ADAS are systems developed to enhance vehicle safety and increase driver awareness.  These systems use a variety of source inputs from cameras, radar units, ultrasonic transmitters, and image processors.  Active ADAS systems can avoid collisions by taking control of the vehicle while passive systems are designed to alert the driver of any potential problems. 

ADAS features are becoming more common as more auto manufacturers include some form of ADAS as standard features to help prevent collisions or reduce their severity. In 2022, all new vehicles sold in the US will come standard equipped with low-speed automatic emergency braking system that includes forward collision warning.

Note: ADAS technology is not a substitute for the driver and has limitations.  While ADAS provide added safety, it’s important not to depend on them.  Please take proper precautions when using ADAS and follow safe driving practices when operating any vehicle.

ADAS are located all around the vehicle.  They can be found in the front and rear bumpers, side mirrors, and behind the front windshield glass.

Source: Autel

Common ADAS systems include:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
  • Around View Monitor (AVM) or Surround View
  • Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
  • Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
  • Front Collision Warning (FCW)
  • Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
  • Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
  • Night Vision System (NV)
  • Parking Sensors or Proximity Sensors
  • Pedestrian Detection (PD)
  • Rear Collision Warning (RCW)
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Detection (RCTD)
Different vehicle manufacturers will have different names for these systems.

The sensors and cameras used in ADAS do not automatically adjust.  An ADAS calibration is a process to adjust the sensors and cameras back to OEM specifications to ensure proper function.  Calibration is a complex process that requires special equipment, OE level software, and trained technicians to complete.  If ADAS isn’t calibrated properly, the system may not function properly causing incorrect or delayed response that may lead to a traffic collision. 

There are two types of calibration available: static and dynamic calibration.  Depending on the vehicle make and model, either static or dynamic calibration is required.  However, some vehicles will require both static and dynamic calibration to properly calibrate the system.

Static calibrations require specific targets or patterns unique to each vehicle manufacturer.  These types of calibrations must be performed indoors with the vehicle stationary throughout the calibration process.

Dynamic calibrations are performed by driving the vehicle on public road under specific parameters such as vehicle speed, road condition, weather, and duration of time.

ADAS calibration is required whenever one of the following has occurred:

  • Change in tire size affecting ride height
  • Diagnostic trouble codes (DTC)
  • Removed and installed front or rear bumpers
  • Replaced the sensor/module mounting brackets.
  • Replaced front windshield glass
  • Repaired or adjusted suspension
  • Vehicle was in a minor/major traffic collision
  • Wheel alignment

If calibration wasn’t performed, the ADAS may not function properly. We highly recommend getting the calibration done as soon as possible.  Our team would be glad to help. Please contact us here for more information or to schedule your appointment today.

Depending on the repairs that was done, ADAS calibrations are highly recommended.  Some vehicle manufacturers require ADAS calibrations when certain parts (sensors, cameras, brackets, bumpers, etc) have been removed and installed regardless of any active MIL or DTC codes.  The force from the collision could have bumped the ADAS sensors out of alignment.  Performing the ADAS calibration will ensure the vehicle is returned to its pre-collision condition.

After the calibration process is complete, a post-calibration diagnostic scan is performed to confirm any existing diagnostic trouble code has been cleared.  If the calibration wasn’t successful, any existing diagnostic trouble code will still be present.  All vehicles will also be driven on the road to verify all ADAS are functioning properly as intended.

A pre-calibration diagnostic scan is performed before any calibration.  This verifies the vehicle’s equipped ADAS system and checks for any stored diagnostic trouble codes. After a successful ADAS calibration, a post-calibration diagnostic scan is also performed to verify all diagnostic trouble codes have been cleared.

ADAS calibrations can take up to 4 hours, depending on the vehicle make, model, and ADAS system to be calibrated.