Development of the advanced systems in the auto industry has made driving on the roads a lot safer than it previously was. One example of such an innovation is the anti-lock braking system (ABS). ABS ensures that the tyres do not lock on the road when brakes are applied. Also called the anti-skid braking system, ABS prevents the car from skidding and gives the driver more control over the vehicle.
It won’t be wrong to say that ABS has eliminated one of the major safety issues in older cars. Here are the details of what the anti-lock braking system does to prevent the dreadful tyre lock scenario on the road.
What is an Anti-lock Braking System?
ABS uses valves and sensors to stop the tyre from locking. This system reduces the braking pressure on the wheel, so it stays at the point where it should stop rotating. The system works only for forwards and backwards tyre movements. There is a different system – electronic stability control for the sideways movements.
Before the 1970s, when ABS was not in use for vehicles, drivers would anticipate the point where the wheel should stop its rotation and pump the brake to reduce brake pressure. The technique albeit being useful for the racers was not effective in emergencies. ABS performs the same function by automatically sensing the time. Moreover, the drivers don’t have to pump the brakes anymore. A steady foot on the brake in times of need will do it. The ABS electronics will decide where and how to apply the braking pressure.
How does Anti-lock Braking System work?
The anti-lock braking system utilises a central controller, a system of sensors and valves to functions. The complete system and its working are explained below in detail:
Every wheel of a vehicle has a sensor linked to a central system. This system checks the sensors a few times per second. The central controller has information about all the braking parameters such as the deceleration speed of the wheel.
If the wheel aberrates and stops or slows down too fast, the main controller detects it. This results in the activation of hydraulic valves that reduce the brake pressure quickly. Consequently, the wheel can turn again.
The entire process takes less than a fraction of a second. The brake is active again in the next moment. It is a quick on/off ABS and can occur multiple times.
Benefits of an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
ABS stops the wheel from locking and prevents skid marks on the roads. There are various other benefits of an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). These are:
- Even an inexperienced driver can exert the maximum braking power
- Shorter stopping distance and hence the lower risk of accidents
- Drivers can steer the car while braking
- Sometimes, one or two wheels lock before the others – a potentially dangerous situation but ABS distributes the braking effectively aka electronic brake-force distribution
The Limitations of an Anti-lock Braking System
While ABS is now a necessary component in most modern vehicles, the system has a few limitations:
- ABS adds quite some weight to a vehicle
- It doesn’t work well on slippery slopes, deep snow and ice
- ABS is not the best system to stop the wheels in some situations such as in deep gravel
FAQs
What can cause ABS light to come on?
The ABS light turns on due to anti-lock braking system issues such as a blown fuse, low brake fluid or abnormal signals from wheel sensors. If your ABS light is on, you should stop driving and get the problem fixed. Also, learn about other warning lights on the car dashboard.
Should I pump ABS to make it work?
No, ABS works best when you firmly hold the brake and allow it to manage emergency braking.
How much does the ABS Control Module cost in the UAE?
The price of an electronic ABS control module in the UAE ranges between AED 900 to AED 2000.
This is all about the importance of the anti-lock braking system. Also, check out the different types of ABS to know more about the system.
If you already own a vehicle with ABS in perfect condition, you might want to buy car accessories on dubizzle to upgrade your vehicle. To explore more options check these used cars for sale in Dubai.
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