Your car’s windshield does more than protect you from wind and debris—it plays a key role in safety, especially with modern Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). When replacing a windshield, choosing the right option is crucial. Here’s what the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) advises about OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket windshields and the importance of ADAS camera calibrations.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Windshields
When replacing a windshield, you can choose between OEM and aftermarket options:
- OEM Windshields: These are made by the same manufacturer as your car’s original windshield. They are designed to fit perfectly and meet the exact specifications of your vehicle, ensuring proper integration with safety features.
- Aftermarket Windshields: These are made by third-party companies. While they may cost less, they might not match the precise fit, quality, or design of the original windshield. This can affect how well they work with ADAS features.
How ADAS Affects Windshield Replacement
Modern vehicles often have ADAS features like lane departure warnings, forward collision alerts, and automatic emergency braking. These systems rely on cameras and sensors, many of which are mounted on or near the windshield. The type of windshield you choose can impact these systems:
- OEM Windshields: Because they are designed to the car’s exact specifications, they maintain the proper alignment of ADAS cameras and sensors.
- Aftermarket Windshields: These may not align perfectly, which could interfere with ADAS camera calibration and reduce the effectiveness of safety systems.
Why Camera Calibration Matters
After replacing a windshield, ADAS cameras need to be recalibrated. Calibration ensures the cameras are correctly adjusted to the windshield’s position, allowing systems like lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control to function as intended.
If the cameras are not properly calibrated, ADAS features may give inaccurate readings or fail altogether, increasing the risk of accidents.
Balancing Cost and Safety
While aftermarket windshields are often less expensive, they may compromise safety. OEM windshields, paired with proper camera calibration, are generally the safer choice. Always ensure your ADAS cameras are recalibrated after a windshield replacement.
Conclusion
Choosing the right windshield is essential for maintaining safety, especially with ADAS-equipped vehicles. OEM windshields and accurate camera calibration help ensure your vehicle’s safety systems work properly. Consult professionals who understand your car’s needs to keep you safe on the road.
This post was written by a professional at At Home Auto Glass. At Home Auto Glass is your prime destination for comprehensive auto glass services serving: Sarasota, Tampa, Orlando, Fort Myers, Tallahassee, Ocala, Gainesville, and Jacksonville, catering to a diverse array of vehicles and needs. Specializing in windshield repair and replacement, we ensure clarity and safety for every drive. Our expertise doesn’t end there; we also offer back glass replacement, side window replacement, and cater to specific needs for RV glass, commercial vehicles, luxury vehicles, and classic cars, ensuring that every vehicle type is serviced with precision and care. Click here to learn more!
