Do I Need to Recalibrate My Car?

With technology becoming more advanced in the automotive world, parts of your vehicle, like your windshield, need to be recalibrated in some cases. While it may just seem like a solid piece of glass, there is a lot of technology packed into modern car windshields.

This technology is the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems or ADAS. This system introduces various safety features such as adaptive lighting, lane assist, and lane-departure warnings. With ADAS calibration, you ensure that the alignment of the cameras and sensors used by these systems is correct. This system communicates with your windshield, so to ensure it continues to communicate properly and safely, you will occasionally need to have your windshield recalibrated.

What is the Purpose of Windshield Recalibration?

Your windshield had a multifunction camera mounted in the top center, which serves as a critical component of the ADAS. Other components are in the front bumper and front grille of the vehicle. For this system to work properly, your windshield must be properly situated in relationship to the cameras and sensors mounted in your car.
ADAS windshield recalibration helps ensure that your windshield is aligned with the cameras and sensors, so your car operates safely and efficiently. If your ADAS is not calibrated properly, it could fail to warn you of an obstacle or alert you at the wrong time, which could lead to a split-second decision being made that could lead to an accident.

Auto glass repair and recalibration Instances Where Recalibration is Required

There are a few instances where you will need a windshield recalibration complete to keep your car operating safely, including:

  • A front-end collision
  • Windshield replacement
  • Replacement or repair of the front bumper

For example, as mentioned above, the camera that is mounted on the top center of your windshield is affected by a windshield replacement. To ensure the camera is properly aligned with the other sensors and cameras, you will need a windshield recalibration.

How is a Windshield Recalibrated?

Your windshield technician will perform one of two important calibration tests depending on the manufacturer’s requirements, including:

Dynamic recalibration– This method requires the camera and sensors to perform a range of movement during a driving test. The technician will drive the car at a constant speed in relation to fixed/unmoving objects.
Static recalibration– For this test, the vehicle does not move—instead, a marker or a target is placed ahead of the vehicle during the recalibration process.

Each of these tests takes about one or two hours to complete, and once your vehicle has completed and passed the testing, your car is safe and ready for the road!

Expert Windshield Recalibration Services in Pittsburgh

At Three Rivers Auto Glass, our highly trained technicians use the most advanced ADAS equipment to recalibrate your car and keep you safe out on the road. Contact us today to learn more!

Denny Toth