As Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) become more common on new vehicles, many collision repairers are considering bringing diagnostic and calibration services in-house to reduce cycle time and ensure they are performed correctly to return every vehicle to its pre-accident condition.
“Today, the list of items required to deliver proper and safe ADAS services to a customer is pretty involved,” said Frank Phillips, vice president of strategy at ADAS Solutions USA, which provides support related to diagnostics, programming and calibration.
Several companies offering the products and services collision repairers need to keep up with new ADAS technology will be exhibiting at the 2024 SEMA Show, Nov. 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, and AAPEX, Nov. 5-7 at the Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum, both in Las Vegas, NV.
Autobody News spoke to industry representatives about the common challenges collision shops face when implementing ADAS calibration services and how businesses can best position themselves to calibrate vehicles correctly, and to the companies who will be at SEMA and AAPEX to help attendees overcome those hurdles.
Common ADAS Calibration Challenges
Phillips said one of the most common challenges collision centers encounter is understanding what it takes to successfully deliver the highest level of quality to ensure a safe and proper repair.
“It’s the ability to perform the service in a place where the tooling and equipment can work as intended by the product’s manufacturer and OEM,” he explained.
Another challenge according to Ari Scheller, product leader of collision shop solutions at OEC, is identifying what’s required for each repair.
“OEM requirements vary based on the model, damage severity and interconnected systems,” said Scheller. “Thorough upfront research is crucial to building an accurate estimate and repair plan and shops should rely on up-to-date, genuine OEM procedures and position statements. This ensures safe, compliant repairs and provides the necessary justification for insurance carriers.”
Greg Peeters, CEO of Car ADAS Solutions, noted shops often face challenges with incomplete and failed calibrations.
“To prevent this, it requires adequate training, a compliant environment, complete equipment packages and software gap coverage,” he explained.
Tooling, Equipment and Software Considerations
Phillips said various scanning options exist, from an in-house device to computers containing specific OEM software.
“Providers need to subscribe to advanced remote diagnostic services -- especially if the company is not set up with access to every OEM software application -- to ensure the proper procedures are followed,” he noted.
Additionally, business owners must consider the target frames/systems required to perform calibrations, ranging from rudimentary mechanical devices that position targets using traditional tape measures and other techniques to very sophisticated systems that perform wheel alignment measurements.
For shops purchasing ADAS calibration products, Scheller suggests investing in those that provide genuine, up-to-date OEM procedures, because ADAS systems evolve frequently.
“We’re seeing an increasing trend where insurance carriers are closely scrutinizing ADAS procedures and rejecting those that lack proper OEM documentation,” noted Scheller. “OEMs are the ultimate source of truth for repair requirements, so using accurate, validated documentation [with the OEM copyright visible] is essential for ensuring high-quality repairs and simplifying the insurance claims process.”
Phillips estimates about three out of 10 calibrations are successful on the first attempt. “Often, extensive diagnostic work is required to ensure that electronic systems are working correctly,” he said.
This adds to the list of tooling and equipment required to complete the diagnostic steps safely and accurately. Phillips said the best ADAS service providers have several tools available.
Items can include an air compressor and digital pressure gauge to verify tire pressure, analysis tools like volt meters, battery support tools, battery testing equipment, thermal temperature scanners, and a set of hand tools. He estimates the entry investment is approximately $250,000.
Joel Adcock, Revv’s director of partnerships and business development, recommended looking into whether setting up a separate entity or LLC for the operation makes sense for the business model.
Finally, shops should establish a clear pricing strategy that reflects the value of accurate and reliable ADAS calibrations, ensuring customer transparency.
Opportunity to Connect & Learn at SEMA
The SEMA Show is the time of the year when many equipment providers launch new equipment and improved tooling.
For those looking to expand their calibration offerings, Phillips suggests engaging with equipment companies and thoroughly evaluating their offerings to make well-informed decisions.
“Coming with the attitude that you already know how to do everything and have already made your mind up will risk buyers’ remorse and most certainly yield an element of frustration when the new tool shows up and you quickly learn that all that was assumed is not reality,” he cautioned.
Most tooling companies offer hands-on demonstrations, and Phillips encourages SEMA and AAPEX attendees to ask questions and gauge the level of service that companies can expect.
