If your shop is performing alignments, windshield replacements or bumper repairs on modern vehicles — you’re already in the sensor business, whether you planned on it or not.
Sensor technology is evolving rapidly, and vehicles are increasingly equipped with complex safety systems that rely on precise diagnostics, repairs and calibrations. These aren’t just mechanical concerns anymore — they’re mission-critical for collision repair facilities. A mis-calibrated sensor isn’t just a mistake; it’s a potential safety risk for your customers.
You’re Already in the ADAS Business — Even If You Didn’t Sign Up
Collision repair used to be straightforward: replace the bumper, paint, align, and you’re done. Today, that bumper might house radar sensors for adaptive cruise control. The windshield you replaced could conceal a forward-facing camera that powers lane-keeping assist. Even a mirror swap might affect blind-spot detection.
Suddenly, what was once simple bodywork is now deeply connected to advanced driver safety systems, or ADAS. These systems are highly sensitive. A minor misalignment, like a camera tilted just a few degrees, can cause the vehicle to misinterpret a road sign, leading to unexpected braking.
It's no longer just about paint and panels. It's about precision, calibration and accountability.
Why Recalibration Is So Critical
Today’s vehicles are loaded with technology that’s designed to help drivers stay safe. But those systems are only as reliable as the sensors that power them.
ADAS includes things like:
· Forward-facing cameras often mounted near the rearview mirror
· Radar sensors in grilles or behind bumpers
· Ultrasonic sensors, used for parking assist and close-range alerts
· Blind spot monitors, integrated into mirrors or quarter panels
· LiDAR on some newer or luxury models
If any one of these is slightly out of alignment after a repair — even just a few millimeters — it can cause the system to act unpredictably.
That’s why OEMs require recalibration after many common procedures. Some vehicles need static recalibration (done in-shop with special targets and precise measurements). Others need dynamic recalibration (which happens on the road under specific driving conditions). Some require both.
This isn’t optional. It’s required by manufacturers. And in many cases, if you don’t perform or document the recalibration, you’re not just risking the customer’s safety — you’re opening your shop up to liability.
How Do You Know When to Calibrate?
This is where it gets tricky.
Not every repair triggers a warning light. Not every system announces when it’s out of spec. So how do you know when recalibration is necessary?
The answer: you need access to OEM repair information.
Too many shops rely on tribal knowledge or best guesses when it comes to ADAS. But this is one area where there’s no room for error. The only way to do it right — and protect both your customers and your business — is by following OEM manufacturer procedures for each vehicle, each time.
That means knowing:
· What ADAS features the vehicle has
· Where each sensor or camera is located
· When recalibration is required
· Which type of recalibration is needed (static, dynamic, or both)
· What tools or targets are required
· Step-by-step OEM instructions
This isn’t just about playing it safe — it’s about leveling up your shop to handle today’s most profitable and essential repairs.
ADAS Repairs Are an Opportunity — Not a Headache
Sure, it’s more work. But here’s the flip side: ADAS service isn’t just a responsibility — it’s a revenue generator.
Shops that build ADAS services into their workflow are future-proofing their business. Think about it:
· Recalibration is a billable service
· Documentation of proper procedures builds customer trust and protects your shop
· Advanced diagnostics position you as a high-tech repair facility — not just a body shop
As vehicles continue to evolve, the shops that embrace this complexity — and invest in the tools and training to handle it — will be the ones that thrive.
The New Standard for Collision Repair
Here’s the bottom line: ADAS isn’t going anywhere. In fact, it's becoming standard across nearly every vehicle segment — from compact cars to full-size pickups.
That means there’s no such thing as “just a bumper job” anymore. If that bumper has sensors in it (and it probably does), you’re working on a safety system. And if you’re not checking, calibrating or verifying that system after a repair, you’re rolling the dice on driver safety.
Shops that ignore this reality will fall behind — fast. Shops that stay current and connected will stand out as trusted, tech-savvy professionals.
So… How Do You Keep Up?
That’s where SUN Collision can make a difference.
SUN Collision’s repair information platform gives you quick, easy access to the critical ADAS details you need — all in one place. With its ADAS coverage and OEM-calibrated repair procedures, you’ll be able to:
· See exactly which ADAS features are on the vehicle
· Find all sensor and camera locations instantly
· Follow precise calibration steps — static, dynamic, or both
· Know what tools or targets are required
· Access all safety notes and manufacturer precautions
You don’t have to dig through dozens of websites or pages of PDFs. Right from the home screen, SUN Collision gives you everything you need to handle ADAS on any vehicle. Just select the vehicle, go to ADAS quick links tab and get everything you need — clearly and quickly.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Fix the Car — Recalibrate the Future
Collision repair is no longer just about sheet metal and paint. It’s about integrating safety technology, precision calibration and digital diagnostics into every job that comes through your bay.
And here’s the truth: you don’t have to figure this out alone.
With the right tools and information — like SUN Collision Repair Information — your shop can take on ADAS-equipped vehicles with confidence. Not just to keep up, but to lead.
Because when it comes to safety, accuracy isn’t optional — it’s a requirement.
Get ADAS-Ready Today!
Don’t let ADAS repairs become a missed opportunity for your shop. Investing in the right tools and knowledge will help you confidently handle these advanced systems.
Let SUN Collision help you stay ahead of the vehicle technology curve, ensuring better collision repairs today and tomorrow.
Interested in Learning More?
Call 877-840-1973 or contact us at get.suncollision.com/abn to request a FREE Demo.
Author information: Chris Bonneau is the Business Manager for SUN Collision, a brand of Snap-on, Inc. He has been in the automotive repair and collision industry since 2006.
