Is An ADAS Recalibration REALLY Worth It?
Surprise Surprise. You were driving on the treacherous Arizona highways and were attacked by a barrage of rocks and now you’ve got to replace your windshield. In the past it was relatively plain and simple, the old cracked glass came off and the fresh new glass went on. However, technology has rapidly improved over the years to give us a much safer driving experience. Advanced driver assistance systems(ADAS) are to thank for the much-improved car safety. You might be wondering what this has to do with your auto glass. First, we should understand fully what ADAS is.
Understanding Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
As you may already know ADAS stands for advanced driver assistance systems. This technology is designed to assist drivers with the safe operation of a vehicle. ADAS uses automated technology such as sensors and cameras, to detect nearby obstacles or driver errors, and respond accordingly. There are two main categories of ADAS.
Passive ADAS Systems
There are passive ADAS systems that you are likely familiar with. These systems are designed to minimize the impact of a collision by providing protection to the driver and passengers. Have you guessed it yet? Airbags, seatbelts, and crumple zones are all part of the passive ADAS system.
Active ADAS Systems
The other ADAS systems are much newer and improving rapidly. These are referred to as the active ADAS systems. Their responsibility is to prevent a collision from happening in the first place. Features of this can include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and much more.
ADAS systems are great for helping prevent accidents and many drivers have become very accustomed to using them. That being said, they are in no way shape, or form a substitute for not driving safely.
The Importance of ADAS Recalibration
The reason all of this has to do with your windshield being replaced is because of the sensors and cameras that are on and around your windshield. It's very important to have your ADAS recalibrated after replacing a windshield. When the windshield is replaced the sensors and cameras may be moved or misaligned. This can be detrimental to its performance. Recalibrating the system ensures that the cameras and sensors are properly aligned and can work how they’re supposed to. The last thing you need is your car pulling you to the wrong lane or not pointing out the car in your blind spot like it always has.
Systems malfunctioning is not the only reason for a recalibration either. Some car manufacturers require the ADAS system to be recalibrated after replacing a windshield. Ignoring that requirement can void your car's warranty. Insurance companies can even get out of covering the damages that resulted from an accident due to a malfunctioning ADAS system.
Prioritize Your Safety: Recalibrate Your ADAS System
DON'T put yourself or anyone else in harm's way. Have your auto glass recalibrated and enjoy all the safety features your car has to offer. Whether you're navigating Arizona's challenging roads or driving elsewhere, a properly calibrated ADAS system is an investment in your safety and peace of mind.
