Windshield Calibrations

Technology has given us many amazing tools and gadgets to assist with our driving needs. One of those wonderful pieces of technology is called ADAS. This stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. These are safety systems that help drivers remain safe when doing basic driving tasks such as pulling out, backing up, changing lanes, etc. They do this by a system of cameras that are located at various positions on the car. One of these positions is the windshield. This means that if you ever need to get a windshield replaced, these cameras are affected and will need to be recalibrated to continue working properly.

Types of Calibration

There are two types of calibration: dynamic and static. A vehicle may only need one type of calibration while others may need both. A dynamic calibration involves the car being driven at a specific speed on well-marked roads in order for the camera to recalibrate properly. Depending on the vehicle you drive, this could take as long as an hour. A static calibration requires a fixture to be placed in front of the car with a specific image attached to it. As far as timing goes, the process is about the same as dynamic calibration. If both types of calibration need to occur, expect at least a two-hour process.

Will My Windshield Need Calibration Any Other Time?

Usually, if any damage occurs to the windshield or you’ve been in a crash, it’s best to check with a professional on the calibration front. Any impact or damage could damage or change the system which affects the calibration. However, the only way to tell is to be knowledgeable in the ADAS systems. The average person doesn’t know enough about these systems to check on their own which is why it’s best to have a professional do a check-up on the vehicle’s safety systems.

How Much Do Windshield Calibrations Cost?

Prices will vary based on location and across technicians. Recalibrations also require special tools and knowledge so it’s important to get this work covered by a certified and experienced technician. Depending on the complexity and needs of your calibration, the work could cost anywhere from $25 to $250. Overall, this is a decent price considering the time and know-how it takes to ensure such vital safety systems are fully functional.

If you are unsure whether your vehicle needs recalibration or not, don’t change it. It’s worth the time and effort to ensure such a vital safety system is in line and fully functional. Without realizing it, we rely on these systems numerous times throughout the day to keep us and our families safe. This is why it’s so important to ensure it’s working properly.