What are ADAS and what types of ADAS are there?

Many drivers are familiar with driver assistance technologies like anti-locking brakes, electronic stability control and reverse parking sensors. In contrast to these, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems usually refer to more advanced functions.

You should always be prepared for the fact that ADAS may surprise you in some situations by affecting steering or increasing your car’s speed or braking, for example. 

Keep in mind that as the driver, you are always ultimately responsible for driving your car, and ADAS are only meant to assist you! 

In the ADAS – invisible driver assistant video series, we take a look at Advanced Driver Assistance Systems that have gained in popularity in the last 5–10 years and are widely used today. 

What types of ADAS are there?

The Advanced Driver Assistance Systems in cars vary by the year of manufacture and trim level of the car. 

Various types of ADAS have been available for cars for a long time. Though ADAS were initially only offered for expensive executive cars, as the relevant technologies have become more common and costs have come down, they have also become available for more affordable cars. The proliferation of systems that improve traffic safety has also been promoted by designating some of them as mandatory equipment on cars.

Familiarise yourself with your car’s manual and systems

The Advanced Driver Assistance Systems found in your car are detailed in its manual. Your car’s manual covers all the systems available for your car model, including ones that your particular car might lack. The manual contains clear instructions and warnings for each system. In addition to this, the manual details the conditions under which the systems may not function correctly. 

How to use your car’s manual to determine which systems your car is equipped with: 

1. Have a look at the operating system menus. You can often adjust the functioning of ADAS through the menus.
2. Go over your vehicle’s driving controls and instrumentation and familiarise yourself with the switches and controls of ADAS. 
3. Familiarise yourself with the system’s tell-tales, signal sounds and the warnings displayed by the system. 

You should also learn where the sensors and cameras of your car’s ADAS are located. The systems will not function if the sensors or cameras are dirty, but luckily your car will usually warn you via the instrument panel if this is the case. If some of your car’s ADAS are not currently functioning, be sure to take this into account in the way you drive!

Many ADAS turn on automatically when the car is started, as they are meant to make driving safer. As a general rule, you should keep all of your car’s ADAS on at all times.