Forward Collision Warning (FCW) systems are supposed to detect an imminent front-end crash and alert the driver just in time to avoid it. But when these systems fail—or when they’re missing from vehicles that reasonably should include them—the consequences can be devastating.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), forward collision warning systems reduce rear-end crash rates by up to 32%. When paired with automatic emergency braking (AEB), they reduce by up to 68%. But those protections disappear when the system fails.
Some drivers don’t realize there’s a problem until they see a dashboard warning: “FCW System Failed.” This message is especially common in certain Honda vehicles, with reports of false activations of the collision mitigation system, sensor issues and total failures have led to lawsuits and NHTSA complaints.
At Lucas Law Firm, we represent individuals and families seriously injured when vehicle safety systems like FCW malfunction. We investigate these cases to determine whether a design or manufacturing defect may be to blame.
What Is a Forward Collision Warning System?
A forward collision warning system (FCW system) is a crash avoidance technology that monitors the road ahead and warns the driver of an impending collision. The system uses sensors—typically radar, cameras or both—to detect slower or stopped traffic in the vehicle’s path.
When a potential crash is detected, the system alerts the driver with:
- Audible beeps
- Flashing dashboard lights
- Steering wheel or seat vibration
The goal is to prompt the driver to brake or steer before impact.
Some FCW systems are paired with automatic emergency braking (AEB), which actively applies the brakes if the driver doesn’t react in time. But even without AEB, a functioning FCW system can give drivers critical time to avoid a crash.
Is Forward Collision Warning Required by Law?
As of 2025, forward collision warning systems are not yet federally mandated for all new vehicles sold in the United States. However, many automakers include FCW voluntarily to meet crash safety ratings and consumer demand.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have both strongly encouraged automakers to include FCW and AEB in all new models. Some vehicles lack the technology entirely—especially older models or base trims—even though safer alternatives are widely available.
When FCW is omitted from a vehicle that reasonably should have included it, and a crash occurs, crashworthiness and product liability laws may still apply.
Common Causes of FCW System Failure
If your dashboard displays “FCW System Failed” or “Service Forward Collision Warning,” something has interrupted the system’s ability to function. Causes include:
- Sensor damage: Cameras and radar sensors can be knocked out of alignment by minor impacts, road debris or bumper damage.
- Software glitches: Outdated or buggy system software may trigger false warnings or prevent detection.
- Calibration issues: Improper calibration after repairs or windshield replacement can impair sensor accuracy.
- Environmental interference: Heavy rain, fog, snow or sun glare may obscure sensors.
In many cases, these warnings become recurring—and drivers report multiple failed attempts by dealers to permanently fix them.
Honda and Other Automakers Report FCW Failures Frequently
A large portion of online complaints and legal claims involving FCW systems come from Honda owners. However, other manufacturers—including Toyota, Nissan and Subaru—have also faced complaints about malfunctioning forward collision warning systems.
In some cases, these issues have resulted in recalls or class action lawsuits related to faulty sensors, software bugs or unexpected braking behavior. Drivers of vehicles like the Honda Accord, CR-V and Odyssey have reported:
- Repeated “FCW System Failed” messages
- Unexpected braking without obstacles present
- Dealerships unable to diagnose or correct the issue
Some of these incidents have resulted in rear-end collisions, near-misses and sudden stops in high-speed traffic. In a number of cases, lawsuits have been filed alleging that Honda’s collision mitigation systems are dangerously prone to false activations or failures to activate.
If your Honda displays an FCW failure warning—especially if it was followed by a crash—your situation may not be isolated. It may be part of a larger defect pattern.
Notable FCW System Failures, Recalls and Legal Actions
1. Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee (2021–2024)
Owners have reported that the FCW and automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems in Jeep Cherokees and Grand Cherokees fail to activate when needed. This has led to investigations and potential class action lawsuits. Some drivers experienced near-misses or rear-end collisions due to the systems not engaging as expected.
2. Tesla Vehicles
Tesla faced a lawsuit alleging that its FCW system could trigger false warnings or unexpected braking, even when no obstacles were present. The court allowed certain claims to proceed, highlighting concerns over the reliability of Tesla’s collision avoidance features.
3. Kia Optima (2019)
Kia recalled certain 2019 Optima vehicles due to issues with the FCW system. The recall addressed problems where the system might not function as intended, increasing the risk of a crash.
4. General Motors (Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, 2023)
GM recalled over 55,000 vehicles due to a defect in the AEB system, which could cause unexpected stopping or deceleration. This malfunction posed an increased risk of collision.
5. Stellantis (Ram 1500 Trucks, 2019 and 2021–2024)
Stellantis recalled approximately 1.23 million Ram 1500 trucks in the U.S. due to a software malfunction in the anti-lock brake system. This issue could disable the electronic stability control system, affecting the FCW system’s performance.
When a Failed FCW System Points to a Product Defect
You may have grounds for a legal claim if:
- Your vehicle displayed a “FCW System Failed” warning before a crash
- Your car braked suddenly without cause, causing a collision
- Your FCW system did not alert or activate during a front-end crash
- Your vehicle lacked FCW altogether, even though similar models include it
These red flags may point to a product defect claim—not just a simple accident. In high-value injury or death cases, proving that the vehicle should have prevented the crash is a key element of crashworthiness litigation.
Collision Avoidance Systems: FCW Is Just One Part
A forward collision warning system is one feature in a broader category of crash avoidance technology. These systems work together to prevent common causes of injury and death:
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Alerts drivers when drifting from a lane
- Lane Keep Assist (LKA): Gently steers the car back into the lane
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts drivers to vehicles in adjacent lanes
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent spin-outs and rollovers
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Brakes automatically if a crash is imminent
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns of crossing vehicles while reversing
When any of these systems are missing or fail to operate properly, the vehicle may no longer be crashworthy.
Explore more in our auto defect blog series, including:
When to Contact a FCW Failure Attorney
If you were seriously injured—or if a loved one lost their life—in a crash where:
- The vehicle failed to warn of a front-end collision
- You saw “FCW System Failed” or “Service Forward Collision Warning” before the crash
- The car braked for no reason, causing a rear-end collision
- Your vehicle lacked FCW despite being advertised with modern safety features
…you may be dealing with a defective crash avoidance system.
At Lucas Law Firm, we specialize in auto defect litigation. We’re the firm other personal injury lawyers call when a crash may involve a hidden defect. Our team works with engineers, crash reconstructionists and vehicle safety experts to uncover what went wrong—and who should be held accountable.
Learn more about our work in auto defect cases and how we help clients recover compensation after catastrophic crashes >>
FAQ: FCW System Failures and Legal Claims
What does “FCW System Failed” mean?
It means your forward collision warning system is offline due to sensor, calibration or software issues.
Can I drive with the “FCW System Failed” message?
Yes, but you’ll be missing a critical safety system. If AEB is tied to FCW, it may be disabled, too.
Is Honda being sued over FCW or AEB failures?
Yes. Multiple lawsuits allege that Honda’s systems brake without warning or fail to activate when needed.
How do I know if a failed FCW system caused my crash?
A product liability attorney can investigate warning messages, black box data, sensor history and recall info to determine whether a defect is to blame.
Can I sue if my FCW system failed during a crash?
If a defect caused or contributed to your injuries, yes. You may have a product liability case against the manufacturer.Contact Lucas Law Firm today to speak with a defective car attorney who understands crash avoidance system failures—and how to hold automakers accountable when those systems let you down.