“There is never enough time to see everything, so start with your top priorities and then expand from there,” he added.
He also recommends listening to other professionals exploring new equipment and being open-minded to learning from those who may have forged the same path.
Overall, Phillips said, we’re all in this together.
“A well-advised colleague, mentor and good friend always said, ‘There is no single service provider who can fix all the cars themselves,’” he said. “If we embrace the customer and focus on the mission to deliver safe and proper repairs together, we all win, and there will be plenty to go around.”
SEMA drives this philosophy, according to Phillips, with the greatest networking opportunity in the automotive industry.
ADAS Tools and Software on Display at SEMA and AAPEX
Companies will display a wide range of products to look up OEM repair information, perform static and dynamic calibrations and more.
Repair Planning and Information Tools
ALLDATA Repair Planner, New Quick Reference Tool
ALLDATA’s newest tool is its automated collision repair planning tool, ALLDATA Repair Planner, which automates repair planning for collision shops by reviewing estimates line-by-line with alerts for OEM-required repairs. This includes ADAS-related repairs and direct links to specified procedures.
ALLDATA Repair Planner integrates with ALLDATA Collision, one of its flagship repair information products, and the three major estimating systems, which the company said saves costly research time and limiting liability. It’s now available on the CCC Secure Share™ network.
“ALLDATA’s OEM information products cover 44K+ engine-specific vehicles, more than 95% of vehicles on the road today, and the vast majority have ADAS components,” explained Satwinder Mangat, ALLDATA’s president.
Mangat said ALLDATA’s ADAS Quick Reference tool, included at no additional charge with ALLDATA Collision and ALLDATA Repair, its other repair information product, makes it easy for repairers to access vehicle-specific ADAS information, direct from the OEMs on the industry’s leading repair information platform.
The ADAS Quick Reference tool links directly to the ADAS system or component by name, such as Backup Camera or Lane Departure System. It also provides the component’s location, identifies removal/replacement requirements that could result in extra labor for calibration or sublet costs, and displays basic calibration information, required tools and prerequisites for servicing ADAS components. In 2022, the tool was recognized with the SEMA Show New Product Award and PTEN Innovation Award.
OEC RepairLogic with Quick Start Feature
OEC will introduce the Quick Start Feature within its RepairLogic Repair Planning Platform.
“This feature simplifies the process of identifying ADAS calibrations and other essential OEM procedures,” explained Scheller. “With Quick Start, users can easily and quickly access position statements, inspection requirements, specifications and ADAS procedures.”
Scheller said this helps to ensure that no critical calibration documents are overlooked, leading to a fully OEM-compliant repair.
RepairLogic was introduced for collision shops in August 2022 to streamline the process to build a repair plan that includes necessary ADAS calibrations.
OEC will offer hands-on demonstrations at SEMA, including how RepairLogic streamlines repair planning by making the ADAS calibration process more efficient and comprehensive.
SUN Collision Repair Information
SUN® Collision Repair Information, a brand of Snap-on Equipment, provides comprehensive OEM collision and mechanical repair information and procedures for body and frame, paint and finish, and materials. The award-winning product supports all makes and models, including most electric and hybrid vehicles, and those equipped with ADAS. The software’s database is kept current throughout the year with ongoing updates for the latest model year vehicles.
“Our software is designed to help shop professionals navigate complex repairs with confidence, so that they can get customers’ vehicles back on the road faster in safe operating condition,” said Chris Bonneau, SUN Collision business manager.
Bonneau shared some of the key features being showcased during the SEMA Show.
The new shop management integration enables shop owners and managers to manage daily business operations with the integration of Manager® SE | ShopKey shop management systems. Show attendees will also be able to see SUN Collision Repair Package, created to simplify the blueprinting process for collision repair estimates and reduce the blueprint research time by up to 50% in support of insurance claims.
Bonneau said ADAS Quick Links provides fast access to vehicle-specific ADAS information needed for diagnosing, repairing and calibrating complex systems such as sensors, cameras and radar. Interactive Wiring Diagrams offers one-click navigation to component details with hyperlinked connectors, grounds and splices for faster electrical repairs. He added that the 1Search™ Search Engine delivers highly targeted OEM information in a clutter-free, user-friendly graphical layout, fully optimized for tablet devices.
