If you need your windshield replaced, you’ll discover you have several options: OE, OEM, and aftermarket. Which one would be the best choice for your vehicle? Here’s a breakdown of how each type of glass is classified and how they differ:
OE, OEM, or Aftermarket?
OE stands for “original equipment,” and includes the windshield your car was fitted with when it was made at the factory. Although OE windshields are produced by a separate, specialized company, they’re branded as the manufacturer’s own. So for example, an OE windshield that’s used in a BMW will have official BMW packaging and part numbers even though it’s actually made by another manufacturer. Auto manufacturers bid out contracts for auto glass yearly, so the company that made the OE glass in your make and model in 2004 may not be the same manufacturer used in the same make and model in 2007 – instead, the 2004 company many now be selling OEM auto glass.
An OEM (original equipment manufacturer) is a company that manufactures auto glass to be the same specifications (size, shape, color, thickness, and durability) as the OE glass, however, it’s not necessarily from the same distributor that supplied the glass for assembly in the factory. There may be some slight variations in OEM glass, but it’s nearly identical to OE and typically less expensive. Some OEMs will sell parts directly to consumers under their own brand name but unless these parts are supplied directly from the automaker, they can’t be classified or marketed as OE.
Aftermarket is a term that’s used widely for any alternative replacement part not fitted in the factory or produced by an OEM. These replacement parts and performance upgrades are not endorsed or branded by manufacturers, either. The quality of aftermarket parts can vary greatly; some may be lower quality while others may be comparable to an OE/OEM part. Regardless of the quality, aftermarket parts are typically less expensive than OEM parts.
OEM: A Good Balance Between Cost & Quality
The majority of windshield replacements we perform are with OEM windshields, as these provide a good balance between high-quality and cost-effectiveness. Although some claim that aftermarket glass is 100% equivalent to OEM, there are some differences. Non-OEM parts and components must be made slightly different than OE or OEM parts to avoid copyright infringement, so although they may look the same at first glance there may be slight variations in the way the windshield fits or its finish. An aftermarket windshield may not work properly with ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems), either which could impact your vehicle’s safety features. Aftermarket glass parts also aren’t typically accepted by new car manufacturers for warranty claims and in many cases, they violate the repair requirements of leasing contracts.
Ultimately, the type of glass you choose will likely come down to cost and personal preferences. Our team here at Lucky Dog Auto Glass is happy to offer recommendations to help you choose a windshield that meets your needs and budget. Contact us at 253-569-9403 for a free estimate or send us a message online.
If your windshield becomes damaged, one of the main questions you’ll likely have is whether it can be repaired or if you’ll need a complete replacement. Before you make that decision, there are a couple of important factors you should keep in mind.
What does your insurance policy cover?
The
cost of a complete windshield replacement can vary a lot depending on
your insurance policy and your type of vehicle. Most newer vehicles
have ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistant System) technology located in
the windshield, which significantly increases the cost of windshield
replacement. Before you make a decision, it’s best to know what
will be covered, what won’t, and how much you’ll have to pay out
of pocket.
Do you have damage around the edge of your windshield?
Unfortunately,
if there are cracks or chips around the edges, the whole structure of
your windshield is compromised – which is a serious safety concern.
In this case, it’s best to choose a full replacement rather than a
repair.
How is your line of sight and visibility?
If your windshield is damaged near your line of sight, it could impact your visibility, even if the glass is repaired. The most dangerous part of the windshield to have damage is at about 12 inches in front of your steering wheel, extending up to the height of your windshield wipers. If you have damage within this area, we recommend replacing it for your safety.
How long is the crack?
If
the entire damaged area can be covered with the size of a quarter, it
can typically be repaired. For cracks longer than this, you will
likely need a full replacement.
How deep is the chip?
Windshields are made from 2 layers of glass, with a layer of plastic in between. If the crack is deep enough that it reaches the inner layer of glass, it can’t be repaired. Any type of damage on the interior layer of glass will need a complete windshield replacement.
Hopefully,
this has helped you decide whether you should get your windshield
repaired or replaced but if you’re still unsure, contact us! We’re
happy to evaluate your windshield and give you a free estimate.
