A new study from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) shows that cameras and sensors—the eyes of driver assistance systems—may become useless after even minor collisions.
Among more than 3,000 motorists surveyed, about half of those who had an accident involving a car equipped with assistance systems reported ongoing issues after repairs. In several cases, the systems needed calibration multiple times to restore functionality.
The study notes that most respondents did not report needing repairs to their collision avoidance systems, yet a notable portion required several service visits. IIHS senior scientist Alexandra Muller explains that, despite these repair challenges, the vast majority of drivers would still choose a vehicle with this technology again [Source: IIHS].
Even a simple windscreen replacement can disrupt driver assistance systems. When cameras and sensors are aimed at the road, a windshield replacement or other work can throw off alignment and calibration. Just under half of respondents experienced failures in collision avoidance systems without an accident occurring, and some faced issues following windshield work.
Calibration is mandatory whenever a sensor or camera is disturbed or replaced. It is especially needed after a windshield is replaced. IIHS points to a gap in practice, noting that many service technicians lack the specialized training and equipment required to perform precise calibrations. This increases the risk that systems won’t function correctly after maintenance or repairs.
The findings underscore the importance of careful post repair checks and proper calibration by qualified technicians. As driver assistance features become more common in vehicles, ensuring accurate sensor and camera operation is essential for maintaining the intended safety benefits. Additional research and standard training for service personnel could help reduce miscalibration and improve reliability in everyday use [Source: IIHS].