With the complexity of modern ADAS systems and the pace of a busy collision shop, certain calibrations get missed more often than others. Some are overlooked because they're less visible. Others because the triggering repair doesn't obviously connect to the system. Here are the five ADAS systems most commonly missed -and what to watch for on every repair order.
1. Forward-Facing Camera After Windshield Replacement
Windshield replacement is one of the most common repairs performed in conjunction with collision work, and it's also the most common trigger for forward-facing camera calibration that gets missed. Glass replacement often gets subcontracted to a glass company that may not perform the calibration -and the collision shop assumes it's been handled. Always confirm in writing that ADAS calibration was performed by whoever replaced the glass, or perform it yourself.
2. Rear Radar After Bumper Repairs
Rear bumper repairs are bread and butter for collision shops, but rear radar sensors -which power blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert -are mounted in and around the rear bumper. Any repair that requires removing or replacing the rear bumper cover requires rear radar calibration. This step is frequently missed because the sensors themselves often aren't visibly damaged.
3. Surround View Cameras After Any Body Panel Work
Vehicles equipped with surround view camera systems use cameras mounted in the front grille, door mirrors, and rear emblem area. Any work involving these mounting locations -including mirror replacement and front fascia repair -may require surround view camera calibration. These are easy to miss because the cameras are small and often hidden.
4. Steering Angle Sensor After Wheel Alignment
The steering angle sensor calibration is required after any wheel alignment, suspension repair, or steering component replacement on vehicles with lane keeping assist, stability control, or active steering systems. It's one of the most frequently missed calibrations because it's associated with alignment work rather than body repair -and alignment shops may not be performing it.
5. Parking Sensors After Front or Rear Fascia Replacement
Ultrasonic parking sensors are embedded in front and rear fascia panels. Any time a fascia is replaced, the sensors must be recalibrated to ensure accurate detection. These are often overlooked because they're considered a convenience feature rather than a safety system -but they are an OEM-required calibration on any vehicle that has them.