Schedule your estimate appointment by calling (253) 569-9403 or fill
out our online
form.
Most modern vehicles now feature ADAS in some form. ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, and they can refer to any safety systems in your vehicle that work to avoid collisions and alert the driver to potential issues. You may not even realize you have ADAS, but is your vehicle equipped with collision avoidance systems, automatic braking, integrated GPS, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, or Bluetooth for hands-free phone calls? Then you have ADAS. These systems have adapted over time to allow for a smoother, safer driving experience. From warning drivers when leaving lanes to automatic braking to prevent collisions, when used properly these features can reduce accidents.
ADAS and Your Windshield
ADAS use technology to make your driving experience easier and safer, so it’s a good thing they are becoming more widely available. It turns out there are several ADAS features that can interact with your windshield. This includes a light sensor that triggers automatic headlights, a rain sensor that triggers automatic windshield wipers, a heads up display that projects onto the windshield, a heated windshield that melts ice and snow, and night vision that allows you to see hot spots in the road.
As cars get smarter and smarter, it’s important for people fixing cars to get smarter as well! If your vehicle is getting maintenance or repairs, it’s important for you to know about the features on your car because you will need to ensure that anyone who works on your vehicle is knowledgeable and well-equipped. If a rock chips your front windshield, you want to ensure that not only is the glass repaired, but any systems that may connect to your windshield are correctly calibrated and functional. These are amazing systems that can help you drive safer, but if they are not correctly hooked up, then they can’t work. Make sure your car or truck’s ADAS systems are fully operational by trusting an auto glass shop that uses state of the art equipment and the finest materials while staying updated on the latest technologies and safety measures. Whatever kind of vehicle you have, you can trust Lucky Dog Auto Glass to safely and properly fix your auto glass.
Contact us today at 253-569-9403 to schedule your appointment.
If you need a windshield replacement, you’ll have to make an important decision: an OEM windshield, OEE windshield, or aftermarket? This can be a difficult decision, but here’s a quick run-down on the difference between them.
An OEM windshield is essentially identical to the windshield that was installed in your car when it was manufactured. They’re made by the same company that manufactured your original windshield, so it’s a perfect match for the original. The color will be the same, as will the fit, the thickness, and the shape. It will even have the same logos. Even more importantly, all the ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) features that connected to your original windshield will work perfectly.
So, why wouldn’t you choose an OEM windshield? The price of the OEM glass can be 40 – 60% higher than a comparable aftermarket windshield. Some insurance companies won’t pay for OEM glass because of the higher costs. Other insurance companies may only pay for OEM glass if the vehicle is a new model – for example, a year or two old.
Other Options
There are also OEE (Original Equipment Equivalent) windshields. These are manufactured by the same companies that make OEM windshields. They’re made to the same standards as an OEM but they don’t come with the manufacturer’s logo – or the price.
Aftermarket windshields are made by companies that have no affiliation with the auto manufacturers. Believe it or not, copyright laws affect even windshield manufacturers, so aftermarket glass companies are prohibited from creating replicas of OEM windshields. They also don’t consult with the original windshield company or automaker.
Aftermarket windshields will have the same shape and fit, but there can be many differences compared to your original windshield. The tint or UV protection may be different, or the windshield may not be as thick. The original windshield ADAS features may not work properly – or at all. While aftermarket windshields are the least expensive option, they often sacrifice the quality you would find in an OEM or OEE windshield.
The type of replacement windshield that you choose will depend on your personal preferences as well as your budget. Our team at Lucky Dog Auto Glass is happy to offer recommendations and help you choose one that works best for you. Contact us at 253-569-9403 for a free estimate or send us a message through our online form.
Contact us today at 253-569-9403 to schedule your appointment.
You were driving down the highway when a rock flew up and smacked your windshield. Oh, no! Immediately a large crack appears, and you just know that it will fan out across the glass. Cracks are dangerous because they impede your vision while driving, can spider to become bigger, and reduce the structural integrity of your windshield. You can also be liable for a fix-it ticket if you are pulled over by law enforcement. That’s why it’s important to get the glass replaced as soon as possible. If it’s a small chip or crack that can be repaired, it’s just as important to take your vehicle to a professional for auto glass repair before the damage gets too extensive and can’t be fixed.
