Can I Replace My Windshield Without Calibration?

The replacement of a windshield was once a simple task. However, with the development of modern vehicle technology, it is now more complicated. Modern cars come with advanced driver-assistance features such as lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control. These features are dependent on sensors and cameras mounted around or on the windshield. These systems need calibration when the windshield is changed. Can you replace your windscreen without calibration? What you should know

Why Calibration is Important

The modern vehicles have Advanced Driver Assistance Systems  which uses sensors and cameras placed near or on their windshield. These systems monitor the road, providing safety features such as automatic braking, blindspot detection, and lane-keeping assist. The alignment of the sensors and cameras may need to be adjusted when the windshield is changed. They may not give accurate readings if they are not calibrated, which could lead to safety hazards.

If, for example, the front-facing cameras that control lane departure warning are slightly misaligned following a windshield replacement it could not detect lane markings correctly. This could lead to false alarms, or worse, not alerting you when needed.

What Happens during Calibration?

The calibration ensures the ADAS cameras and sensors are aligned and positioned correctly with the vehicle systems. There are two types of calibration.

• Static Calibration: This is performed in a workshop with fixed targets and tools, while the vehicle is stationary.
• Dynamic Calibration: The vehicle must be driven over a specified distance or time while connected to the diagnostic tool. This allows the system to adapt in real-time to road conditions.

Both are designed to restore ADAS to its factory settings and ensure that the safety features function as intended.

Can You skip Calibration?

It may be tempting not to do the calibration in order to save money or time, but this is not recommended. Without calibration, ADAS may not function properly. This can compromise safety and cause legal and insurance issues. Most insurance companies require calibration following a replacement of a windshield to continue coverage.

Final Thoughts

If your car is equipped with ADAS and you replace your windshield without calibrating it, this can cause critical safety systems to malfunction. If you want to ensure that your car’s safety systems are working as they should and keep yourself and other road users safe, choose a service for windshield replacement that includes calibration.

You can drive with confidence knowing that the safety features of your vehicle are fully functional by choosing a professional calibration service.

This post was written by a professional at At Home Auto Glass. At Home Auto Glass is your prime destination for comprehensive auto glass services serving: Sarasota, Tampa, Orlando, Fort Myers, Tallahassee, Ocala, Gainesville, and Jacksonville, catering to a diverse array of vehicles and needs. Specializing in windshield repair and replacement, we ensure clarity and safety for every drive. Our expertise doesn’t end there; we also offer back glass replacement, side window replacement, and cater to specific needs for RV glass, commercial vehicles, luxury vehicles, and classic cars, ensuring that every vehicle type is serviced with precision and care. Click here to learn more!