ADAS Calibration Services: Key Insights and Expert Answers

As vehicles continue to evolve with increasingly complex safety systems, the importance of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) calibration has grown significantly. These technologies, from lane-keeping assist to adaptive cruise control, play a crucial role in vehicle safety. However, as these systems become more prevalent, the demand for precise calibration services has increased. Hear from Josh Fuller, CEO of Fuller Collision Group and ADAS Diagnostic Solutions, and Mike Ambrosino, Operators Manager, ADAS Diagnostic Solutions, as they answer common questions and provide expert insights into ADAS calibration services.

1. Why did you decide to start an ADAS Calibration Service business?

The decision to launch an ADAS calibration service stemmed from our recognition of the growing need for safe and accurate repairs in the wake of increasing ADAS technology in modern vehicles.

Early on in our Collision Center, we found ourselves sending vehicles to dealerships for calibration, only to discover that many dealerships were either not completing the calibration process correctly or were failing to document it properly. Additionally, scheduling issues were common, and changes needed to be made to regain control of our repair cycle time.

We also knew that as repair professionals, we had to ensure vehicles were calibrated properly to guarantee both the safety and reliability of our work. This led us to invest in the necessary equipment and training to provide proper ADAS calibration, standing behind our repairs and offering top-notch service to our customers.

2. What makes ADAS Diagnostic Solutions different from other calibration businesses in the area?

Our business stands out for several reasons. Unlike many competitors, we are a company exclusively dedicated to ADAS calibration, separate from collision centers. We work with over 75 body shops, used car lots, dealerships, and mechanics, requiring a substantial investment in both OEM (original equipment manufacturer) and aftermarket calibration equipment.

What truly sets us apart is our ability to offer both a dedicated brick-and-mortar facility, as well as mobile units. These three mobile units, equipped with the latest calibration tools and software, allow us to perform calibrations onsite at customer locations.

This flexibility ensures quick turnaround times and documented, corrective repairs, often completed the same day, with timestamped photos and detailed reports for full transparency. This level of documentation stems from our many years of experience working with insurance companies in the collision center, understanding their processes, and anticipating what will be needed for insurance reimbursement.

3. What Percentage of Repaired Cars Require ADAS Calibrations?

The need for ADAS calibration varies depending on the type of repair, the vehicle model, and the specific ADAS features involved. On average, around 60% of vehicles that undergo collision repair require ADAS calibration.

This number is particularly higher for newer models equipped with systems like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, or automatic emergency braking.

Even minor repairs, such as windshield replacements or suspension work, can misalign sensors like cameras and radars, which are integral to ADAS systems. This makes calibration crucial to ensure the proper functioning of safety features. As vehicles become more advanced, the need for calibration will only continue to increase, highlighting the importance of specialized calibration services.

4. In Your Opinion, Should Collision Shops Be Doing Calibrations In-House?

In-house calibration can be a viable option for collision shops that have the necessary space, equipment, and expertise. However, ADAS calibration is a highly specialized task that requires significant investment in both training and equipment.

Many collision shops may struggle with calibrations if they lack the proper tools or knowledge, leading to failed calibrations, wasted resources, and potential safety issues.

Moreover, negotiating calibration reimbursements with insurance companies can be challenging, as many adjusters are still learning about this evolving technology. For these reasons, many collision shops find it more efficient to partner with a dedicated calibration facility, allowing them to focus on precise collision repairs while leaving the complex calibration work to experts.

5. Can Shops Still Benefit by Subcontracting Calibrations to You?

Absolutely! Subcontracting ADAS calibrations to a specialized center can be an effective decision for auto body shops.

By doing so, shops can minimize the risk and liability associated with incorrect calibrations and focus on their core competency—collision repairs.

Failed calibrations can waste valuable time and money, but by working with a dedicated calibration service, shops can ensure that repairs are completed quickly and accurately, which ultimately enhances profitability and efficiency.

6. Why Is Diagnostic Work in ADAS Calibration So Tricky and Complicated?

ADAS calibration diagnostics are inherently complex due to the many variables involved in the process. As vehicles evolve, so do their ADAS systems, each requiring unique diagnostic approaches.

Newer vehicles often have intricate wiring diagrams, different vehicle networks, and specific system requirements. Additionally, no two vehicles are alike in their construction or repair needs.

Another challenge is that collision repair processes can vary widely. While some repair shops follow OEM procedures meticulously, others may take shortcuts that can affect calibration outcomes.

As a result, troubleshooting issues becomes a delicate process that requires expertise across several fields—collision repair, mechanical diagnostics, electrical systems, and ADAS calibration. Given the high level of specialization required, ADAS diagnostics remain a particularly tricky aspect of the repair industry.

Conclusion

ADAS calibration services are becoming more integral to the automotive repair industry as vehicles continue to adopt advanced safety systems.

Whether you’re a body shop considering offering in-house calibration services or a customer seeking expert repair, understanding the complexities and importance of calibration is key to ensuring safety and accuracy.

Dedicated calibration centers, like ours, are positioned to help bridge the gap, offering the expertise, equipment, and flexibility necessary to meet the demands of today’s high-tech vehicles.

Stay safe and trust your repairs to the professionals who understand the critical role ADAS systems play in your vehicle's safety and performance.