What does ABS stand for, and what does it do?

ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System. When driving on a wet or icy road, your car is vulnerable to skidding out of control and crashing. Anti-lock brakes are put in place to keep your car from skidding, and to help drivers maintain steering control. ABS uses electronic controls and sensors to manage braking force during hard braking. The system engages when the driver steps on the brakes firmly without pumping the brakes.

Does ABS help my car (or truck) stop faster?

ABS is designed maintain control of the car during an emergency braking situation. While this will shorten the stopping distance on a slick or icy road, it will not help the car stop “faster”. When hitting a bump, crossing railroad tracks, or traveling across any slick surface while braking, Sandy Springs drivers tend to release brake pressure, resulting in longer stopping distances. The ABS prevents this occurrence and helps you come to a safe stop.

Why is my ABS light on?

There are quite a few reasons as to why your ABS light may be on, including:

• Damaged wheel sensor
• Broken/missing wheel sensor signals
• Damaged or dirty tone ring
• Malfunctioning pump motor
• Loss of power assist
• ABS pump keeps running

Seeing your ABS light turn on is perfectly safe, and nothing to be worried about. However, the light should only turn on when the ABS system is engaged. If the light turns on and does not turn off for a few days, there may be another issue at play. Schedule a brake system inspection with our auto repair shop near Roswell to make sure everything is working as it should.

If you’re noticing any trouble with your anti-lock braking system, or any other part of your brake system, trust the experts in Sandy Springs auto repair! We welcome guests from Sandy Springs to Roswell to Dunwoody to East Cobb for auto care. Call the friendly professionals at Christian Brothers Automotive Sandy Springs in Georgia to schedule an appointment today. See the nice difference!