Anti-lock Braking System

There are many systems that are incorporated in cars for preventing road accidents and other mishaps. Every system has its own characteristics, way of handling, and problems. One such system that is installed in cars is the anti-lock braking system, which is also referred to as just ABS in general. Considering ABS statistics, this technology has proven to preclude many car accidents involving other automobiles or only the car itself. If we look at the ABS history, it was first developed to be used in airplanes. It was used for planes in the 1950s, after which it became common in cars and motorcycles in the 1980s

What is Anti-lock Braking System

This is a setup that is installed in cars, which allows proper car control during heavy braking. After many road tests and proven records of this system preventing road accidents, ABS has become standard in automobiles manufactured today. If you apply the brakes suddenly on a car that is not equipped with ABS, the car tends to spin, and you may lose control. ABS prevents the wheels from locking up, so the vehicle does not skid and the driver does not lose directional control. This system is a lot beneficial in times when you have to stop the car suddenly on slippery roads covered with water or snow.

Operating Anti-lock Braking System

In conventional braking systems, you have to pump the brakes manually to avoid wheel lockup. Whereas in ABS, you just have to press down on the brake pedal firmly. The technology in the system will do the wheel unlocking and braking job for you. When you apply brakes on a car with ABS, you will hear a grinding or a buzzing noise or may feel the pedal shaking. This simply means that the brakes are doing their job. With not giving much attention to the brake pedal during a panic stop, you can pay attention to steering the car to a safe location.

Anti-lock Brake System Troubleshooting

As this system is mechanical, you may face some problems. One of the components is the speed sensors. If the ABS light turns on, then probably a dirty wheel speed sensor is the problem. As the sensor is magnetic, it might attract metal particles, causing the signals to weaken. In this situation, you will have to clean the system assembly. For proper functioning of ABS, you need to change the brake fluid at recommended intervals. If the ABS is not working efficiently or there is premature lockup, the issue may lie in improper wheel diameter. Many car owners change standard tires with sporty ones, which may conflict with the functioning of ABS.

If you have any doubts regarding troubleshooting ABS, it is recommended to take your vehicle to a reputed car repair shop to get the perfect solution. ABS functions best when you apply brakes in the appropriate manner.