A Guide To Windshield Calibration

Windshield calibration requires precise measurements, advanced equipment, and thorough training. Modern safety features like lane keep assist, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control rely on ADAS technology. These systems often consist of cameras and sensors mounted on or near the windshield, which makes proper calibration essential after glass replacement. Understanding the need for ADAS calibration helps drivers maintain accurate system performance and stay safe on the road. Here’s everything you need to know about professional windshield calibration.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

The first step in understanding windshield calibration is understanding what ADAS technology is. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) often use cameras, sensors, and other modern technology to monitor traffic, obstacles, road markings, and surrounding conditions. Many features identify potential safety concerns, provide alerts, and sometimes employ intervention if the driver doesn’t respond. There are various names for common safety features, but modern vehicles frequently offer collision mitigation systems (such as automatic emergency braking), lane keep assist, and traffic assist systems like adaptive cruise control. Other features, such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, bring obstacles to the driver’s attention.

Different Names for ADAS Technology

Different manufacturers refer to their ADAS technology by specific names. Common branded systems include:

• Subaru EyeSight
• Honda Sensing
• Toyota Safety Sense
• Ford Co-Pilot360
• Kia DRIVE WiSE
• Tesla Self-Driving

Why Is Windshield Calibration Necessary?

After a windshield replacement, a certified auto glass technician will carefully re-mount and position any ADAS technology correctly. Even with precise alignment, these systems must be calibrated to ensure an accurate view of the road. When a technician is certified for ADAS calibration, they have undergone extensive training and gained experience with different safety systems. They also have access to advanced technology and specialized equipment required for proper calibration.

What Role Does the Windshield Play in the Operation of ADAS in Cars?

Because ADAS technology is often windshield-mounted, the placement and quality of the glass are crucial. Your windshield must be positioned according to precise manufacturer standards to ensure cameras and sensors are correctly aligned. The quality of your windshield is also important. Certified auto glass technicians can provide glass options compatible with your vehicle’s ADAS technology.

Improper camera placement, incompatible windshields, or failure to calibrate systems can lead to malfunctions in safety features. Systems such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert may provide false notifications or fail to alert you to obstacles. Features like lane keep assist and automatic emergency braking could fail to intervene when necessary or activate at inappropriate times. Even minor misalignment can significantly impact ADAS performance. These situations can be dangerous for drivers, passengers, and others on the road, which is why professional ADAS calibration is essential.

When Does My Windshield Need Calibrating?

Experts recommend professional ADAS calibration:

• After a windshield replacement
• Following a wheel alignment
• When your car’s suspension is adjusted
• If a camera has been disconnected or reconnected
• When your dashboard displays an error message
• In the event of a collision

What Type of Windshield Calibration Do I Need?

Manufacturers have specific requirements to ensure proper ADAS function. Certified technicians can assess your vehicle to determine what is needed. There are two types of ADAS calibration:

Static Calibration

Static calibration requires precise measurements, specialized equipment, and a controlled environment. Calibration targets with specific patterns are placed in designated positions, allowing cameras and sensors to read the road accurately.

Dynamic Calibration

Dynamic calibration involves operating the vehicle. A technician drives your car at specific speeds, exposing cameras and sensors to different conditions and objects to calibrate the systems.

Reputable auto glass shops can perform both static and dynamic calibration. Some vehicles require only one type, while others require both. Technicians will complete a post-scan to confirm proper system performance.

How Long Does Windshield Calibration Take?

Most calibrations can be completed in about an hour. The total time depends on your vehicle’s specifications and calibration requirements. Once these needs are determined, your technician can provide a more accurate estimate. Drivers should also keep in mind that ADAS calibration is performed after windshield replacement, so calibration time is in addition to the replacement process.

Can I Drive My Car Without Windshield Calibration?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle after windshield replacement if it has ADAS technology. Without proper calibration, safety features may malfunction or produce alert errors, putting you and other drivers at risk. While your windshield will be secure once the Safe Drive Away Time is complete, safety systems can still experience misalignment issues. Certified ADAS calibration helps maintain the accuracy of advanced safety features. Your vehicle owner’s manual may also outline calibration recommendations for proper maintenance.

How Much Does Windshield Calibration Cost?

Different manufacturers, and even different models, use unique ADAS technology, and some systems are more complex than others. Most windshield calibrations cost between $200 and $400. Your auto glass technician can provide an exact estimate once calibration requirements are determined.

Do You Need ADAS Calibration in San Bernardino or the Inland Empire Area?

When your vehicle needs ADAS calibration after a windshield replacement, collision, or unexpected warning light, Direct Quality Auto Glass is here to help. Our certified technicians provide precise windshield calibration according to manufacturer standards. We offer high-quality, ADAS-compatible windshields installed with proven techniques to provide a strong foundation for your safety systems. Our primary goal is to keep drivers safe on the road, which is why we also perform post-calibration scans to verify the accuracy of your ADAS technology. To schedule your windshield calibration near San Bernardino, Rialto, Loma Linda, or Fontana, CA, contact Direct Quality Auto Glass and get a free quote.