Is ADAS Calibration Necessary After a Windshield Replacement?

Having a new windshield installed on your vehicle is not a planned event. When our vehicles suffer from windshield damage, it is always an unexpected event that leaves us feeling overwhelmed. However, once the job is done, and your vehicle is looking good you want to get in that car and start driving. 

If your vehicle is loaded with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) then you’ll want to make sure the auto glass company you hire conducts an ADAS calibration. There are many reasons why. 

ADAS Technology Explained

Your vehicle may be equipped with certain safety features like automatic emergency braking. This feature, among others, uses sensors and cameras to work properly. Many of these sensors and cameras are embedded into your windshield and positioned around it. These features are put into your vehicle to keep you and everyone on the road safe. 

ADAS Calibration Explained

Windshield calibration is the process of ensuring your ADAS systems are functioning properly. It is essential after a windshield replacement otherwise you’re risking faulty alerts and failing safety systems. Features like lane-keeping assist are found in many of today's modern vehicles with technology in and around the windshield. 

Those cameras and sensors must be aligned properly after a windshield installation otherwise they will not work correctly, or not at all. If you don’t have the ADAS calibration process completed after a windshield replacement you are rendering your safety features useless and putting others at risk. 

ADAS Calibration is Essential

Here are the main reasons why it’s a must to have the technology for your ADAS features calibrated. 

1. Ensuring Your Features Function Properly

Whether they’re safety features or systems that assist the driver, none of them will work right if you skip the ADAS calibration process. In fact, your systems may even begin to set off false warnings and detect objects ahead that aren't there, which can lead to problems and collisions. 

2. Avoiding False Warnings

False warnings are not safe while driving. They can scare the driver and cause accidents. A malfunctioning ADAS system with faulty cameras and sensors can interfere with your driving experience, generating false signals that pose serious safety risks.

3. Manufacturer Compliant

Manufacturers have recommendations when it comes to ADAS technology. One of the primary suggestions is to have a calibration for your ADAS technology when you have a windshield replacement. If you skip it, you could void your manufacturer warranty. Moreover, if you get into an accident due to malfunctioning ADAS tech then your insurance rates could be affected, and your level of liability. 

How is ADAS Calibration Done?

There are two types. 

• Dynamic Calibration: This type of calibration is done while your vehicle is being driven by a technician. It helps the camera and sensors adjust and calibrate the road as if you were driving on a regular day. 

• Static Calibration: This type of calibration is done when the vehicle is not being driven. Technicians use specialized equipment to align the cameras and sensors properly. 

What If I Don’t Do the ADAS Calibration?

Honestly, the ADAS calibration typically comes with a windshield replacement, if you’re using a reliable auto glass company. They understand the importance of properly functioning ADAS systems, so it’s highly unlikely they would skip that part of the installation process. But, if you were to find an auto glass repair service that replaces your windshield and doesn’t at least insist you have your ADAS technology calibrated, odds are they aren’t experienced and you could be facing some serious malfunctions in your ADAS systems and possibly your new windshield. 

Does Your Windshield Need ADAS Calibration in Orlando, FL?

If you’re in or around the Altamonte Springs, Lake Mary, or Winter Park areas of Florida, and need a new windshield, or you had your windshield replaced but didn’t have the calibration process completed for your ADAS systems, contact us at Stat Auto Glass. Our mobile technicians are experts in windshield replacement and ADAS calibration. Stat Auto Glass specializes in providing top-quality windshield repair and replacement services to our valued Florida drivers.