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Advance driver-assistance systems, or ADAS, are everywhere today. They have also evolved considerably from what they once were. This offers significant benefits to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians, making the road safer for everyone. However, they definitely bring additional complexity to the table. 
 
Even a relatively basic ADAS requires adjustments and calibration over time, and particularly after the repair or replacement of specific components (such as the windshield). This can prove problematic for shops that have failed to invest in training for their mechanics, that have not invested in the right tools, or that lack the space necessary for calibration and programming. 
 
 

What Needs to Be Calibrated and Why?

 
 
Today’s advance driver-assistance systems are comprised of several key components, including cameras, sensors, and actuators. Many of these components are located in areas where they can be impacted during accidents, or where replacement of a component will require the mechanic to recalibrate them.  
 
 

Cameras 

Cameras can be found throughout the modern automobile. They’re mounted behind the windshield, in the rear bumper and in many other locations. However, front-facing cameras, or FFCs, are likely the most common. Many vehicles have one or even several FFCs that tie into the adaptive cruise control system, lane departure system, collision detection/avoidance system, and other safety systems.  
 
 

Sensors 

A number of sensors can be found around the vehicle, including on the front bumper. These are responsible for everything from airbag deployment to tire pressure monitoring. All of them also tie into the car’s central computer system.
 
  

Why Would Calibration Be Necessary? 

ADAS components need to be calibrated in specific instances. For instance, suppose the vehicle were involved in a collision and the windshield needed to be replaced afterward. In the past, glass replacement was a simple process. However, that has changed today. While the windshield itself does not need to be calibrated, the vehicle’s front-facing camera mounted on the windshield does need to be calibrated. This applies to any other cameras affected by the collision.  
 
Moreover, the need for adjustment does not necessarily hinge on a part being replaced. In fact, a case could be made for all cameras being recalibrated after a collision for the sake of safety and to ensure operation. A camera or sensor could easily be knocked askew by the force of the collision, even if the mounting location was not damaged. 
 
 

How Do You Know If Calibration Is Necessary? 

Because there is no standard technology underlying ADAS design and development, you may need to watch for a number of signs that indicate a system calibration is necessary. One of the most obvious situations is windshield replacement – all windshield-mounted FFCs will need to be recalibrated in this instance. However, you may also note that the vehicle’s MIL illuminates with there is a malfunction. You may also notice stored DTCs in the computer (MIL on or off). 
 

How Is Calibration Done? 

Recalibrating ADAS cameras and sensors is not as simple as making sure the components are correctly installed. It goes much deeper than this. You’ll need to use the right ADAS scan tool, as well as a series of targets. There are two calibration types – static and dynamic. 
 
In a static test, you’ll connect the scan tool to the vehicle, and park it in front of a series of targets. With the engine running, the scan tool will aim cameras at specific targets, calibrating it via software. 
 
In a dynamic test, you’ll need two people, plus the scan tool. It requires driving the vehicle on the road, with the tool connected. The tool will target objects along the drive and calibrate the system. 
 

Tools to Know 

As with many other automotive repairs today, calibrating ADAS cameras and sensors requires the right tool. You’ll need a scan tool capable of connecting to the OBDII connector and accessing the ADAS for that vehicle. This means that the tool you choose must be able to access OEM codes. Like standard DTCs, ADAS DTCs are usually OEM specific.  
 
 Autel MaxiSYS ADAS 
 
One tool designed specifically for this purpose is the Autel MaxiSYS ADAS, which is designed to allow comprehensive ADAS calibration. This tool promises a “complete ADAS solution”, and can help mechanics calibrate sensors tied to night vision systems, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning systems, front and rear collision warning systems, blind spot detection systems, around view monitor systems, and more. Note that this is a full suite that includes not just the scan tool, but the targets necessary, as well. 

TEXA 
 
TEXA also offers a calibration system. Like the MaxiSYS, this is a full suite that includes targets for front, sides and rear sensors and cameras, as well as a kit that allows it to be used with larger trucks if necessary. Note that the TEXA system can also be used with newer radar systems equipped on some higher-end vehicles.  
 
  Bosch 1000 
 
For those interested in another option, Bosch offers a suite of calibration tools, as well – the Bosch 1000. It includes the scan tool, as well as targets for the front, side and rear sensors and cameras. Notably, this suite can be integrated with Bosch alignment racks, allowing shops to make better use of their space. There are also basic and advanced versions on the market designed to suit the needs of different repair facilities – body shops versus glass replacement shops, for instance.  
 
 

Choosing the Right ADAS 

There are several other similar tools and suites on the market. They range from simple scan tools to full sets of targets. When choosing one for your shop, make sure that it is brand-agnostic. Even branded shops tied to dealerships will benefit from this, as it allows you to service a wider range of vehicle makes and models, build customer loyalty, and improve profitability.  
 
When it is all said and done, ADAS are here to stay. They are also becoming increasingly robust and complicated. This makes it imperative that automotive shops, glass replacement shops, body shops, and even automotive paint specialists have the tools necessary for ADAS component calibration.  
 
Source:  https://www.bosch-presse.de/pressportal/de/en/bosch-das-1000-calibration-set-professional-adjustment-of-sensors-and-cameras-of-driver-assistance-systems-151808.html 
https://www.texa.com/products/radar-camera-calibration-kit 
https://support.autel.com/support/solutions/folders/8000083944 
http://www.eti-home.org/Blog/2017/08/08/adas-truths-and-consequences/ 
https://www.aaa.com/autorepair/articles/adas-sensor-calibration-increases-repair-costs 
https://rts.i-car.com/collision-repair-news/typical-calibration-requirements-of-forward-facing-cameras.html 
https://rts.i-car.com/collision-repair-news/calibration-after-windshield-replacement.html