Why You Need to Recalibrate After Windshield Change

If you have to replace the windshield on your car, you will want to recalibrate your Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) after. But why does Reed-Lallier Body Shop always suggest a recalibration after windshield change? It comes down to how the systems work. 

What Is Recalibration? 

You need some background information to understand the need for recalibration after windshield change. The Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are the various advanced safety features in your car that help you avoid a collision. These include traffic sign recognition, blind-spot detection, and automatic emergency braking. They can also include pedestrian detection and avoidance and lane departure warning, among others. 

The various ADAS features rely on sensors, such as SONAR (ultrasound), GPS, LiDAR, radar, and video cameras. 

When Is Recalibration Necessary?

Recalibration after windshield change services isn’t the only time you need to have the ADAS adjusted. You also need to recalibrate the system after removing the protective cover over the radar, after a wheel alignment, or if you change your auto’s tire size. 

Why Recalibration Matters 

If the system isn’t properly calibrated, it won’t work properly and won’t necessarily keep you safe. So, if you don’t do a recalibration after windshield change, the systems may not detect potential collisions and prevent crashes. This reduces your safety, especially if you are overly reliant on them. 

Why Do You Need to Recalibrate After Changing the Windshield? 

So, why exactly do you need to recalibrate after windshield change services? It is because of the front view camera. That camera is one of the many sensors in the ADAS, and it is among its main sensors. Because the camera sits on your windshield, changing the windshield affects it. Specifically, the camera sits behind the housing for the rearview mirror, where it is held into place with a bracket and adhesive. 

Since the camera sits on your windshield, temporarily removing or fully replacing the windshield means that the camera moves. So, it will need adjustments to work properly. It’s also possible that swapping out the windshield will temporarily remove other sensors, giving yet another reason for a recalibration after windshield change. 

There May Not Be a Fault Code If You Need to Recalibrate

It’s easy to assume that your ADAS will realize that it needs to be recalibrated and let you know. But this is not always the case. In fact, the system may not even realize there is an issue. So, if your windshield repair company doesn’t recalibrate the system, you won’t necessarily find out. 

Get New Windshield Glass and Recalibration at Reed-Lallier Body Shop

Schedule your next windshield glass repair or replacement at Reed-Lallier Body Shop in Fayetteville, NC. We will recalibrate your ADAS, keeping you safe on the road. Reach out to us with questions or schedule your service online via our website. We’re also happy to make any other necessary repairs to your car, keeping it in great shape and getting it back on the road.