of the backup sensors is straightforward. If a sensor becomes covered with mud, dirt, or other debris, it should be washed with low-pressure water and wiped with a clean, soft cloth. It is crucial not to spray the sensors with high-pressure water, as this could potentially damage them.
The troubleshooting section addresses common issues. If the system does not beep when approaching an object, the user should check if the sensor is clogged with snow, mud, or dirt and wash it with low-pressure water. If the sensor is frozen, rinsing it with lukewarm water is recommended. The manual also notes that extended parking in cold or blazing sun can affect sensor performance due to extreme temperatures. If the system continuously beeps when the Reverse button is pushed (and sensors are not frozen or clogged), or if it does not beep at all when the Reverse button is pushed and the sensor switch is ON, the vehicle should be taken to a Honda dealer for inspection. Additionally, if the system beeps multiple times when activated, it indicates a potential fault with a specific sensor. The manual provides a table detailing the beep patterns for faulty corner and center sensors (e.g., two fast beeps for a faulty right corner sensor, two slow beeps for a faulty right center sensor). Users are cautioned not to confuse sensor sounds with sounds from other vehicle components.
General| Category | Minivan |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Wheelbase | 118.1 inches |
| Towing Capacity | 3, 500 lbs |
| Roof Rack | Available |
| Cargo Cover | Available |
| All-Weather Floor Mats | Available |
| Cargo Net | Available |
| Trailer Hitch | Available |
| Horsepower | 248 hp |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined) | 19/28/22 mpg |
| Width | 79.2 in |
| Height | 69.6 inches |
| Cargo Capacity | 38.4 cu ft (behind 3rd row) |
| Running Boards | Available |
| Torque | 250 lb-ft |
| Seating Capacity | 8 |
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