Here at Collision-Care, we understand that an accident can be a stressful time, and getting your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition is our priority. As modern cars become more technologically advanced, the repair process has also evolved. A key part of this is Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration.
What is ADAS?
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, or ADAS, are a suite of safety features designed to prevent accidents and make driving easier. These systems use a network of cameras, radar, and sensors to monitor the environment around your vehicle. This includes features you may be familiar with, such as:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front.
- Lane Departure Warning/Lane Keeping Assist: Alerts you if your vehicle drifts out of its lane and can even steer you back.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Detects potential collisions and can apply the brakes to avoid or reduce the severity of an impact.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Warns you of other vehicles in your blind spots.
The Importance of ADAS Calibration
Because these systems rely on precise measurements and a clear “view” of the road, any change to the vehicle’s structure or alignment can throw them off. ADAS calibration is the process of adjusting these sensors and cameras to ensure they are perfectly aligned with the manufacturer’s specifications. This is not just a technical formality; it is a critical safety procedure.
For example, a slight misalignment in a forward-facing camera, even by a fraction of a degree, could cause your automatic emergency braking system to fail or to brake unnecessarily. This is a significant risk to you and other road users.
Calibration is essential after any of the following:
- Accident Repair: A collision, even a minor one, can shift the position of sensors.
- Windscreen Replacement: Many ADAS cameras are mounted on the windscreen and must be realigned after a new one is fitted.
- Wheel Alignment or Suspension Repairs: Any changes to your vehicle’s ride height or alignment can affect the angle of ADAS sensors.
Our ADAS Calibration Service
We have invested in the specialist equipment and training required to perform both static and dynamic ADAS calibration. Static calibration is done in our workshop using special targets and a diagnostic tool, while dynamic calibration involves driving the vehicle under specific conditions to allow the system to self-calibrate.
By ensuring your ADAS is correctly calibrated, we guarantee that your vehicle’s safety systems are working as the manufacturer intended, providing you with peace of mind and the highest level of safety on the road.
If you have been in an accident or need any associated maintenance or repair services, please get in touch. We are happy to discuss your needs and ensure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. You can reach us by email at barnsley@collision-care.co.uk or call us on 01226 448 360.