Guide
Windscreen cameras and ADAS calibration, explained
Many cars built in the last decade have a forward-facing camera mounted behind the rear-view mirror. It powers features like lane-keep assist and autonomous emergency braking, and it looks through your windscreen.
By the Rapid Response Autoglass team · Updated
The short answer
ADAS stands for advanced driver-assistance systems. When a windscreen with a camera is replaced, the camera may need recalibrating so it aims correctly. Tell us your make, model, year and the features on the vehicle when you book, and we'll explain what your car needs.
Does my car have a windscreen camera?
Look behind the rear-view mirror from outside the car. A black housing with a lens or small window usually means a camera. Common features that rely on it:
- Lane departure warning and lane-keep assist
- Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
- Traffic sign recognition
- Adaptive cruise control (on some models)
- Automatic high beam
Why calibration matters
The camera is set up to look through the glass at a precise angle. A new windscreen sits slightly differently, and the glass itself must match the original's optical quality and bracket position. If the camera is out by even a small amount, safety features may react late, early or not at all.
What to tell us when you book
- Make, model, year and rego
- Which driver-assist features the vehicle has
- Any warning lights currently on the dash
- Whether the screen has a rain sensor, heating or a head-up display
Topic guide
Everything about windscreen replacement
Frequently asked questions
My windscreen has a camera or rain sensor. Does that matter?
Yes — tell us when you book. Screens with lane-assist cameras, rain sensors or heated elements need the matching glass and brackets, and some vehicles need the camera recalibrated after replacement. See our ADAS calibration guide.
Will my lane-keep work straight after a new windscreen?
It depends on the vehicle. Some self-calibrate after a short drive; others need a calibration procedure. We'll tell you what applies to your car.
Does the replacement glass need to be specific to my car?
Yes. Camera-equipped vehicles need glass with the correct bracket and optical area for the camera.
Related pages
Damaged glass? We'll come to you.
Call or text a photo of the damage for a quote. Mon–Fri 7am–5pm, Sat 10am–3pm.
0498 700 798