When it’s time to hire an auto glass company, here are some things to keep in mind.
Research the company
Have you looked into the auto glass company online? Look at their website to get a feel for their business and get basic information, but also check out reviews on Google, Facebook, Angie’s List, or Yelp? These websites will give you information from real customers on how they were treated and the quality of the installation.
Verify insurance
Will the auto glass company accept your insurance? What do you need to do to make sure your windshield is covered? Be sure to verify coverage before getting your glass fixed or repaired, or you might be stuck with a bill you didn’t expect.
Take it to the repair shop
The best place to have your windshield replaced is at the repair shop. Although that’s not always possible for everyone because of logistics, professional technicians prefer to do repairs inside their shop, and you should too! Instead of worrying about rain, sun, wind, or other environmental factors, the tech can focus on your windshield. They have all the tools and comfort of working within a professional facility instead of in a parking lot somewhere.
Don’t rush it
It can be tempting to go with an auto glass repair company that says they can replace your windshield in under an hour. However, experts would caution you against a hasty replacement. The urethane that bonds the windshield to your car frame takes at an hour to dry before the vehicle is safe to drive. If you move the vehicle too soon, it can be disruptive to the stability of your windshield.
If you need auto glass repair in Kent, WA or the surrounding areas, be sure to call Lucky Dog Auto Glass for professional service!
Contact us today at 253-569-9403 to schedule your appointment.
You’ve just had your windshield replaced; now what? It might be tempting to get back to your normal routine, but there are some important considerations. Taking proper care of your windshield immediately after it’s been replaced will ensure that it stays in great condition and lasts for many years. Here are some easy tips you should follow:
Wait To Drive
When replacing a windshield, we use an adhesive that holds the glass in place and creates a durable waterproof seal. Like many types of adhesives, this needs to have adequate time to set and dry. We recommend not driving for at least an hour after your windshield has been installed.
When you get into your car, be sure to look for any shards of glass that may have been left behind. Although we do our best to get it all cleaned up, there could be some shards that were missed. The last thing we want is for you to get injured in any way.
For the next 24 to 48 hours, there are some additional precautions to take.
Keep the area around the windshield clear
While the seal dries, it’s important to keep the area around the windshield clear – inside and out. You don’t want anything to adhere to the seal or push against it. For the first day following installation, avoid placing any kind of cover over your vehicle or using a sunshade in the interior. You’ll also want to make sure the dashboard is free of any clutter.
Leave one of your windows cracked open
Air pressure can add additional stress to the seal as it dries. To prevent this, leave one of your windows rolled down at least an inch. This is best to do the first day after installation.
Don’t remove the retention tape
We often use a retention tape to hold the windshield and / or moldings in place. It’s not very attractive, but we recommend leaving the tape in place until the specifies safe drive-away time.
Avoid car washes and power washers
To allow the new moldings to set completely and protect them from damage or shifting, you should avoid using high-pressure car washes, automatic car washes, and power washers. If you’d like to wash your car within 48 hours of the windshield installation, we recommend a gentle hand wash.
Go easy on it
Finally, try not to put any type of unnecessary stress on the adhesive as it sets. Gently close your doors and avoid roads with poor conditions like potholes.
Your windshield replacement experts
By following these tips, it’s easy to maintain your windshield and protect your investment. For expert auto glass replacement, you can always rely on Lucky Dog Auto Glass. We’re committed to providing you with quality repairs, replacements, and exceptional customer service. We remain open and available to assist you during the COVID-19 outbreak and are taking every precaution to keep our clients and employees safe. If you would like a free estimate or you’d like to schedule auto glass replacement, contact us at 253-569-9403 or send us a message through our online form.
Automotive technology is constantly changing. One of the most innovative developments over the past decade has been the rise in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). ADAS is designed to make vehicles safer, with features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and blind-spot monitoring.
To work properly, ADAS relies on a series of equipment that monitors the area around the vehicle. The type of equipment varies based on the vehicle model, but the most common ones are ultrasonic sensors, cameras, and radar. Some systems use information from a single sensor, while others utilize information from several sensors, known as “sensor fusion.”
