When Does Your Car Need ADAS Sensor Calibration? An Essential Safety Guide

Modern vehicles are no longer just transportation; they are computers on wheels. If your car is equipped with features like Lane Keep Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking, or Adaptive Cruise Control, then you rely on ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems).

These systems use cameras, radars, and laser sensors to "see" the road and keep you safe. However, just like human eyes, these electronic eyes can lose focus.

Here are the 5 critical situations when calibrating your ADAS sensors is mandatory.

1. After a Windshield Replacement

This is the most common reason. In most modern vehicles, the front-facing camera—which controls lane departure warnings and emergency braking—is mounted directly to the windshield. When the glass is replaced, the camera is removed and reattached. Even a shift of one millimeter can cause the camera to point incorrectly, miscalculating distances on the road.

2. After a Collision or "Fender Bender"

You don’t need a major accident to throw off your sensors. A bump on the bumper or a minor impact in a parking lot can shift the radar sensors hidden behind the plastic fascia. If your vehicle has taken a hit, no matter how small, the calibration should be checked.

3. If a Warning Light Appears on the Dashboard

Your car is smart. If the system detects a fault or strange readings from the cameras or radars, it will trigger a warning light (often labeled LKAS, FCW, or an icon of a car with waves). Never ignore these lights; they indicate that your safety systems are currently offline or malfunctioning.

4. After Suspension Work or Wheel Alignment

ADAS sensors are programmed based on your car’s specific height and angle relative to the ground. If you modify the suspension (lifting or lowering the vehicle) or get a wheel alignment, the vehicle's geometry changes. The cameras need to be recalibrated to "learn" the car's new position.

5. Disconnection of Cameras or Side Mirrors

If a mechanic has to disconnect the front camera for a repair, or if you replace a side mirror (which often houses 360° cameras or blind-spot sensors), the system requires recalibration to sync correctly with the car's computer again.

Why is skipping this dangerous?

A poorly calibrated sensor is often more dangerous than having no sensor at all. If the camera believes the car in front of you is further away than it actually is, automatic braking could engage too late. Your safety, and the safety of your passengers, depends on the precision of these systems.

At HV Auto Glass Denver, we don’t just replace your windshield; we ensure you get back on the road with your safety systems functioning at 100%.

Do you need a replacement or have questions about your sensors? Contact us today!