Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Systems Installation Checklist

Introduction

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems are advanced safety technologies that automatically apply vehicle brakes when an imminent collision is detected. Installing these systems in commercial fleet vehicles significantly reduces the risk of crashes, minimizes collision severity, and helps meet evolving safety regulations. This comprehensive installation checklist helps fleet managers, technicians, and safety officers ensure proper AEB system implementation, compatibility, and functionality.

Following this detailed installation process not only ensures regulatory compliance with NHTSA and FMCSA recommendations but also enhances driver and public safety, reduces liability risks, and potentially lowers insurance costs. This checklist covers all critical aspects of AEB system installation, including vehicle compatibility assessment, hardware mounting, sensor calibration, system integration, and comprehensive testing protocols.

Installation Information

Pro Tips for Successful AEB Installation

  • Manufacturer Specific Guidelines: Always prioritize the AEB system manufacturer's installation guidelines over generic instructions. Each system has unique requirements that must be followed precisely.
  • Diagnostic Tools: Ensure you have the correct diagnostic tools and software versions before beginning installation. Many systems require manufacturer-specific scanners for proper setup and calibration.
  • Clean Work Environment: Maintain a clean, well-lit workspace. Dust and debris can damage sensitive electronic components and affect sensor calibration accuracy.
  • Document Everything: Take detailed photographs before, during, and after installation to document the process for warranty claims, insurance requirements, and future reference.

Pre-Installation Assessment

Required Tools & Equipment

Component Preparation

Sensor Installation

Wiring & Electrical Integration

Control Module Installation

Brake System Integration

User Interface Installation

System Programming & Calibration

System Testing

Detailed Installation Procedures

Follow these specialized procedures when installing Automatic Emergency Braking systems in commercial vehicles. Always adapt these general guidelines to match your specific AEB system manufacturer's instructions.

Radar/Lidar Sensor Mounting

  • Identify the optimal mounting location (typically bumper or grille area)
  • Ensure mounting surface is clean, structurally sound, and flat
  • Drill mounting holes according to template provided by manufacturer
  • Apply anti-corrosion treatment to any exposed metal surfaces
  • Mount sensor using manufacturer-specified hardware and torque values
  • Verify sensor orientation angle using digital inclinometer

Forward Camera Installation

  • Mount camera at specified position on windshield (typically near rearview mirror)
  • Clean windshield mounting area thoroughly with alcohol-based cleaner
  • Apply bracket using manufacturer-approved adhesive if specified
  • Ensure camera lens is unobstructed by windshield tint or debris
  • Route wiring through headliner to avoid visible cables
  • Verify camera angle is within specification using calibration tools

System Calibration Process

  • Park vehicle on level surface in appropriate calibration area
  • Set up calibration targets at manufacturer-specified distances
  • Connect diagnostic tool and initiate calibration sequence
  • Follow on-screen prompts to complete static calibration
  • Perform dynamic calibration during test drive if required
  • Verify calibration success through diagnostic tool confirmation

System Verification Testing

  • Conduct initial stationary test of sensor detection capability
  • Perform low-speed moving object detection test in controlled environment
  • Verify warning alerts activate at appropriate distances
  • Test automatic braking function using manufacturer-approved methods
  • Verify system deactivation and override capabilities
  • Document test results for warranty and compliance purposes

Installation Progress

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Installation Notes & Issues

Maintenance & Troubleshooting Guidelines

After successfully installing an Automatic Emergency Braking system, implement these maintenance and troubleshooting protocols to ensure long-term system reliability and performance.

Regular Maintenance Tasks

  • Clean radar/lidar sensor surface monthly (more frequently in adverse conditions)
  • Inspect wiring connections every 3 months for secure attachment
  • Check camera lens clarity and position monthly
  • Verify system operation using diagnostic tool quarterly
  • Recheck sensor calibration after any front-end work or alignment

Common Troubleshooting Steps

  • For "System Unavailable" warnings, check sensor cleanliness first
  • Address any vehicle trouble codes before AEB-specific codes
  • Verify power and ground integrity when system is non-responsive
  • Re-calibrate system after persistent false alerts
  • Check for software updates if experiencing known system issues

When to Recalibrate System

  • After windshield replacement (for camera-based systems)
  • Following any front-end collision or repair
  • When suspension or alignment work is performed
  • If bumper or grille modifications are made
  • When persistent false alarms or missed detections occur

Driver Familiarization

  • Explain system capabilities and limitations to all drivers
  • Demonstrate warning signals and what they indicate
  • Train on proper response to system alerts
  • Show how to temporarily disable system when appropriate
  • Explain importance of keeping sensors clean and unobstructed

Conclusion

Implementing this comprehensive Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Systems Installation Checklist ensures proper integration of these critical safety technologies into your commercial vehicle fleet. By methodically following each installation step, fleet managers and technicians can maximize system effectiveness, minimize downtime, and provide drivers with reliable collision avoidance capabilities.

For optimal AEB system installation management, consider implementing the FleetRabbit APP to streamline your safety technology deployments. The FleetRabbit platform allows digital documentation of AEB installations, provides real-time tracking of installation progress across your fleet, and creates comprehensive records for regulatory compliance and insurance documentation. With the FleetRabbit software, fleet managers can easily monitor which vehicles have AEB systems installed, track calibration schedules, and ensure all safety technologies are properly maintained.

Make AEB system installation a seamless part of your fleet safety program with the FleetRabbit software's comprehensive technology management solution. Whether for regulatory compliance, insurance requirements, or operational safety, this digital approach significantly improves installation quality, documentation, and long-term system reliability while reducing administrative burden on maintenance personnel and fleet safety officers.

Access the digital version of this checklist through the FleetRabbit APP

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