Why ADAS Calibration is Important
ADAS sensors have precise placement on vehicles and must be calibrated if they’re moved even slightly. For example, a sensor on a car that is even a millimeter off will be aimed at an area that’s significantly off axis 50 feet down the road. Sensors are often knocked out of alignment due to collisions, but depending on the type of car, they’re also often affected by things like wheel alignments, suspension repair, and windshield replacement.
Calibration is necessary to realign the sensors properly. Failing to do so can cause them to provide faulty information, which can make the ADAS system malfunction or not work at all. Here are a few problems caused by faulty sensor input:
· A warning light or message on the instrument panel
· A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) stored in your vehicle’s computer memory
· Steering wheel vibration
· Steering pull
· Increased steering effort.
These issues can be dangerous, especially if they affect the steering. The ADAS system may also be unable to provide safety alerts, such as blind-spot monitoring, which can increase the risk of accidents. Having a malfunctioning system may also cause you to lose faith in your car’s safety features. Here’s a closer look at each sensor type:
Front-Facing Camera Sensors
Many vehicles are equipped with this type of sensor. They’re commonly used for:
· Automatic emergency braking
· Adaptive cruise control
· Lane departure warnings
· Lane-keeping assist
· Automatic headlight high-beam activation and dimming
Cameras are optical devices, so they need to be able to “see” the road. Many camera sensors are mounted against the inside of the windshield as part of an assembly integrated with the rearview mirror. Other types may be directly attached to the roof or as part of a mirror housing. Some manufacturers will use dual cameras that are spaced apart to offer better depth perception.
The high definition image receptors in these sensors are similar to those found in other types of digital cameras. ADAS camera sensors are unique because they use high-powered microprocessors and advanced data processing algorithms that change the analog image into digital information that can be used by the ADAS system.
The camera sensors view the road through the windshield and require specific rates of light transmission through the glass. For this reason, the glass must have minimal distortions or imperfections; if any are present, it can impact the ability of the sensor to collect accurate information. This is why many auto manufacturers specify that their vehicles require Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) windshield replacement is necessary on models equipped with ADAS sensors. Some dealerships won’t calibrate sensors on cars with aftermarket windshields. Lucky Dog Auto Glass has these capabilities and is happy to discuss your options with you.
Around-View Camera Sensors
Some newer vehicles use simpler, low-resolution cameras equipped at the front, rear, and sides of the vehicle to provide a 360-degree overhead view around the vehicle. They’re typically located in the front bumper or grill, under the side mirrors, and in the trunk lid or liftgate. The car’s computer combines the multiple images from the cameras to create an overall view that can be displayed on the infotainment dash screen. While these camera sensors are not as complicated those in ADAS systems, they do require calibration.
Front-Facing Radar Sensors
Front-facing radar sensors are used for features like:
· Adaptive cruise control
· Forward collision warning
· Automatic emergency braking
These sensors transmit a high-frequency radio signal that reflects off objects and returns to the sensor. The sensor then uses the amount of time for the signal to return to calculate the car’s distance from another car or object. The radar sensors are usually mounted in or behind the front bumper or grille and often have some sort of cover to protect them from damage. Many radar sensors are mounted in the center of the vehicle, but they can also be offset to one side.
Radar sensors are often hidden, which can make it difficult to determine whether a vehicle has them by visual inspection alone. One way to check is to look for adaptive cruise control switches inside the car (they’re typically on the steering wheel) or to look for a warning light for an emergency braking or adaptive cruise control system that illuminates on the dash when the car starts.
Other Types of Radar Sensors
Some rear collision warning and blind-spot monitoring systems use small radar systems mounted under the side view mirror, behind the rear bumper cover, or in the taillights. Those mounted in the bumper or taillights may also provide rear cross-traffic alerts to aid backing out of parking spaces.
Most auto manufacturers don’t allow repairs on bumper covers in front of radar sensors because it can cause interference. They also recommend using only OEM bumper covers that are designed to work with the radar sensors. Automakers also advise against putting bumper stickers near the radar sensors as these can cause interference as well.
