The more I learn about ADAS, the more I am convinced every single automotive repair shop should be handling these repairs. I know many of you are farming out these repairs to mobile services or dealerships, but in the not too distant future, every repair you do is likely to have an ADAS component, so why not just rip off the Band-Aid and tackle ADAS now?
In his article, Scott Brown explains how any changes to the body, repair, paint, etc. can negatively affect the operation of a vehicle’s radar sensors — critical components of ADAS. The sensors are extremely delicate and need to be replaced if the vehicle has been in a collision, and they must be properly calibrated. He also shares a case study where a customer’s lane keeping system was not working properly. Brown had to diagnose the issue and he was able to resolve the problem for his customer. If this scenario showed up in your shop, wouldn’t it feel good to be able to fix the problem yourself for your customer? Plus, it’s an additional revenue stream that cannot be ignored.
Brown points out that the skills you already have for electrical or engine performance will serve you well when addressing ADAS complains or service requirements. If interested, there are many training opportunities out there that can get you ready to perform these repairs. Brown even notes you might already have the tools you need to address most diagnostic and service requirements. Yes, you may need to reconfigure your shop to ensure more space for this type of work, but run some numbers, and you will likely find it will be worth it in the end.
At the 2022 ETI ToolTech event, the results of a recent research project by AASA were revealed. “ADAS Aftermarket Ecosystem 2030: The Coming Wave of Aftermarket Opportunity” found the following:
- One million vehicles required ADAS service in an aftermarket shop in 2021.
- Ninety percent of ADAS work coming into mechanical shops is outsourced.
- ADAS parts and services will experience 17 percent compound annual growth rate through 2030.
“I really see ADAS as J2534 on steroids,” said Jim Fish, managing partner for New Hammer Ventures, which conducted the research. “J2534 was a learning curve. There were many of the same problems that ADAS faces in the field.”
Learn more about the report here.
