5 important things to know about your car's anti-lock braking system (ABS)

Most new cars are equipped with an anti-lock braking system, also known as ABS. ABS helps prevent the vehicle from skidding and helps the driver maintain control when braking. Here…

Most new cars are equipped with an anti-lock braking system, also known as ABS. ABS helps prevent the vehicle from skidding and helps the driver maintain control when braking.

Here are the 5 most important things to know about the ABS system in your vehicle:

How to apply the brakes

When you are in a non-emergency situation, you simply apply the brakes as you normally would and the car will stop normally. However, when you are in an emergency and need to stop as quickly as possible, you should apply the brakes as quickly and hard as possible - don't pump the brakes.

Difference between rear and four wheel ABS

Rear wheel ABS is commonly used on vans, SUVs and trucks. This helps to keep the vehicle more stable when stopped and prevents it from slipping sideways. Four-wheel anti-lock braking systems are often used on passenger cars and some small trucks. This type of system still allows the driver to steer the vehicle while the brakes are fully applied.

Where to find ABS brake fluid

In most vehicles, brake fluid is located in the ABS master cylinder. You can check the fluid level the same way you would in a car without ABS: just look through the transparent brake fluid reservoir to make sure the fluid is between the minimum and maximum level marks.

ABS improves braking performance more than braking speed

A car with a good ABS system is usually able to stop somewhat faster than cars without it. However, the purpose of these systems is to give the driver more control over the vehicle during hard braking maneuvers.

How to know if ABS is working

In normal driving, you will not notice the difference between conventional braking and ABS. Only under hard braking will the system work. At this point, you may notice a change in the feel of the brakes. They may vibrate and press against your foot, or the pedal may fall to the floor. You may hear a grinding sound when you apply the brakes; this is a sign that the system is working properly.

Anti-lock braking systems help make driving safer and provide more efficient braking with less effort on the road. If you suspect any problems with the anti-lock system in your car, have a mechanic, for example from AvtoTachki, inspect it at your home or office as soon as you can.