Just Because It’s Done on the Road Doesn’t Mean It’s Easy

There’s a huge myth floating around body shops and even some mobile techs:

“Dynamic calibrations are easy. Just drive the car and it calibrates itself.”

Yeah… no.

Dynamic calibrations aren’t “calibrate-as-you-go” mode.They require precise conditions, and if you don’t meet them?

That calibration never happens. Or worse — it’s wrong, and you never know it.

Let’s Look at What Dynamic Actually Requires:

• Straight, well-marked roads

• Consistent lane lines (not faded or patchy)

• Minimum speed held for a set time

• No obstruction on the windshield or bumper

• No shadows, heavy rain, glare, or snow

• No “calibration failed, but you didn’t notice”

Think that happens in your average test drive around the block?

Exactly.

Most Shops Are Guessing, Not Calibrating

You replaced a camera. You drove it. No light came on.

“Must be calibrated!”

Wrong.

ADAS doesn’t always flash a code if calibration fails. If the conditions weren’t right, the procedure didn’t complete. And now that car is driving itself into traffic with sensors that aren’t aligned.

Dynamic Needs Planning, Not Just Driving

You need:

• Pre-scan to document readiness

• A designated route with calibration-grade conditions

• Time to hold speed, distance, and lane

• A technician who knows what the tool is asking for

• Post-scan to prove it actually completed

If you don’t have all five? You’re not performing dynamic calibration.You’re just logging miles and hoping for the best.

Final Word: Dynamic Doesn’t Mean Disposable

Dynamic calibrations aren’t shortcuts. They’re safety-critical procedures with real requirements.

Treat them casually, and you might not find out it failed — until someone gets hurt.