Having a cracked windshield replaced is relatively common for car owners. One fact to know is that cars with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), such as cruise control that adapts by itself, and systems that alert you when drifting from your lane, need a special checkup after a windshield is replaced.

If your vehicle is equipped with ADAS features, calibration is a necessary step. 
This article guides you through how auto glass replacement companies can recalibrate these systems step-by-step after getting a new windshield. Keep in mind, not all calibrations are performed the same way, so this is a general outline. 

Key Takeaways

• Many 2016 and newer vehicles are equipped with ADAS features such as automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist.
• These systems typically require calibration after a windshield replacement is performed.
• Many auto glass replacement companies can also perform ADAS calibrations. They can also help determine whether your vehicle has ADAS features. 
• Before starting ADAS calibration, the technician will likely perform initial checks to ensure the vehicle and its systems are operating correctly. The technician will inspect for modifications, accidents, and make sure all driver assistance systems work properly.
• The technician probably will then prepare the vehicle by checking diagnostic trouble codes, ensuring the battery is fully charged, adjusting tire pressure, cleaning sensors and cameras, and confirming everything is installed and aligned correctly.
• The tech may set up specialized calibration equipment according to manufacturer guidelines. They’ll likely position devices accurately in front or behind the car as required for precise calibration of features like lane departure alerts.
• The tech can then carry out the calibration process with attention to detail, adjust components of ADAS systems as needed, and conduct road tests under specified conditions to fine-tune system operations ensuring optimal performance.
• After calibrating ADAS systems post-windshield replacement, the tech will likely perform thorough post-calibration checks to verify sensor positions, and secure attachments without obstructions from dirt or debris using diagnostic tools to confirm effective communication between systems for reliable functionality during real-world driving scenarios.
  
  

Step-by-Step Guide to ADAS Calibration Process

Initial Checks

Before starting the ADAS calibration process after replacing your vehicle’s windshield, the repair technician may perform initial checks. These ensure that the system works accurately and safely. They may check for any modifications made to the vehicle or if it has been in an accident. The tech might also look for changes in components or software updates. 

During these checks, the tech will likely inspect if all advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking function correctly. They can use diagnostic tools to spot any fault codes in the electronic control unit.

Keeping ADAS well-maintained through regular check-ins ensures optimal performance of technologies meant to prevent accidents and improve automotive safety on the road.

Preparation

Preparing the vehicle for ADAS calibration is crucial. First, the repair technician may check for any diagnostic trouble codes that could affect the process. They’ll also likely ensure the vehicle’s battery is fully charged to avoid interruptions.

Next, most calibrations require that tire pressure is adjusted according to manufacturer specifications. This step ensures accuracy during calibration. The tech is likely to then clean all sensors and cameras thoroughly since dirt can cause errors.

Calibrations are typically done while the vehicle is on a level surface, although some calibration tools are self-leveling. The tech will need enough space around the vehicle for equipment setup. They’ll remove any items that might interfere with sensors such as stickers or decals from windshields and bumpers.

The tech should ensure that all parts related to ADAS, such as radars and lane keep assist systems, are correctly installed and aligned. These steps create a solid foundation for successful equipment setup and calibration procedures, helping to maintain vehicle safety and reliability during autonomous driving or when using features such as collision avoidance or forward collision alert.

Equipment Setup

After the technician finishes preparing, setting up the equipment is their next step. They use specific tools and devices for this part of the process. This ensures that all advanced driver assistance systems work as they should after replacing a windshield.

The technician should follow manufacturer guidelines to set up the equipment. Each system might require different setups to test steering control or speed limit recognition properly.

The tech will want to make sure they have all the necessary information about your vehicle’s model and type before starting because some may have unique requirements listed under a specific RPO code found near the rearview mirror or suspension parts area.

Calibration Process

The calibration process starts with setting up the right tools and equipment. Technicians use specific machinery designed for ADAS to ensure everything is precise. They will likely follow a checklist to prepare the vehicle, making sure it’s in the correct position and environment for calibrating advanced driver assistance systems.

This preparation is crucial for accurate results.

Next, experts carry out the actual calibration tasks. This involves adjusting various components of the vehicle’s assistance systems to ensure they work as intended. For dynamic calibration, this might mean taking the car on a road test under certain conditions to tune its systems properly.

The goal here is not just about meeting standards but ensuring that each part of the system communicates correctly with others for optimal performance and safety on roads bustling with traffic and varying speed limits.

Post-Calibration Checks

After completing the calibration process, the tech may perform a thorough examination of all ADAS components to ensure proper functionality; double-checking the position and condition of all sensors, ensuring they are securely attached without any damage or obstruction from dirt or debris.

They can also use diagnostic tools to verify that each system is communicating effectively and accurately interpreting data. Conducting road tests to confirm that all ADAS features, such as lane departure warning systems and automated braking, are operating as intended in real-world driving scenarios is the final step.

It’s crucial for technicians to meticulously inspect the vehicle post-calibration to guarantee that advanced driver assistance systems are functioning reliably. Regular verification checks play a fundamental role in maintaining safety and performance standards across vehicles equipped with embedded ADAS technology.

Importance of ADAS Calibration: Safety and Performance

ADAS calibration holds paramount importance in ensuring the safety and optimal performance of advanced driver assistance systems in vehicles. Proper calibration is essential for the accurate functioning of these advanced systems, which play a significant role in reducing the risk of accidents on the road.

Regular check-ups and meticulous calibration not only help contribute to enhanced safety but also underpin the overall performance of ADAS features, aligning with OEM requirements for vehicle repair procedures.

ADAS Calibration vs. Wheel Alignment: Understanding the Difference

Understanding the difference between ADAS calibration and wheel alignment is vital. They are both crucial for your vehicle but serve different purposes.

Both ADAS calibration and wheel alignment are important. They help your car drive safely and smoothly. Make sure you keep both in check.

Conclusion

After having a windshield, calibrating the ADAS is crucial for maintaining safety and performance. The step-by-step guide outlines the necessary checks, preparation, equipment setup, calibration process, and post-calibration checks that ADAS calibration technicians may use to ensure accuracy.

Understanding the difference between ADAS calibration and wheel alignment is essential for routine maintenance. Properly calibrated ADAS systems are vital for road safety and should not be overlooked after windshield replacement.

It’s important to remember that these systems are assistance tools that work alongside attentive driving. It’s essential you know which system your vehicle is equipped with, and not equipped with. You should also be familiar with how these systems function and their limitations in order to have a safer drive.

FAQs

1. What is ADAS calibration after replacing a windshield?

ADAS calibration is the process of adjusting the advanced driver assistance systems in your car so they work correctly after you get a new windshield.

2. Why do I need to calibrate my car’s ADAS after getting a new windshield?

Your car’s advanced driver assistance systems rely on cameras and sensors that can be affected by windshield replacements, making recalibration necessary to ensure they’re aimed correctly and function properly.

3. Can any auto shop perform an ADAS calibration?

Not all auto shops can perform ADAS calibrations. However, most windshield replacement companies can. Look for a windshield replacement shop that has the right tools and training to handle these specific adjustments.

4. Will my insurance cover the cost of ADAS calibration?

Many insurance companies recognize the importance of proper ADAS calibration as part of routine maintenance or repairs like windshield replacement, but coverage can vary, so it’s best to check with your provider about your policy’s premium and benefits.