What comes to mind when you hear the word 'calibrate'? Like most people, you probably imagine that it means resetting and programming some electronic device or computer. So what on earth could 'windshield calibration' possibly refer to?
Well, to say that you’re going to calibrate a windscreen is slightly misleading and confusing. Rather than program the glass itself (which you obviously can’t, because it’s glass!), what the term is referring to is ADAS calibration, or calibrating the car’s Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems.
In this article, we're going to address the most frequently asked questions regarding windshield calibration. First, we'll explore what that process entails, why it matters, and what kind of situations make it necessary for you to get your windshield recalibrated.
Let’s get started.
What Is Windshield Calibration?
Calibrating a windscreen means performing an ADAS calibration and ensuring that all of its sensors are in good working order.
You see, many newer car models in Australia and everywhere else come with much more than just glass and tinting film on their windscreens. These days, they come with all sorts of sensors attached to them, which continually collect various forms of data.
But what are windshield sensors collecting data for?
Well, the windscreen sensors collect and provide data to the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems onboard. Different makes and models will have their own set of ADAS features. However, the most common examples which you would have undoubtedly heard of already are lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
These ADAS features are potentially lifesaving, but they can only do their job correctly if they have the correct data provided to them by the sensors on a windshield.
So the bottom line is: ADAS calibration ensures that each sensor on the windshield collects data as it should, all for the proper functioning of the vehicle’s ADAS features. In simpler terms, this means ensuring that the car’s systems can see the road clearly.
Two Types of ADAS Calibration
ADAS calibration can generally be divided into two types: static and dynamic calibration.
Static ADAS calibration requires the expertise of qualified technicians. To get it done, you’d need to drive your vehicle to their location so that they can use specialised equipment to recalibrate the sensors.
Typically, that’ll happen in an enclosed space where the technicians would use the specialised equipment to ensure that all of your vehicle’s ADAS features are working correctly.
Dynamic calibration, on the other hand, is the DIY option performed by the driver. You'd still need to use a specialised device connected to your car's systems, though all you'll have to do is drive a certain distance at a specific speed to allow the ADAS sensors to calibrate themselves.
Why Is Windscreen Calibration Important?
Saying that windscreen calibration is essential is an understatement because it’s that and more! Calibrating the windscreen is critical for the safe functioning of your vehicle and assisting the driver.
That high level of importance comes from the fact that ADAS systems are primarily put in the vehicle to reduce the risk of physical injury and property damage. Many cars these days have ADAS features that include lane departure warning, collision warning, and even blind-spot monitoring.
Safety is undoubtedly the top priority when it comes to ADAS calibration. However, the secondary reason for doing so is that ADAS features also provide plenty of additional conveniences. Windshield calibration is also essential for other features like automatic cruise control and park assist, the kind of features that make driver’s lives a lot easier.
None of those features would function correctly if the windscreen sensors were not calibrated perfectly. That’s the reason why the initial ADAS calibration should be done correctly and why it’s necessary to recalibrate everything under certain conditions.
When Do I Need Windshield Calibration?
When you first drive your brand new car off the showroom, you can rest assured that your windshield has already been calibrated. As time goes by, however, you’ll need to recalibrate your windshield.
Some of these situations will prompt windscreen calibration.
Fault or Error Code
The first and most obvious indicator that you’ll need an ADAS calibration is when a fault or error code appears corresponding to those features. If that’s the case, you’ll want to contact your car manufacturer or dealer to figure out the following steps (i.e. when and where to do the calibration).
ADAS Camera or Sensors Were Disconnected
It's only natural that the camera or sensors on your windscreen might get disconnected for whatever reason. When that happens, though, it's not enough to merely reconnect the cables and assume that everything works fine.
Try not to take it lightly, and bring the car in for a windshield calibration to ensure that everything works as it should.
Windshield Replacement
Suppose your windshield gets damaged during an accident. If your vehicle requires a windshield replacement, you’ll undoubtedly need to get it recalibrated as well. In some cases, you might be able to do both of those tasks at the same workshop, assuming they have the necessary equipment and skilled workforce, of course.
Change in Suspension System and Wheel Alignment
Here’s one that many people overlook. You’ll also need to get your windshield recalibrated if you’ve made any changes to your suspension system or wheel alignment.
Remember: The ADAS sensors are calibrated to see the road ahead perfectly. So any changes to the suspension or wheel alignment could interfere with that.
Don’t take any chances, i.e. delaying or forgetting to recalibrate your windshield after any of those repairs!
Does Insurance Cover Windscreen Calibration?
Yes, windshield calibration is typically covered by car insurance providers. However, that is dependent upon the auto insurance policy that you might have. For instance, it’s normal for calibration to be covered in a comprehensive type of insurance policy (the type that covers everything you can imagine).
However, if you’ve opted for an insurance policy that cuts out many frills, then ADAS calibration might not be covered by the policy.
The best way to be sure? Check your insurance policy, or contact your insurance provider so they can explain it to you.
Learning Is Empowering!
To learn more about windshield calibration and other issues related to your car windscreen, check out the blog over at carpart.com.au. There, you’ll discover frequent updates about every part of your car, teaching you how to become a well-informed car owner in Australia and beyond!
By Ray Hasbollah