A customer brings in a Ford F-150 equipped with cutting-edge Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for repair. They’re relying on you to ensure these safety features work perfectly, from lane-keeping assistance to collision avoidance systems. Without the right certification, tools, and training, your shop might not meet their expectations—or Ford’s requirements. But here’s the good news: Ford’s ADAS certification program is your ticket to becoming a trusted name in advanced vehicle calibrations. This certification not only ensures you meet Ford’s high standards, but it also puts you on the map as an approved ADAS calibration provider. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about achieving Ford’s ADAS certification—from essential training and tools to the registration process and the business benefits of certification.
Understanding the Ford Certified Collision Network Certification
Ford’s Certification Program is a comprehensive accreditation that repair facilities can obtain to meet OEM standards for structural repairs, refinishing, and ADAS calibrations.
However, it’s important to distinguish between the full Ford Certified Collision Network Certification and ADAS calibration certification.
The full Ford Certified Collision Network Certification covers:
- Structural repair capabilities: This includes frame straightening and other repair procedures to ensure the vehicle’s structure meets OEM standards.
- Welding and refinishing standards: Ford requires that all body shops meet specific welding standards and use approved refinishing materials and techniques.
- OEM-approved parts and repair methods: To maintain the vehicle’s safety features and performance, Ford requires the use of genuine OEM parts and repair methods.
- ADAS calibration capabilities: This includes the necessary equipment and training to perform accurate ADAS calibrations on Ford vehicles.
The ADAS Calibration Certification is one component of the larger Ford Certified Collision Network Certification, but it can also stand alone for shops specializing in calibration services.
If your shop only wants to perform ADAS calibrations, you do not need the full Ford Certified Collision Network Certification —but you must meet Ford’s strict requirements for calibration centers.
Differences Between Certified Collision Centers and Calibration Providers
As ADAS technology becomes more advanced, repair facilities have two primary paths:
Ford-Certified Collision Centers
These facilities are full-service collision centers that meet Ford’s strict repair standards. They must be equipped to handle everything from frame repairs to ADAS recalibrations. In order to become certified, a body shop must meet all of Ford’s criteria.
Standalone ADAS Calibration Centers
These facilities focus solely on ADAS calibrations and do not perform traditional collision repairs. They must meet Ford’s ADAS certification standards, including specialized tools, training, and a controlled calibration environment.
Shops that want full certified collision repair capabilities should pursue Ford Certified Collision Network Certification, while those focused only on ADAS should apply for ADAS Calibration Certification separately.
Key Ford Certification Requirements
Ford has strict certification requirements for ADAS calibration providers to ensure precise and reliable calibrations.
ADAS Calibration Certification Requirements
To qualify for Ford’s ADAS Calibration Certification, shops must meet the following equipment, training, and facility requirements:
OEM-Approved Training
- Technicians must complete Ford-approved ADAS calibration courses through recognized training programs such as I-CAR Ford OEM Training.
- Training covers static and dynamic calibration procedures for all Ford ADAS features.
- Shops must provide continuing education to keep technicians updated on new ADAS technologies.
Specialized Calibration Equipment
- OEM-Specified Calibration Targets: Each Ford model requires specific targets and patterns for proper sensor alignment.
- Ford Diagnostic & Repair Software (FDRS): This software allows technicians to access OEM data, reset ADAS systems, and verify calibrations.
- Ford Software Home Page – FDRSSupport – FordServiceInfo.Com
- ADAS-Approved Alignment Racks: Proper wheel alignment is critical for accurate ADAS calibrations.
Controlled Calibration Environment
- Lighting conditions must be precise: Ford requires even lighting with minimal shadows or reflections to prevent sensor interference.
- Flat, level floors: Any slope or uneven surface can cause misalignment in camera or radar calibrations.
- No external interference: The workspace must be isolated from radio signals, vibrations, or nearby moving objects that could impact sensor accuracy.
Ford Certified Collision Network Certification Requirements (Beyond ADAS)
For shops pursuing the full Ford Certified Collision Network Certification, additional requirements include:
- OEM-Approved Repair Equipment for structural repairs.
- Welding and Frame Measuring Systems that meet Ford’s repair tolerances.
- Access to Genuine Ford Parts to ensure OEM-quality repairs.
While ADAS certification is a large component, full certification is necessary for shops wanting to offer comprehensive collision repairs.
Registering for the Ford ADAS Certification Program
Once your shop meets Ford’s training, equipment, and facility requirements, the next step is registration.
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure your shop meets:
- Ford’s ADAS calibration equipment standards
- Ford-approved technician training
- Facility requirements, including workspace design
Step 2: Complete Ford ADAS Training
Enroll your technicians in Ford’s ADAS calibration training program. Ford offers courses through:
- I-CAR OEM Training
- Ford Service Training Programs
- Partnered ADAS Training Centers
Step 3: Acquire the Required Equipment
Your shop must purchase Ford-approved calibration tools, including:
- Static calibration targets
- OEM scan tools
- Digital measurement systems
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Register through Ford’s official certification portal.
- Submit documentation of training completion and equipment compliance.
- If the OEM training takes place at I-CAR, they will send the transcripts to Entegral.
Step 5: Certification Approval
Once Ford verifies compliance and you become approved, your shop will be listed as a Ford-Certified ADAS Calibration Provider.
By following these steps, your shop can become certified to offer comprehensive ADAS repairs and help keep Ford vehicles safe on the road. In addition to meeting Ford’s standards, it is important for shops to stay current with changing technology and continuously train technicians to provide the best possible repairs for their customers.
Benefits of Becoming an Approved ADAS Calibration Provider
Why should you invest the time and resources to become an approved ADAS Calibration Provider for Ford vehicles? Here are a few benefits:
Access to Ford’s Certified Collision Repair Network: Becoming a certified ADAS calibration provider for Ford can open doors to new business opportunities. As part of the Certified Centers program, your shop will be listed as an approved facility for Ford repairs.
Certified shops receive direct referrals from:
- Ford dealerships
- Insurance companies
- Fleet management providers
Increased Revenue & Customer Retention: ADAS calibrations are high-value services. As vehicles become more advanced, demand for certified calibration services will continue to grow. By becoming an approved ADAS Calibration Provider, your shop can offer a highly specialized and in-demand service that will attract new customers and increase revenue.
Compliance with OEM & Insurance Standards: Many insurers only reimburse ADAS calibrations performed by certified facilities. Ford certification ensures compliance with insurance and manufacturer repair standards.
Future-Proofing Your Business: ADAS systems are becoming mandatory on all new vehicles. By obtaining Ford ADAS certification, your shop is positioned for long-term success in the evolving automotive repair industry.
By putting in the work to become an approved ADAS Calibration Provider for Ford, your shop can gain a competitive edge and position itself as a leader in the industry. You will have access to specialized technician training and support from Ford, as well as marketing opportunities through their Certified Collision Network.
Car ADAS can Help You Obtain the FCCN ADAS Certification
Securing your Ford ADAS certification is more than just meeting industry standards. By investing in the right training, tools, and processes, you can position your shop as a leader in ADAS calibrations, earning trust from customers and referrals from within the FCCN network. With Car ADAS Solutions, this process becomes even more accessible. As a Car ADAS Solutions licensee, you already have a head start, benefiting from hands-on training and support designed to help you achieve certification efficiently. Beyond certification, Car ADAS can empower your business with the tools and expertise to grow your calibration services, expand your reach, and stay ahead of the competition. If you are interested in opening a calibration center or obtaining certifications as a current licensee, contact us today.
