ADAS adds safety element to smart repairs
Motorists are being warned that a shoddy vehicle repair might not just damage the cosmetic appearance of their car, but also potentially harm the safety systems embedded in their vehicles.
Smart vehicle repair specialists Revive! has revealed how advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) have brought new challenges in handling damage repairs and urged drivers to consider this when they book their car for bodywork repairs.
The paint repair specialists has reported how repairing ADAS equipped vehicles requires additional planning and expertise compared to repairing vehicles which are not fitted with the technology.
Mark Llewellyn, director of sales and marketing at Revive!, said: “We now possess a responsibility to keep the systems embedded in our customers’ cars safe and intact, as well as restore our customers vehicles to their previous cosmetic state. Previously, drivers would perhaps choose a repairer solely on the grounds of fixing the visual appearance of the damage, but with ADAS now fitted on many cars, motorists must seriously consider protecting the ADAS technology fitted in their cars.
“Our technicians are now trained on how to identify and correctly repair ADAS equipped vehicles, so as not to interfere with the radar or lidar systems. This is an area where the technology will continue to evolve and so we as repairers must adapt with the times.”
With legislation to make ADAS technology compulsory on all new vehicles potentially just around the corner, the number of ADAS-enabled vehicles is expected to rise exponentially in the coming years.
Neil Greig, director of policy and research at the UK’s leading independent road safety charity IAM RoadSmart, said: “If the systems are used correctly by drivers, ADAS can make the roads safer for all road users, so it’s vital that safety technologies are protected when any work is carried out on a vehicle.
“Almost all road accidents are caused by human error, something that ADAS systems can help reduce – whether that be parking sensors, lane assist or emergency braking. I would urge motorists to carefully consider the repairer they choose for bodywork repairs, as it might not just help remove that unsightly dent or scuff on your bumper, but also possibly save your life.”
