Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) Maintenance

Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) Maintenance

| By: Christian Brothers Automotive

These ABS systems were developed for airplanes and speed bikes. By the eighties, they were publicly available in passenger cars, trucks and motorcycles. They are necessary on many commercial vehicles.

ABS Behind the Wheel

On older brake systems, pressing on the pedal prevented the wheels from turning entirely, no matter what. With modern brakes and stability which are often combined, your wheels won’t lock when you brake fast. The pedal might pulse underfoot, though, as the automobile stops.

These systems have to do with how much pressure the valves release to the master cylinder, and usually only work at high speeds. When it is on, a light should turn on near the check engine light.

ABS Driving Tips

  • Don’t get sloppy or start taking risks. While you have reduced of crashing, it’s not armor. You are still your first line of defense against a crash.
  • Don’t pump your brakes when coming to a hard stop. You need to let the brakes take care of it. In fact, never pump your ABS brakes unless you’re performing a system flush.
  • Try not to turn your steering wheel suddenly during an emergency stop. With older cars, this could have prevented a crash. But with modern ABS systems, steer purposefully in the direction you want to go in any situation.
  • Be cautious on gravel, loose sand and snow. These brakes are great for low-traction areas, but it can increase stopping distance and cut effectiveness in some instances.

ABS Maintenance & Repair

First things first, make sure you are informed about your vehicle. Check your owner’s manual and look for the amber light on your dash panel.If your ABS light is on when you aren’t braking, it needs attention. You can investigate the:

  • Fuses
  • Brake lining
  • Brake fluid level
  • Brake system cleanliness

If that doesn’t turn off the light or if you see other issues, you will probably want to appeal to technology and may need a brake system flush. You could also want to check your sensors, and check for other problems.

We Would Love to Help

At Christian Brothers of Castle Rock, CO we have dealer-grade diagnostic equipment, and we update our specs daily. Contact us by calling the office or driving to our shop by clicking on the map on the left hand side of this page.

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