Why ADAS calibration matters

What is ADAS?

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are electronic systems that help drivers avoid accidents. Common ADAS features include:

• Automatic emergency braking (AEB)
• Lane departure warning and lane keeping assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Parking sensors and cameras
• Traffic sign recognition

How ADAS works

These systems rely on sensors positioned precisely around the vehicle:

• Cameras: Usually mounted behind the windscreen, in mirrors, or at the rear
• Radar sensors: Typically located in the front bumper or grille
• Ultrasonic sensors: Found in bumpers for parking assistance
• LIDAR: Used in some advanced systems for precise distance measurement

When calibration is required

ADAS calibration is necessary after any repair that may affect sensor positioning, including:

• Windscreen replacement (affects front camera)
• Front bumper repair or replacement (affects radar)
• Rear bumper work (affects parking sensors)
• Wheel alignment changes
• Suspension repairs
• Any structural repairs
• Mirror replacement

Types of calibration

There are two main types of ADAS calibration:

• Static calibration: Performed in a controlled indoor environment using specific targets and equipment
• Dynamic calibration: Performed by driving the vehicle under specific conditions while the system self-adjusts

Many vehicles require both types of calibration for full functionality.

Consequences of skipping calibration

If ADAS is not properly calibrated after repairs:

• Emergency braking may activate too early or too late
• Lane keeping may pull the vehicle in the wrong direction
• Blind spot warnings may be inaccurate
• Parking sensors may give false readings
• The vehicle may be unsafe to drive