If you own a newer vehicle, chances are it’s equipped with several safety features like collision avoidance, backup cameras, adaptive cruise control, lane assist, automated parking, and more. For these features to function properly, multiple cameras and sensors within your vehicle must be properly calibrated.
These cameras and sensors, which are connected to your auto glass, are critical components of your vehicle’s advanced driver assistance systems, also referred to as ADAS. When you need a windshield replacement or repair, this system must be recalibrated to ensure your safety features can continue to protect you on the road.
Whether you need a windshield replacement or your vehicle’s ADAS equipment was thrown off by a collision, that equipment will need to be recalibrated to keep you safe. Read on to learn all about ADAS calibration and why it’s so important that you have the service performed.
Common ADAS Features
Although ADAS technology might seem like a new thing, vehicle manufacturers have actually been implementing it for decades. In 1950, the first ADAS feature was introduced — anti-lock braking systems — and since then, dozens of new safety features have been implemented in both base- and luxury-model automobiles.
Some of the most common ADAS features your vehicle may have include:
● Traction control
● Adaptive cruise control
● Lane departure warning
● Tire pressure monitoring
● Traffic sign recognition
● Parking assistance
● Pedestrian detection
● Back-up cameras
Not all of the above ADAS features rely on cameras and sensors connected to your auto glass, but many of them do. Others rely on sensors elsewhere in your vehicle, but all of those cameras and sensors must be precisely placed to do their job properly.
What Can Interfere With ADAS Functionality?
Getting a windshield replacement or windshield repairs will naturally throw off the alignment of the ADAS cameras connected to your windshield. But several other things can interfere with the alignment and functionality of those cameras and sensors. They include:
● Getting new tires
● Having your wheels aligned
● Getting in an accident, even if it didn’t cause windshield damage
● Installing aftermarket accessories on your vehicle
● Being involved in a minor fender bender
Anything that moves your ADAS cameras and sensors out of their designated position — even by just a millimeter — can disrupt the functionality of the system. And when the cameras and sensors aren’t properly aligned, your safety systems won’t be able to protect you and your passengers according to their design.
Getting ADAS Recalibration: What You Need to Know
If you’ve noticed your safety systems haven’t been performing as they normally do, it may be time to take your vehicle in for ADAS recalibration. And of course, when you need a windshield replacement or repair, expect to have the service performed too.
Depending on your vehicle manufacturer’s stipulations, your vehicle may require either static recalibration, dynamic recalibration, or both.
Does Your Windshield Need Static or Dynamic Recalibration?
Different automobiles require different types of windshield calibration after a windshield replacement or a collision moves ADAS cameras and sensors out of place. Your vehicle manufacturer should specify which type your car or truck needs, or if it requires both.
When you bring your vehicle to an auto glass repair shop for service, the technicians will determine which type of calibration it requires, so you don’t technically need to know that information. However, it’s always smart to be well-informed about the automobile you drive, so here’s what you should know about the two types of ADAS recalibration.
Static Recalibration
Static recalibration is an in-shop procedure that requires approximately one to three hours to perform. It requires a highly controlled environment and a target image mounted in front of the vehicle, which the technician uses to reprogram the cameras and sensors. After the calibration, the automobile must undergo a test drive to ensure the process was performed properly.
Dynamic Recalibration
Dynamic recalibration is also a one- to three-hour process, but this type of calibration involves driving the vehicle at a predetermined speed on well-marked roadways with portable calibration tools plugged in. If your windshield only requires dynamic recalibration after a windshield replacement or collision, a mobile tech may be able to come to your location to perform the procedure.
How ADAS Calibration Affects Windshield Replacement Costs
If you need ADAS calibration as part of your windshield replacement, expect the overall cost to be greater than that for a standard windshield replacement. And, because the calibration procedure requires additional time, be prepared for your appointment to take longer than it would for a standard windshield.
It’s difficult to say just how much more you’ll end up paying for ADAS recalibration because prices vary from shop to shop. That said, on average, the service typically costs between $150 and $600, depending on the type and number of ADAS feature your vehicle has, and what must be reprogrammed.
Once you get your windshield replaced, be sure to heed these aftercare tips, which will help ensure your investment lasts as long as possible.
Get Comprehensive Windshield Calibration at Only 1 Auto Glass!
When you need ADAS windshield calibration, whether you’re getting a windshield replacement or your sensors and cameras got thrown off, get in touch with our team at Only 1 Auto Glass. Our technicians are certified in both static and dynamic ADAS calibration and can come to your location, depending on the type of calibration your vehicle needs.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, give us a call at 651-789-1111 or request a free estimate. You can also send us a message to request more information.