Those who participate in a demonstration with SUN representatives will be entered into a raffle for the chance to win a Samsung Galaxy Android tablet. In addition, SUN Collision is offering a special discount when purchasing the product at the SEMA Show.
Mobile ADAS Calibration Tools
AirPro Diagnostics Auggie
AirPro Diagnostics will showcase and demonstrate its mobile ADAS calibration tools, including Auggie. The company has redesigned Auggie to offer customers a better user experience and named the updated tool Auggie Air. Pre-orders are now being taken for Auggie Air.
“Auggie Air is lighter, faster and has enhanced battery performance, a better user interface with a larger screen and global compatibility,” said Josh McFarlin, president and COO of AirPro Diagnostics. “The cutting-edge tool is engineered to streamline the mobile Forward-Facing Camera (FCC) calibration process.”
McFarlin said the tool was designed with enhanced portability, superior battery performance and seamless user integration to deliver unmatched ease of use and efficiency.
The collapsible design allows it to fold to the size of a standard briefcase, making it truly mobile. It also includes dual externally mounted Wi-Fi antennas for improved connectivity.
Auggie Air’s enhanced battery performance includes quick charging, real-time battery monitoring, and USB-C and standard outlet charging. The upgraded graphical user interface (GUI) is displayed on a 65% larger operator screen. The tool is configurable for U.S. and international markets, with operator screens designed to suit country-specific vehicle setups. AirPro tools are fully integrated with CCC and Nexsyis estimate platforms.
McFarlin noted that ADAS calibration tooling can run in the tens of thousands of dollars.
“AirPro and Auggie are cost-affordable solutions; customers can get started for significantly less than with other offerings,” he said. “AirPro offers minimal down payments and no-interest payment plans.” The company will also be offering SEMA show specials.
Static ADAS Calibration Tools
Hunter Engineering Ultimate ADAS
Hunter will be deploying the full release of its Ultimate ADAS, which can perform wheel alignment and static ADAS calibrations in the same bay, featuring additional OEM target packages and support, said Ryan Gerber, Hunter’s product specialist, ADAS.
Gerber said all of Hunter's connected equipment reports to HunterNet 2 and can be shared to external software. This includes Ultimate ADAS, which has robust documentation that can be printed or accessed digitally.
All-In-One ADAS Calibration Tools
Autel IA700, IA900, IA1000
Autel’s new IA700 system is the industry's first optical target positioning, alignment pre-check, and ADAS calibration system engineered for both in-shop and mobile applications.
Autel will provide hands-on demos of the IA900, which delivers full-system diagnostics, digital inspection, alignment and ADAS calibration in a single system and investment.
Autel is also debuting the IA1000, a fully automated digital ADAS system. “This system is a big leap forward in maximizing efficiency, eliminating human error with almost complete automation,” said Stewart Peregrine, Autel’s senior executive of sales, ADAS. “The digitization of forward-facing targets will change the industry.”
Peregrine said the company’s products were designed to help meet the challenges shops face when performing calibrations. Regarding the spatial requirements required by OEMs, he said Autel ADAS systems move easily around the shop. The company offers step-by-step instructions and optical target positioning to increase efficiency while eliminating error.
Autel’s ADAS systems feature unlevel floor compensation, which Peregrine said eliminates failed calibrations due to pitched floors or shop drainage. “Our systems can calibrate forward-facing systems even with the vehicle raised on a lift,” he explained.
Bosch DAS 3000
Bosch is featuring its holistic ADAS capabilities at AAPEX this year. The Bosch Joe’s Garage service bay will include the DAS 3000, which eliminates manual measurement tools by using digital camera recognition for distance and setup.
“With the DAS 3000 digital camera recognition for distance measurement and target setup, shops can perform calibrations in a fraction of the time,” said Scott McKinney, senior product manager for the Bosch Mobility Aftermarket.
McKinney said all Bosch recalibration tools are designed to seamlessly integrate with existing shop management software and equipment commonly used in shops.
He said the pricing for ADAS calibration tools and equipment can vary depending on the type of product and the distributor. Bosch recommends talking directly with distributors for the best pricing.
