Replacing a front windscreen on a vehicle with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) is a more involved process than a standard windscreen swap — but it’s something skilled technicians do regularly. Here’s how it typically works:
🔁 Step-by-Step: Windscreen Replacement with ADAS
1. Pre-Replacement System Check (Optional but Recommended)
- A technician may perform a diagnostic scan to check if your ADAS sensors or cameras are already throwing up any faults.
- This helps ensure everything was working before the glass is touched.
2. Windscreen Removal
- The damaged windscreen is carefully cut away and removed using specialist tools.
- The technician takes care not to disturb the ADAS camera or sensors (usually mounted near the rearview mirror).
3. Surface Preparation
- The bonding surface on the car is cleaned and prepped, and a new adhesive is applied.
- This step ensures the new windscreen bonds securely and forms part of the vehicle’s structural safety.
4. Windscreen Installation
- The new windscreen is positioned precisely, especially critical with ADAS — even a few millimetres off can throw off the sensors.
- The adhesive is left to cure (dry and harden), usually for 30–60 minutes.
5. ADAS Camera Reinstallation
- If the vehicle has a forward-facing camera (common in cars with lane assist, AEB, or adaptive cruise control), it’s reattached to the mounting bracket behind the windscreen.
6. ADAS Calibration (Critical Step)
There are two types of calibration, depending on your car:
✅ Static Calibration (done in a garage)
- A special calibration rig with printed targets is set up in front of the car.
- The vehicle is hooked up to a diagnostic tool, and the system is recalibrated while stationary.
🚗 Dynamic Calibration (done on the road)
- The technician drives the car on a specific route under certain conditions (light, speed, straight road).
- The system self-calibrates while driving, using real-world data.
🔧 Some cars need both. It depends on the make, model, and manufacturer specs.
7. Post-Calibration Scan
- A final scan confirms all systems are functioning as expected.
- Some companies provide a calibration certificate for your records or insurance.
⚠️ Why Calibration Matters
- Without proper calibration, features like lane-keeping assist, auto emergency braking, or adaptive cruise may work incorrectly — or not at all.
- Insurance may not cover you fully if ADAS wasn’t recalibrated properly after windscreen replacement.
💡 Tip:
Always make sure your installer is qualified to recalibrate ADAS. Not all garages have the equipment. Premier Windscreens Edinburgh offer ADAS calibration as part of their service.
