Why ADAS Calibration is Important After Windshield Replacement

During a windshield replacement, many vehicle owners focus on the obvious tasks: removing and installing the glass, ensuring a proper seal, and verifying the integrity of the new windshield. However, one critical step that is often overlooked but is vital for your safety and your vehicle’s advanced features is ADAS calibration.

ADAS, or Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, include features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and collision avoidance systems. These systems rely heavily on sensors, cameras, and radar mounted around your vehicle, many of which are integrated into or behind the windshield. After windshield replacement, these sensors may be misaligned or disrupted, which can compromise their effectiveness. That’s why proper ADAS calibration is essential.

Why is ADAS Calibration Necessary?

When a windshield is replaced, the sensors and cameras that support your vehicle’s ADAS need to be recalibrated to ensure they function accurately. Even a slight misalignment can cause false alarms or, worse, failure of safety systems during critical moments. For example, if the forward-facing camera isn’t correctly calibrated, your collision warning might become unreliable, or the automatic braking system may not activate when needed.

Proper calibration ensures that all systems are aligned according to the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. It considers factors such as vehicle height, weight, and the specific location of sensors, maintaining the integrity of safety features that protect you and your loved ones.

The Risks of Skipping ADAS Calibration

Many vehicle owners might think that once the windshield is replaced and sealed, their ADAS cameras and sensors will automatically function correctly. This is a misconception. Failing to calibrate can lead to several issues:

• Reduced Safety: ADAS features may activate unnecessarily or fail to activate during emergencies, putting lives at risk.
• False Alarms: Sensors misaligned due to improper calibration can cause systems, such as lane departure warnings, to trigger falsely.
• Potential for Further Damage: If ADAS systems are not accurately calibrated, they might not respond appropriately in critical situations, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Because these systems are integral to modern vehicle safety, neglecting proper calibration can compromise the very reason these features exist: to keep you secure.

Why Florida’s No-Deductible State Matters

In Florida, the landscape of auto insurance is unique. Auto insurance policies often come with no-deductible coverage for windshield repairs and replacements. This means that if your windshield needs to be replaced due to damage covered by your policy, you typically won’t have to pay out-of-pocket for the service itself.

However, it’s crucial to understand that insurance coverage typically only applies to the windshield replacement. The additional cost of ADAS calibration is often considered a separate service. If you want your advanced safety systems to work correctly after a windshield replacement, you’ll need to ensure the calibration is performed. Some insurance providers understand the importance of calibration and may cover the cost, but it’s not automatic.

Being aware of your policy details and discussing the need for ADAS calibration with your repair shop or insurance agent can save you from future safety concerns and potential liabilities. It’s a small extra step that significantly enhances your safety, even if it comes with a small additional expense.

Choosing the Right Service Provider

Given the importance of ADAS calibration, it’s vital to work with a qualified and knowledgeable service provider. Not all windshield replacement shops have the equipment or expertise to perform proper calibration. Look for specialists who use manufacturer-specific calibration systems and follow the vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines.

Proper calibration is a precise process that involves utilizing advanced tools and understanding the vehicle's specifications. Professional calibration ensures that sensors are correctly aligned so all your safety features work seamlessly.

Do You Have Windshield Damage in the Orlando, FL Area?

If you live in the Lake Mary, Winter Park, or Altamonte Springs areas of Florida and your vehicle has sustained windshield or auto glass damage, contact us at Stat Auto Glass. Our mobile technicians will promptly arrive to restore the structural integrity of your vehicle. We will also calibrate your ADAS systems.