ADAS features can be difficult to comprehend and utilize effectively. They collect loads of data through cameras and sensors; when these systems become damaged in a collision or otherwise damaged they must be repaired and calibrated back to be effective again.

Recalibrating their ADAS features may necessitate multiple trips back to the shop; it’s crucial that drivers follow manufacturer specifications and have these systems calibrated appropriately.

Windshield Replacements

As technology in the automotive industry advances, more vehicle owners are purchasing models equipped with advanced safety features like lane departure warnings, automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. These systems rely on cameras and sensors mounted within or near the windshield in order to work properly.

However, when replacing or making repairs that could affect sensor alignments on their vehicle, such as windshield replacement or repairs that alter sensor positions, their ADAS needs to be recalibrated by an accredited service. Failure to do so could significantly decrease its effectiveness, jeopardizing both you and your family’s safety.

Recalibrating is usually included as part of the cost for having your ADAS system repaired by a certified technician, though keep in mind that not every auto shop offers this service – and those that do will likely charge extra.

Bumpers

Like three-point seatbelts and shatterproof glass, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) aim to reduce human error and make driving safer for everyone on the road. Unfortunately, such safety systems require precise alignment and calibration in order to function optimally – even minor collisions can misalign sensors that power ADAS, rendering its functionality inoperable.

Sensors placed strategically throughout your vehicle such as bumpers and fascias may be vulnerable. To protect ADAS from malfunction, automotive manufacturers such as General Motors have restricted repair work on these sensors to paint refinishing only. Too thick paint may interfere with their signal strength.

ADAS systems provide several key safety benefits, including collision avoidance, lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control. While ADAS cannot fully replace human drivers; instead it only acts as a supplement to keep drivers safer on the road. Regular maintenance must be conducted to keep these systems functioning effectively.

Aftermarket Accessories

Many ADAS features depend on cameras and sensors that are sensitive to their environment. When these components become damaged, the vehicle can malfunction or fail; often all it takes to restore proper functionality is a quick repair job.

Park assist sensors (usually mounted to the rear bumper) warn drivers about nearby objects when in reverse, or forward collision warning systems and blind spot detection. Unfortunately, such sensors have high rates of original equipment failure after rear-end collisions.

These advanced systems are meant to save lives, but only if they work correctly. Otherwise, we will see headlines depicting cars slamming into each other at highway speeds because they mistook a bridge overpass for open road. Therefore, fleet maintenance technicians must closely adhere to manufacturer guidelines regarding repairs, calibration, and warranty procedures when servicing ADAS solutions – I-CAR program and ASE courses have even been created specifically to help with this process.

Dirty Sensors

Sensors on ADAS systems such as cameras and radars must remain clean in order for them to function effectively, otherwise an error message will be displayed to the driver. Any obstruction such as road salt, dirt, snow, bumper stickers, license plate frames or bumper stickers could trigger such warnings while rain or fog could temporarily impair their functionality.

Cleansing sensors is relatively straightforward; each manufacturer provides instructions on their website on how to do it, while some cleaning solvents claim to leave behind protective coatings on sensors that help reduce dust accumulation.

But without the right equipment or procedures in place to effectively repair ADAS components, technicians could compromise these safety systems that have become an integral component of modern vehicles. That is why TEXA’s Mazzon recommends every shop invest in ADAS diagnostic tools – including budgeting for training courses specializing in this technology.