Modern vehicles are more than machines—they’re rolling computers. With cameras, sensors, radar, and LiDAR embedded throughout the body, even a minor fender bender can throw off the delicate balance of a vehicle’s safety systems. One of the most overlooked yet essential post-repair steps is recalibration.
What Does Recalibration Mean?
Recalibration is the process of realigning or resetting vehicle sensors—such as those used in ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)—to their manufacturer-intended positions. These sensors support features like lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, emergency braking, and parking assistance.
After a collision, even if the damage appears cosmetic, any body work or panel replacement can shift the alignment of these sensors. Without recalibration, the systems may operate with false assumptions about your environment, putting you and others at risk.
What Systems Are Affected?
At Matsenko Auto, we often recalibrate the following:
- Front-facing cameras (used for lane assist and forward collision warning)
- Radar sensors (adaptive cruise control and braking support)
- Side cameras or sonar (blind spot and parking assist)
- Rear-view or 360-degree camera systems
These components are mounted behind bumpers, within windshields, mirrors, and fenders—making them vulnerable during body work.
How Is Recalibration Done?
Recalibration is either static (done in-shop using targets and tools) or dynamic (performed on the road with special diagnostic equipment). It depends on your car’s make, model, and systems.
Here at Matsenko Auto in Tacoma, WA, we use factory-approved equipment to ensure precision alignment. After repairs, we never skip this step—because safety systems only work when they’re properly synced with reality.
Why It Matters for You
Improper calibration isn’t just a tech issue—it can lead to safety system malfunctions or warning lights that frustrate you later. Worse, it may result in dangerous driving behavior from the car itself: braking too late, misjudging distances, or failing to respond at all.
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If your vehicle has been in an accident, don’t take shortcuts.
Come to Matsenko Auto for a full repair and recalibration you can trust. Our certified technicians understand today’s smart systems—and we return your car ready for the real world.
