You Can’t Eyeball Precision

Imagine this: A radar sensor needs to be aligned to a target within a 2mm margin at a 90° angle.You test-drove the car. It didn’t throw a code. It didn’t veer into traffic. So you think…

“Well, it’s working. We’re good.”

Except you’re not.

The Test Drive Fallacy

Driving around the block and watching for warning lights doesn’t tell you if a sensor is off by 4°.ADAS doesn’t always announce its failures. That’s what makes it dangerous.

You can’t test-drive your way into confirming calibration. You can only test-drive your way into false security.

Let’s Get Real About “Seemed Fine”

“Seemed fine” isn’t measurable.“Seemed fine” won’t hold up in court.“Seemed fine” doesn’t override manufacturer procedures.

The vehicle doesn’t care about your gut feeling. The radar doesn’t calibrate itself out of respect for your 20 years in the business.

You Need the Tools Because the System Is Blind Without Them

These systems were built to work with target boards, alignment lasers, precision mats, and scanning tools.

That’s not just fancy shop equipment—that’s how you ensure accuracy. The OEM didn’t put together a multi-step calibration procedure just for fun.

Final Word: Test Drives Don’t Calibrate

Functional checks have a place. But they’re not substitutes. They’re not proof. And they’re not protection.

Don’t bet the car—or your shop—on a hunch.