Ultrasonic Sensors
Ultrasonic sensors are generally used for parking assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and self-parking systems. They’re installed in the front and/or rear bumper covers. Ultrasonic sensors work similarly to radar sensors, but they use reflected high-frequency sound waves to detect objects around the vehicle. Unlike other sensors, ultrasonic sensors don’t need calibration, but they do need to be placed very precisely to work properly. For this reason, some automakers discourage the use of aftermarket, reconditioned, or recycled parts. These parts may not have the necessary predrilled holes that allow the sensors to work properly, or they could be warped or distorted.
Steering Angle Sensors
These sensors are typically built into the steering column and measure the degree of steering wheel rotation. They’re used for:
· Lane departure warnings
· Lane-keeping
· Adaptive headlights
· Electronic stability control
· Adaptive suspensions
Sensor Calibration
As previously mentioned, ADAS sensor calibration is needed any time a sensor’s aim is altered in any way. They can be disturbed by a fender bender or simply routine repairs or maintenance. Calibration is also needed if:
· A sensor or its mounting bracket is removed or replaced
· There’s a change in tire size
· A front airbag deploys and deflects off the windshield
· Repairs are made to a roof with a sensor bracket mounted on it
· When there is a related DTC in the car’s computer memory
· The automaker releases a technical service bulletin that specifies calibration be done as part of another repair
Sensor replacement and recalibration are common with collision repairs and windshield repairs. Automakers recommend shops perform a complete diagnostic before the repairs are done as well as once the repairs are complete. This helps shops know if the system was working properly before they begin the work and to confirm that all the issues have been resolved afterward.
ADAS calibration can be complex and time-consuming. Some sensors can be calibrated at the shop, while others may require the vehicle to be driven. Some sensors may require both methods. Calibration time can vary depending on which methods are needed. Simpler calibrations can take about 30 minutes while the more complicated ones can take an hour or more. When calibration is needed, it adds to labor and repair costs.
Items Needed for Sensor Calibration
Since sensor calibration is very precise, many repair shops and windshield installers send their clients to the dealership to have it performed. It’s a significant investment to perform sensor calibrations as it requires specialized tools:
· Service information that describes the equipment and procedures for the year, make, and model of vehicle. This is occasionally available aftermarket, but generally must be obtained from the manufacturer. Either option is an expense for the shop.
· A car computer scanner that supports ADAS sensor calibration. These are available for the factory for specific automakers or an aftermarket device. Special tools that are designed specifically for ADAS sensor alignment are also available.
· A large, level, well-lit facility without clutter or metallic objects. This gives the necessary room to make sure the sensor’s aim and positioning are correct and eliminates objects that could interfere with the sensor calibration.
· A wheel alignment rack. Many automakers either require or recommend a four-wheel alignment to be done before ADAS calibration. This ensures the vehicle’s centerline is straight while the steering wheel is centered. The ADAS sensors can then be calibrated in alignment with the center of the vehicle.
Preparing Your Vehicle for ADAS Calibrations
There are also manufacturer requirements shops must follow to prepare the vehicle for calibration. Some common ones include:
· No unnecessary or heavy items in the vehicle
· Proper tire pressure
· Front and rear vehicle ride height within specifications
· A full fuel tank
· A clean windshield (if applicable)
· Removing the protective cover from the radar sensor (if applicable)
· Performing a wheel alignment (if applicable)
Calibration Methods
There are two types of ADAS sensor calibration methods: static and dynamic. The process can vary significantly depending on the make and model of the vehicle, but here’s an overview of the general process for each method:
Static Calibration
This is also referred to as “in-shop” calibration. This begins with establishing the centerline (also called thrust line) of the vehicle. There’s a variety of measuring methods and tools specified by automakers for this process but often the tools are attached to or aligned with the front and rear wheel hubs. The next step involves positioning special targets in locations that are relative to the thrust line and sensor. The targets must be at a specific height, and many must be used with specialized adjustable mounting stands.
Camera sensor aiming targets are generally black and white patterned images that are purchased or downloaded. Some vehicles require specific lighting for proper calibration. Radar targets are similar to those of camera sensors, but they include metal elements. These will reflect radio waves back to the sensor. There are also metal cone-shaped radar targets. These are positioned with the open end of the cone facing the vehicle, which allows the radio waves to reflect to the sensor.
