April 2020

minutes, this can be achieved with varying equipment depending on the workshop layout. The Beissbarth Easy 3D mounts the cameras between the front and rear axle, giving an excellent repeatable accuracy of around two minutes. The Dama 3D system uses a front mounted totem pole style camera bar and communicates with both axle flags. Both of the above systems work with a specialised wheel alignment lift with front turnplates and rear slip plates. “For garages with limited space a mobile version of the Dama system offers maximum flexibility, with this unit the wheel alignment can potentially be carried out on a level floor, pit or MOT lift.” Essential You need to know what you are doing though says Robin: “Training is an essential part of any plan to offer wheel alignment and ADAS calibrations and this is where selecting Hickleys as a supplying partner can reap rewards. Our specialist team offer on-site handover training as well as offering an accredited IMI ADAS training course in our dedicated training centre in Taunton. “On ADAS calibration rigs there is also a selection of equipment and our specialists can recommend the best system suited to your particular needs. Each system offers slight variations on the method of operation, the measuring procedure and the diagnostic equipment. The main difference between the systems is whether they use patterned boards or a digital screen that reproduces the board image. “The Brain Bee ADAS calibration rig uses a large digital screen and reproduces the image required; the advantage is that as long as you are in subscription all new boards are available in the software at no additional cost. “In addition, Hickleys offer Texa, Bosch and RCCT calibration equipment. Each manufacturer has their own specific benefits. Texa has an enviable vehicle database and coverage, the Bosch system links directly to the KTS software and a fully branded solution whilst the RCCT offers a low-cost option that can be used mobile and with a variety to diagnostic tools.” Robin added: “There is one thing for sure, ADAS is here to stay and the question is how soon you will become involved and start benefiting from the rewards of wheel alignment and ADAS services.” ADAS effect Absolute Alignment Technical Director Chris Dear said the future has arrived: “All ADAS functions, such as lane assist, emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and tiredness warnings are controlled by sensors and radar placed around a vehicle. Each controls a special part of the car's function. These are embedded into the very fabric of the car, from windscreen to bodywork. After even minor work – such as a windscreen change or bodywork repair - a responsible workshop should insist on drivers having a full alignment check and sensor calibration. “It’s time to invest in the future of ADAS, the rewards for which are potentially very high. It is also worth noting that much of your competition doesn’t have the technology, and some of the advice they give is wrong. For instance, one tyre chain admits on its website it doesn’t have ADAS calibration capability and advises its customers to have that done before coming to them for wheel alignment. That is not best practice; as ADAS sensors rely on correct alignment, any suspension work this workshop undertakes could have disastrous consequences on the safe action of ADAS. This statement comes from one of the world’s biggest manufacturers of ADAS calibration equipment: ‘It is important to remember that correct vehicle alignment must be checked before all calibration work to avoid the risk of inaccurate settings, reduced safety and customer dissatisfaction. Many garages are currently obliged to call in a professional with the specialist equipment needed to check vehicle alignment.’” Chris concluded: “ADAS is here to stay, and the opportunities for the astute workshop are huge.” Serious The continuing growth of ADAS means there is money to be made. This even puts parts of the crash repair process in the sights of garages, opening up additional income streams. Looking at the opportunity, Mark Ost, General Manager at Snap-on said: “Collision repair is not covered by a manufacturer’s warranty, regardless of vehicle age. This is good news for workshops because the repair may be done outside of the dealership. Furthermore, many insurance companies pay for pre- and post- scans, where scans are required by vehicle manufacturers. This provides new opportunities for business growth.” ADAS also affects work you may already be doing. Mark observed: “Even the tasks you see several times a week can now require additional work because of ADAS – wheel alignment for example. Making the necessary alignment checks 46 AFTERMARKET APRIL 2020 ADAS Above: Sun EZ ADAS Recalibration System at work www.aftermarketonline.net

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