Probably the most common experience for automobile owners is windshield replacement. However, most vehicle owners do not know that a camera’s proper functioning may be affected by the new windshield since its position and angle change due to the windshield replacement. This slight shift means weaker ADAS performance, which risks safety.
After windshield replacement, the auto glass repair technicians will determine the car’s make and model, position the car in a position suitable for calibration, and connect the machine to the car. Then, they will maneuver the camera, check the calibration reliability, and record the calibration procedure.
The Process to Calibrate Camera After Windshield Replacement
Once the windshield replacement is completed, camera calibration will ensure everything goes as intended with the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. The procedure includes many crucial steps, such as:
Step 1: Identify Your Vehicle’s Make and Model
The first step is confirmation of the make and model of your car. The owners of cars are expected to provide this while booking the service. Such a difference in cameras in the vehicles makes the requirements different, and knowing the specifics allows a technician to prepare adequately. This information enables it to gather tools and equipment tailor-made for your vehicle that facilitates correct calibration.
Step 2: Set Up the Vehicle for the Windshield Camera Calibration Process
The car must be properly prepared and kept flat, and the tires must be set with one air pressure level. Also, technicians and calibration equipment must have enough clearance around the vehicle. On position, technicians inspect the camera and sensors for signs of damage and cleanliness. This sets the tone for a good calibration process.
Step 3: Establish a Connection with the Calibration Device
Connect the calibration device to the car. Diagnosing and calibrating the car’s ADAS becomes possible with the right connection. Once the windshield replacement technicians have made the connection, the equipment communicates with the vehicle’s onboard computer to obtain details on what features need calibration. It then ensures the required adjustments are made, ensuring all settings fall into what the manufacturer advises.
Step 4: Adjusting the Camera as Necessary
Technicians may begin the calibration process after connecting the calibration equipment and starting the diagnostics. The system may detect misalignment or maladjustment in the camera configuration. The calibration tool will guide all the steps of calibrating cameras and sensors to very precise settings to be sure of measurements for cameras. Appropriate changes help achieve the purpose of contributing to the overall safety of the vehicle.
Step 5: Verifying the Calibration Accuracy
One step that most people do not pay attention to is calibration verification. People usually do not take the time to check on their calibration after it’s done. Experts suggest one should take the time to verify whether the calibration is accurate. This testing process is usually done by taking a car test drive to check if the cameras and sensors will work well together. You can know the camera and sensor systems are calibrated correctly when the equipment can properly read the road signs, lane markings, and obstacles.
Step 6: Documenting the Calibration Process
The whole process is documented at the last stage. This includes processes such as the adjustments made and verification tests conducted by technicians during the calibration. Documentation is a detailed vehicle history that proves valuable for future work. It ensures that all repairs or services are referred to the calibration work after the calibration work for safety features to remain ideal.
Benefits of Calibrating Camera After Windshield Replacement
Car owners will get some benefits after calibrating the windshield and camera.
- Enhanced Safety: Proper calibration will ensure that ADAS works adequately, including lane-keeping assistance and automatic emergency braking. This will considerably improve the overall vehicle safety.
- Improved Accuracy: Calibration readjusts the camera’s field of view, resulting in accurate readings and a lower chance of false alerts or other driving mistakes.
- Prevention of Malfunctions: Calibration during routine work minimizes probable defects from improper camera positioning. This can lead to expensive repairs or replacements in the future.
- Legal Compliance: Many rules concerning automobile safety systems exist in many regions. Camera recalibration for windshield sensors effectively ensures that the company follows the nation’s laws and eradicates any legal aspects that may arise.
- Increased Vehicle Value: Proper calibration shows that you care for your vehicle. Proper calibration documentation increases the price by portraying an efficiently kept and road-worthy vehicle.
Why is Calibration Necessary After Replacing the Windshield?
After replacing the windshield, calibration is necessary to ensure that cameras and sensors maintain accurate alignment. Modern vehicles are often equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which rely on these cameras and sensors to function properly. These systems control features like lane departure warnings, automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control. Misaligned sensors or cameras can cause these systems to malfunction, putting driver and passenger safety at risk. Proper calibration ensures that ADAS operates as intended, enhancing overall vehicle safety and performance.
What Should You Expect During the Calibration Appointment?
During calibration of the camera after windshield replacement, expect an initial assessment of your vehicle’s camera system to ensure no damages or errors are present. Technicians will then make precise adjustments using specialized equipment, such as laser-guided tools or diagnostic software. This may involve static calibration (performed in a controlled environment) or dynamic calibration (performed while driving). A test drive will usually follow to ensure that all Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, including lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and parking sensors, function correctly. Some systems may also require recalibration of radar or lidar sensors.
How Long Does the Calibration Process Typically Take?
The calibration process typically takes 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the vehicle type, the calibration method used, and the complexity of the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Static calibration usually takes less time, while dynamic calibration, which involves driving the vehicle, may take longer, especially if specific road conditions are required for the process. Additionally, the complexity of the vehicle’s ADAS and the number of sensors or cameras to be calibrated can affect the overall time. It’s best to consult your technician for an estimated time based on your specific vehicle model.
Conclusion
Calibrating the ADAS camera after a windshield replacement ensures your vehicle’s safety systems work as intended. The technicians will determine your car’s make and model, set up and prepare it for calibration, connect it to calibrate the camera after windshield replacement, adjust the camera if necessary, check calibration accuracy, and report the calibration process so the camera can be calibrated after windshield replacement.