What are ABS brakes?

If you’ve ever had to slam on the brakes to avoid a collision, you’ve probably used ABS brakes. If your car’s fitted with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), when you brake suddenly you feel a fast pulsing sensation under your foot. This is your car’s ABS at work.

These brakes prevent the wheels from locking up during a sudden stop, which can lead to skidding and loss of control. But how do they work? Let’s take a look at ABS brakes, how they work, common issues, and the important role they play in your safety on the road.

How do ABS brakes work?

Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) are designed to prevent accidents when you suddenly brake. But what do ABS brakes do? Their main function is to prevent the wheels from locking up during braking. By keeping the wheels turning, even under heavy braking, ABS allows you to maintain steering control.

Wheel sensors can detect when your car’s tyres are locking up, so they quickly apply and release the brakes in a pulsing motion, which keeps your tyres from skidding. When you feel or hear this motion, keep pressing and holding the brake and steer the car to safety.

What are ABS brakes used for?

Your ABS brakes are an essential safety system for your car. They help:

Do ABS brakes stop faster?

ABS brakes do not necessarily stop a vehicle faster than normal brakes. Their main purpose is to prevent wheels from locking up, which allows for better control and steering during emergency braking. However, on certain surfaces, such as loose gravel or snow, ABS can sometimes result in slightly longer stopping distances, though they help you keep control.

When did ABS brakes become standard?

ABS brakes started becoming a common feature in luxury vehicles during the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was in 2004 that ABS was made mandatory in all European vehicles.

What is the difference between ABS brakes and normal brakes?

Unlike normal brakes, also known as conventional brakes, ABS prevents wheels from locking up. Normal brakes apply consistent pressure to the brake pads, which can lead to wheel lockup and skidding if pressed too hard. In contrast, ABS brakes include sensors and a control system that detect when the wheels are about to lock, rapidly pumping the brakes to maintain traction and control. This allows drivers to maintain control and avoid skidding, improving safety during emergency stops.

Which is better, ABS or non-ABS?

ABS brakes are generally considered better than non-ABS brakes due to their enhanced safety features. ABS technology allows drivers to maintain control over their vehicle during emergency braking by preventing wheel lockup, reducing the risk of skidding and accidents.

Does my car have ABS?

Wondering how to tell if you have ABS brakes? It’s easy! Here are a few different ways:

If you have any questions about brakes, you can also contact your nearest mycar for friendly advice.

What might you feel when ABS brakes are activated?

Wondering what you may notice when using ABS brakes? When ABS brakes are activated, you might feel a rapid vibrating sensation in the brake pedal. You may also hear a grinding or buzzing noise. These occur because the ABS system is rapidly pumping the brakes to keep traction and prevent skidding. Once you recognise these signs, keep your foot on the brake and steer to safety.

How do you use ABS brakes in an emergency stop?

Here’s how to use ABS brakes properly in an emergency stop:

1. Press the brake firmly: The key is to press the brake as hard as necessary and keep it pressed down as the ABS system kicks in.

2. Steer to safety: Since ABS prevents the wheels from locking, you will be able to steer the vehicle around any obstacles in your path while braking.

3. Remain calm: The feedback from ABS can be surprising (read above), so expecting the rapid pulsations and noise can help you stay composed.

What should you do if your anti-lock brakes (ABS) warning light stays on?

We mentioned earlier that one way to tell whether or not your car has ABS brakes is by looking for the light that flashes on and off when you start the car.

But what does it mean if this light stays on? It's a signal that there may be an issue with your vehicle’s Anti-lock Braking System. Here’s what you should do:

1. The first step is to check your brakes are working correctly. Even with an ABS issue, your brakes should work normally, you may just have issues with emergency braking.

2. Sometimes, the issue might be as simple as a sensor glitch or a minor fault that can be reset. Your vehicle’s owner manual may provide guidance or troubleshooting steps for when the ABS light stays on.

3. Since ABS involves complex electronic components and braking mechanisms, it is a good idea to have your vehicle checked by a qualified mechanic.

Do you really need ABS brakes?

ABS brakes are highly recommended as they significantly improve safety. By preventing wheel lockup during sudden braking situations, they allow the driver to maintain steering control and avoid skidding, which is especially important in emergency braking scenarios. Like all factory fitted and ADR approved safety systems, if your vehicle came with ABS fitted it must be retained and functionable to comply with roadworthy requirements.

Still not sure? Drop into mycar for help

If you have any concerns about your vehicle's braking system, don't hesitate to visit mycar for professional servicing. mycar's expert technicians can provide a comprehensive brake inspection, testing, and if necessary, brake replacement, using the latest tools and technology to keep you safe on the road.

mycar stores are conveniently located across Australia, making it easy to find a service centre near you. Plus, all services and parts installed come with mycar’s workmanship guarantee, giving you extra peace of mind.

Give us a call to book your brake repair today!