National Windscreens is leading the way in providing education on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and how the aftermarket needs to react to these technologies.
Here are some answers to the most common questions we have received about ADAS and why our calibration service is crucial in ensuring these systems continue to work as intended.
1. How do your technicians identify windscreens with sensors?
National Windscreens has a unique computerised process for accurately identifying all parts needed to complete jobs. When a windscreen is ordered this software prompts the fitting and calibration centre that ADAS are fitted and thus calibration will be required. The software also details the type of calibration needed so technicians can complete the work according to manufacturer specifications.
2. After replacement, what is the process for recalibration / is it the customer or the technician who is responsible for taking it to a calibration centre?
All National Windscreens customers will be notified, when booking in their vehicle, of the calibration needed so this can be done during a single visit to one of the company’s 108 fitting and calibration centres. 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 UK’s largest independently owned windscreen replacement and repair company remains firmly committed to retaining this UK-wide network.
3. Are you able to recalibrate all-makes, and what equipment do you use?
National Windscreens can calibrate the vast majority of makes and models. With new models constantly coming onto the market, the company works hard to ensure the necessary software exists to enable calibration to be completed. National Windscreens uses the CSC-Tool from Hella Gutmann Solutions, a comprehensive workshop tool for calibrating cameras associated with ADAS features. We have invested over £2 million to date in calibration technology and training and are now established as a world leader in this field.
4. How many windscreens did you replace last year, and what percentage needed to be calibrated?
National Windscreens expect to complete 15,000 calibrations during the course of 2017. We estimate that 10% of all vehicles on the road are now fitted with ADAS systems and this is predicted to grow to 40% by 2020.
5. What are the problems if a windscreen with sensors isn't recalibrated or if it is not done properly?
If calibration is not carried out then the ADAS features may still work but not correctly or efficiently. If a windscreen is replaced, camera calibration is always necessary. Many motorists are not aware of this requirement and greater awareness of the maintenance of ADAS features needs to be promoted.
6. Why is calibration important and what training is needed by your technicians?
ADAS are welcomed for making UK roads safer. However, it is vital that calibration is carried out after any changes are made to a vehicle that may affect the camera, such as replacing a windscreen. Without calibration, a vehicle’s ADAS features may not continue to work as intended. The work we carry out at our fitting and calibration centres allow vehicles to leave with ADAS calibrated to the vehicle manufacturer’s required standard.
With regards to training, the company has a Hella Gutmann accredited trainer who instructs technicians in correct calibration. National Windscreens has also worked with GQA Qualifications to ensure competency in calibration can be assured through formal NVQ certificates and diplomas.