What Does ADAS Calibration Add to the Price in Adelaide?

When drivers see a modern windscreen quote of $1,100 and expect $500, the gap is almost entirely ADAS calibration. It is the fastest-growing line item in windscreen replacement, and understanding it removes the sticker shock.

What you are actually paying for

The camera behind your rear-view mirror feeds lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise. When the windscreen is replaced, that camera’s position shifts fractionally, and even a tiny misalignment throws off where the car thinks the road is. Calibration re-aims it precisely. It is a safety-critical step, not a convenience add-on.

Static vs dynamic: the cost difference

• Dynamic calibration: the car is driven at set speeds on marked roads while the system re-learns. Lower cost, faster, weather-dependent.
• Static calibration: done in a workshop against precisely-placed targets and rig boards. More equipment and space, generally higher cost. Some makes (many European cars) require it.

Which one your car needs is set by the manufacturer, not chosen for convenience. A good fitter tells you upfront which method applies and includes it in the quote.

Does insurance cover it?

Yes, on comprehensive policies the calibration is part of the windscreen claim, so it is normally covered alongside the glass. You pay your windscreen excess, not the calibration separately. Confirm with your insurer.