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What is Windscreen Calibration and When Do I Need One?

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What is Windscreen Calibration and When Do I Need One?

Vehicles are currently making the switch from autonomous driving to Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) which ensure increased vehicle safety and better driving.  ADAS systems can alert drivers to potential problems on the roads and can even take control of the vehicle when necessary – applying the emergency brakes if the vehicle was to collide with anything, for example.

While this is an excellent step for the motoring industry and will ensure our roads are safer for everyone, it does mean that windscreen replacements are about to get slightly more complex to ensure that the new technology is calibrated correctly.

windscreen mounted adas

What is adas windscreen calibration?

Windscreen calibration is the process of adjusting the parameters of a camera lens to capture a complete image of the vehicle and road, guaranteeing that in-car ADAS systems receive accurate and reliable information.

ADAS systems work through a camera that is fitted to the centre of the windscreen. The camera then relays important information about the conditions of the road ahead to the ADAS so that the system knows when to activate automated safety measures.

This includes monitoring blind spots, pedestrians and proximity to other objects, so it is important that the camera is calibrated to offer the best possible surveillance of the vehicle and road.

Is ADAS calibration necessary?

A misaligned camera could jeopardise the functionality of the system and lead to dangerous driving or accidents, so it is crucial that the cameras are aligned perfectly, which is what windscreen calibration ensures.

What does windscreen calibration affect?

what windscreen calibration affects

A misaligned camera affects almost every ADAS system so if your vehicle is fitted with any of the following technologies you will need to have your cameras calibrated:

  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Adaptive high beam
  • Glare-free high beam
  • Adaptive light control
  • Automatic parking
  • Automotive navigation system providing up-to-date traffic information
  • Automotive night vision
  • Blind spot monitor
  • Collision avoidance system
  • Crosswind stabilisation
  • Driver drowsiness detection
  • Driver monitoring system
  • Emergency driver assistant
  • Forward collision warning
  • Intersection assistant
  • Hill descent control
  • Intelligent speed adaption/advice
  • Lane departure warning system
  • Lane change assistance
  • Pedestrian protection system
  • Traffic sign recognition
  • Turning assistant
  • Vehicular communication systems
  • Wrong-way driving warning

 

When do I need to get my windscreen camera recalibrated?

need windscreen recalibration

If you have an ADAS system fitted, you may need to have it recalibrated from time to time – if there is a chance that your camera’s view has been slightly altered, for example. Circumstances that will require a recalibration include:

  • After a windscreen replacement
  • If the dashboard shows a fault code
  • If the camera has been disconnected
  • Change of suspension
  • Change of wheel alignment

The laws around windscreen calibration

The ADAS Code of Practice states that whenever your windscreen is replaced, the company carrying out the work must recalibrate the system. This is essential for keeping the roads safe. If you as a customer do not want your ADAS recalibrated (a practice we would highly advise against), you must sign a waiver stating that you asked for the work not to be carried out. This way, if the system wasn’t in the correct alignment and an accident occurred, the technicians who worked on your vehicle would not be held accountable.

How do I get my windscreen recalibrated?

If you’re in need of a recalibration for your ADAS system, you will need to ensure you are using a fully trained expert capable of carrying out the task correctly – this is not a service that all windscreen companies will be able to carry out, as only certain technicians with a high enough accreditation have the training available to them. Rely on the services of experts, like ourselves here at The Windscreen Company.

The Windscreen Company are proud to offer expert windscreen recalibrations. With our service, your vehicle will remain safe to use and within the parameters of the law at all times. We have a dedicated team of highly trained technicians to carry out the procedure safely and efficiently. We guarantee a quick service and excellent results. Get in touch today to find out more.

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The Windscreen Company, has over 20 years of experience in windscreen repair and replacement. Since 1998, they have been at the forefront of industry innovation, leveraging the latest technology to ensure customer safety and satisfaction.

The Windscreen Company's, help-and-advice pages offer valuable tips and guidance on maintaining vehicle safety through quality windscreen care, while also featuring updated industry realted content.

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