Automotive Business Magazine – Q2 2026 – Digital edition - Magazine - Page 15
OPINION
RETAIL
geometry settings such as camber,
caster, toe, and thrust angle.
Any change in vehicle ride height or
wheel alignment can affect the positional
relationship between the vehicle body
and its ADAS sensors.
The technology’s tipping point is subtle,
with minor shifts in a vehicle's geometry
– such as its wheel or ADAS sensor
alignment – able to disrupt essential
safety features. When this happens,
recalibration is not just recommended;
it’s necessary.
Even small deviations outside
manufacturer tolerances can impair
system performance. This may result in
inaccurate environmental interpretation,
incorrect system responses, warning
messages, or reduced functionality of
safety features, ultimately compromising
intended safety performance.
[Research] paints a
picture of infrastructure
that is increasingly
neglected – but amid
worsening conditions,
more attention needs to
be paid to the potential
effects on ADAS
technology"
Laying the groundwork
Ensuring that workshops can correctly
assess and recalibrate these systems
in line with manufacturer standards is
crucial to supporting the Government’s
ADAS safety strategy. However, the
industry is not fully prepared.
While larger organisations like
Autoglass® possess the expertise,
specialised equipment, and commitment
to upskilling technicians, many
independent garages lack the training
and tools needed for safe and accurate
ADAS recalibrations. Without sufficient
skills and awareness of manufacturer
→ Colin Brooke
is technical innovations trainer at Autoglass®
procedures, technicians risk leaving
ADAS systems unchecked and without
recalibration after significant impact
with potholes.
The knowledge gap
Drivers play a crucial role in preventing
this risk, too. It's a common
misconception that ADAS systems
remain unaffected if no immediate
warning lights appear after hitting a
significant pothole.
The safest approach is to have
the vehicle inspected by a qualified
technician who can check wheel
alignment, suspension components, and
ADAS sensors, carrying out recalibration
to manufacturer specifications if
required.
Changing priorities
For ADAS technology to support the
Government’s ambitious road safety
goals, two parallel priorities must be
treated equally.
First, there must be continued
investment in road maintenance to
reduce impact-related vehicle damage,
thereby protecting both vehicles and their
advanced safety systems.
Second, there needs to be an industrywide commitment to train and equip
technicians with the skills to carry out
OEM-compliant ADAS inspection and
recalibration.
This includes encouraging greater
awareness among drivers about the
potential impact potholes have on an
ADAS system.
Within the Government’s £7.3bn pledge
to improve local roads and tackle
potholes, ADAS could transform UK road
safety, but only if the foundations it
depends on – both physical and technical
– are fit for purpose.
Q2 2026
AUTOMOTIVE BUSINESS
15
