ADAS Windscreen Calibration: What London Drivers Need to Know

Modern vehicles are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) becoming the norm for all new vehicles and many older vehicles in the UK. If you're a London driver with a vehicle equipped with safety features like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, or adaptive cruise control, understanding ADAS windscreen calibration could be crucial for your safety and your wallet.

What is ADAS Windscreen Calibration?

Windscreen calibration (ADAS), is the process of adjusting sensors and parameters of a camera lens to capture a complete image of the vehicle and road. These sophisticated systems rely on cameras mounted behind your windscreen, typically near the rear-view mirror, to monitor road conditions and activate safety features when needed.

The ADAS system in your car is incredibly sensitive and requires the precision of a millimetre to be effective. If it moves out of its designated position, even by just an inch or two, you're opening up yourself and whatever's inside the vehicle to all sorts of dangers.

When Do You Need ADAS Calibration?

Windscreen Replacement is the Most Common Trigger

The ADAS Code of Practice states that whenever your windscreen is replaced, the company carrying out the work must recalibrate the system. This is essential for keeping the roads safe. Even the slightest movement during windscreen replacement can affect the camera's positioning.

Other Situations Requiring Calibration:

• Minor accidents or collisions affecting the windscreen area

• Wheel alignment adjustments

• Suspension repairs

• Body work around the windscreen

• Dashboard warning lights related to safety systems

UK Legal Requirements and Standards

Since 2023, the UK windscreen industry has operated under new standards. Motorists should be aware of new windscreen repair standards in the UK that took effect in 2023 (BS AU 242b:2022). These updated regulations specifically address ADAS technology integration and calibration requirements.

No repair of any type will be conducted in an area of the windscreen that supports, or supported, an aspect of ADAS technology. Any damage to the camera area will require a replacement. This means that certain types of windscreen damage that could previously be repaired now require full replacement to maintain ADAS functionality.

Types of ADAS Calibration

There are two main methods of calibration, and your vehicle may require one or both:

Static Calibration

Static ADAS calibration is a process that takes place in specialized workshops. It requires the use of an expensive calibrating tool and usually needs to be performed for each car manufacturer because every company has its own requirements. This involves positioning special targets around your stationary vehicle to recalibrate the cameras.

Dynamic Calibration

Dynamic ADAS calibration is a complex process that takes place by plugging in the device and driving over different roads. The vehicle must be driven at specific speeds over set distances in optimal weather conditions to allow the system to relearn the road environment.

The Cost of ADAS Calibration in 2025

Understanding the financial implications is important for London drivers. At Elite Garages, the cost of ADAS calibration varies depending on the complexity of your vehicle's system, but on average, you can expect to pay from £190 plus VAT.

The price varies based on several factors:

• Vehicle make and model: Luxury vehicles typically have more complex systems

• Type of calibration required: Static, dynamic, or both

• System complexity: Camera-only systems versus combined radar/LiDAR setups

• Additional services: Many providers include wheel alignment checks

Including the Expert fitting of your new windscreen the entire process takes around 2 hours after which you can rest assured that all the safety features on your vehicle will work perfectly.

Safety Implications of Poor Calibration

The consequences of skipping ADAS calibration extend far beyond warning lights on your dashboard. A misaligned camera could jeopardise the functionality of the system and lead to dangerous driving or accidents, so it is crucial that the cameras are aligned perfectly.

Systems That Require Proper Calibration:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)

• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

• Adaptive Cruise Control

• Forward Collision Warning

• Intelligent Speed Assistance

• Traffic Sign Recognition

Insurance and Warranty Considerations

What's more, if your ADAS system fails to meet manufacturer standards, your insurance or warranty may be impacted too. London drivers should be particularly aware that insurance companies are increasingly scrutinising ADAS-related claims.

If you as a customer do not want your ADAS recalibrated (a practice we would highly advise against), you must sign a waiver stating that you asked for the work not to be carried out.

Expert Opinion

Manish Patel from My Car Glass explains: "In my 30 years serving London drivers, I've witnessed the evolution from basic windscreens to sophisticated ADAS-integrated systems. What many drivers don't realise is that ADAS calibration isn't optional—it's essential for safety. We've seen cases where vehicles appeared to function normally after windscreen replacement, but the safety systems were compromised due to poor calibration. At My Car Glass, we treat every ADAS calibration with the precision it demands because we understand that millimetres matter when it comes to saving lives on London's busy roads."

Choosing the Right Service Provider

Not all windscreen companies can perform ADAS calibration. This is not a service that all windscreen companies will be able to carry out, as only certain technicians with a high enough accreditation have the training available to them.

What to Look For:

• Technicians trained to BS AU 242b:2022 standards

• Investment in proper calibration equipment

• Experience with your vehicle make and model

• Clear documentation and certification of work completed

Looking Ahead: The Future of ADAS

With predictions that 40% of all vehicles will have ADAS fitted as standard by 2020 and with the majority of manufacturers stating calibration work is best carried out in workshop conditions, the importance of proper calibration will only increase. Many manufacturers are already introducing more sophisticated Level 2 and Level 3 autonomous features that require even more precise calibration.

Conclusion

For London drivers, ADAS windscreen calibration represents a critical safety investment rather than an optional extra. With new UK standards emphasising the importance of proper calibration and insurance implications for non-compliance, ensuring your vehicle's safety systems function correctly should be a priority.

When your windscreen needs replacement, don't just focus on the glass—ensure your chosen provider offers comprehensive ADAS calibration services. The few extra pounds spent on proper calibration could make the difference between a near-miss and a serious accident on London's challenging roads.

Remember: Your vehicle's safety systems are only as good as their calibration. Choose a provider who understands that precision matters when it comes to protecting you and your passengers.

For professional ADAS calibration services in London, contact My Car Glass at mycarglass.co.uk. Our certified technicians ensure your vehicle's safety systems meet manufacturer specifications and current UK standards.