Some vehicles may also require the sensors to be mechanically leveled. For example, Volvo uses a bracket with a bubble level that fits over the radar sensor housing. A screw mechanism is used to adjust the sensor’s horizontal aim, which requires the vehicle to be on a perfectly level surface.
After the previous calibrations have been made, the last step is to initiate the aiming process with a scan tool. After initialization, the process is automatic. If additional adjustments are necessary, the scan tool will provide instructions. Once static calibration has been completed, many ADAS systems require a dynamic calibration. Even if it’s not required, a test drive is recommended to ensure proper calibration of the system and to check for ADAS diagnostic codes. Some systems will not display codes or error messages until the car has been driven a set distance.
Dynamic (On-Road) Calibration
Dynamic calibration is often the only method required for camera sensors, while radar sensors often require both static and on-road calibration. During dynamic calibration, the process is initiated with a factory scan tool, then the car is taken for a drive on a straight road with clear lane markings. The car is driven for 5 to 30 minutes at the required speeds until the scan tool says the calibration is finished. Some cars may also display a warning light or a message on the dash to indicate the calibration completed successfully.
Depending on the vehicle, calibration may work better with minimal traffic; other vehicles calibrate faster when more traffic is detected. Calibration often isn’t recommended during weather conditions that make the lane markings difficult to see or when it’s not safe to drive at the required speeds.
Around-View Camera Calibration
This type of calibration is required when one or more of the cameras are replaced or when a mounting part is removed or replaced. Around-view cameras typically require only static calibration, although some systems require an on-road dynamic method. With static calibration, large patterned mats are placed around the vehicle, then the factory scan tool is used to initiate calibration.
Steering Angle Sensor Calibration
This type of calibration may be needed after an airbag deploys, structural repairs are performed, or the wheels are aligned. Steering angle sensor calibration generally involves facing the wheels straight ahead, then using a scan tool to zero out the sensor’s signal.
Higher Costs, Improved Vehicle Safety
ADAS systems make vehicles safer and easier to drive, but they also make them more complex when it comes to certain repairs. Having a windshield replacement or wheel alignment on a car with an ADAS system is often significantly more expensive than a car without one. This is because of the additional labor and processes to calibrate the sensors properly, as well as the necessity for OEM parts. However, it’s well worth having the peace of mind that your vehicle’s safety features are working as they should.
Contact us today at 253-569-9403 to schedule your appointment.
The windshield of a modern car may not look a whole lot different from cars of the past, but today’s windshields contain complex technologies called ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). These driver assistance technologies include safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, and collision warnings, to name a few. These systems rely on radar, lidar, cameras, computer imaging, sensors, networking, and other devices to ensure a safe driving experience. The bad news is that these technologies add to the cost of repairs, including windshield replacement because they require calibration. However, it’s well worth the extra money to make sure that your car’s safety features are working properly.
A large percentage of drivers aren’t good drivers; with the rise of cellphones and on-board entertainment systems, distracted driving is a common occurrence. Every year, over 2 million people are injured or disabled in the United States due to traffic accidents. More than 35,000 people are killed. ADAS systems help a lot in preventing accidents. According to some industry professionals, vehicle to vehicle communication could prevent up to 600,000 accidents a year. Combined with ADAS systems, this translates to far safer vehicles and roads.
Why Does the ADAS Need to be Recalibrated?
So, why does the system need to be recalibrated at all? Many windshields have built-in sensors that connect to various features with the ADAS. If the sensors are bumped or moved by even just a millimeter, it can throw off the entire system. More advanced ADAS systems use cameras for lane departure warnings and similar features. These generally have a special area of the windshield that the lens can “see” through. The camera lens is very sensitive and precise, so care must be taken to make sure everything is lined up perfectly. Like sensors, these cameras are sensitive to being moved, so they generally need to be recalibrated as well.
