Avoiding Downtime: How Fleets Can Take Control of ADAS Repairs

Downtime is the silent killer of fleet efficiency. Whether a vehicle is out of commission for days due to delayed repairs or hours lost waiting for third-party service providers, every minute adds to operational costs. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) further complicate fleet repairs, requiring precise calibration after even minor incidents.

But there’s good news—fleets can avoid extended downtime by bringing ADAS calibrations in-house. Here’s how fleets are tackling the challenge and taking back control.

The Cost of Downtime: A Threat to Fleet Productivity

For fleets, downtime is a direct hit to the bottom line. According to Element Fleet Management– a leading global fleet management company– downtime costs can range from $448 and $760 per day, per vehicle, factoring in lost productivity, rental fees, and delayed service delivery. With ADAS-equipped vehicles, delays often arise from waiting on third-party shops to handle complex calibrations.

• Challenge: Many fleets lack the tools and trained staff to manage ADAS repairs internally, leaving them dependent on external service providers.
• Impact: This dependence extends downtime and inflates repair costs.

Implementing proactive maintenance strategies and investing in in-house ADAS calibration capabilities can help mitigate these costs by reducing reliance on external service providers and minimizing vehicle downtime.

Common Challenges Fleets Face with ADAS Repairs

1. Reliance on Third Parties:
   ADAS calibrations require an investment in equipment and expertise, leading most fleets to outsource these repairs. Third-party schedules and bottlenecks add significant downtime.
2. Complex OEM Requirements:
   ADAS calibrations are specific to vehicle makes and models, requiring adherence to detailed OEM guidelines that many fleets find daunting.
3. Escalating Costs:
   Outsourced ADAS calibrations often cost $300–$600 per service, which can quickly escalate for fleets managing multiple vehicles.

Real-World Success: In-House ADAS Calibration in Action

Case Study: A Regional Delivery Fleet
A mid-sized regional delivery fleet with 50 ADAS-equipped vehicles was struggling with average downtime of 48 hours per vehicle for minor ADAS recalibrations. Frustrated by delays and rising costs, the fleet invested in:

• A calibration kit capable of handling forward-facing cameras and radar systems.
• Training technicians using programs like I-CAR’s ADAS training modules.

The Result:

• Reduced Downtime: The fleet cut average repair time from 48 hours to just 6 hours per vehicle.
• Cost Savings: Annual repair expenses dropped by 35%, saving over $50,000.
• Increased Productivity: Vehicles returned to service faster, minimizing disruptions to delivery schedules.

Steps to Bring ADAS Calibrations In-House

1. Assess Your Fleet’s Needs
• Review the types of ADAS systems your vehicles use and the most common calibration needs (e.g., windshield replacements, bumper repairs).
2. Invest in Equipment
• Equip your shop with essential tools like diagnostic tablets and calibration kits. Brands like Bosch and Autel offer scalable solutions for fleets.
3. Train Your Team
• Ensure technicians receive training on OEM guidelines and calibration techniques through providers like Autel or  I-CAR.
4. Set Up a Dedicated Calibration Space
• Create a controlled environment for static calibrations with proper lighting, level flooring, and minimal distractions. This setup ensures accurate sensor alignment and minimizes errors.
5. Establish a Process
• Develop a standardized workflow for ADAS calibrations, including pre- and post-calibration scans, documentation, and quality assurance checks.
6. Monitor Results
• Track repair times, costs, and calibration success rates to evaluate the ROI of your in-house program. Use fleet management software to streamline tracking and reporting.

The Payoff: Efficiency, Savings, and Safety

By bringing ADAS calibrations in-house, fleets can drastically reduce downtime, cut repair costs, and maintain tighter control over their operations. The shift also ensures vehicles return to the road faster and with properly calibrated systems, reducing liability risks and enhancing overall safety.

Key Benefits of In-House ADAS Calibrations:

• Cost Efficiency: Save thousands annually by eliminating third-party fees.
• Operational Control: Minimize dependency on external providers and reduce delays.
• Improved Safety: Ensure consistent and accurate calibrations that maintain system functionality.

Conclusion: Take Control of ADAS Repairs Today

The complexity of ADAS should not dictate the efficiency of your fleet. By investing in the right tools, training, and processes, fleets can take control of repairs, avoid costly downtime, and boost overall productivity. The result? A safer, more reliable fleet that delivers on time and on budget.

Whether your fleet is just starting to explore ADAS technologies or looking to optimize current repair processes, bringing calibrations in-house is a game-changer. Reach out to learn how your fleet can make the transition smoothly and start reaping the rewards.