The Importance of Windshield Camera Calibration in Modern Vehicles

Since their invention, vehicles have been making people’s lives easy. Nowadays, traveling from one place to another is not a hassle and doesn’t depend on public transportation. The vehicle industry keeps reinventing and improving yearly due to the high demand and safety regulations.

One of these inventions is Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which have been installed in vehicles since the late 90s. This system comprises sensors and cameras, allowing better safety measures while driving. Here, we will go over what windshield camera calibration is and why you should get them installed by a professional.

Understanding Windshield Camera Calibration

Windshield calibration correctly aligns and calibrates the cameras and sensors of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). ADAS systems are becoming more popular in current automobiles and are intended to help drivers make safer and more informed decisions on the road. Also, keep in mind that the windshield is as important as other mechanical components in your vehicle.

How to calibrate the ADAS system?

Calibration is usually performed using specialized equipment that communicates with the vehicle’s onboard computer and makes necessary adjustments to the cameras and sensors. 

There are two types of calibration: dynamic and static. To ensure proper calibration, the car is driven on well-marked roads at a specific speed, allowing the camera to recalibrate itself dynamically. In contrast, static recalibration involves positioning a fixture in front of the vehicle and camera. This fixture contains a specialized image that aids in the calibration process of the camera.

How long does ADAS calibration take? 

The duration of this process can vary, ranging from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the vehicle type and the specific ADAS features in question.

The Impact of Misaligned Windshield Cameras on Safety

For these ADAS systems to function correctly, they must be properly calibrated. Calibration entails calibrating cameras and sensors to align and deliver accurate information properly. This guarantees that ADAS systems such as lane departure warning, front collision warning, and automatic emergency braking function properly.

Remember that calibration is very important when a windshield is replaced; just a little change in the position of the camera and sensor can affect the accuracy. Furthermore, calibration might be required in cases where the vehicle has undergone substantial repairs or modifications or if there has been damage to the ADAS sensors or cameras.

DIY vs. Professional Calibration: Pros and Cons

Calibrating windshield cameras is a critical task, and there are two main approaches: DIY and professional calibration.

DIY Calibration

Pros

• DIY calibration kits are available and can be cheaper than taking them to the professionals.

Cons

• First, they often lack the precision and accuracy of professional equipment, potentially leading to improper calibration. 
• Second, automakers frequently update ADAS software and calibration procedures, making it challenging for DIY kits to stay up-to-date.

Professional Calibration

Pros

• On the other hand, professional calibration, performed by trained technicians using specialized equipment, ensures accurate and reliable results. 
• These technicians have the expertise to follow manufacturer guidelines and address specific vehicle requirements. 

Cons

• However, professional calibration can be more expensive than DIY kits.

Ensuring Compliance with ADAS Regulations

As ADAS technology becomes more common, regulatory organizations prioritize calibration standard compliance. Calibration is not only necessary for optimal safety, but it also guarantees that vehicles satisfy legal and industry standards. Noncompliance with these regulations may result in penalties or restrictions on using certain ADAS features.

To fully comply with ADAS rules, manufacturers, service centers, and technicians must stay current on the newest calibration processes and follow the established criteria.

Your One-Stop-Shop for Everything Windshield-Related 

Windshield calibration is a very important process for the proper functioning of modern vehicles. The accuracy and reliability of an ADAS system depend on how well it is calibrated. DIY kits are cheaper but lack the precision and accuracy of professional equipment. 

At North Coast Auto Glass, we understand the importance of windshield calibration for the safety of your vehicle. Our team of certified technicians provides all the services you need, from windshield repair to full replacement and ADAS calibration. We prioritize customer satisfaction with all of our services, so contact our team today if you are in Oceanside, California, and need a windshield repair, replacement, or ADAS calibration!