Bosch is an advocate for technician training, especially with the increasing complexity of vehicles on the road. The company offers various ADAS-specific educational opportunities to help technicians understand components and functions, using practical examples to help troubleshoot and repair ADAS-related issues.
Understanding initial purchase barriers, Bosch created the ADAS ROI Calculator to help shops understand the inherent value in investing in this technology, earnings potential and the timeline to recoup the investment.
Snap-on Equipment/John Bean Tru Point System
Snap-on® Equipment will showcase the OEM approval of the John Bean® Tru-Point™ system for Hyundai, Kia and Genesis brands. The company is also introducing new target placement procedures for the Nissan Intelligent Around View Monitor, which creates a digital bird’s-eye view 360° composite view.
“What sets us apart from other companies is our full 3D target placement system, which eliminates the need for lasers, tape measures, strings or plumb bobs,” said Jordan Krebs, product manager – Americas, wheel alignment & ADAS for Snap-on Equipment. “This unique, streamlined approach ensures precision and efficiency, making our technology a standout in the ADAS calibration field."
Krebs said the company’s latest equipment advancements build upon their exclusive image-based target placement technology, offering enhanced capabilities for positioning calibration targets around the vehicle.
Snap-on ADAS equipment is designed to integrate with a variety of devices.
“We're continually developing integrations to ensure our equipment works seamlessly within our customers’ diverse technology environments,” Krebs noted.
Krebs said the cost of ADAS calibration equipment varies based on a shop’s specific coverage needs. With a range of John Bean solutions, Snap-on is providing special offers and financing options during SEMA, tailored to help shops of all sizes invest in high-quality calibration solutions.
John Bean equipment helps shops overcome the challenge of finding the physical space needed to perform calibrations.
“While the requirements are dictated by OEM specifications, John Bean has developed a user-friendly system that simplifies the technician's workflow,” explained Krebs. “Our equipment is designed to help shops adapt quickly to ADAS calibration tasks, reducing setup time and streamlining the calibration process.”
Early adopters of Snap-on equipment have highlighted the importance of using OEM-approved or OEM-compliant equipment.
“Many have praised the John Bean patented camera placement technology, which eliminates the need for manual measurements, simplifying the calibration process,” said Krebs. “The straightforward user interface and high level of accuracy have been particularly well received, allowing shops to increase their productivity while maintaining high standards of quality.”
ADAS Software Tools
asTech Rules Engine and All-In-One
asTech President Craig Edmonds and Chief Technology Officer Jon Delgado will be at the company’s booth showcasing the asTech Rules Engine and All-In-One. At 1 p.m. Nov. 6, Edmonds and Delgado will hold a press conference at the booth to discuss the Rules Engine and the product’s latest features.
Throughout the event, show attendees can learn about customization options for the Rules Engine and All-In-One from Delgado, the 2023 Gen-III Innovator of the Year.
During the week, Repairify’s Vice President of Training Chris Chesney and Vice President of General Automotive Repair Markets Ben Johnson will be at the AAPEX show, talking about asTech Mechanical and offering live demos. They will discuss trends regarding ADAS fitment and calibrations and share insight about the liability of putting a vehicle on the road without ADAS being properly calibrated.
Opus IVS ADAS MAP, Mobile Co-Pilot and Remote Co-Pilot
Opus IVS will unveil several ADAS scanning and calibration technologies during SEMA, including ADAS MAP, Mobile Co-Pilot and Remote Co-Pilot.
ADAS MAP is a premier ADAS service and calibration platform used by thousands of shops across North America.
“It empowers repairers to accurately identify required ADAS calibrations and services, facilitating seamless communication with insurers to ensure appropriate reimbursement,” Opus IVS CEO Brian Herron explained. “The platform makes sure that repairers and insurers are aligned on what ADAS services are necessary.”
Mobile Co-Pilot is a workflow and invoicing platform tailored for mobile and location-based ADAS service providers. Herron said it streamlines administrative processes, reduces costs and boosts technician productivity by improving documentation, communication and billing.
Remote Co-Pilot, a Diagnostics-as-a-Service (DaaS) platform, enables qualified organizations to perform OEM-level diagnostics, programming and scanning remotely, which Herron said offers unparalleled flexibility and service efficiency.
