The Importance of ADAS calibration

Should you be contemplating whether your vehicle necessitates calibration post windshield repair, Nuvision is readily available to assist. The simple answer is yes, your vehicle might indeed need calibration after having its windshield replaced. This is particularly the case for cars outfitted with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Windshield calibration is a procedure that fine-tunes the parameters of a vehicle’s ADAS to ensure proper functionality. Features such as automatic braking, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control heavily depend on sensors positioned on the windshield.   Upon replacing your windshield, these sensors could potentially be slightly moved or disturbed, thereby affecting their functioning. Consequently, it’s of utmost importance to calibrate your vehicle’s ADAS after a windshield replacement. It’s not just about assuring the system’s functionality, but it also pertains to securing your safety and that of others on the road.   What is ADAS calibration? ADAS are intricate systems developed to warn drivers of potential dangers and in certain cases, make corrective action. For instance, should a vehicle veer off its lane, the lane departure warning system will notify the driver. If the car in front suddenly halts, the automatic braking system will engage. However, these systems require accurately aligned sensors to work efficiently. Even the slightest misalignment could jeopardize the system’s hazard detection capabilities. Therefore, recalibration is crucial following windshield replacement.   While windshield replacement is a routine repair, calibrating the ADAS is a specialized procedure. Not every auto repair shop possesses the required expertise or tools to carry out the calibration. Thus, it’s crucial to select a shop that is competent and experienced in ADAS calibration. Some vehicle manufacturers mandate a static calibration process, performed in a controlled setting and possibly taking several hours. Others might utilize a dynamic process where the vehicle is driven at a set speed on well-marked roads to recalibrate the systems.   Typеs of calibrations Typically, there are two types of calibrations: static and dynamic.   Static calibration involves positioning a specific target image in front of the vehicle and using it to recalibrate the sensors. This method requires specialized settings and equipment, as any errors could result in incorrect calibration. It’s usually conducted indoors to prevent weather conditions from influencing the procedure. The vehicle must remain stationary, and the process could take several hours.   Dynamic calibration, on the contrary, entails driving the vehicle at a specific speed on a clearly marked road. The sensors are recalibrated by assessing real-world driving conditions. This requires a specialist to drive the vehicle and supervise the systems, and the process generally takes less time than a static calibration.   The type of calibration your vehicle needs is dictated by the manufacturer’s guidelines. Some vehicles might even necessitate a combination of both methods. It’s important to refer to your vehicle’s manual or consult a professional to comprehend the recommended calibration procedure for your specific model.   Remember, ADAS calibration isn’t a one-time process. Regular assessments and calibrations are required to ensure these systems continue to operate correctly, especially following significant events like a windshield replacement.   Importancе of Calibration While it may appear to be an extra hassle and expense, neglecting to calibrate the ADAS post windshield replacement could result in serious repercussions. For instance, situations could arise where the automatic emergency braking system fails to initiate promptly, or the lane departure warning malfunctions, both of which could lead to accidents. Additionally, some insurance providers may not cover incidents if they discover that the ADAS wasn’t calibrated after a windshield replacement.   Furthermore, with the continuous evolution of vehicle technology, ADAS are becoming more prevalent. Numerous new vehicles come standard with these systems, and older models are frequently updated with them. As a result, windshield replacement procedures are likely to increasingly include ADAS calibration in the future. Therefore, it is paramount for every vehicle owner to understand the importance of calibration.   Takеaway In summary, the necessity for calibration after windshield replacement goes beyond a mere technical requirement—it’s a crucial safety measure. Ensuring the proper operation of your vehicle’s ADAS is as vital as any other maintenance or repair task. While it may require some additional time and resources, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle’s safety systems are functioning as they should far outweigh the cost. Remember, it’s always prudent to seek advice from a professional auto repair shop or your vehicle’s manufacturer if you have any queries or concerns regarding windshield replacement and ADAS calibration. Safe driving is a collective responsibility, and we all have a role to play in maintaining the safety of our roads for everyone.