The Reason Behind ADAS Costs
If you don’t have a newer car with ADAS systems now, you most likely will in the future, as these features are becoming the standard for all newer vehicles. Despite being technologically advanced, windshields still break. If you need to replace the windshield on a newer vehicle, it’s important to know that your car’s ADAS system will likely need to be recalibrated. The cost can vary depending on the systems within your model’s windshield. It can be as simple as resetting the car’s computer system by plugging into the computer and driving the vehicle known as a dynamic calibration to as complicated as setting up lasers, taking measurements, and making manual adjustments known as a static calibration. Some vehicles like most Honda’s require both to be done.
ADAS calibrations after windshield replacement require specialized tools and training. The additional costs to windshield replacement can vary depending on the type of recalibration that’s needed, but it can generally range between $149 – $599. While you might not be too happy about the additional cost, proper calibration of your ADAS could mean the difference between avoiding a collision or a catastrophic accident.
If you need your windshield replaced but aren’t sure if you’ll need an ADAS recalibration, give us a call at 253-569-9403. We can tell you whether your windshield is equipped with ADAS features and give you a quote for the replacement and calibration.
What’s Involved in ADAS Recalibration?
Automotive technology is always changing, and windshields are no exception. Today’s windshields may look like a large piece of glass, but they contain quite a bit of sophisticated technology. In cars that are equipped with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), windshields have numerous built-in sensors and cameras that connect to safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings, and blind-spot monitoring.
What does this mean for you? If you need a windshield replacement and you have a newer vehicle, you’ll likely need to have your ADAS system recalibrated to keep it functioning correctly. If these sensors or cameras get moved or bumped by even a millimeter, it can throw off the entire system. You may not even realize there’s a problem with the systems until you get into an accident. Although it costs more when replacing your windshield, it’s very important to have the system recalibrated to keep all your safety features working the way they should.
How is ADAS Recalibrated?
When a windshield is replaced, all the equipment that’s part of the ADAS like sensors and cameras are removed and reattached. During the calibration process, the sensors and cameras are adjusted and tested to make sure they’re still working properly. Although this may sound simple, the process requires specialized tools, equipment, and training. A custom tool manufactured by Autel is connected to the vehicle, which begins the camera aiming process to optimize the camera’s alignment and restores the manufacturer’s specifications.
How long does ADAS Calibration Take?
Calibration of the system generally takes about 1-2 hours and can be completed at the same time as your windshield replacement. Some vehicles will require dynamic calibration, static calibration, or both which involves driving the vehicle to calibrate the system. The windshield also needs to set for 60 minutes before calibration can be started. If you need to have ADAS calibration, it can take several hours for the entire process.
We have ADAS recalibration training and all the necessary equipment to bring your system back to factory specifications. If you’re not sure whether your vehicle is equipped with ADAS features that would need to be recalibrated with your windshield replacement, give us a call at 253-569-9403. We can look into your model and give you a cost and time estimate.
Contact us today at 253-569-9403 to schedule your appointment.
New cars come with an assortment of handy safety features, but this innovative technology means newer cars are also more complicated – and costly – to fix. Your windshield may look like it’s a just large piece of glass, but it actually includes quite a bit of technology.
What is ADAS?
Most manufacturers now include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features in their windshields. ADAS refer to any type of automated assistance to the driver. This can be anything from electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes to blind-spot monitoring, lane change assist, and collision warnings. ADAS is available in varying degrees, depending on your specific make and model; at its most advanced, it’s the driving force behind autonomous vehicles. The ADAS technologies that are commonly mounted in windshields include autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane-departure warning, collision avoidance, and adaptive cruise control.
Why is ADAS Recalibration Important in Windshield Replacement?
Unsurprisingly, ADAS systems make windshield replacement more difficult. The sensors and the equipment they’re paired with need to be calibrated for them to work properly. Replacing a windshield means that the cameras and sensors within the glass must be replaced, and the equipment they’re attached to must be calibrated to work properly. If a sensor gets moved just a millimeter, it can throw off the accuracy of the ADAS system. Unfortunately, if the system isn’t working correctly, the driver may not be aware until an accident occurs. Most manufacturers require ADAS recalibration for the following circumstances:
Replacement of the vehicle’s ECM (Engine Control Module), PCM (Powertrain Control Module), or ECU (Engine Control Unit)
There are two types of ADAS recalibration: static and dynamic. Static calibration involves setting up a vehicle-specific target board at a precise distance from the vehicle and finding the center of the vehicle. The camera is recalibrated using a scan tool that’s connected to the vehicle’s computer, and the target board aligns the vehicle. Dynamic recalibration involves hooking the scan tool to the vehicle and taking it for a road test. The road test aligns the vehicle while the scan tool recalibrates the camera.