RevvADAS Plus
Revv automates ADAS research, enabling collision shops to quickly identify necessary calibrations and perform safer, more efficient repairs.
The company will feature RevvADAS Plus, a comprehensive calibration identification solution featuring an advanced rules engine, workflow management, integrations with CCC and Mitchell, and customizable services tailored to each shop account.
Adcock, Revv’s director of partnerships and business development, said the product offers flexible pricing options based on labor rates, insurance or vehicle make, along with seamless billing and invoicing through QuickBooks integration. Additionally, it includes CRM capabilities to streamline shop operations.
The company will also introduce its latest product, RevvADAS Mechanical, designed specifically for general repair and maintenance shops. Adcock encouraged show attendees to stop by the booth and learn about SEMA special pricing.
During the show, Autel will announce a partnership with Revv.
“A Revv report is an invaluable tool when identifying and documenting required ADAS and other safety system calibrations, particularly when dealing with insurance adjusters,” explained Peregrine.
ADAS Scan Tools
Opus IVS DriveSafe
Opus IVS will have demonstrations of its popular DriveSafe tool, which provides pre-scan, post-scan, OEM, multi-branded diagnostics and ADAS calibration. In addition, the company will announce at SEMA that it will be launching DrivePro2 Plus in 2025. The mechanical version of the tool, DrivePro2 Plus, will be shown at the Opus IVS booth.
“Information will continue to be released on DriveSafe2 and the enhancements that help collision repair shops quickly and accurately scan, calibrate and diagnose complex vehicles,” noted Herron.
Special pricing will be available for the DriveSafe tool, which Herron said typically costs a small monthly fee that can be waived when used regularly. DriveSafe also offers revenue sharing on services performed.
Herron said that Opus IVS’s ADAS scanning and calibration solutions seamlessly integrate with industry-leading platforms, such as accounting systems. All Opus IVS solutions are designed to support third-party integrations, ensuring compatibility with collision shops’ tools and systems already in use.
Hunter Engineering ADASLink
Hunter will be offering in-person specials during the show, in addition to special financing offers for its ADASLink scan tool.
Shop owners think they need more space than they do. Gerger said the ADASLink scan tool can get shops started with ADAS calibrations, on top of normal scan tool duties, without additional space by allowing facilities to perform dynamic calibrations.
“Once a shop is ready to grow into forward-facing resets, which makes up a ton of ADAS resets, a huge portion of these can be performed with less than 15 feet in front of the vehicle,” noted Gerber. “This may sound like a lot, but if you have an ADAS system that is extremely fast and accurate, you can often back a vehicle into a bay to gain the space needed with minimal disruptions to the rest of the shop.”
Calibration Center Business Opportunities
Car ADAS Solutions will showcase its end-to-end solution for body shops and MSOs looking to enter the ADAS calibration business. The company is a training, technology and consulting firm specializing in the certification, implementation and support of start-up ADAS calibration centers.
Car ADAS will share five pillars for an accurate/OEM-centric ADAS calibration, focusing on training, facility, equipment, process and documentation.
The company will also display and demonstrate an accurate, mobile calibration frame that can accomplish the wheel alignment verification process.
SEMA FutureTech Studio
For the past five years, SEMA has dedicated an area of the show to give attendees an opportunity to learn about new and future vehicle technology. Before being named SEMA FutureTech Studio in 2023, the exhibit was called SEMA Electrified.
This year, attendees will be able to see vehicle and product displays in the 11,400-square-foot area, located at Booth #24401.
In addition, various educational sessions will take place, including presentations focused on ADAS.
“The automotive industry is evolving, ranging from advanced powertrains and fuels to safety systems and user experiences,” said Luis Morales, SEMA’s director of vehicle technology and product development.
Morales encourages show attendees to stop by to learn about groundbreaking automotive products and technologies all in one place.
ADAS Education
I-CAR ADAS Overview & Considerations
For those looking to participate in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) training at SEMA, I-CAR is offering the ADAS Overview & Considerations course designed for show attendees. To sign up, click here.
