Antilock brakes are one of the most
significant advances in braking technology. Vehicles equiped with
antilock brakes can stop in much shorter distances than vehicles
with traditional brakes. What's more, antilock brakes allow a driver
to maintain vehicle control under severe braking conditions and
steer around obstacles. Antilock brakes began appearing on vehicles
in the late 80's and early 90's. Nearly all new cars sold have anti-lock
brakes as standard equipment. Chances are your vehicle has anti-lock
brakes. However, according to AAA surveys, 50% of people are unaware
of how anti-lock brakes and traditional brakes differ.
How
ABS works:
A sensor located at each wheel detects
when the wheel stops turning and starts to skid. As soon as the
skid is detected, the anti-lock system relieves the pressure just
enough to allow the wheel to turn again. This allows you to steer
while you continue to bring the vehicle to a stop.
ABS Facts:
Most braking occurs when braking
wheels maintain traction. A skidding vehicle will more distance
to stop.
A skidding wheel has no directional
control. a wheel can skid sideways just as easily as it can forward.
Driving with ABS:
If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes
(ABS), brake using steady firm pedal pressure. Do not pump the brakes.
On slippery surfaces, if you push on the brakes hard enough to make
the wheels lock-up momentarily, you will typically feel the brake
pedal pulse back against your foot. Don't let up, its the brake
system modulating pressure to the brakes to prevent the wheels from
locking up!
