Calibrating your future: ADAS

Almost all tire dealers do alignments, which are usually the first step in Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems calibrations. Does that mean tire dealers should take the leap and perform ADAS calibrations as well?

That’s a question each shop must answer for itself, but here are some factors to consider:

• ADAS is changing the face of automotive service • ADAS work is going to grow, and grow, and grow
• Tire dealerships are natural settings for ADAS work
• The longer you wait, the further behind you’ll be

With ADAS such a hot industry topic, there’s plenty of information, good and bad, flying around. Here are answers to a few common ADAS questions to help begin your decision process.

Why ADAS?
Most vehicles on the road today have at least some ADAS components. In the not-so-distant future, all will. These systems require periodic recalibration to continue functioning properly. This work will never go away. In 2021, the ADAS market was calculated to be $27 billion. One recent estimate placed it at $75 billion by 2030.

Isn’t ADAS a huge investment?
Like any move into new products or services, an investment will be necessary. And also like any such move, you’ll need to do your due diligence and carefully study a wide range of factors. However, it’s our belief that most shops are at or beyond the break-even point already but haven’t recognized it yet.

Isn’t ADAS really complicated?
Yes — and no. Left entirely to your own devices, ADAS work can be quite challenging, requiring a high degree of research, precision and patience. Fortunately, you’re not left alone. You can partner with a provider who can supply you with all the equipment, training and expertise you’ll need to become proficient at this profitable line of work.

Don’t I need extra-skilled techs?
It’s always best to have the best employees, to be sure. But ADAS work — once you’ve found a reliable company that will help guide your techs step by step through countless calibrations — can be done by any competent technician. Experience still counts, however, so again: Waiting too long will have its price.

Don’t I need a ton of space?
This is a frequent misconception. To perform the lion’s share of ADAS calibrations, you likely have sufficient space as it is. A little creativity may be required from time to time, but it’s completely feasible. Just as you don’t need 100 yards to play touch football, you don’t need an “ideal” amount of space to perform many ADAS calibrations.

It’s never hard to find reasons not to do something. But by taking the time to gather information and plan a sensible course of action, those reasons will quietly fade away. When you’re ready, Hunter Engineering will be there for you with the equipment and guidance you’ll need to take advantage of this great opportunity — or decline it and allow others to do so.

For more information, visit hunter.com.