The antilock braking system (ABS) prevents brake malfunctions in the case of quick or immediate stops or during conditions of low traction. Without the presence of ABS, uneven tire pressure may cause tires to lock up and skid across the road when you brake suddenly. With the use of wheel sensors, your vehicle’s ABS can sense which tires are rotating faster than others, and add pressure to the necessary tires to keep them from locking up.
If your ABS needs repair, the technicians at My Auto Solutions can locate the exact location of the error and provide a high quality fix without the added dealership fees. While your ordinary braking system will still work, it is important to get proper ABS repair to ensure safety during quick stop situations. Below are some FAQs regarding repair for your antilock braking system.
Is My Antilock Braking System Working?
Your ABS serves as a secondary braking system, and is activated when sudden force is placed on the brake pedal during hurried stops. When your antilock brake system kicks in, you will feel the pedal pulse, and you may hear a clicking sound depending on your specific system. These are signs that your ABS is working properly.
A pulsating brake means your car is adjusting tire pressure to prevent your wheels from locking, so it is important not to pump your breaks. If your brake pedal does not experience a falling and rising motion during immediate stops, your ABS may be deactivated due to a problem requiring ABS repair.
Signs of Needing ABS Repair
When your ABS needs repair, your car may show certain warning signs, such as making noises while braking. You may also notice a difference in having to press the brake further, or even all the way to the floor, to come to a stop. Without an activated ABS, some cars have a longer stopping distance. Even in the absence of these signs, you should visit an auto technician right away if the ABS light on the dash goes on.
Why Does My ABS Light Stay On?
If your ABS light stays on, your car’s computer has noticed a problem and deactivated the antilock braking system. The technicians at My Auto Solutions in Buford, Georgia can use a scanner to find the cause of the malfunctioning and provide you with an economical solution. Any of the following issues are known to set off the ABS repair light:
• Damaged wheel sensor
• Broken/missing wheel sensor signals
• Damaged or dirty tone ring
• Malfunctioning pump motor
• Loss of power assist
• ABS pump keeps running
How Often Should I Change My Brake Fluid?
My Auto Solutions recommends changing your brake fluid every two years, but cautions you to use brake fluid that is compatible with your antilock brake system. Silicone based brake fluids can damage and disable your ABS. To keep your antilock brake system working properly, only glycol-based brake fluid should be used.
Is My Car Safe to Drive With the ABS Light On?
While your ABS light is on, your primary brakes still work. You should not notice a difference in ordinary driving while your ABS is disabled, but you are at risk for encountering an accident or skidding in the case of a panic stop or poor weather conditions that decrease traction on the road. If your ABS brakes encounter problems, it is advised to find ABS repair right away to keep you safe on the road in any situation.