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The Hidden Danger (and Opportunity) in Modern Vehicle Repairs

December 12, 2024

LD Warning

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are technologies designed to enhance vehicle safety by helping drivers detect and respond to road hazards. 

Using a combination of sensors, cameras, and advanced algorithms, ADAS helps to drastically reduce certain types of collisions. However, these systems are highly sensitive that need to be calibrated after any collision or certain types of repair work.

Did you know that for every 10 vehicles needing ADAS calibration after repairs, 8 leave the shop without proper calibration? 

This is a serious liability risk in disguise for repair shops—and a massive revenue opportunity going untapped.

Offering ADAS Calibrations is Vital for Today's Repair Landscape:

Vehicles are no longer mere machines. They’re basically computers on wheels and are packed to the gills with a network of sophisticated safety systems. 

Over 90% of new vehicles now come equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), from emergency braking to lane departure warnings. While these used to be considered “luxury” features, they're now viewed as critical safety systems that will be federally mandated by 2029.

Calibrating ADAS sensors after repairs is crucial for accuracy. Misaligned sensors from collisions or part replacements can lead to incorrect readings, compromising safety features like lane-keeping and emergency braking.

But here's the challenge many shops face: Traditional diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) often miss critical calibration needs. Even a seemingly minor repair can affect these systems in ways that won't trigger a warning light. 

Let’s look at the severity of this issue by the numbers. 

Just one degree of misalignment in a forward-facing radar translates to a full foot of deviation at 60 feet—and three feet at 180 feet. That's the difference between avoiding an accident and failing to detect an obstacle.

Benefits of offering ADAS Calibrations at your shop

While safety is undoubtedly important, there’s an upside for repair shops that are able to offer ADAS calibrations.

Consider this:

65% of repairs in North America now require at least one ADAS recalibration—up from just 17% in 2023. Every windshield replacement, alignment adjustment, or collision repair could require calibration of multiple systems to ensure proper functionality.

Don't let your shop fall behind as these systems become increasingly prevalent. 

Partner with an ADAS specialist who can help you:

  • Identify all calibration opportunities accurately
  • Perform OEM-specified calibrations correctly
  • Document procedures for insurance claims
  • Protect your business and customers

The automotive repair landscape is changing rapidly. Make sure your shop is ready to meet these new challenges—and capture the revenue opportunities they present.

The Revenue Impact You're Missing:

  • Average ADAS calibration service: $300-400 per calibration
  • Average calibrations needed per vehicle: 1.84
  • Potential additional revenue per repair: $550-750

Why offer ADAS calibrations at your shop

Beyond the immediate revenue opportunity, proper ADAS calibration offers:

  • Protection against liability claims
  • Competitive advantage over dealers
  • Higher customer satisfaction and retention
  • Potential preferred provider status with insurers

Ready to learn more?

Contact us for a consultation on how we can help your shop navigate the ADAS revolution safely and profitably.