Undergoing windshield replacement necessitates mindful post-care procedures. At Auto Glass America, while we ensure that our professional auto glass technicians meticulously replace your damaged windshield, it’s important for you to understand the actions to avoid post-replacement. Here’s a compilation of ten critical points you need to remember.   Post-Windshield Replacement: Ten Key Things to Avoid Once your windshield is replaced, it’s important to steer clear of certain actions to maintain the newly installed windshield’s integrity and longevity. Following these guidelines can help you ensure a long-lasting, firmly sealed windshield.   Avoid Immediate Driving: The adhesive used in windshield replacement needs time to dry for a robust seal. It’s important to adhere to the ‘safe drive away time’ specified by your technician, which can vary from an hour to several hours depending on the adhesive used.   Steer Clear of Car Washes: Refrain from car washes, particularly automated ones, for at least two days post-replacement. High-pressure water can compromise the new windshield seal and molding.   Maintain Car Interior Cleanliness: Dust and dirt accumulated on the dashboard can interfere with the adhesive seal. Hence, it’s crucial to maintain the cleanliness of your car’s interior, especially the dashboard.   Retention Tape Must Stay: The retention tape, though not aesthetically pleasing, aids in keeping the windshield steady during the initial hours after installation. It’s advisable to leave it on for at least a day unless instructed otherwise.   Don’t Slam Doors: Avoid slamming your car doors for the initial few days after installation. The force exerted can pressure the windshield and disrupt the new seal.   Don’t Remove Windshield Wipers: Unless necessary, avoid removing the wipers for the initial two days. This could potentially damage the newly installed windshield.   Avoid Gravel Roads: If possible, abstain from driving on gravel roads or similar areas where debris could strike your windshield. Impacts from rocks or other hard objects could damage the new glass.   Refrain from Using the Rear Defrost: For the first couple of days post-replacement, avoid using the rear defrost. A sudden temperature change could interfere with the adhesive’s curing process.   Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes: For the first few days after windshield replacement, avoid exposure to direct sunlight and refrain from using your car’s air conditioning or heater at extreme temperatures. This could affect the curing process of the windshield adhesive.   Say No to Ammonia-based Glass Cleaners: Ammonia can harm your windshield glass’s tint and the surrounding parts. Hence, it’s advisable to use ammonia-free cleaners for your new windshield. Following these guidelines, you can ensure the successful replacement of your windshield, leading to clear, unimpeded road views for miles to come.   Why are Precautions Important After Windshield Replacement? Adhering to post-replacement precautions optimizes your new windshield’s ability to form a safe, durable, and secure seal with your vehicle, ensuring on-road safety. Several reasons underline the importance of these precautions:   Ensuring Proper Adhesive Curing: The adhesive, vital for securing the windshield, needs time to cure and achieve full strength. Activities like immediate driving post-installation or slamming car doors can interrupt this process, potentially leading to leaks or a loose windshield.   Protecting the New Seal: Certain activities like car washes or premature removal of the retention tape can compromise the new seal before it’s fully set. This can cause gaps, leading to wind noise, water leakage, or a loose windshield.   Preventing Damage: The newly installed windshield is susceptible to damage from sudden temperature changes, pressure, or debris impact, particularly in the first few day’s post-replacement.   Preserving Warranty: Many replacement companies offer a warranty on their work. Not adhering to the post-care instructions can, however, void this warranty. Equipped with this knowledge, you’re well-prepared to ensure your new windshield’s longevity. For any service-related inquiries, feel free to contact Auto Glass America.

