When and Why ADAS Calibration is Crucial

Is Your Car Seeing Clearly? When and Why ADAS Calibration is Crucial

Modern cars are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) – a suite of technologies designed to enhance safety and convenience. From automatic emergency braking to lane departure warning, these systems rely on sensors and cameras strategically placed around your vehicle. But what happens when these sensors are disturbed, such as after a collision repair? This blog post will explain when and why ADAS calibration is necessary to ensure your car's safety features function correctly.

What is ADAS Calibration?

ADAS calibration is the process of precisely aligning and configuring the sensors and cameras that power your vehicle's driver-assistance systems. It ensures these components are communicating accurately and providing reliable information to the car's computer. Think of it as ensuring your car's "eyes" are seeing the world correctly.

Why is ADAS Calibration Necessary?

Even minor misalignments can significantly impact the performance of ADAS features. An uncalibrated system might:

• Fail to detect hazards: Leading to accidents that could have been avoided.
• Provide inaccurate warnings: Causing driver confusion and potentially dangerous reactions.
• Malfunction entirely: Rendering safety features useless.

Scenarios Requiring ADAS Calibration

Here are common situations where ADAS calibration is essential:

1. Windshield Replacement

The windshield often houses the forward-facing camera used for features like:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning/keeping assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Traffic sign recognition

Replacing the windshield, even with an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part, requires recalibrating the camera to ensure it's properly aligned with the road.

2. Bumper Replacement or Repair (with Sensors)

Bumpers often house sensors for:

• Parking assist
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Adaptive cruise control (radar sensors)
• Automatic emergency braking (radar sensors)

If your bumper is replaced or repaired, especially if it involves sensor removal or repositioning, calibration is crucial. This is particularly important for radar-based systems, as even slight misalignments can drastically affect their accuracy.

3. Suspension Work or Wheel Alignment

Changes to your vehicle's suspension or wheel alignment can alter the angles at which sensors "see" the road. Therefore, ADAS calibration might be necessary after these types of repairs.

4. Collision Repair

Any collision that affects the areas where ADAS sensors are located (bumpers, windshield, mirrors) will likely require calibration. Even if the sensors appear undamaged, their alignment may have been affected.

5. Sensor Replacement

If any ADAS sensor is replaced, it must be calibrated to communicate correctly with the vehicle's computer.

6. Blind Spot Monitoring System Repairs

Blind spot monitoring systems rely on sensors typically located in the side mirrors or rear bumper. Any damage or repair to these areas necessitates recalibration.

The ADAS Calibration Process

ADAS calibration is a complex procedure that requires specialized equipment and trained technicians. There are two main types of calibration:

• Static Calibration: This involves positioning the vehicle in a specific location and using targets and diagnostic tools to precisely align the sensors.
• Dynamic Calibration: This involves driving the vehicle on a calibrated road while using diagnostic tools to fine-tune the sensor settings.

Some vehicles require both static and dynamic calibration.

Why Choose CrashFix for ADAS Calibration?

• Expert Technicians: CrashFix technicians are trained and certified in ADAS calibration.
• Specialized Equipment: We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure accurate and reliable calibration.
• OEM Procedures: We follow manufacturer-recommended procedures for calibration.
• Comprehensive Service: We handle all aspects of collision repair and ADAS calibration, providing a seamless experience.

Don't Compromise on Safety

ADAS calibration is not an optional add-on; it's a critical safety procedure. If your car has been involved in a collision or has undergone any of the repairs mentioned above, ensure you have your ADAS systems calibrated by a qualified professional. Contact CrashFix today to schedule your ADAS calibration and ensure your car's safety features are working as intended.