ADAS 35 www.aftermarketonline.net MAY 2026 subtle misalignment can leave a vehicle looking perfectly healthy on the dashboard while performing well below the manufacturer’s intended safety parameters.” No simple answer One of the most significant barriers to incorporating ADAS calibration into the MOT is the environment required to perform the work correctly. Calibration procedures typically require level floors, controlled lighting and precise distances for targets and equipment. “Many MOT stations simply don’t have the space to carry out ADAS calibration,” Iain pointed out. “Even many full-service workshops struggle to meet the physical requirements, so expecting every MOT station to do it during a standard test simply isn’t realistic.” Skills and training present another challenge. While the number of workshops offering ADAS services is increasing, the pool of technicians formally qualified in calibration procedures remains relatively small compared with the growing demand. “If the MOT suddenly required ADAS calibration as part of the process, the industry would immediately face a significant capacity issue,” Iain added. According to Iain, the solution is unlikely to involve performing full ADAS calibrations inside MOT test bays. Instead, he believes a more workable approach would have the MOT act as a verification point rather than the place where calibration is carried out. “One option would be for the MOT to record ADAS fault status and verify that calibration has been completed by a qualified centre,” Iain explained. “That could potentially be supported by a national database of calibration records, allowing testers to confirm whether a vehicle’s systems have been checked within an appropriate timeframe.” Such an approach would acknowledge the safety importance of ADAS without placing unrealistic demands on MOT stations. “There’s no doubt these systems are becoming a fundamental part of vehicle safety,” Iain continued. “Ignoring them entirely in roadworthiness testing will become harder to justify as more vehicles rely on them.” At the same time, he cautions against introducing superficial checks that give motorists a false sense of reassurance. “A simple tick-box exercise doesn’t improve safety,” Iain argued. “If ADAS is ever included in the MOT, it has to be done in a way that genuinely reflects how these systems operate and how they should be maintained.” Start preparing now With MOT reform underway, Iain believes workshops should already be considering how ADAS will fit into their future operations. “Now is the time for workshops to look at where ADAS sits within their business,” Iain warned. “That may mean forging strong working partnerships with ADAS specialists offering mobile calibration services or investigating what ADAS capabilities they can realistically bring in-house.” “One thing is clear,” he concluded. “Doing nothing isn’t a long-term option. ADAS will have to become part of the roadworthiness conversation. The challenge is making sure the solution is practical for the industry while genuinely improving safety on the road.” a1adassolutions.co.uk
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