Trying to wrap my pea-sized brain around the whole camera re-calibration thing. I can understand the need if the vehicle battery is left installed. And I get it - the camera needs to be installed in a very precise location. But is there really that much room for error?
So I did some searching, and it looks like some are suggesting a re-calibration anytime the vehicle has an alignment done. Anytime tire size is changed - larger or smaller. Anytime suspension parts, like springs/struts/shocks are changed. Yet somehow you can hook up a trailer, squat the rear to the ground, pointing the camera to the sky and all is well.
It gets worse. Side mirror mounted 360° around view cameras. Adjust the alignment of the door hinges and/or striker or catch mechanisms - re-calibrate system. Scratch an outside mirror housing and a body shop removes it to paint - re-calibrate. Remove the door panel to change speakers and accidentally unplug the camera harness - boom! Re-calibrating.
Yet on other Ford forums I follow, owners are adding front camera (obstacle detection, traffic sign recognition, parallel park assist, 180° display, adaptive cruise, etc) and are installing 100% DIY. Using FORScan and never a trip to the dealer.
Is this yet another dealer/mfg gotcha or is there really a genuine need?