Detects when wheels are locking under hard braking and rapidly releases brake pressure to that wheel to maintain steering control.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is a car safety feature that helps prevent the wheels from locking up during braking. It is designed to improve vehicle control and stability when braking on slippery or uneven road surfaces.
ABS is a common feature in modern cars and is highly recommended for its effectiveness in preventing accidents. When you apply the brakes in a car equipped with ABS, the system automatically modulates the brake pressure to each wheel. This allows the wheels to maintain traction with the road, preventing them from skidding or locking up.
ABS is particularly useful in situations where sudden or hard braking is required, such as when encountering an obstacle on the road or during emergency stops. It helps you maintain steering control while reducing the risk of losing control of the vehicle.
As a UK driver, it is important to be familiar with ABS and understand how it works. When driving a car with ABS, you may feel a pulsating sensation or hear a rapid clicking noise from the brake pedal when the system is activated. This is completely normal and indicates that the ABS is functioning properly.
Remember that ABS is not a substitute for safe driving practices, such as maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles and adjusting your speed to the road conditions. However, having ABS installed in your car can significantly improve your ability to brake safely and avoid accidents, especially in challenging driving conditions commonly experienced in the UK, such as wet or icy roads.