New car technology can double wreck repair costs

It’s bad enough that new vehicles cost near-record highs. What’s worse is the technology that makes new cars so expensive, in part, also costs twice as much to repair as a car without that technology, according to a new study by AAA.

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), the industry catchall for all those dings, zings and rings that help refocus the distracted driver, can cost up to $3,000 more in repair costs for even a minor fender bender.

“Advanced safety systems are much more common today, with many coming as standard equipment even on base models,” Beth Mosher, director of public affairs for AAA Chicago, said in a statement. “It’s critical that drivers understand what technology their vehicle has, how it performs and how much it could cost to repair should something happen.”

Front radar sensors used for automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control housed in the front fender can cost $900 to $1,300 more to repair, according to AAA. The irony is that those systems are meant to prevent that kind of collision. But dirt and debris, a downed tree branch or any number of human errors can lead to damage.

One of the most common costs is repairing windshield damage. AAA says 14.5 million windshields are replaced annually. Cameras located behind the windshield need recalibration

when the glass is replaced, which is a more sophisticated repair than just replacing sensors. That windshield replacement can cost $1,500, which AAA says is three times more than replacing a windshield on a car without the technology.

With gas prices rising, and the average transaction price up 2 percent from last year to $35,742, according to Kelley Blue Book, the cost of ownership of a new car loaded with ADAS could become prohibitive. AAA recommends checking your insurance policy for the proper coverage to absorb high repair costs, as well as ensuring the deductible is manageable.