Service Pros Auto Glass can help you determine if your vehicle requires calibration after a windshield replacement. Yes, you may need to calibrate your vehicle after replacing the windshield. This is especially true for vehicles equipped with advanced driver assist systems (ADAS). The procedure of windscreen calibration fine-tunes parameters for ADAS systems to ensure their proper functioning. Sensors on the windshield are crucial for features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic braking, and lane departure warnings.
These sensors may be affected by the replacement of your windshield. calibrate the ADAS of your vehicle after a replacement of the windshield. This is not only about ensuring the system’s function but also your safety and the safety of other road users.
What is ADAS Calibration?
ADAS is a complex system designed to alert drivers of possible dangers, and in some cases take corrective actions. The lane departure system, for example, will alert the driver if a vehicle leaves its lane. The automatic braking system is activated if the vehicle in front abruptly stops. These systems work best with sensors that are aligned correctly. The system’s ability to detect hazards could be compromised by even the slightest misalignment. Recalibration of the system is essential after the replacement of the windshield.
Calibrating ADAS, on the other hand, is a specialized repair. Not all auto repair shops have the expertise or the tools necessary to perform the calibration. It’s important to choose a shop with experience and expertise in ADAS calibrating. Some vehicle manufacturers require a static process that is performed in a controlled environment and can take several hours. Some vehicle manufacturers may use a dynamic calibration process, where the vehicle is driven on marked roads at a certain speed to calibrate the systems.
Types of Calibrations
There are typically two types of calibrating: static and dynamic.
The static calibration method involves placing a target image in front of the vehicle and then using that to calibrate the sensors. This method is complicated and requires special equipment. Any errors can lead to incorrect calibration. This procedure is usually performed indoors, to avoid weather conditions affecting the procedure. The vehicle has to be stationary and it could take several hours.
On the other hand, dynamic calibration involves driving at a certain speed on a clearly marked road. Sensors are calibrated by evaluating real-world driving situations. It is necessary to have a professional drive the car and monitor the system. The process usually takes less time than static calibration.
The manufacturer’s instructions will determine the type of calibration that your vehicle requires. Some vehicles may require a combination of the two methods. Refer to the manual of your vehicle or seek professional advice to understand the recommended calibration procedures for your model.
Remember that ADAS calibration doesn’t happen once. For these systems to continue working correctly, regular assessments and calibrations must be performed. This is especially true after major events such as a new windshield.
Importance of Calibration
calibration of the ADAS after replacement may seem like an unnecessary expense and hassle, but it could have serious consequences. For example, the automatic emergency brake system could fail to activate promptly or the lane-departure warning could malfunction, leading to an accident. Some insurance companies may also refuse to cover accidents if the ADAS is not calibrated following a new windshield.
ADAS is also becoming more common due to the constant evolution of vehicle technologies. Many new cars come with these systems as standard, and older vehicles are regularly updated to include them. In the future, it is likely that windshield replacement procedures will increasingly include ADAS calibrating. It is important that every vehicle owner understands the importance of calibrating their vehicle.
Takeaway
The need for calibration following the replacement of the windshield is more than a technical requirement. It’s also a vital safety measure. As important as any maintenance or repair, it is vital to ensure that your vehicle’s ADAS functions properly. The peace of mind you get from knowing that your vehicle’s safety system is working as it should outweigh the extra time and money.
If you have any questions or concerns about windshield replacement or ADAS calibration, always seek the advice of a professional auto shop or the manufacturer of your vehicle. We all share the responsibility of maintaining road safety.