What is ABS?
Unsure what ABS is and want to know more? You’ve come to the right place.
You’ll learn:
- What does ABS stand for?
- How does ABS work?
- Does my car have ABS?
- Why has the ABS warning light come on the dashboard?
What does ABS stand for
ABS means anti-lock braking system. It’s an anti-lock braking system that automatically engages & disengages the brakes at high speeds to help regain traction when it detects the car is skidding, giving you more control over your vehicle.
How does ABS work
The functionality of an anti-lock braking system revolves around the car's ECU (electronic control unit), often referred to as its "brain”. This ECU is linked to speed sensors installed on each wheel.
When one of these sensors detects a significantly lower speed compared to the others, the system assumes that the wheel is on the verge of locking up. When this happens, the system steps in by momentarily releasing the braking force and quickly reapplying it so that the wheel can regain traction.
This process happens approximately 15 times per second until the ABS knows that traction has been restored and that you have full control of the vehicle again.
Should the ABS engage while you're driving, you'll experience a distinct sensation transmitted through the brake pedal. It will pulsate rapidly, accompanied by the audible indication of the ABS system engaging in a rapid cycle of pump activation and deactivation.
Does my car have ABS
After 2004, all cars in Europe have to have ABS. It is fitted as standard to all cars produced after this date. However, some cars were fitted with this system before 2004, so the best way to find out if your car has ABS is check your owner’s manual.
The ABS warning light has come on the dashboard…
When starting your car (if it has ABS) the light will come on and then go off. If the ABS light remains on, this indicates that there is an issue with the system. This will more than likely have deactivated the ABS system and will not automatically assist you in braking, should you skid. You’lll still be able to drive the car but it’s not advisable.
One thing to note, your car's MOT test will fail if the light remains on.
If the light remains on after starting your car, it will need to be seen by a mechanic as soon as possible. Contact us online today or visit us in branch and speak to a member of the service team who will be happy to help.
