The Importance of ADAS Calibration After a Windshield Replacement

Modern vehicles often feature advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). This technology is responsible for features like lane departure warning, collision mitigation, and adaptive cruise control. ADAS calibration, sometimes referred to as windshield calibration, helps keep your safety features functioning properly on the road after a windshield replacement. Safety features are important components of your vehicle, and malfunctions can create real safety hazards. Understanding ADAS technology and calibration can help drivers make informed decisions about their auto glass services.

What Is ADAS?

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) technology often consists of cameras, sensors, and radars positioned throughout your vehicle. Forward-facing cameras tend to be mounted on or near the windshield in a given vehicle. This makes choosing compatible glass and remounting the technology precisely essential.

ADAS technology can refer to anything from blind spot monitoring to hands-free driving. The systems that are affected by windshield replacement are features that rely heavily on the forward-facing camera near your windshield. These include features like automatic emergency braking, traffic sign assist, lane keep assist, and more.

Windshield Calibration Basics

Camera alignment and compatible glass, as previously mentioned, are important factors in the proper functioning of your ADAS technology. However, even perfect placement and manufacturer-approved glass do not negate the importance of calibration. Technicians use specialized equipment, technology, and techniques designed to help your cameras learn to read the road again.

There are two types of ADAS calibration: static and dynamic.

• Static calibration uses specific targets that are positioned precisely in front of your vehicle. Your car’s safety systems are connected to an advanced device that works with the technology in your vehicle to calibrate your camera.

• Dynamic calibration requires your vehicle to be driven at specific speeds under specific conditions. These requirements may differ by vehicle, but certified auto glass technicians are trained to work with many types of ADAS systems, and they can explain exactly what kind of calibration your vehicle needs.

Is Calibration Necessary After a Windshield Replacement?

In general, ADAS calibration is strongly recommended after a windshield replacement. Because of the position of the forward-facing cameras, windshield replacement can disturb their accuracy. Proper calibration restores that accuracy and allows your safety features to function as intended.

Without ADAS calibration, your safety systems can malfunction on the road. This can look like your adaptive cruise control failing to maintain the set distance, your lane keep assist “zig-zagging” between lines, or automatic emergency braking intervening at inappropriate times. When a certified technician calibrates your windshield, they also run post-scans to ensure the systems are working properly after the service.

Other Reasons Drivers May Need ADAS Calibration

While ADAS calibration is always a good idea after a windshield replacement, there are other times when calibration may be needed. ADAS technology is positioned in various locations around your vehicle. Minor collisions, sensor replacement, or bodywork may necessitate calibration. In short, anything that might cause a slight shift in the alignment of the technology is a good reason to seek professional ADAS calibration services.

You should also contact a professional auto glass technician if you have any warning lights on your dashboard related to your ADAS technology. Different manufacturers use different symbols for their safety features, but you can always reach out to an auto glass professional or search online to identify the meaning of the light.

Do You Need ADAS Calibration in Leander, TX?

When you need ADAS calibration, precision matters. Windshield Doctor provides certified windshield calibration after replacements and whenever you have issues with your safety features in Leander, Cedar Park, and Liberty Hill, TX, as well as the surrounding Northwest Austin and Williamson County areas. Our technicians are fully certified to calibrate your ADAS technology, ensuring your systems perform accurately no matter what you drive.

Both personal and commercial vehicles can be equipped with ADAS technology. From family SUVs to semi-trucks, Windshield Doctor is here to keep drivers safe with professional ADAS calibration services. Contact us today for a free quote and to schedule your windshield replacement and calibration.