If you’ve been driving for a long time and you’ve only recently started to hear the term ‘windshield calibration’ thrown around, your first questions are probably, “What is windshield calibration? Why does my windshield need to be calibrated?” Technically, it doesn’t. What does need to be calibrated are the various cameras and sensors located around your windshield. These cameras and sensors are part of the advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS), a cutting-edge safety system found on pretty much all modern vehicles.
‘Windshield calibration’ is another term for ADAS calibration, a service which may sometimes be needed for your vehicle. Continue reading to learn more about ADAS calibration and when your car needs it.
When a Vehicle Needs Windshield Calibration
Most commonly, modern automobiles need ADAS calibration after having a windshield replaced. When the windshield of a vehicle is removed, all nearby ADAS sensors will be thrown out of alignment and will need to be manually recalibrated. So if you need to take your car into an auto glass shop in Minnesota, ask if they perform ADAS calibration; almost any reputable shop will.
The following ADAS features are commonly in need of calibration after a windshield is replaced:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic braking systems (ABS)
- Automatic headlights
- Blind spot monitoring
- Forward collision alerts
- Lane departure warnings
There are some situations other than windshield replacement which may necessitate an ADAS calibration for your vehicle in Minnesota. Bumper removal, wheel alignment and suspension adjustments may also require windshield calibration. Additionally, any accident, even a minor fender bender, will likely require ADAS calibration to ensure your car’s safety systems are functioning properly.
You may have heard that there are two types of windshield calibration: static and dynamic. Some cars may only need one or the other but some will need both. Static ADAS calibration is performed in a controlled environment. where technicians will align the various cameras and sensors of your ADAS to OEM specifications. For dynamic ADAS calibration, a technician will drive your automobile and perform various actions to ensure that all parts of your ADAS are aligned and operational.
Does Your Car Need ADAS Calibration?
If you need to have ADAS calibration performed for your vehicle, bring it into a reliable local windshield replacement shop for the best results. Contact Glass Masters today if you want to schedule a windshield calibration appointment for your automobile in the Twin Cities metro!
Since it was damaged by debris when they were traveling on a trail, my daughter is getting her windshield fixed. I’m delighted you mentioned that removing a windshield will cause all nearby ADAS sensors to become misaligned, which is why a windshield calibration is essential. I’ll be sure to let her know about this so she can keep it in mind and look into vehicle repair shops that might be able to assist her.