The increasing use of modern driver assistance systems continually changes the challenges faced by independent workshops. Radar-based assistance systems serve as one example: while their adjustment was the concern of the respective brand workshop until recently, independent workshops with the right equipment can now also easily carry out such work.
The requirements for this are the
CSC Tool
(familiar from camera calibrations) with optional radar attachment, a
mega macs diagnostic unit
, as well as a battery charger.
Our simplified practical example, based on an Audi RS 7, shows the main steps which should be noted during radar adjustment for the Adaptive Cruise Control System (ACC)
The vehicle is placed on a set-up testing station. In addition to the CSC Tool with radar attachment, the mechanic needs a connected battery charger as well as the mega macs diagnostic unit. From the beginning, the mega macs will guide you through the process.
For the radar adjustment, the CSC Tool must be aligned parallel to the front of the vehicle, and to the vehicle's longitudinal axis (in the example, to the rear left wheel bracket).
The vehicle distance to be maintained is – according to the vehicle – specified by the mega macs and must be measured at the designated points (vehicle dependent). The bubble level helps to check the alignment of the CSC Tool.
The Audi RS 7 has two radar sensors which must be aligned one after the other. The mega macs specifies the sequence. Before adjusting, the sensor must be exposed.
The vehicle is now ready for the adjustment of the first sensor.
The radar reflector ( = angle adjustment plate ) has a three-level mounting bracket. It will be aligned in this manner with a positive angle upward ( level 1 ), precisely perpendicular ( level 2 ) or with a tilt downward ( level 3 ). This means that normal driving as well as acceleration and braking processes are taken into account (compare with graphic on the right-hand side).
All three levels have to be set one after the other.
The mega macs will guide you through each process.
If the sensor requires re-adjustment, the mega macs provides precise instructions.
Following successful adjustment of the first sensor, this is shown
For the second sensor, the described steps are carried out in the same way.
Once the second sensor has also been successfully adjusted, the radar functions of the RS 7 can be used optimally again. With confidence!
