Why Windshield Camera Recalibration is Crucial After Replacement

We all know driving with a broken or chipped windshield is not ideal, and it typically impacts a driver’s visibility. However, your car’s windshield also affects the performance of its safety systems.

Modern vehicles are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems that control features such as lane-keep assist, collision warning and adaptive cruise control, all of which rely on cameras mounted on the windshield. After replacement, windshield camera recalibration becomes essential to ensure these systems function accurately.

Without proper ADAS calibration, even a slight misalignment can lead to incorrect readings or delayed responses, putting your safety at risk. That’s why expert recalibration at a trusted service centre is crucial after every windshield replacement.

What is Windshield Recalibration: Simple Explanation of Aligning Sensors

Windshield recalibration is the process of realigning the cameras and sensors attached to your car’s windshield after it has been replaced or damaged. These sensors are part of your vehicle’s ADAS calibration system, which helps features like lane departure warning and emergency braking work correctly.

If the sensors are even slightly misaligned, it can affect how these car safety systems respond on the road.

Why It’s Needed After Replacement: New Glass Alters Camera Positioning

• Camera Alignment Changes: Every windshield is fitted differently. Even a minor shift from its original alignment can affect the accuracy of the ADAS camera, resulting in incorrect road readings.
• Sensor Sensitivity: ADAS sensors are highly sensitive and calibrated for a specific windshield’s angle and position. A new windshield means the sensors must be reset to match the new alignment.
• Safety System Accuracy: Features like lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control depend on accurate data. Without recalibration, these car safety systems may trigger false warnings or fail to activate in time.
• Manufacturer Recommendation: Most car manufacturers clearly recommend recalibration after windshield replacement to maintain warranty and ensure safe performance.
• Road Safety Assurance: Recalibration restores your car’s safety features to factory standards, ensuring you stay protected while driving. Skipping this step can compromise your safety and others on the road.

Consequences of Skipping It

• Faulty Lane Assist: Your car’s lane-keeping system may misread road markings, causing the vehicle to drift without warning or give false alerts.
• Delayed Collision Warnings: Misaligned sensors can delay alerts for obstacles or vehicles ahead, reducing your reaction time and increasing your risk of accidents.
• Malfunctioning Cruise Control: Adaptive cruise control may misjudge distance from other vehicles, either braking too suddenly or failing to slow down in time.
• Safety System Failure: Key car safety systems, such as automatic braking or pedestrian detection, may stop working altogether, putting everyone at risk.
• Voided Warranty: Many manufacturers require recalibration after replacement and skipping it could void warranty coverage for your vehicle’s ADAS features.

Professional Recalibration Process

At AIS Windshield Experts, our team of professionals perform windshield camera recalibration using advanced tools to ensure accuracy. The process includes:

• Static Calibration: Done in a controlled workshop using specialised targets and equipment to align the ADAS camera and sensors precisely.
• Dynamic Calibration: The vehicle is driven on specific routes while diagnostic tools monitor and fine-tune sensor readings to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

In today’s tech-driven cars, windshield camera recalibration isn’t optional; it’s essential for your safety.

Proper ADAS calibration ensures that features like lane assist, collision warning, and adaptive cruise control work as intended. After every windshield replacement, recalibration keeps your car's safety systems precise and reliable.

For expert calibration and genuine windshield replacement, trust AIS Windshield Experts - we have got you covered. Our trained technicians use advanced equipment to restore your car’s safety standards.