by Bob Beranek

Cadillac has developed one of the most sophisticated collision-avoidance systems in the industry called Intelligent Collision Avoidance System (ICAS). This is an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), and while it is sophisticated, it is the easiest to deal with as an automotive glass technician.

The Cadillac ICAS is a number of systems that work together to avoid minor collisions and lessen the damage in a more severe collision. The system includes:

·       Full-speed range adaptive cruise control

·       Front and rear “virtual bumpers”

·       Intelligent-brake assist 

·       Brake pre-fill feature

·       Forward-collision alert 

·       Autonomous collision mitigation braking

·       Lane-departure warning 

 

·       Side blind-zone alert 

·       Rear cross-traffic alert 

·       Adaptive forward lighting and Intellibeam headlamp control 

·       Adaptive brake lights 

·       Rear vision camera with dynamic guidelines

·       Hill hold/start assist

 

 

For an interesting article that explains the features above, click here.

According to the article:

“Radars, vision and ultrasonic sensors in the vehicle are constantly analyzing data and working together to determine if a crash may be imminent,” said Charles Green, the driver performance specialist responsible for the development of the driver-assist package technologies. “Based on these calculations, the vehicle can automatically brake to avoid a crash or reduce impact speed, and if necessary, can apply the vehicle’s maximum braking capability.”

Now you tell me, how can a system like the one described above, using multiple methods of collecting data and combining that information to accomplish 13 different actions, not require calibration? Good old fashioned American ingenuity I guess.

My local Cadillac service manager, quoting from the service manual, says there is no need to recalibrate the system for normal windshield replacement as long as the camera is mounted properly. The only need for calibration is if the camera itself is replaced.

He adds, “There is an indicator light that should blink and go off once the camera is mounted correctly.”

He also notes that the vehicle may need a road test to check the system. The vehicle will need to be driven on a well-marked roadway with a centerline and lane line.

I recently read that these Cadillacs must be driven at 45 mph on a well-marked highway and continue to be driven until the light goes from an amber color to green. This is a variation in criteria from the service manual I saw (from light illumination ending to a color change). However, there may be differences due to model or year of the vehicle, so be sure to check the manual for the car you are working on.

I would highly recommend that the technician check the lights before and after installation and see if the light indicator proves proper operation. If not, drive the vehicle at 45 mph on a nearby highway and see if that will self-calibrate the system. Also remember that the system can be turned off and on by the driver so make sure it is activated before checking operation.

This installation is one that is easier to deal with than some of the others because a third party is not necessary to complete the installation. Yes, the camera is windshield mounted. And, yes, it is a sophisticated safety system; however, recalibration is not necessary unless the lights indicate improper operation. If the light does not change color or go out completely, take the vehicle to the nearest dealer for troubleshooting.

See, there is some good news once in a while.