Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that help keep drivers safe on the road. Features like lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot detection rely on cameras, sensors, and radar to function properly. But after certain repairs or collisions, these systems may require re-calibration to maintain their accuracy and safety. Top Notch Body Shop & Mechanic would like to cover what ADAS calibration is and what can cause your vehicle to need re-calibration.
What is ADAS Calibration
ADAS calibration is the process of aligning and programming your vehicle’s sensors, cameras, and radar systems to ensure they provide accurate data for safety features. A misaligned sensor can cause warning systems to function incorrectly, fail to detect hazards, or trigger false alerts. Proper calibration restores the system to manufacturer specifications.
Types of ADAS Calibration?
• Static Calibration: The vehicle remains stationary, and sensors are calibrated using targets or specialized equipment.
• Dynamic Calibration: The vehicle is driven on the road while cameras and sensors are fine-tuned for real-world conditions.
Professional calibration ensures systems like lane-keeping assistance, forward collision warning, and parking sensors operate reliably.
Common Causes that Require ADAS Re-calibration
Several events or repairs can necessitate ADAS re-calibration:
Collision or Accident Repairs: Even minor accidents can affect sensors or cameras:
• Bumper or fender damage may misalign radar sensors.
• Windshield replacement may alter camera positioning for lane departure systems.
• Structural frame damage can affect sensor accuracy.
Windshield Replacement: Many ADAS cameras are mounted on or near the windshield. Replacing a windshield can change the camera’s angle, requiring re-calibration to ensure features like:
• Lane departure warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Adaptive cruise control working correctly
Suspension or Steering Repairs: Repairs that affect the vehicle’s alignment or ride height, such as:
• Wheel alignment adjustments
• Suspension replacements
• Steering component repairs can impact sensor calibration, especially for radar-based systems.
Sensor or Camera Replacement: If a camera, radar, lidar, or ultrasonic sensor is replaced, it must be re-calibrated to match the vehicle’s system specifications.
Body Panel or Trim Replacement: Replacing bumpers, fenders, or hood panels can shift the positioning of radar sensors embedded in those areas. Even slight misalignments can cause ADAS malfunctions.
Signs Your ADAS May Need Recalibration
• Lane departure warnings trigger unnecessarily or fail to activate
• Forward collision or emergency braking alerts are delayed or false
• Adaptive cruise control doesn’t maintain distance properly
• Blind-spot monitoring alerts incorrectly
• Dashboard ADAS warning lights are illuminated
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a professional inspection immediately.
Why Professional ADAS Calibration Matters
ADAS systems are highly sophisticated and require specialized diagnostic tools, targets, and procedures. Attempting re-calibration without the proper equipment can:
• Render safety features inaccurate
• Increase the risk of accidents
• Potentially void manufacturer warranties
Certified technicians follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure your vehicle’s safety systems are restored to optimal performance.
Auto Repair & Body Shop Services in Dallas, Texas (Just Minutes Away from Addison, Balch Springs, Carrollton, Cedar Hill, Coppell, DeSoto, Duncanville, Farmers Branch, Ferris, Garland, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Irving, Lancaster, Lewisville, Mesquite, Ovilla, Richardson, Rowlett, Sachse, Seagoville, Sunnyvale & Wylie, TX)
ADAS re-calibration is a critical part of modern vehicle maintenance and post-repair safety. Whether you’ve had a collision, a windshield replaced, or suspension work done, ensuring your ADAS is correctly calibrated protects both you and everyone on the road. If your vehicle has undergone repairs or you notice unusual ADAS behavior, contact Top Notch Body Shop & Mechanic and schedule your ADAS re-calibration today.
