Answering Your Questions About ABS
Everyone knows that cars and trucks are complex machines with many moving parts that have to all work together to keep your car running and you safe. A sudden screeching or grinding sound while stopping may lead some drivers to believe they’re in immediate danger, or that something is very wrong with their vehicle. Fortunately, this isn’t always the case. It may simply be the Anti-lock Braking System! To help you better understand your vehicle, the ASE-certified technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive in Alamo Heights, TX are answering your questions about ABS.
WHAT DOES ABS STAND FOR, AND WHAT DOES IT DO?
ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System. Anti-lock brakes are designed to keep your car from skidding, and to help drivers maintain steering control. ABS uses electronic controls and sensors to manage braking force during hard braking. The system engages when the driver steps on the brakes firmly without pumping the brakes.
DOES ABS HELP ME STOP FASTER?
ABS is designed to help drivers maintain control of the vehicle during an emergency braking situation, not make the car stop more quickly. However, there is a slight difference in stopping distance on wet or slippery roads. Hitting a bump, crossing railroad tracks, or traveling across any slick surface while braking can also cause a wheel to stop turning and the ABS to engage. During these situations, West Texas drivers tend to release brake pressure, resulting in longer stopping distances.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN REAR-WHEEL ABS AND FOUR-WHEEL ABS?
All ABS are very similar in the way that they control brake pressure. However, some prevent only the rear wheels from locking up, while others prevent all the wheels from locking. As the name suggests, rear-wheel ABS, keeps your back wheels from locking while four-wheel ABS prevents any of your four wheels from locking up.
Rear-wheel ABS is usually used found in pickups and sport-utility vehicles, whereas four-wheel ABS designed for cars and minivans. If you have a pickup or SUV, check your owner’s manual to see which ABS you have.
WHY IS MY ABS LIGHT ON?
There are quite a few reasons as to why your ABS light may be on, including:
- Damaged wheel sensor
- Broken/missing wheel sensor signals
- Damaged or dirty tone ring
- Malfunctioning pump motor
- Loss of power assist
- ABS pump keeps running
If you’re noticing any trouble with your anti-lock braking system or any other part of your brake system, trust the experts in Alamo Heights auto repair! Call the friendly professionals at Christian Brothers Automotive Alamo Heights to schedule an appointment today. See the nice difference!
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