“The session provides an overview of the tools, equipment, facility requirements and training necessary for proper ADAS repairs, including calibrating ADAS components,” said Bud Center, I-CAR’s director of technical products and curriculum. “Participants will gain valuable insights into requirements for ensuring they have the information, knowledge and skills to perform complete, safe and quality repairs.
For more information about I-CAR’s activities during SEMA, visit I-CAR.com/SEMA.
Hunter University Learning Management System
Hunter Engineering is debuting the Hunter University Learning Management System (LMS) training courses, available in person and online. “Hunter University will help any shop or technician quickly get up to speed on ADAS and the great solutions that Hunter has to offer,” Gerber said.
SCRS Repairer Driven Education
SCRS’ Repairer Driven Education series includes a session, “Industry Realities of Restoring ADAS Safety Systems, and Consumer Confidence, Through Calibration.” The presentation will be held from 9:30-11 a.m. Nov. 6. Andy Dingman of Calibration Technologies will lead an interactive conversation with panelists to explore how businesses can ensure calibration services meet and exceed consumer expectations, comply with automaker repair documentation, and provide security and peace of mind to customers and the business.
The discussion will include common ways calibrations are being performed, debate whether all the current practices are meeting, exceeding or falling short of expectations, and how the industry can do better to rise to the challenge of delivering on a successful restoration of active safety systems. To register, click here.
McFarlin of AirPro Diagnostics will present “Cracking the Code: Understanding AI and the Invaluable Role of Human Intelligence,” as part of the RDE Series at noon Nov. 5. To register, click here.
Herron of Opus IVS will present with James Lawrence, SEMA immediate past chairman, at 9 a.m. Nov. 5, during a session “Strategies to Grow Your Business.” Attendees can sign up here. The session is in W309 of the West Hall.
SEMA FutureTech Studio
Three sessions focused on ADAS will be offered at the SEMA FutureTech Studio stage: A Surround View of ADAS, SEMA Garage ADAS Testing and MEMA ADAS White Paper.
AAPEX
At Joe’s Garage during the AAPEX Show, booth #7642, Level 1, at the Venetian Expo, free daily training focused on ADAS will be available. For more information, visit semashow.com and aapexshow.com.
I-CAR Training Beyond the SEMA Show
Center recommended the extensive learning opportunities and courses I-CAR offers on emerging vehicle technologies and ADAS calibration best practices. One career option is the Platinum ADAS Technician Role, which provides a structured pathway to equip technicians with the essential skills required to master ADAS technologies. This program emphasizes proper calibration techniques and the use of specialized equipment necessary for effective ADAS repair and calibration.
At I-CAR’s Chicago Technical Center, technicians can participate in two specialized, hands-on ADAS training programs. The Static ADAS Calibration 3-Day Hands-On Skills Development course is the capstone for the ADAS Platinum role, offering advanced, practical experience in static calibration techniques. The Ford ADAS Calibration 2-Day Hands-On Skills Development, developed in collaboration with Ford, provides brand-specific insights and hands-on training with Ford’s ADAS technology.
Additionally, Center said select Industry Training Alliance courses can count toward the ADAS Platinum role, providing flexibility for technicians looking to build or expand their ADAS skills.
Center stressed the importance of always following the vehicle makers’ repair procedures and requirements, which can vary significantly.
Find Your ADAS Providers at SEMA and AAPEX
AirPro Diagnostics – SEMA: #31213, South Upper Hall
ALLDATA – SEMA: #31065, South Upper Hall
asTech – SEMA: #33201, South Upper Hall
Repairify (parent company of asTech) – AAPEX: Bay 5 in Joe’s Garage
Autel -- SEMA: #44209, South Lower Hall
Bosch -- AAPEX: Joe’s Garage
Car ADAS Solutions – SEMA: #35211, South Upper Hall
Hunter Engineering – SEMA: #42017, South Lower Hall & Future Tech Studio; AAPEX: Joe’s Garage and satellite booth
I-CAR -- SEMA: #33139, South Upper Hall
OEC -- SEMA: #32231, South Upper Hall
Opus IVS -- SEMA: #33071, South Upper Hall
Revv -- SEMA: #35243, South Upper Hall
Snap-on Equipment, including John Bean and SUN Collision -- SEMA: #32017, South Upper Hall
Stacey Phillips Ronak