19:24 13-01-2026

Why ADAS calibration and windshield work make minor crash repairs pricier

Minor crashes and low-speed bumps are getting noticeably more expensive to fix as advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) spread across the market. The tech spans lane keeping, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Industry research indicates that by 2028 the number of vehicles equipped with ADAS will almost double.

Already, about 23% of cars involved in an accident require calibration or repair of ADAS components. Even straightforward jobs such as windshield replacement can demand a fresh setup of cameras and sensors. The average ADAS calibration runs about $500 today, and that figure keeps edging up. Modern safety tech adds complexity—and it shows up on the invoice.

The issue isn’t a shortage of cameras or radars, but the complexity of the procedure. Proper setup calls for specialized equipment and software that many repair shops don’t have. In practice, vehicles often get routed to dealers or independent diagnostic outfits, which stretches timelines and inflates the final bill.

Another cost driver is glass: since 2017, windshield replacement prices have climbed by roughly 50%. Experts stress that ADAS work isn’t optional—without correct calibration, a car is considered unsafe. That’s worth keeping in mind when checking a vehicle after a crash, because misbehaving assistants directly affect safety and insurance payouts.