Motor accidents are an unfortunate part of driving in South Africa. In 2022, it’s estimated that 12,436 people died on the road, which equates to a death rate of 20.7 per 100,000 population.

ADAS systems were invented to prevent this exact issue. As one of the latest technological inventions in modern motoring, they help drivers be safer on the roads while reducing avoidable fatal accidents.

But what is ADAS? And why should you care about it? Here’s a blog that describes the system.

What Is ADAS?

ADAS, otherwise known as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), is a technological feature in a car that promotes safe, easy, and comfortable driving. This system has critical safety features that recognise and alert drivers on external factors that come into contact with their car, such as:

  • Pedestrian detection and avoidance
  • Automatic parking
  • Blind spot detection
  • Automatic emergency breaking
  • Traffic sign recognition
  • Lane departure warning or correction

ADAS can be classified as passive and active ADAS systems. With passive ADAS, drivers are simply alerted of impending collisions or potential hazards. These are the most common, fundamental form of an ADAS system.

Meanwhile, active ADAS systems go one step further to actively help avoid collisions. For example, instead of simply alerting a driver of a potential pedestrian on the road, the system actually deploys its emergency brakes to slow the vehicle down and prevent a collision.

With these features implemented, drivers can be alerted by their vehicles in dangerous scenarios and avoid accidents. In some cases, advanced ADAS features can include automatic lane changes and breaks to avoid collisions. Because of its successful track record in keeping accidents off the road, cars with ADAS have been growing in popularity among South African drivers.

Self-driving cars naturally have ADAS assistance systems as a feature. However, these systems can require maintenance and fine-tuning overtime – just like any part of the vehicle. Hence, it’s important to engage in ADAS calibration for a vehicle with the system.

What Is ADAS Calibration?

ADAS calibration is the alignment and testing the systems and sensors of a vehicles’ ADAS to ensure it’s working optimally. Typically done by a technician or calibration expert, this process ensures that the system functions normally and as intended.

Essentially, recalibration tells a vehicle’s sensors where to look, and shows the sensors where their position is in relation to the vehicle. This is a critical process that can mean the difference between an accidents and a smooth drive, as better sensors promote more accuracy in the ADAS systems.

ADAS calibration is a crucial task for owners with ADAS equipped cars, particularly after any repairs, modifications, and replacements in a vehicle’s components. Calibration is typically in a controlled environment (i.e. open space, levelled floors, no reflective surfaces, and no direct sunlight), making it a highly technical process.  

Here are some of the items that a technician may typically do in an ADAS calibration:

  • Wheel alignment
  • Steering or suspension adjustment and repair
  • Testing of adaptive cruise control sensors
  • Testing of automatic breaking sensors
  • Testing of lane departure warning sensors
  • Testing of blind spot warning sensors
  • Airbag testing

By calibrating a vehicle’s ADAS systems, drivers can be assured that their system is working as it should, providing them with peace of mind on the road and reducing their risks of accidents.

Visit My Glass’ ADAS Calibration Center

At My Glass, your safety is our priority. Our expert team specialises in ADAS calibration, optimising your vehicle systems seamlessly for your next drive. No matter your vehicle’s make and model, we have the skills to manage your car.

ADAS calibration is an intricate procedure that should only be done by experienced professionals. Our team has decades of experience in calibrating ADAS systems in South Africa, with a focus on strong customer service and care.

For more information, contact My Glass today.