How To Use Anti-Lock Brakes

by Bianca Garrison - October 17, 2019
Red car dashboard ABS light

How To Use Anti-Lock Brakes

Sometimes road conditions or traffic conditions require drivers to put on the brakes suddenly. When that happens, anti-lock brakes kick in. They prevent skidding, help drivers steer, and they allow a car to stop quickly on slippery roads. If you have anti-lock brakes on your vehicle, check with your car insurance company because you may eligible for a discount on your car insurance premium.

What are Anti-Lock Brakes?

Anti-lock brakes prevent the wheels on a car from locking up during braking. This helps to avoid uncontrolled skidding and maintain steering control. It is also called an ABS or ABS system. Most modern cars are equipped with an anti-lock braking system. With ABS, you have more control of your vehicle in an emergency. It is designed to help drivers maintain control, not make the vehicle stop more quickly.

What is The Purpose of Anti-Lock Brakes?

Anti-lock brakes prevent the car from spinning out of control, especially on wet or slippery surfaces.

  • ABS activates only in slippery conditions or when a driver slams on the brakes
  • Prevents wheel lock-up
  • Rear-wheel only systems are usually found on older pickups and SUVs
  • Four-wheel ABS allows drivers to steer the vehicle while still braking and is designed to keep all four wheels from locking up
  • ABS automatically pumps the brakes for you

What Are The Benefits of Anti-Lock Brakes?

  • Decreased insurance costs
  • Enhanced resale value – ABS technology adds value to a car
  • Increased stopping power
  • Improves traction control

What Do Anti-Lock Brakes Do?

Some ABS systems prevent wheel lock on all four wheels, and others prevent the rear wheels from locking. ABS works by monitoring wheel speed and rapidly applying and releasing the brake if a wheel lock is detected. Years ago, drivers were taught to “pump the brake” to prevent wheels from locking, but modern ABS systems do that for us.

The ABS does a self-test every time you turn on the ignition. The warning light will come on briefly, and if the computer detects a problem, the light will stay on. If the light comes on while you are driving, the ABS may not be working properly. Be sure to see a mechanic if your ABS warning light stays on.

An ABS is considered one of the most important safety features in a car. It will help keep you safe if you have to brake suddenly. Be sure to check with your car insurance provider to see if you can get a discount for having an ABS system in your car. Even with the ABS system, you still have to be alert and drive safely.

Having safety features on your car can help save your life, but it’s not all you need to be safe on the road. You also need reliable car insurance that will protect you when you need it most.

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