Quick Answer
- ADAS = Advanced Driver Assistance Systems — lane-keeping, emergency braking, adaptive cruise
- ADAS cameras are mounted on the windscreen and must be precisely repositioned after replacement
- Recalibration is often needed after windscreen replacement to ensure the camera "sees" correctly
- Not all auto glass shops understand ADAS — incorrect fitting can disable safety features
- We only fit ADAS-compatible glass and arrange recalibration as part of the job
- Insurance usually covers both the replacement and recalibration
What Is ADAS?
ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. These are the safety technologies built into modern vehicles that help you drive more safely. Common ADAS features include:
- Lane-keeping assist — warns you or steers you back if you drift out of your lane
- Emergency braking — automatically brakes if the vehicle detects an impending collision
- Adaptive cruise control — maintains a safe distance from the vehicle in front
- Traffic sign recognition — reads speed limits and displays them on your dashboard
- Rain-sensing wipers — automatically activate when rain is detected on the windscreen
Why Does ADAS Matter for Windscreen Replacement?
Most ADAS systems rely on a forward-facing camera mounted on the windscreen, usually behind the rear-view mirror. This camera needs a clear, unobstructed view of the road. When the windscreen is replaced, the camera must be:
- Transferred from the old windscreen to the new one
- Positioned precisely at the correct angle and height
- Recalibrated electronically so the camera "sees" the road correctly
If the camera is even slightly off, the ADAS system may not work correctly — or may give false warnings. This is why ADAS windscreen replacement requires specialist knowledge.
What Is ADAS Recalibration?
ADAS recalibration is an electronic process that tells the vehicle's computer where the camera is pointing and how it sees the road. There are two types:
- Static recalibration: The vehicle is parked in a controlled environment with special targets and patterns. The camera is calibrated to these targets. This usually takes 1-2 hours.
- Dynamic recalibration: The vehicle is driven on the road at specific speeds and conditions. The camera calibrates itself to real-world road markings. This usually takes 30-60 minutes of driving.
Some vehicles need static recalibration, some need dynamic, and some need both. We advise which type your vehicle needs when we book your replacement.
Does My Vehicle Have ADAS?
Almost all vehicles manufactured from 2016 onwards have some form of ADAS. You can check by looking for these features in your vehicle:
- A small camera mounted on the windscreen behind the rear-view mirror
- Lane-keeping or lane-departure warnings on your dashboard
- Emergency braking alerts
- Adaptive cruise control buttons on your steering wheel
If you are unsure, just give us your registration number and we can tell you what ADAS technology is fitted to your vehicle.
ADAS Windscreen Replacement Cost
ADAS windscreen replacement costs more than standard replacement because the glass itself is more expensive (it must be optically clear and compatible with the camera), and recalibration adds to the cost. However:
- Insured vehicles: Usually nil excess — you pay nothing. Recalibration is typically covered too.
- Private: $800-$1,500+ depending on the vehicle and whether recalibration is needed.
Why Choose an ADAS Specialist?
Not all auto glass shops understand ADAS. Some will fit standard glass that is not compatible with your camera, or will transfer the camera without recalibration. This can cause:
- Warning lights on your dashboard
- ADAS systems that do not work
- False emergency braking or lane-keeping warnings
- Failed WOF if the ADAS system is flagged as faulty
At AAA Auto Glass, we are ADAS specialists. We only fit compatible glass, we position the camera correctly, and we arrange recalibration as part of the job. We have fitted ADAS windscreens for vehicles from Toyota to Tesla.
Book Your ADAS Windscreen Replacement
Call us on 0800 757-985 with your vehicle details. We will confirm whether your vehicle has ADAS, check stock, and book your mobile fitting across Auckland. Same-day service available for most common vehicles.
Last updated: July 2025. For exact advice on your specific vehicle, call AAA Auto Glass on 0800 757-985.