ANSI/AGRSS 002-2002 is often called as AGRSS. It stands for the Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standards. Developed by the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standards Council, this standard provides guidelines to ensure that automotive glass replacements are done safely and efficiently. Here’s all the standard operating procedure laid down in terms of safety and regulations:   Scope and Purpose of ANSI/AGRSS 002-2014 The scope of Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard aka ANSI/AGRSS 002-2002 is to develop and publish nationally recognized automotive glass replacement safety standards addressing procedures, education, and product performance.   Here are purpose rules laid down in ANSI/AGRSS 002-2002   To improve the performance and practices of industry technicians and raise their level of professionalism. To guide the industry in auto glass replacement procedures that meets the pertinent Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard requirements. To provide guidelines and objectives for groups that supply products, education, and training for the industry. To promote public awareness of the need for safe installation procedures, which will reduce the risk of personal injury and/or death from traffic accidents. To provide a comprehensive auto glass replacement standard. To achieve a higher degree of consistency among installation practices. To create an automotive glass installation benchmark for anyone engaged in the replacement of automotive glass.   Adhesive Bonding The guideline states that those engaged in auto glass replacement shall follow the adhesive manufacturer’s application instructions as provided by the manufacturer directly, or through the private labeler. Products must be stored and controlled according to manufacturers’ requirements as provided directly or through a private labeler. No automotive glass replacement shall be undertaken using an adhesive glass retention bonding system that would not achieve minimum drive-away strength by the time the vehicle may be reasonably expected to be operated.   Adhesive must be applied so that the finished bead cross section profile and dimensions meet or exceed original equipment configuration.   If the OEM installation was polyurethane, then the glass must be replaced with polyurethane or an equivalent adhesive bonding system. If the OEM installation was butyl, polysulfide, or other non-polyurethane, and the vehicle is licensed for highway use, adhesive bonded stationary glass installations shall be performed using polyurethane or an equivalent retention system unless in conflict with current OEM specifications.   Vehicle Preparation The standard guideline says that those engaged in automotive glass replacement shall not undertake or complete such installation when any related condition would compromise the retention system and the owner/operator shall be so notified.   Selection of Materials The guidelines states that those engaged in automotive glass replacement shall use retention systems that are produced under documented quality assurance standards. Those engaged in automotive glass replacement shall use glass products meeting the requirements of ANSI Z26.l as required by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 205. Those engaged in auto glass replacement must use either an OEM approved retention system or equivalent retention system as certified in writing by the equivalent retention system manufacturer directly or through a private labeler.   Those engaged in automotive glass replacement shall obtain and follow written comprehensive and current application instructions from the retention systems manufacturer or private labeler. These instructions shall include at least the proper use of the retention system storage specifications, minimum drive-away time charts containing temperature and humidity variables if applicable, and any special procedures required for adverse weather conditions. Those engaged in automotive glass replacement shall require that lot numbers and expiration dates be printed on appropriate products.   Post-installation Instructions The guideline has specifically instructed that the vehicle owner and operator shall be advised of the minimum drive-away time under the circumstances of the replacement. Once the replacement process is complete, technicians are responsible for guiding vehicle owners on post-installation precautions. This includes advising on the necessary duration to refrain from driving, ensuring the adhesive sets properly. Moreover, owners should be briefed on the care measures, like abstaining from cleaning or exerting pressure on the freshly installed glass. It’s equally important to educate them on potential warning signs like unexpected leaks or noises, which could signify issues with the installation.   Inspection and Verification Upon completion of the glass replacement, a thorough inspection is necessary to confirm compliance with AGRSS safety standards. Establishments or technicians aligned with AGRSS might be subject to routine evaluations to validate their conformity to these standards. Maintaining detailed records of every installation, encompassing the materials utilized, technician information, and specific vehicle data, is pivotal for addressing any subsequent installation concerns.   Proper Training Technicians installing replacement automotive glass shall be fully qualified for the tasks they are required to perform. Such qualifications shall include, at a minimum, completion of a comprehensive training program with a final exam and a continuing education component.   Takeaway Automotive Glass Replacement ​Safety Standards ​are pivotal in ​ensuring the ​safety and well-being ​of vehicle ​occupants. These standards, ​meticulously crafted ​and regularly updated, ​guarantee that ​replacement glass meets ​the highest ​quality, strength, and ​clarity specifications, ​matching or even ​surpassing the ​performance of the ​original glass. ​Adhering to these ​standards not ​only upholds the ​structural integrity ​of the vehicle ​but also ​ensures that drivers ​maintain clear ​visibility under diverse ​conditions.