One of the most common mistakes collision shops make with ADAS calibration is treating it as a last step -something to deal with when the vehicle is ready for delivery. This approach creates delays, misses calibrations, and puts your shop in a reactive position. The shops with the best ADAS calibration records -and the best cycle times -are the ones that identify and schedule calibrations at the beginning of the repair process, not the end.
Start at Estimating
ADAS calibration identification should begin at the estimate. When writing the initial repair order, a review of OEM repair procedures for the specific vehicle and damage should identify all required calibrations. These should be included in the estimate as line items -not added as surprises at the end. This sets customer expectations, gives the insurance carrier notice, and allows calibration to be scheduled in advance rather than scrambled at delivery time.
Pre-Repair Scan as Standard Practice
A pre-repair diagnostic scan on every vehicle -not just those with obvious electrical damage -identifies existing ADAS faults and establishes a baseline for post-repair comparison. This scan is your documentation that any post-repair ADAS issues were pre-existing -not caused by your repair. It's also a tool for identifying ADAS systems that may not be obvious from the damage alone.
Schedule Calibration Early in the Process
Once calibrations are identified, schedule them with your mobile calibration partner before the vehicle reaches final stages. Most calibrations can be performed on a vehicle that's structurally complete but before final detail and wash. Scheduling early eliminates last-minute delays and ensures the calibration report is in hand before delivery -not chased down after the customer is already waiting.
Post-Repair Scan to Close the Loop
A post-repair scan after all calibrations are complete confirms no remaining faults and documents that the vehicle left your shop with all systems operating correctly. Combined with the calibration reports from each procedure performed, the pre and post-repair scans create a complete, defensible record of the vehicle's electronic health at every stage of the repair. This is the documentation standard that protects your shop.