The concept of fully autonomous vehicles may still seem like a distant prospect to most Irish garages and bodyshops, however, huge strides have already been made down this road in the shape off Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).

Alan Larkin, who has established ADASCALIBRATION.IE the first independent ADAS recalibration service in Ireland, says that all workshops need to be aware of the implications of ADAS now. He comments, “Anyone who works on a vehicle that is equipped with ADAS owes their customer a duty of care to ensure that the system is functioning properly when they hand the car back. Failure to do so can have massive safety implications and opens up the possibility of serious repercussions for the garage or bodyshop.”

Alan says since the recalibration service was introduced, the level of interest from trade customers has been strong, but some also lack awareness about the need for recalibration, assuming it is only required for major accident repairs.

Alan says for example, that a job such as timing belt replacement may often involve removing a front panel, disturbing the radar mounting. Any work on steering and suspension requires recalibration, or if the ride height is adjusted, such as with shock absorber replacement, or even new alloys.  He comments, “ADAS equipment can be a combination of both forward and rear facing radar, LiDAR, cameras and sensors. This equipment is sensitive so will generally need recalibration after any body repairs and very often after mechanical work.”

To illustrate this point, Alan quotes some statistics pointing out that the range of these sensing devices can be up to 300 meters. At such distances, a 1 degree sensor alignment error can mean a focus error of over 5 metres, or some 3 car widths. The implication is that the safety system may not detect danger until an object is much closer, causing a delay in the moment of intervention and a potential impact.

Alan stresses that ADAS is not future technology, it is with us right now. He says, “ADASCALIBRATION.IE can offer a quick, convenient and cost effective recalibration service using the latest calibration technology. We can cater for all makes and models, with a fast turnaround drop off service or collections and delivery in the Dublin and North East regions.” He adds, “Our service also includes full pre and post calibration system scans and fully certified work for complete peace.”

ADASCALIBRATION.IE is based in Ashbourne. For more information visit ADASCALIBRATION.IE or call 01-801-0088.