As of 2013, all cars must be equipped with an anti-lock brake system or ABS. This secondary brake system helps you steer your vehicle in emergencies and slippery conditions by helping you gain traction of your tires. It essentially prevents the wheels from locking up and skidding. And by preventing a skid will stop your tires from wearing unevenly.
If you seldom drive in snow or rain, you won't know what to foresee when the ABS is activated. When ABS kicks in, your car may vibrate and groan.
However, it is all worth it as it helps decrease stopping distances on slippery and dry roads.
Your car has various sensors on its wheels to recognize when your car's tires are on the edge of locking up. Once these sensors make the recognition, they quickly and repeatedly apply the brakes to keep your tires from skidding.
Furthermore, ABS auto-adjusts the brake fluid pressure in each wheel to maintain excellent brake performance. However, the electronic control unit within the system also has the role of adjusting brake fluid pressure in reaction to changing road conditions.
There are two types of ABS that you should know about: four-wheel and rear-wheel-only. Many newer vehicles come with four-wheel ABS, and they are designed to assist with steering as well. Rear-wheel-only ABS usually are only intended to keep a car from spinning without the additional assistance with handling.
What Are Some Problems With ABS?
While ABS seems like a safety miracle at a glance, the braking system is not prone to problems. Most vehicles with ABS have a dashboard light that will signal you when it malfunctions. If the ABS light is on, it probably means you are dealing with one or more of the following issues:
- Poorly inflated tires
- Worn down tread
- Worn brake linings
- Air or dirt in the brake fluid or lines
- Leaks that decrease braking power
- Dirty or corrupted brake sensors
Now that you have a better understanding of how ABS works, you will better recognize problems that can occur with your car. If you need assistance, feel free to visit Dave's Automotive for a brake check (and ABS repair) today. We are the top choice for auto services in Stockertown, PA!