It may be hard to believe, but there was a time when anti-lock brake systems (ABS) did not come standard in vehicles. Anti-lock brake systems have replaced the need to pump your brakes to maintain traction in slippery road conditions. Though it is not a feature that you are going to need or utilize in your everyday driving commute, they are certainly a feature that you do not want to be without if the need arises. If you have wondered how exactly they work, or why you definitely want to have them, take a look below to find out more about anti-lock brake systems.
There are varieties of anti-lock brake types that could be found in your cars, including a four-channel, four-sensor system, as well as a three-channel, three-sensor, or one-channel, one-sensor anti-lock brake system. Which system you have will depend on the size of your vehicle, and powertrain, i.e. two-wheel or four-wheel-drive systems, and all three work in different ways to provide the same outcome.
Anti-lock brakes are imperative if you find yourself traveling a road that has a slippery surface. If your tires cannot find enough traction on the road, you may find yourself skidding – not stopping – when you step under the brakes. If you have ever found yourself parked on a patch of ice, you are familiar with the feeling of your tires spinning out of control, incapable of finding any traction as you try to accelerate. When you are in motion, anti-lock brakes increase your traction when you find yourself intensely braking, so rather than that same spinning from before, your tires will find a grip in the ice.
Another important aspect of your ABS is that you will be able to maintain control over your steering wheel because the system will not allow your wheels to lock up. This is important, because, with continued use over your steering wheel, you will be able to swerve to avoid a collision more easily.
But just because you have anti-lock brakes, which make for safer braking, you have to be aware that ABS brakes are not going to stop your car any faster or increase response times. It is important to remain cautious when driving in inclement weather, as the best safety system in your vehicle is your own response time. ABS technology is a great tool when used how it was built to be used, so utilize it as a resource but do not rely on it as your only saving grace.