Safer Vehicles, More Costly Repairs
ADAS features increase safety for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians, but the technology does increase repair costs. A typical windshield replacement on an older vehicle would have been about $300; with ADAS recalibration, it could be as much as $1500, depending on the vehicle’s features. If you have a newer vehicle, it’s recommended to familiarize yourself with the type of features it has. This is important not only for cost considerations, but it may also help you determine whether your system is working correctly.
If you don’t already have a newer vehicle, chances are you will in the future. As of 2020, all U.S. manufactured vehicles are mandated to include autonomous emergency braking systems and forward-collision warning systems. So even if your vehicles don’t currently have these systems, U.S. makes that are 2020 and newer will include them.
At Lucky Dog Auto Glass, we care about your safety and the safety of our community. If your vehicle needs a windshield replacement, we have the equipment and expertise to properly calibrate your ADAS system. Not sure if your car is equipped with ADAS technology? We’re happy to let you know and offer a free quote on the cost of your windshield replacement. Give us a call at 253-569-9403 or send us a message through our online form.
Contact us today at 253-569-9403 to schedule your appointment.
When you’re looking for a windshield or other auto glass replacement and repair, there are many options. There are national competitors, independent shops, and even pop up tents in the mall parking lot. You also have the option between hiring mobile auto glass repair businesses or bringing your vehicle to a specialized auto glass shop with a physical storefront.
Mobile windshield installation was developed for convenience. After all, it’s nice to drive to work with a cracked windshield and leave for lunch with a brand new one installed. All while your vehicle stays in one spot. However, it is not a safe process. Unfortunately, mobile installation does not offer the same resources, equipment, or time for the installation to be completed properly.
Did you know that often, national installers receive their bonuses based on speed? Not quality. This is so the company makes more money, because they get more jobs done in one day. This is very risky, as glass installation is a complex process. At Lucky Dog, we take the time to ensure you have glass installed properly, and safely, the first time. Our number one priority as a business is making sure our customers are safe and happy.
Get True High Quality Windshield Replacement
Hiring a national company, you may notice that only one technician came out to install your glass. This is likely due to the shortage of qualified window replacement technicians in the market. However, a true quality windshield replacement will require at least two experienced auto glass technicians to complete. One person cannot adequately ensure the glass is aligned with the vehicle before installing it. Also, with mobile installation, who is there to check the installation for quality? At Lucky Dog, we follow specific steps and protocol to make sure your glass was installed and there will be no leaks or issues in the future.
Another benefit to using an independent shop versus a mobile company, is that if there ever is an issue with your auto glass installation, you have a store to take the vehicle back to, to address to problem. Whereas if you have a problem with a mobile company, its much more challenging to get ahold of the company who needs to repair the problem. We’ve heard many times that calls are not returned in this circumstance, and don’t want that to happen to you. To learn more about mobile windshield installation, check out this blog.
For a five-star auto glass experience you can count on, visit the experts at Lucky Dog Auto Glass. Give us a call today at (253)-569-9403. We look forward to providing all your auto glass needs.
ADAS use technology to make your driving experience easier and safer, so it’s a good thing they are becoming more widely available. It turns out there are several ADAS features that can interact with 
Unsurprisingly, ADAS systems make windshield replacement more difficult. The sensors and the equipment they’re paired with need to be calibrated for them to work properly. Replacing a windshield means that the cameras and sensors within the glass must be replaced, and the equipment they’re attached to must be calibrated to work properly. If a sensor gets moved just a millimeter, it can throw off the accuracy of the ADAS system. Unfortunately, if the system isn’t working correctly, the driver may not be aware until an accident occurs. Most manufacturers require ADAS recalibration for the following circumstances:
