After replacing the windshield, calibrations are mandatory by the OEM and essential to ensure the cameras and sensors are working correctly. Most if not all late model vehicles are going to need a calibration after a windshield has been replaced or if a crack happens in the right spot - a growing opportunity for business servicing ADAS calibrations ready to keep you current with the industry trajectory.
Glass Repair Business & ADAS Calibrations
It's time to offer ADAS calibration service with confidence. Here is why you want to stay ahead in the evolving glass repair industry.
ADAS Glass Repair Shop
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Glass repairs are an integral part of safety & ADAS
ADAS (or Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) is an increasingly common feature, with more modern vehicles being equipped with ADAS than ever before – and most especially in the windshield. ADAS calibration is usually required whenever glass repair or replacement occurs. By including ADAS services, glass repair shops can capture this profitable work while the vehicles are there in the shop.
Understanding ADAS
What is ADAS?
Advanced Driver Awareness Systems (ADAS) employs radar, sensors and cameras to assess a vehicle's speed, tendencies and environment. This information is used to reduce the driver's recognition time, processing time, decision time and response time.
What are ADAS Calibrations?
ADAS calibration is the critically precise placement, alignment and testing of electronic sensors. ADAS calibration aims to ensure these components have correct data input to respond accurately and effectively to the car’s surroundings. Miscalibrated ADAS components can have a serious impact on vehicle safety.
Why service ADAS Calibrations?
Discover the top reasons why glass repair shops should be performing in-house ADAS calibrations
Enhance Vehicle Safety
New Revenue Opportunity
Maintaining OEM compliance
Stay Ahead of Competition
How to get started doing ADAS calibrations
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Step 1: Learn about the market opportunity
More than 60 million vehicles have ADAS components, and that number continues to rise. The massive increase in ADAS systems means there is a growing need for ADAS resets and calibrations.
ADAS calibrations can be required by OEMs after common services like windshield repair, this calibration helps ensure that ADAS systems like automatic braking and lane-keeping assist work correctly afterwards. This process requries precise settings to match the manufacturer's specifications.
Many shops are currently outsourcing ADAS work or customers are relying on other sources to provide resets. Glass repair shops are uniquely positioned to quickly get into the ADAS reset and calibration space and offer a rapidly growing service that is here to stay.
ADAS reset and calibration market by the numbers:
1.5 million vehicles required ADAS service in an aftermarket shop in 2023.
60% of vehicles registered in the USA have ADAS components that need calibration if touched, moved or replaced.
$283 million in calibration work outsourced by shops in 2023.
90% of ADAS calibrations are outsourced by mechanical shops.
$5.8 billion in projected revenue generated across the glass repair industry from ADAS calibrations in 2030.
ADAS calibrations are a great service to offer with windshield and many forward-facing calibrations that can be done within the space that already may be available in your shop. Many OEMs have models that ADAS sensors on or near the windshield and/or rearview mirror that need calibrations after replacement.
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Step 2: Understand how much space is needed, or more often, not needed
Space requirements depend on the make and the model being serviced and is determined by the OEM.
However, many calibrations that glass repair shops perform can be done without additional space needed.
Dynamic calibrations are performed by plugging a scan tool like Hunter's ADASLink® into the vehicle and then driving the vehicle on the road to calibrate the system. No additional space is required.
Static calibrations are performed by placing targets on a fixture in front of the vehicle for the systems to use as reference when performing the calibration. The space needed is determined by the OEM, but many forward-facing camera and forward-facing radar calibrations can be performed within your existing shop space using tools like Hunter’s DAS 3000 fixture paired with ADASLink®. If you want to become THE ADAS calibration shop in your area Ultimate ADAS® can account for surface mount lifts and uneven floors, using laser gimbals and easy on-screen instructions to guide technicians to precise target placement all around the vehicle.
Having a trusted partner you can call for support goes a long way with making your space work. Reach out to your local Hunter team to learn more: www.hunter.com/contact. -
Step 3: Grow your business with the right tools for your shop
There are many approaches to getting started with ADAS calibrations, but the easiest place to start is to invest in a scan tool, such as the Hunter ADASLink® that is both portable and allows you to perform dynamic calibrations along with performing pre- and post-scans and full diagnostics. Hunter ADASLink® is also able to provide coverage for secure gateway vehicles with supplemental coverage to other tools in your shop.
