Automatic Emergency Braking Will Be Mandatory by 2029: Here’s What You Need to Know
- Joe Adams
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced that by September 1, 2029, all new passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. must come standard with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems. This is a major step toward improving road safety, reducing collisions, and preparing for an increasingly tech-driven automotive future.
At Solon Collision, we’re already seeing the impact of AEB systems in the repair process—and we’re prepared for what’s coming next.
What Is Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)?
Automatic Emergency Braking is an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) that detects potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians ahead and automatically applies the brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of a crash.
Key features include:
Forward collision warning (FCW)
Pedestrian detection
Automatic brake engagement without driver input
AEB systems rely on cameras, radar, and other sensors mounted in critical locations—usually in or near the windshield, grille, or bumper.
The 2029 NHTSA AEB Mandate
The NHTSA rule will require that all new passenger cars and light trucks sold in the U.S. after September 2029 be equipped with AEB that meets strict performance standards, including:
Detecting vehicles and pedestrians in both daylight and darkness
Functioning at speeds up to 62 mph
Automatically applying brakes to avoid or mitigate crashes
Avoiding collisions at speeds up to 50 mph
This move is projected to prevent hundreds of deaths and tens of thousands of injuries each year.
What This Means for Car Owners
If you own a newer vehicle, chances are it already has some form of AEB. But as these systems become more advanced and widespread, post-collision repairs must account for:
Sensor alignment and calibration
OEM-required procedures for testing and verification
Potential hidden damage behind bumpers or windshields
Failing to properly recalibrate AEB after a repair could leave the system unreliable—or completely inoperable.
Why This Matters in the Body Shop
At Solon Collision, we understand how vital these safety systems are. When your vehicle is involved in an accident:
We inspect and test AEB components
We follow OEM guidelines for recalibration
We submit supplements to insurance when calibrations or additional diagnostics are required
We ensure your system is functioning properly before returning your car
Don’t Overlook Safety Tech After a Crash
As the 2029 deadline approaches, AEB will no longer be a luxury feature—it will be the law. And with that comes greater complexity in repairs and diagnostics.
If you’ve been in an accident, even a minor one, trust the experts who know how to handle today’s (and tomorrow’s) safety systems.
📍 Solon Collision
260 Lena Drive, Aurora, OH 44202
📞 440-903-1009
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