The ABS warning light is part of an entire system known as the anti-lock braking system. An important standard safety feature in most vehicles, they help you stop safely when there’s an emergency or the road is slippery. They do this by preventing your vehicle’s wheels from locking up and causing you to skid when the brakes are applied hard and quickly.
How does the anti-lock braking system work?
Speed sensors, valves, a pump and a controller make up the anti-lock braking system. When you are driving, the controller is continually receiving signals from the speed sensors. Basically, it’s looking for any abnormalities, like that which occurs when you have to stop abruptly. When a rapid deceleration occurs, like when you “slam” on the brakes, the controller reduces brake pressure until the point the sensors identify an acceleration. This allows the tires to slow down at the same rate of your car so you can continue to steer while stopping and the wheels don’t lock up. You may have noticed a “pulsing” feeling when applying the brakes really hard. This is the ABS at work.
As mentioned, the ABS keeps the wheels from locking up when you have to stop abruptly. You may have noticed it from time to time – it feels like a “pulsing” sensation when you apply the brake pedal harder than usual. This part of the braking system allows you to stop faster while also giving you the ability to steer while you stop. But how does it know when a wheel is going to lock up? Speed sensors, valves, a pump and a controller all work together. The controller is constantly checking the output from the speed sensors to see if there are any decelerations that are out of the ordinary. When it notices a rapid deceleration (like when you have to slam on the brakes), the controller reduces brake pressure until it identifies an acceleration. All this technology works together to slow the tires down at the same rate of your car.
Answers to some frequently asked questions about the ABS warning light
We get it – dashboard lights can be confusing. The owner’s manual for your vehicle will explain what each means. Here’s some basic information on the ABS warning light:
Q. What is the ABS warning light?
A. The computer in your vehicle does a power-on self-test every time you turn the key in the ignition. During the self-test, you will see that all the lights on your dashboard light on and then go out. If the computer identifies a problem with a system, the light will remain on. In the case of the ABS warning light, it’s alerting you to the fact that the anti-lock braking system is non-functioning. You will not have the benefit of the anti-lock feature of your braking system available to you if you have to stop quickly.
Q. What if it comes on and stays on while I’m driving?
A. If the warning light comes on while you are driving, it’s telling you that the ABS is not working. You are still able to apply the brakes and stop. You just won’t have the benefit of the anti-lock feature. In most cases, the light will go off the next time you start your vehicle. If it doesn’t bring it to our auto repair shop located in Wallington, New Jersey. The certified technicians at Car Kings will go through some diagnostic test to identify the problem and will get the ABS fixed for you.
Q. Can I safely drive my vehicle when the ABS warning light is on?
A. Yes. However, as mentioned previously, you will not have the anti-lock capabilities on your brakes which could be dangerous in a situation when you are trying to avoid an accident. Important to note is this – If the ABS warning light is on along with the brake warning light, there is something seriously wrong with your vehicle’s braking system. Stop your vehicle safely and call for a tow.
Helpful tips on driving with anti-lock brakes
Feeling that pulsing sensation when you apply the brakes can be somewhat scary, especially if you don’t know what’s happening and what to expect. The National Safety Council has some helpful tips for driving with ABS. You can click here to download and read their information sheet “Tips for Driving with ABS (Anti-Lock Brake Systems).”
If you are concerned about your vehicle’s braking system in any way, have us check it for you right away. We will conduct an entire brake inspection and will let you know if we find something that needs to be replaced or repaired. Schedule an appointment for brake repair with Car Kings in Wallington, NJ today.