Can I Replace My Windshield Without ADAS Calibration?

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are found in most modern vehicles. They’re included in some basic models because they enhance vehicle safety and provide a more streamlined and relaxed driving experience. Some ADAS features you may have heard of include automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot detection. 

Many ADAS systems rely on cameras, sensors, and other devices that are embedded into the windshield or mounted near it. Knowing this you may be wondering if you can replace your windshield without performing ADAS calibration. Given that windshields play a crucial role in housing some of the technology, you might want to reconsider that. 

What is ADAS Calibration?

ADAS calibration is the process of ensuring the cameras, sensors, and other components that compromise your safety systems are properly aligned and functioning. This process is especially important after you have a windshield replacement. Because the technology is embedded into the windshield, or place close to it, even the smallest misalignment can affect their performance. 

Calibration will be either dynamic or static.

• Dynamic calibration requires the vehicle to be driven while the system performs adjustments. 

• Static calibration uses specialized equipment to adjust the sensors and cameras while the vehicle is stationary in a controlled environment, like the auto glass repair shop. 

Can I Replace My Windshield Without ADAS Calibration?

You can replace your windshield without ADAS calibration, but that doesn't mean you should. Replacing a windshield without ADAS calibration comes with significant risks. The sensors and cameras that make ADAS features work are highly sensitive to alignment. Without calibration you could be facing some serious issues. 

1. Compromised Safety Features

ADAS features were implemented to take the human error factor out of the mix. You see, nearly 94% of all road collisions are caused by simple mistakes made by humans. This statistic inspired the creation of features like lane-keeping assist, forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. 

These systems will be severely compromised if your sensors aren’t properly calibrated after you replace your windshield. This puts you, your passengers, and everyone on the road at risk. Why have safety features if you aren’t going to take the steps to make sure they are functioning properly?

2. Legal and Manufacturer Requirements

Most manufacturers require ADAS calibration to be performed after you replace the windshield to maintain the integrity of the vehicle’s safety systems. Failing to calibrate your ADAS features might void your vehicle’s warranty. Many insurance policies also require ADAS calibration as part of the windshield replacement process so skipping it could result in a denied claim. 

In some cases, driving a vehicle without properly calibrated safety systems could be considered negligent. If it is discovered that you refused an ADAS calibration that led to a collision, you could be held responsible. 

3. Decreased Vehicle Performance

While ADAS systems were first implemented for safety reasons they also improve the overall driving experience. One example is adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts the speed of your vehicle based on traffic conditions. This feature offers a smoother ride if your sensors are aligned. 

If your sensors are not aligned, this could lead to a less efficient driving experience. You may even notice your vehicle’s lane-keeping assist or blind-spot detection features become overly sensitive or fail to function. These are just a few ways skipping the calibration can cause issues. 

4. Risk Unnecessary Costs

We’ve already discussed that skipping the ADAS calibration can cause your features to malfunction. Due to this, you may face more expensive repairs down the road. Let’s say your lane-keeping assist causes unintended steering adjustments due to miscalibrated sensors, your vehicle could end up with uneven tire wear or alignment issues, which will cost more in the long run. 

Does Your Vehicle Need a Windshield Replacement and ADAS Calibration in the Edmond, OK Area?

If you live in or around the Edmond, Arcadia, Oklahoma City or Piedmont areas contact us at Optic-Kleer. Our technicians are highly skilled in all personal or commercial vehicles. We’ve also been conducting ADAS calibrations for years and you can feel confident that Optic-Kleer windshield replacements are top quality and all of our customers leave our shop with properly functioning ADAS technology.