23 Sep What Are ABS Brakes and How Do They Work?
Did you know that in Florida in 2020, there were over 340,000 automobile crashes? That averages out to roughly 933 auto accidents every day. Take a minute to let that sink in. Is there a way to reduce vehicle accidents? Well, it’s a complex situation without an easy, one-size-fits-all answer. Improving driver education can alter dangerous behaviors such as speeding, driving under the influence, and aggressive responses. City planning can also help by examining traffic flow, adjusting speed limits, and increasing public transportation options. In an effort to make traveling by automobile safer, car manufacturers take an active role in developing driver safety systems. ABS brakes fall into that rapidly expanding category of features. When it comes to vehicle safety, it’s important to take care of your ABS brakes, so schedule a brake service for your car’s anti-lock braking system.
What Are ABS Brakes?
ABS brakes are a vehicle safety feature that prevents the wheels from losing traction and skidding when drivers suddenly brake hard. The idea behind the anti-lock braking system is to slow the vehicle with frequent on-and-off brake applications without locking the wheels. By allowing the vehicle’s wheels to continue rotating while slowing down, traction with the road is maintained. Studies show that increased traction during hard braking improves steering and driver control in emergencies.
History Of ABS Brakes For Automobiles
Mario Palazzetti (aka ‘Mister ABS’) invented the modern style ABS brakes in 1971 for the Fiat Research Center. He called the system “Antiskid”. Later, Bosch purchased the patent and renamed it “ABS”. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, auto manufacturers produced variations of an anti-lock braking system for their passenger cars, using slightly different names. For example:
- Ford – “Sure Track”
- General Motors – “Trackmaster”
- Honda – “ALB” or “Anti Locking Brakes”
- Oldsmobile – “True-Track Braking System”
- Nissan – “EAL” or “Electro Anti-lock System”
- Toyota – “ESC” or “Electronic Skid Control”
How ABS Has Evolved
Most auto manufacturers now include ABS brakes on their vehicles. This system enhances vehicle safety and is the foundation for other safety improvements, such as ESC (electronic stability control systems), TCS (traction control systems), and TPMS (tire pressure monitoring systems).
How Does Anti-Lock Braking System Work?
An anti-lock braking system includes important components that regulate braking pressure to prevent the vehicle’s wheels from locking up. The ABS brakes quickly reduce brake pressure to any wheel when it detects that it may lock up during braking, allowing it to regain traction. This system replaces the need for drivers to manually pump the brakes during emergency braking conditions. ABS brakes improve vehicle safety when driving on slippery or other low-traction road surfaces, allowing motorists to steer without losing control.
ABS Control Module
Acting as the brain of the anti-lock braking system, the control module processes information from the wheel speed sensors. The ABS adjusts brake pressure when it detects a wheel decelerating too quickly, helping to avoid wheel lock-up.
Brake Fluid Pump
The pump restores pressure to the brake lines if the valves have restricted the flow of brake fluid. The control module enables the pump to provide the appropriate amount of hydraulic pressure, thereby reducing wheel slippage during braking.
Valves
Brake valves along the brake line regulate the braking pressure for each wheel when they detect a loss of traction. This process occurs multiple times per second until the wheel regains traction.
Wheel Speed Sensors
These sensors monitor the speed of each wheel or the differential and send data to the ABS control module.
ABS Brakes: Common Problems
Overall, most ABS braking systems are safe and reliable. However, over time, they can wear out or malfunction if not properly maintained. Here are a few common problems to be aware of:
- Dashboard Warning Light: If an ABS light illuminates in the dashboard, it may indicate a malfunction in the system. It could be a faulty sensor or control module, or an issue with low brake fluid pressure. It’s essential not to ignore your car’s ABS warning light, as the ABS brakes may not function properly if needed.
- Inconsistent Braking: Unusual behavior when using the brakes can mean the anti-lock braking system requires service. Symptoms such as a pulsating brake pedal when not braking hard, or no pulsating brake pedal when braking aggressively, are signs that your vehicle’s ABS is not working correctly.
- Leaking Brake Fluid: It is important to check your car’s brake fluid regularly. Low brake fluid levels can create issues with your conventional and ABS brakes.
- Sensor Malfunction: Occasionally, dirt or other debris can accumulate around the wheel speed sensors or TPMS sensors, leading to inaccurate data collection. The ABS control monitor relies on data from those sensors to determine when to engage the anti-lock braking system. Incorrect data can decrease the ABS vehicle safety feature.
Retain Vehicle Safety With Routine Maintenance
Routine maintenance helps keep your vehicle’s ABS brakes working correctly to keep you safe. Regular brake inspections by a qualified auto technician can help prevent problems before they become dangerous. Your local auto service center can diagnose and repair issues with your vehicle’s anti-lock braking system using specialized tools and equipment. An ounce of prevention can help ensure vehicle safety for years to come.
Brake Service & Repair in Jacksonville, FL
At JJ’s Auto Care, we specialize in honesty. We sell you only the services and repairs you need, when you need them. Whether it’s routine brake service or a specific ABS brakes repair, you can count on our professional service technicians to take care of you.
Schedule Appointment
Try us because of our impeccable reputation, then come back for our friendly service, quality repairs, and affordable prices. Give us a call at (904) 721-6646 or visit us online to schedule your next appointment.