The Honda Lane Watch camera is a useful safety feature, but sometimes it may stop working properly. This article looks at reasons why the Lane Watch camera fails and provides troubleshooting tips to get it functioning again.
The Honda Lane Watch system uses a camera under the passenger side mirror to provide an expanded rear view on the center screen. This allows the driver to check the right blind spot easily. However, the camera can occasionally malfunction. By following some troubleshooting steps, you can often restore Honda Lane Watch Camera Not Working.
How Does The Honda Lane Watch System Work?
The Lane Watch camera is a standard or available feature on many recent Honda models. Here is an overview of how it functions:
- A wide-angle camera is mounted underneath the passenger side exterior mirror. This camera provides a view of the right side blind spot.
- When the right turn signal is activated, the Lane Watch display automatically turns on. It shows the camera view on the center screen.
- Drivers can also manually activate Lane Watch by pressing a button on the end of the turn signal stalk. Press again to deactivate.
- The display lets the driver check for vehicles, bicycles or other hazards in the right blind spot before changing lanes. This improves safety.
- On some models, Lane Watch engages when the right turn signal is used and shuts off after about 15 seconds. On others, it stays on until the turn is completed or Lane Watch is deactivated.
- The camera view eliminates the right side blind spot and the need to turn your head to check that area.
When working correctly, the Lane Watch camera system provides an excellent supplemental view that greatly aids safety. But occasionally this camera can fail or work intermittently.
Why Is Your Honda Lane Watch Camera Not Working?
There are several potential reasons why your Honda’s Lane Watch camera may stop operating properly, including:
- Dirty Camera Lens
- Electrical Connection Issues
- Defective Camera
- Blown Fuse
- System Fault
- Low Battery
Dirty Camera Lens
The Lane Watch camera, positioned beneath the passenger mirror, may encounter functionality issues due to a dirty lens. Accumulation of road grime, salt, dirt, or snow can obstruct the camera’s view. Regular cleaning of the lens is essential to ensure optimal performance.
Electrical Connection Issues
The Lane Watch system relies on a network of wiring and connectors. If there are faults in this electrical circuitry or if connectors are loose, disruptions in power or video signals can occur. Identifying and rectifying these issues is crucial for restoring proper camera functionality.
Defective Camera
A defective or damaged camera unit can be a primary cause of malfunction. If the camera itself is compromised, it may not capture or transmit images correctly. In such cases, the only solution is to replace the faulty camera with a properly functioning one.
Blown Fuse
Lane Watch operation is safeguarded by specific fuses located in the fuse box. If one of these fuses blows, it can disable the camera. Checking and replacing the blown fuse is a straightforward solution to restore power to the Lane Watch system.
System Fault
Glitches or malfunctions in the Lane Watch software, operating system, or display screen can disrupt the video feed. This could be due to software bugs or compatibility issues. Troubleshooting the system, which may involve software updates or reboots, is essential to address these faults.
Low Battery
Adequate battery voltage is crucial for the proper functioning of various vehicle systems, including the Lane Watch camera. Weak battery voltage or charging problems can impact the camera’s operation. Ensuring a healthy battery and addressing any charging issues is vital for optimal camera performance.
How To Fix A Non-Functioning Honda Lane Watch Camera?
If your Lane Watch camera stops working, here are some effective troubleshooting tips and fixes to try:
Clean the Camera Lens
The first thing to try is cleaning the Lane Watch camera lens. Dirt or debris on the lens can obstruct the view. Follow these steps:
- Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth or cotton swab dampened with glass cleaner or alcohol to gently wipe the camera lens located under the passenger side mirror.
- Be careful not to press too hard or scratch the lens.
- Remove any stuck-on dirt or grime.
- Thoroughly dry the lens with a clean cloth.
- Test Lane Watch operation. The camera view should now be clear.
Cleaning the lens takes just a few minutes and often resolves the issue. Make sure to repeat cleaning periodically.
Check Electrical Connections
Faulty wiring or loose plugs can disrupt power or the video signal to the Lane Watch camera. Check these key electrical connections:
- Carefully inspect the wiring harness leading from the camera to the body control module or video display screen. Look for damaged or disconnected wires.
- Ensure the camera and both ends of the harness are securely plugged in. Unplug and reseat connections.
- Inspect the power and ground connections to the camera. Clean any corrosion and tighten.
- Check for related blown fuses in the fuse panel and replace if necessary.
Snug, corrosion-free electrical connections are vital for proper Lane Watch function.
Reset and Reboot the System
Resetting and rebooting the camera and display system can clear up electronic glitches or software errors disrupting Lane Watch. Here’s how:
- With the ignition on, press and hold the Lane Watch control button on the turn signal stalk for 10+ seconds to reset the system.
- Also try rebooting the full audio and information display system. Press the Power or Audio button for 10+ seconds until the system restarts.
- Allow time for system reboot and startup. Then test Lane Watch operation again.
Power cycling the electronics may be required to restore normal operation after a fault develops.
Update System Software
Outdated firmware or bugs in the programming can sometimes interfere with proper Lane Watch operation. Check for a new software update:
- Contact your Honda dealer to check if there is a new software release available to update your vehicle’s display, camera and Lane Watch programming.
- Major updates are typically free if the vehicle is still under warranty. You can schedule an appointment to have the reflash performed.
- Updated software often resolves glitches and fine tunes operation. Be sure your system is running the latest release.
Updating to the newest software version may optimize Lane Watch performance if a system fault is suspected.
Have the Dealer Inspect Components
If you still can’t get your Honda Lane Watch camera working after trying the above steps, have a dealer technician inspect and test the system. A skilled mechanic can:
- Diagnose whether the problem is with the camera, wiring harness, display screen or other components.
- Check for loose connections or corroded terminals.
- Determine if replacement parts are required.
- Confirm the latest software is installed.
- Perform a professional repair if needed.
With the right expertise and equipment, your dealer’s service department can get your Lane Watch camera running reliably again.
Bottom Line
The handy Lane Watch camera system improves visibility and safety when changing lanes. But like any vehicle feature, it can suffer occasional technical issues. In many cases, you can get a non-functioning Lane Watch camera working again with some basic troubleshooting and maintenance.
Start with simple solutions like cleaning the lens and ensuring good electrical connections. Reset the system if needed. Check for software updates that could resolve bugs. If problems continue, have your dealer inspect and repair the system. With the right fixes, your Lane Watch camera will be providing clear views and added confidence whenever you signal and change lanes.
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