Are you interested in learning why it's necessary to recalibrate your car's windshield after a repair, and how this impacts the advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)? If yes, read on to discover more about ADAS technology and the importance of windshield calibration.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
What is ADAS? Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) use radar-based sensors, cameras, and other technologies to monitor the environment around your car while driving. This technology helps keep drivers safe by providing alerts and, in some cases, taking action on their behalf if a dangerous situation arises.
Examples of ADAS include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Depending on the car you drive, it may be called something else, but the principle remains the same.
Different names for ADAS
Here are a few of the major auto manufacturer’s branded versions of advanced driver assistance systems:
Subaru EyeSight
Honda Sensing
Toyota Safety Sense
Ford Co-Pilot 360
Kia DRIVEWiSE
Tesla self-drive
These are just a few of the many names car makers use to describe their own ADAS technologies.
Why is windshield calibration necessary?
For the ADAS Windshield Camera safety system to work properly, your windshield first needs to be installed properly by a certified auto glass shop and a certified windshield replacement technician. It is crucial for the windshield to be installed to the manufacturer's specification; otherwise, you are risking having the windshield camera pitch angle to face away from its appropriate target.
What role does the windshield play in the operation of ADAS in cars?
The answer is that your windshield has to be situated perfectly in relation to the cameras and sensors mounted in your car. Properly trained technicians need to meet or exceed the auto glass safety standards by the manufacturer. A proper installation is the foundation of a successful windshield calibration.
If someone doesn’t properly perform your ADAS Camera Calibration, then there’s a chance the car’s system could fail to alert you or even alert you at the wrong time, causing you to make a quick decision based on false information.
For instance, consider a scenario where your car fails to activate the emergency braking system when it detects an approaching object suddenly. This could happen due to an improperly calibrated ADAS windshield or if the calibration is not performed correctly. In such a situation, your car could come to an abrupt stop at precisely the wrong moment.
These unpleasant (and dangerous) situations can occur based on the system being off by as little as a few degrees. As such, the most important factor at play here is, without a doubt, your own safety and that of your precious cargo.
Because of this, you want to have a thoroughly trained, capable technician run the proper calibration testing on your ADAS system to ensure that everything’s up to speed.
A well-trained technician will also use the appropriate windshield for calibration
When Does My Windshield Need Calibrating?
Here are a few examples of times when recalibration must be completed
After a Windshield Replacement wheel alignment Change of the car’s suspension If the camera has become disconnected or reconnected When your dashboard alerts you with an error message
If you have experienced any of these with your own vehicle, Contact us as soon as possible for a Calibration Adjustment
What type of Windshield Calibration do I need?
Your car’s windshield and computer systems must be aligned according to the proper specifications.
To do this, you’ll want to ensure that the technician has performed one of two important calibration tests (depending on what the manufacturers require).
Static Calibration
Static calibration is a precise process used for calibrating the cameras and sensors. This method involves setting up the vehicle in a controlled environment, usually a workshop or garage equipped with the necessary tools and calibration equipment.
Specialized calibration equipment, including precise targets and patterns, is placed at specific distances and angles in front of the vehicle. These targets may consist of boards or panels with distinct patterns that the ADAS cameras can recognize. The exact setup and type of targets used depend on the vehicle manufacturer's specifications and the ADAS requirements.
Dynamic calibration
As opposed to static calibration, this method calls for the camera and sensor systems to go through a range of movements. During a driving test, the car is driven at a constant speed on closed roads in relation to fixed objects.
The tools and equipment required for this task demand extensive technical expertise, but fortunately, you don’t have to be an expert; you just need to find one.
If the correct testing has been completed and passed, then you can rest assured that you’re in good hands and your recalibration is now road-safe. Pre and Post-scan documents should always be given to the customer.
How long does windshield calibration take?
The duration of a windshield calibration varies based on the vehicle's year, make, and model. On average, it takes about an hour to complete the calibration.
Can I drive my car without windshield calibration?
Driving a car without completing windshield calibration, especially after a windshield replacement or if your vehicle is equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), can potentially compromise your safety and the safety of others on the road.
While it might be technically possible to drive a car without completing windshield calibration, doing so is not advisable. The calibration process ensures that your vehicle's ADAS features function correctly, maintaining the safety and efficiency of your vehicle. Always refer to your vehicle's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance, including windshield calibration after replacement or any event that might necessitate recalibration.
How much does windshield calibration cost?
Prices will vary, Here at Direct Quality Auto Glass prices range around $200.00 to $400.00
Where Should I Have my Windshield Calibrated?
If you live in the Inland Empire, you can trust Direct Quality Auto Glass for all your auto glass and windshield calibration needs. Our team is certified and trained to meet and exceed manufacturer standards.
We specialize in various services, including windshield replacements, power window repair, sunroof repair, and ADAS calibrations.
We are located at 708 W Mill St, Unit F, San Bernardino, CA 92410.
Please call (909)251-6568 to schedule an appointment and ask for Carlos.