From there, when you are ready to expand into forward-facing static calibrations that are mandated by varioius OEMs, you can build on your alignment business by adding a fixture like the DAS 3000 Static Calibration Fixture.
If you want to fully own ADAS work at your shop and expand to become the location that other shops bring their ADAS calibrations to, Hunter Ultimate ADAS® will allow you to do alignments and ADAS with ease and quickly.
Contact your local Hunter team to start growing your business.
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Step 4: Get expert training and support for your technicians
Even before you purchase ADAS calibration equipment, you and your technicians can get up to speed on ADAS calibrations by utilizing resources like Hunter University, which offers free, easily digestible online courses that can lay the groundwork for better understanding of ADAS concepts.
When you're ready to purchase ADAS calibration equipment, your local Hunter team can help you find the right equipment for your shop. This includes installation, maintenance, and on-site equipment training. For more in-depth, hands-on experience, you can visit one of our 50+ training centers across the United States and Canada for guidance from one of our dedicated field trainers.
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Step 5: Establish what you will charge for ADAS calibrations
New revenue can be substantial with ADAS calibrations, but it can be challenging to know what to charge for the service. When referencing insurance pay and OEM book times, there is a range of charges depending on the system being calibrated. According to CCC Crash Course 2020, averages for ADAS calibration services range from $100 to $450+ per individual system calibration.
Using a mid-range charge, if you calibrate 5 cars per week x 51 working weeks in a year x ~ $232 (price of ADAS calibration) x 70% profit margin per ADAS calibration = $41,412 of Unrealized Annual Gross Profit
(Note: Varies from $100 to $450+ per; CCC Crash Course 2020 Average)
See below for our breakdown of calibration profits per ADAS systems and visit our ROI calculators to see how our equipment can increase your shop's profitability.
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Step 6: Communicate ADAS needs with your customers
Educating and talking to your customers about ADAS should be easy. Especially if you have something you can use at your fingertips.
Hunter Engineering already has the resources available to communicate the basics. There are many tools available to you right now.
Video education — available for display in your shop waiting areas:
ADAS requires wheel alignment to work properly: What vehicle owners should know
Interactive touch tool — installed on a localized tablet or touchscreen:
ADAS Learning Tool | Hunter Engineering Company ®
What is ADAS? web page — displayed on your interactive device:
Hunter® Industry Insights | What is ADAS?
Counter mat — a printed reminder right at your counter top or point of sale:
Maintaining the Safety Systems in your car - download
Printed take-away brochure template — to customize and print with your logo:
What is ADAS? Counter Sales Brochure
More — there's always more!
Contact your local Hunter representative.
Calibration Profit Opportunities
Explore what your shop can charge for ADAS calibrations.
(All prices are based on estimates and are subject to shop discretion)
Front Cameras
Labor Hours: 3.3 + Labor Cost: $110
= ~ $363
Windshield Camera Sensors
Labor Hours: 3.3 + Labor Cost: $110
= ~ $363
Rear Cameras
Labor Hours: 3.3 + Labor Cost: $110
= ~ $363
Front Radar Sensors
Labor House: 1.6 + Labor Cost: $110
= ~ $176
Rear Radar Sensors
Labor Hours: 1.6 + Labor Cost: $110
= ~ $176
Side Mirror Sensors
Labor Hours: 3.3 + Labor Cost: $110
= ~ $363
Curious about what your annual net profit will be?
Think about how many ADAS calibrations you will make per week, how many weeks a year your business is open, what you plan to price your ADAS calibration service at, and what your profit per ADAS calibration will be.
Depending on if you pay for your equipment up front or utilize Hunter Finance get an estimate on how much you can be adding to your glass repair business.
Why service ADAS Calibrations?
Discover the top reasons why glass repair shops should be performing in-house ADAS calibrations
ADAS Sensors in Windshields
Growing Market
ADAS systems are now standard in most vehicles. Glass repair shops can tap into this growing market by providing ADAS calibration services that are essential and profitable.
OEM Compliance
With ADAS standards set by each OEM, calibrations need to be in line with those specifications to ensure safe and accurate readings. Doing calibrations without proper OEM specs could result in miscalibrated vehicles.
Added Revenue Stream
Vehicles that require windshield repair or replacement and have ADAS sensors require calibrations. If you have ADASLink®, the DAS 3000, or Ultimate ADAS®, you are prepared to include ADAS calibration services to your-shop and add an ever-growing revenue stream to your business.
