What to do when the ABS light comes on?

Lights on the dashboard and unusual behavior of the car when braking are usually signs of a malfunction. It is most likely a faulty ABS sensor. This simple element is an important component of all car security systems. But keep calm, because the car can recover quickly. We suggest what to do then.

What role do the ABS system and sensor play?

The role of ABS is to recognize wheel lock and prevent wheel lock when braking. At this point, the system immediately checks how hard the brake pedal has been pressed and cuts off brake fluid pressure from the blocked caliper for a fraction of a second. He then checks to see if the wheel has begun to unlock and restores the pressure in the wheel system to its previous level. 

Thanks to the smooth operation of the ABS system, the vehicle also stabilizes when braking. This system ensures that the wheels do not lock up, and also makes it easier to drive in difficult conditions - on slippery surfaces, you can change the direction of movement thanks to the effective ABS system.

In turn, the ABS sensor is used to inform you that the wheel is locked. In most vehicles, this is a magnetic sensor located on the rack next to the wheel bearing. The sprocket rotates with the wheel, the sensor receives a pulse as each tooth passes through it. In this way, the ABS system receives accurate information about the speed of rotation of the wheels of the car.

What to do if the ABS sensor fails?

Failure of the ABS sensor means that the vehicle cannot correct the braking force correctly. Then the whole system stops working, i.e. all wheels are braked with the same force. However, the front must take on as much as 65-70% of the braking force so that it is not thrown from behind. It is necessary and urgent to replace the faulty ABS sensor or clean it if it is dirty. You can do it yourself or drive to a workshop that offers computer diagnostics of the car.

More information about the ABS system can be found here: https://qservicecastrol.eu/avaria-czujnika-abs-co-robic/