What is ADAS and how does it affect my vehicle's repair?

Repairing vehicles equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) after a collision is a complex process. Beyond addressing visible damage, these repairs require precise sensor and camera calibration to ensure proper functionality. This specialized work contributes to higher repair costs, the need for specialized labor, and longer repair times. But to ensure safety, ADAS features must be addressed and repaired correctly to bring the vehicle back to pre-accident condition. Lets dive a little deeper:

What is ADAS?

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are technologies that enhance vehicle safety by assisting drivers. These systems use sensors, cameras, and radar to monitor the vehicle's surroundings. ADAS provides alerts or takes control of certain functions to prevent accidents. Common ADAS features include:

●  Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB):  Automatically applies brakes to avoid or mitigate collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, or other obstacles.

●  Forward Collision Warning (FCW):  Alerts the driver of a potential collision with a vehicle ahead.

●  Lane Departure Warning (LDW):  Warns the driver when the vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of its lane.

●  Lane Keeping Assist (LKA):  Provides steering input to help the vehicle stay within its lane.

●  Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM):  Detects vehicles in the driver's blind spots and alerts them.

●  Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA):  Warns the driver of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space.

●  Pedestrian Detection:  Identifies pedestrians near the vehicle and can trigger warnings or automatic braking.

●  Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC):  Adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.

●  Traffic Sign Recognition:  Identifies traffic signs and displays the information on the dashboard.

●  Driver Monitoring:  Detects signs of driver drowsiness or distraction and provides alerts.

How ADAS Affects Repair:

1. Increased Repair Costs: 

●  ADAS components like sensors and cameras are often more expensive than standard vehicle parts.

●  Calibration of these components after a collision or repair requires specialized equipment and expertise, adding to the cost.

●  An independent study found that the average repair bill for a vehicle with ADAS involved in a minor collision was nearly double that of a similar vehicle without ADAS.

2. Specialized Labor:

●  Technicians working on ADAS systems require specialized training and certification to ensure proper diagnostics, repairs, and calibrations.

●  This can lead to higher labor costs and potentially longer repair times.

3. Extended Repair Times:

●  ADAS systems involve complex testing and verification processes after repairs, which can extend the overall repair time and potentially increase rental car expenses for customers.

●  For example, recalibrating a blind spot monitoring sensor after quarter panel work can be a time-consuming process

4. Calibration Requirements:

●  ADAS components, particularly cameras and sensors, must be precisely calibrated after any repair that affects their alignment or position.

●  This calibration ensures the systems function correctly and accurately detect hazards.

●  Improper calibration can lead to system malfunctions, reduced safety, and even increased liability risks.

5. Importance of Specialized Repair Shops:

●  Due to the complexity of ADAS, it is crucial to choose a repair shop with trained technicians and specialized equipment for handling these systems.

●  Shops with I-CAR Gold certification, particularly in ADAS, will have specific training and expertise in ADAS repair procedures.

●  OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) often have proprietary diagnostic tools and information, making it essential for independent shops to have access to the right resources.

In conclusion, ADAS has revolutionized vehicle repair, demanding specialized expertise, equipment, and labor for proper functionality and safety. While repairing ADAS-equipped vehicles can be more intricate and expensive than conventional vehicles, the safety and accident prevention advantages these systems offer are undeniable. At Adesa Auto Body, we hold I-CAR Gold Class certification and partner with highly skilled sublet technicians to guarantee that every ADAS feature impacted by a collision is fully operational, tested, and calibrated. For any inquiries regarding ADAS or its influence on your vehicle repairs post-collision, please contact us at 208-395-3135 or visit our website at  https://adesaautobody.com/ . Drive safe, friends!