ADAS calibration for your windshield
Almost every 2017 and newer vehicle has a camera mounted to the windshield that runs lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise, and forward collision warning. When the windshield is replaced, that camera has to be recalibrated — and we handle it in-house.
What is ADAS?
ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems — the safety features in newer vehicles that read the road and the vehicles around you. Lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, traffic sign recognition. On most vehicles, these features share a forward-facing camera mounted to the inside of the windshield, right behind the rearview mirror.
Most 2017 and newer vehicles ship with at least one ADAS feature. Common safety suites include Toyota Safety Sense, Honda Sensing, Ford Co-Pilot360, GM Driver Confidence, Stellantis (Chrysler / Dodge / Jeep / Ram) Active Safety, Subaru EyeSight, Nissan Safety Shield 360, Hyundai SmartSense, and Mazda i-Activsense.
When ADAS recalibration is needed
- ·After windshield replacement — always. The camera mounts to the new piece of glass and even a fraction of a degree off will throw lane-keep and adaptive cruise out of spec.
- ·After certain collisions. Front-end impacts can shift the camera mount even if the windshield itself looks intact.
- ·Sometimes after suspension work. If the ride height changes — new struts, lowered springs, lift kit — the camera angle relative to the road shifts and may need recalibration.
Static vs dynamic calibration
Static calibration is done with the vehicle stationary in a controlled environment, using a manufacturer-specific target board placed at a precise distance and angle in front of the vehicle. The car’s computer aligns the camera against the known target. Many European and Asian manufacturers require static calibration.
Dynamic calibration is done by driving the vehicle on a well-marked road at a specific speed (usually around 35 mph) for 15 to 30 minutes while the camera learns from lane lines and other vehicles. Many domestic US vehicles use dynamic calibration.
Some vehicles require both. The right procedure depends on the make, model, year, and ADAS suite. We look up the procedure for your specific vehicle before we book the appointment so we are not guessing.
How long it takes
Calibration typically takes 1 to 2 hours after the physical windshield replacement. Static calibration is faster in the bay (about 45 to 90 minutes). Dynamic calibration takes about the same total time, including the drive cycle. Vehicles requiring both static and dynamic procedures usually run closer to 2 hours.
We coordinate the replacement and the calibration as a single appointment so you do not have to bring your vehicle in twice.
Insurance coverage
Most comprehensive auto policies that cover windshield replacement also cover the associated ADAS calibration — insurers know an uncalibrated safety system is a liability they would rather not carry. Coverage details vary by carrier and policy. Ask us about coverage when you send your photo and we will help you figure out what your policy is likely to do before you book.
How we quote
Calibration cost depends on three things — the make and model of your vehicle, the ADAS suite installed, and whether the procedure is static, dynamic, or both. Some vehicles require manufacturer-specific scan tools that cost the shop a subscription per use. We pass the actual cost through, not a marked-up flat rate.
Text us the year, make, model, and trim of your vehicle to (716) 548-2683 and we will look up the procedure and quote you back honestly.
Need ADAS calibration?
Text us your vehicle’s year, make, and model. We’ll quote you straight.