What is ADAS calibration and why does your car need it?

What is ADAS Calibration? 

ADAS calibration is the process of adjusting and fine-tuning the sensors, cameras and other components that constitute the various driver assistance systems in a vehicle. These systems encompass a multitude of features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring and more. The sensors and cameras used in these systems collect data from the vehicle's surroundings, providing real-time information that enables the vehicle to react to potential hazards, assist with steering and even execute emergency manoeuvres. ADAS calibration is a comprehensive process that ensures the precision and accuracy of these systems. The calibration procedure involves verifying the alignment, positioning and functionality of sensors and cameras to guarantee they are operating within the manufacturer's specified parameters. This calibration process is typically carried out during routine maintenance, after any repair work involving these components or whenever a relevant system's performance seems compromised. 

Why is ADAS Calibration important? 

The modern driving experience has been transformed by the capabilities of ADAS. These systems, reliant on intricate technological components, are designed to function with utmost accuracy. Here are some key reasons why ADAS calibration is a critical requirement for today's vehicles: 

Safety Assurance 

ADAS technologies are designed to enhance driver safety and prevent accidents. Calibration ensures that these systems are accurately detecting road conditions, vehicles, pedestrians and obstacles, providing drivers with timely warnings and assistance when needed. Properly calibrated ADAS systems can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, injuries and fatalities. 

Interconnected Systems 

Modern vehicles are equipped with an array of interconnected systems. Proper ADAS calibration ensures that these systems work seamlessly together, as many ADAS features rely on data from multiple sensors and cameras. Accurate calibration ensures that information from different sources is correctly interpreted, leading to coordinated actions such as automatic braking, lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control. 

Compliance with Manufacturer Standards 

Vehicle manufacturers provide specific guidelines for the calibration of ADAS components. Following these guidelines is essential to maintain the vehicle's warranty and uphold its safety features. Failure to adhere to these standards could compromise the vehicle's overall performance and safety capabilities. 

Accurate Data Interpretation 

Sensors and cameras can be affected by a variety of factors, including minor impacts, wheel alignments and environmental conditions. These factors can lead to misalignment or inaccurate data interpretation. Regular calibration ensures that the sensors and cameras provide accurate information, allowing ADAS systems to make informed decisions based on real-time data. 

Optimised Performance

ADAS features are designed to improve driving comfort and convenience. Proper calibration guarantees that these systems operate optimally, enhancing the overall driving experience. For example, adaptive cruise control maintains safe following distances and reduces driver fatigue during long journeys. 

Preventing False Alarms 

Misaligned or improperly calibrated ADAS components can trigger false alarms and warnings. These false alerts can lead to driver confusion and potentially decrease trust in the system. Calibration minimises the occurrence of such false alarms, enhancing driver confidence in the vehicle's safety systems. 

Future-Proofing 

As ADAS technology continues to evolve, vehicles are becoming more reliant on accurate sensor data. Calibration not only ensures the current functionality of these systems but also prepares the vehicle for future updates and improvements in ADAS technology. 

The Impact of Wheel Alignment and Tyres on ADAS 

Wheel alignment and tyres are pivotal factors that can influence ADAS calibration. Proper wheel alignment ensures that a vehicle's wheels are set at precise angles to optimise tyre performance, vehicle stability, and steering response. Misaligned wheels can directly impact the accuracy of ADAS sensors, leading to erroneous data interpretation and consequently, suboptimal system performance. ADAS systems that rely on precise vehicle positioning, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, can be significantly affected by misaligned wheels. Additionally, tyre condition plays a crucial role in ADAS calibration. The quality, tread depth, speed rating and inflation of tyres directly impact the vehicle's traction, handling and overall road contact. Adequate tyre maintenance ensures that sensors and cameras receive consistent and accurate data about the road surface, contributing to the optimal operation of ADAS systems. 

How to identify speed rating of a tyre 

Answering the question 'the speed rating I need' is simple. Look for the combination of letters on the sidewall, following the tyre size information. The speed rating is represented by a letter (e.g., "H" for 130 mph or "V" for 149 mph). Refer to the manufacturer's speed rating chart to understand the maximum speed the tyre can handle safely. Choose a speed rating that suits your driving habits and the capabilities of your vehicle for a safe and optimised driving experience. Never go below the manufacturer's recommended speed rating.  

Conclusion 

As the automotive industry continues to embrace the digital age, ADAS technologies are becoming increasingly prevalent in modern vehicles. These systems have the potential to save lives, prevent accidents and revolutionise the driving experience. ADAS calibration ensures these technologies function as intended, providing drivers with the highest level of safety and accuracy on the road. At Protyre, we offer ADAS calibration to ensure your vehicle stays safe on the roads. Call us or book through our website for an ADAS calibration appointment. 

Tyres at Protyre 

At Protyre, we also offer many other vehicle services, including MOTs, tyre fitting and general servicing. Protyre offers fantastic tyre deals on a variety of reputable brands, including Pirelli, Falken and Sumitomo, and our pricing includes tyre fitting by our qualified fitters. Please contact us today via our website to find your nearest Protyre garage. 

Choosing the Right Tyre Made Easy

When it comes to your car's safety and performance, tyres can play a huge role. That's why we've put together a collection of helpful articles to guide you through the process of selecting the perfect tyres for your ride and maintaining your vehicle in general.

If you're looking for a smoother, more luxurious driving experience, premium car tyres might be the way to go. Or, if you want added security against flats, run flat car tyres could be your best bet. Trying to decide between summer car tyres and winter car tyres? We've got you covered there, too.

We also dive into the world of tyre brands, comparing top manufacturers like BF Goodrich tyres, Bridgestone tyres, Continental tyres, Dunlop tyres, Falken tyres, General tyres, Goodyear tyres, GT Radial tyres , Hankook tyres, Michelin tyres, Pirelli tyres, Runway tyres, Sumitomo tyres, and Toyo tyres.

But we don't just stop at helping you choose the right tyres – we also share tips on how to keep them in tip-top shape. From checking your tread depth and keeping your tyres properly inflated to extending their life through regular rotation and balancing, our articles have got you covered.

So, whether you're a car enthusiast or just looking to keep your vehicle safe and reliable, our car help and advice articles are here to help you make informed decisions about your tyres. Check them out and feel confident in your tyre choices!