Modern vehicles increasingly rely on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) to keep drivers safe. Features like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control often depend on cameras and sensors mounted to the windshield. If your windshield needs replacement, these systems can make the process more complex. Here’s what you should know.
What Is ADAS?
ADAS refers to a suite of technologies designed to help drivers avoid collisions and stay aware of their surroundings. Common examples include:
- Forward collision warning
- Lane departure alert
- Automatic emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
- Traffic sign recognition
Many of these features use cameras mounted behind the windshield to monitor the road ahead. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), proper camera function is essential for ADAS to work as intended.
Why Windshield Replacement Requires Calibration
When your windshield is replaced, the position of the ADAS camera can shift slightly—even if it’s only by a few millimeters. This small change can throw off the system’s accuracy, causing false warnings or missed hazards.
Calibration ensures the camera sees the road correctly and measures distances precisely. Transport Canada emphasizes that recalibration is a critical safety step after windshield replacement. You can learn more in their defect investigations resource.
Types of Calibration
There are two main calibration methods:
- Static Calibration: Performed in a controlled shop environment with special targets placed at specific distances around the vehicle.
- Dynamic Calibration: Involves driving the vehicle on the road to allow the system to relearn its environment.
Some vehicles require both methods to restore factory accuracy.
How Calibration Affects Cost and Time
ADAS calibration adds time and cost to a windshield replacement. While a standard replacement may take 1–2 hours, calibration can add another 1–2 hours to the process.
Depending on your vehicle, calibration may add $200–$600 to the total cost. Most comprehensive insurance policies cover this expense, especially if calibration is required to restore your safety systems.
Choosing the Right Shop
Not every auto glass shop has the tools or training to perform ADAS calibration. If your vehicle has these systems, it’s essential to choose a certified shop that can:
- Use OEM-quality glass compatible with your camera systems
- Perform proper recalibration
- Provide documentation for insurance and warranty purposes
At Speers Auto Glass, we have the equipment and expertise to replace and recalibrate ADAS-equipped windshields safely. You can learn more about our windshield replacement services here.
Contact Speers Auto Glass today to schedule your ADAS windshield replacement and protect your vehicle’s advanced safety features.
Related Posts in This Series
- Windshield Calibration Explained
- What to Expect During Windshield Replacement
- How Much Does Auto Glass Replacement Cost?