Auto Glass

How Do Forward Collision Warning Systems Work?

Forward collision warning systems use radars, lasers, and cameras mounted onto your windshield to detect objects in front of your vehicle. When these sensors notice an obstruction, be it another vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist, or another object, the driver will be alerted visually or audibly. Some vehicles may even alert the driver both ways. No two systems work the same, but the driver will typically receive some form of alert, or combination of alerts, to slow down (unless your vehicle employs automatic emergency braking, in which case it will brake on its own). Check your owner’s manual to determine how your forward-collision warning system will behave. 

Understanding how your ADAS and forward collision warning features work before operating your vehicle is crucial. According to a study by the American Automobile Association (AAA), ADAS features, specifically forward collision warning systems, ‘have the potential to prevent 40% of all vehicle crashes and nearly 30% of traffic deaths when utilized properly.’ But this doesn’t mean you should rely on them wholeheartedly. Even if your vehicle is equipped with a forward-collision warning system, it’s essential to remain alert behind the wheel.

When To Have Forward Collision Warning Systems Repaired

As mentioned above, a forward-collision warning system relies on windshield-mounted cameras, lasers, and sensors for road feedback to operate effectively. If your windshield becomes damaged to the point that you need to install a replacement windshield, you will need to recalibrate your ADAS and forward collision warning systems as well. Failure to do so will result in these safety features working incorrectly, as the readings they receive from the windshield-mounted cameras and sensors may not be accurate. Even the slightest miscalibration of these sensors can affect performance. 

ADAS Calibration with Tire Discounters

The technicians at Tire Discounters Auto Glass are experts in the state-of-the-art recalibration of vehicles that have experienced an interruption in their ADAS. Whether following a windshield replacement or a minor windshield alteration, ADAS recalibration is 100% necessary for driver safety. Our primary objective is to ensure the proper functionality of a vehicle’s ADAS features. We have the technology and experience to perform ADAS calibration on any vehicle. Contact us today to schedule your appointment