For many shops, the conversation around bringing ADAS calibration in-house usually comes down to three big concerns: complexity, cost, and space. These are real, practical considerations that can impact everything from technician training and workflow to facility layout and capital planning.

As more vehicles on the road require ADAS calibration after routine services like alignments, suspension work, glass replacement, and collision repairs, shop owners are weighing whether adding this capability makes sense for their operation. The good news is that while these barriers are real, they’re often more manageable than they first appear when you have the right information and plan in place.

If you’re looking for a deeper dive into how ADAS is impacting the industry overall, you can read our previous article here:
https://rubber-inc.com/articles/how-will-adas-shape-the-future-of-your-auto-and-tire-repair-shop-/a63/

In this article, we’re breaking down the three biggest perceived barriers to entry, what shops are really concerned about, and what you should realistically expect if ADAS calibration is on your roadmap.

Challenges of ADAS Calibration: Perception vs. Reality

1. Complexity

A common concern we hear is that ADAS calibrations are complicated to perform and their team does not have the training required to perform these services or these services are too time consuming for their business to take on.

The reality, though, is that when it comes to training your staff for ADAS calibration, you won't have to go it alone. Most systems are software-guided, and many manufacturers offer employee training, and may offer to return regularly for orientation of new employees and/or to update your staff on new developments in ADAS technology and procedures.
 

As for the time issue: to keep ADAS calibrations from slowing down your shop’s workflow, you need to put processes in place to identify what calibration procedures will be necessary as part of the initial assessment for each repair, so that the time they take is accounted for up front. This prevents delays when the need for an ADAS recalibration is only noticed after the job is already under way.

2. Space

One issue with ADAS calibration that may give some shop owners pause is space requirements.

You may have come across sources which state that ADAS calibration requires a space of at least 30 feet by 50 feet. This means that many shop owners might have the perception ADAS calibration is not compatible with their current facility.

However, while the specific space recommendations vary by vehicle manufacturer and depending on the calibration procedure being performed, almost 90% of calibrations can be performed in a normally sized repair bay.  The most crucial requirement is 10 to 15 feet of free space in front of the vehicle, a level floor, and proper lighting conditions. Keep in mind the car can be moved within that space to accommodate the calibration. Most if not all ADAS systems are on wheels to be able to move and help you work within the space you have. 

3. Cost

Now let’s address the elephant in the room. There is a significant equipment cost associated with doing ADAS calibrations, that can lead to a perception that this is a risky expense for shops that can’t guarantee the volume of work necessary to make the investment pay off. 

However, with smart choices in equipment purchasing, adding ADAS calibrations to your business can quickly pay for itself. ADAS systems, like those from Hunter and Autel, combine diagnostic, alignment, and ADAS calibrations into one streamlined and efficient process. So your ADAS equipment is not solely used for calibrations alone. 
 

When you consider the investment, you might also be underestimating the volume of work your shop will do. Recalibrating ADAS sensors could be required any time that a repair might disrupt the sensor’s aim or a part containing an ADAS sensor is replaced. That includes wheel alignments, collision repair, airbag deployments, windshield or side mirror replacement, changes in tire size and ride height, and suspension adjustments. You can use this tool to help you calculate your ROI. 

ADAS Calibration FAQs

Is ADAS calibration required by law? 
There’s no single federal law requiring ADAS calibration, but state rules, manufacturers, and insurance companies often require it after certain repairs and recommend it after certain services like alignments and windshield replacements. 

Do all alignments require ADAS calibration? 
It depends on the individual vehicle manufacturer guidelines, but most recommend it.

How long does ADAS calibration take? 
For most vehicles, ADAS calibration can be done in 30- 60 minutes with the right equipment. 

How often does ADAS fail if done incorrectly or skipped?

Studies have shown up to 75% of drivers have had problems with their vehicles’ ADAS features functioning incorrectly after calibration was skipped or improperly performed following a repair. 

Can I perform ADAS calibrations without expanding my shop?

Yes, most ADAS calibrations can be performed in a typical repair bay.

Can ADAS calibration be outsourced?

Yes, some shops do outsource this to specialty providers or dealerships because they lack the equipment or training to perform the work in-house. However, shops typically remain liable for any improperly performed ADAS calibration they outsource and may miss out on additional revenue opportunities.

Helping Your Business Adapt to the Rise of ADAS

Rubber Inc has been a trusted partner for automotive industry businesses for over 80 years. In that time, we’ve seen many changes driven by technological advances. As the adoption of ADAS systems reshapes the industry, we’ll be here to provide the tools and advice you need to adapt and succeed. Contact us today and start a conversation about how we can help.