ADAS Calibrations & Glass Repair Services
Integrating ADAS calibrations based on services you are already performing.
Windshield Replacement & Repair
Many vehicles have sensors and cameras that are directly mounted onto the windshield. Any repairs or replacements that effect the windshield means the ADAS systems within need to be recalibrated, according to OEM requirements, for features like lane-assist and collision warnings to function properly.
Windshield Repair
Many vehicles have sensors and cameras that are directly mounted onto the windshield. Any repairs or replacements that effect the windshield means the ADAS systems within need to be recalibrated for features like lane-assist and collision warnings to function properly.
Static adas Calibration
This type of calibration is specifically tailored for a workshop environment.
Requirements
Static Calibration Procedure Requirements
One of this biggest popular misconception about ADAS Calibration is that it requires huge floor space.
Floor space
It's a popular misconception that ADAS calibrations require huge floor space. The majority of forward-facing calibrations can be performed in almost any shop.
- Minimum — 25 ft. x 34 ft.
- Recommended — 30 ft. x 45 ft.
- Optimal — 40 ft. x 60 ft.
Moderate lighting
- The calibration area should be well lit with evenly diffused and distributed light.
- Cover any windows with direct sunlight during calibration.
- Avoid any directional lighting around the vehicle during calibration
Flat floor
- The floor of the calibration space should be level, or ADAS equipment that compensates for non-level floors should be used. Learn more about Ultimate ADAS
- To evaluate a floor, take transit measurements at anticipated wheel footprints.
- The difference between the side-to-side and front-to-back measurements should be no more than 0.4 inches (10 mm).
Solid, neutral wall color
- The area outside of the calibration area should be clear of geometric patterns.
- Floors and walls should be one solid, light neutral color.
- During recalibration, the surroundings should be clear.
Related Tools
Recommended Hunter equipment for static ADAS calibrations
Hunter Ultimate ADAS®
Perform wheel alignment and all static ADAS calibrations in the same bay, with the same equipment.
ADASLink® + DAS3000
Another option for your shop is to integrate the ADASLink Scan Tool in combination with the DAS3000 that allows your shop to complete static calibrations, enabling you to perform all calibration needs.
Dynamic adas Calibration
Dynamic calibration refers to calibrations performed when the vehicle is driving, or in motion.
Requirements
Dynamic Calibration Procedure Requirements
ADAS calibration tool
The most basic requirement for dynamic ADAS calibrations is having a reliable calibration tool.
Nearby highway
A nearby highway with clear lane markings and little traffic so vehicles can reach speed without obstructions will be most convenient.
Related Tools
ADASLink® Scan Tool
The simplest way to get started is with the ADASLink scan tool. The scan tool plugs directly into the vehicle to enable technicians to complete dynamic calibrations.
You're already doing the work, just add the calibration! No extra Space needed
Most vehicles will not need all ADAS functions adjusted at the same time, so simultaneous front, side and rear views are rarely necessary. When multiple systems do require service, the vehicle can be repositioned within the existing space for each individual calibration.
The Proof is in the Printout
Provide your customers with a personalized printout of their ADAS service, removing uncertainty and mystery for them and building trust in your business and technicians.
Coming Soon!
Hunter ADAS Video Hub
From ADAS explainer videos to operation videos to customer testimonials, learn what you need to know about ADAS for your shop.
ADAS Training
Prepare your techs to become ADAS experts through Hunter University.
1, 2, 3, ADAS
1
Diagnostic Scan Tool
2
DAS3000
3
Ultimate ADAS®
ADASLink®
Ease into dynamic ADAS calibration with ADASLink®, the full-diagnostic scan tool that has FCA coverage for secure gateway vehicles.
DAS3000
Step up the game by incorporating DAS3000 for static calibration, a comprehensive ADAS solution that can be paired with the Bosch scan tool for most forward facing sensors including the windshield camera.
Ultimate ADAS®
Have the complete ADAS package by incorporating Ultimate ADAS®. With guided procedures and printed results, Ultimate ADAS® is the best-in-class solution for calibrations. If you want to start performing all-around-vehicle ADAS calibrations and possibly start performing calibrations for other businesses you can't go wrong with Ultimate ADAS®.
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