Do You Need ADAS Calibration After a Wheel Alignment?
Why changing the thrust line can change what the sensors see.
How alignment affects ADAS
Forward cameras and radar are aimed relative to the vehicle's thrust line — the direction the rear wheels push the car. An alignment that changes the thrust angle, or suspension work that changes ride height, changes where the sensors point relative to the direction of travel.
The result can be lane-keeping that pulls toward one side, adaptive cruise that tracks the wrong vehicle, or emergency braking that reacts late — often without a warning light.
What OEMs typically require
Requirements vary by make and model. Many vehicles require a steering angle sensor (SAS) reset or relearn after an alignment, and many OEM procedures call for camera and/or radar calibration after alignment, suspension repair, or any change to ride height.
Because the requirement differs by vehicle, the only safe rule is to check the OEM repair information every time rather than relying on a general rule of thumb.
- Steering angle sensor reset / relearn
- Forward camera calibration
- Front radar aiming or calibration
- Rear / blind-spot radar checks after rear suspension work
Sequencing matters
Calibration should be done after the alignment is complete and within spec — calibrating first and aligning afterwards can undo the calibration. Tire pressure, fuel level, and vehicle load should also be set per the OEM procedure before calibrating.
Frequently asked questions
- Does every alignment require ADAS calibration?
- No. It depends on the vehicle and on how much the alignment changed. Check the OEM procedure; many vehicles require at least a steering angle sensor reset.
- Should calibration be done before or after alignment?
- After. The alignment has to be in spec first, because the sensors are calibrated relative to the vehicle's thrust line.