While maintaining ADAS systems is crucial, a recent consumer survey from the IMI showed that that that despite 86% of vehicles having some form of ADAS technology, just 18% of vehicle owners knew what ADAS actually is. A1 ADAS Solutions Managing Director Iain Molloy has added his voice to calls for the industry to raise public awareness of ADAS technologies and the scenarios of when calibrations are required. However, he believes there is still much work to be done at workshop level too, and is urging garages to revaluate 36 AFTERMARKET APRIL 2024 ADAS www.aftermarketonline.net their understanding of when a vehicle needs ADAS calibration following certain services and repairs: “We work, day in, day out with garages and bodyshops, either advising what equipment to buy and training them on its use, or carrying out their ADAS and diagnostic work for them. “What’s apparent is the overall lack of understanding about when a vehicle needs its ADAS system calibrating. It’s something we’re really keen to help address because ADAS not only needs to be carried out by somebody competent, they should hold the IMI’s AOM230 qualification. “It’s fair to say most technicians know calibration is needed when you remove a bumper or replace a windscreen. However, many don’t realise that working on the steering rack, suspension, shock absorbers or simply carrying out wheel alignment, alters the geometry of the vehicle and therefore its sensors. “This could have implications for the driver of a ten-yearold vehicle when parking, right through to more serious implications for the driver of a brand-new vehicle where lane assist and automatic braking are deployed. It’s not that technicians are purposely ignoring the ADAS element of repairs. A lot of knowledge is passed on by word of mouth from a work colleague. Unfortunately, a lot of it is incorrect or distorted, just like a game of Chinese Whispers.” As well as the safety implications, Iain believes garages are missing out on revenue opportunities too: “About half of the garages we work with offer wheel alignment, and we SENSE THE OPPORTUNITY Garages that want to take advantage of the ADAS opportunity need to understand it and have the kit to capitalise on it Below: A1 ADAS Solutions MD Iain Molloy demonstrates the Autel IA900WA
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