Anti-Lock Brakes 101
All About Anti-Lock Braking Systems
What Are Anti-Lock Brakes?
You are probably well aware of the importance of your car’s braking system and understand how brakes work. But how much do you know about anti-lock braking systems and if yours needs brake repair services?
Luckily, the ASE-certified brake repair mechanics at Knox Horizon Complete Auto Care in Knoxville, Tennessee, are here to help.
Federal law mandates that all vehicles made after 2013 have anti-lock brakes. Also known as ABS, an anti-lock braking system does exactly what its name suggests and prevents your wheels from locking when you apply pressure to your brake pedal. This gives you better control over your vehicle while pressure is applied to the brakes and reduces stopping distance.
How Do Anti-Lock Brakes Work?
Your car’s anti-lock brake system comprises valves, pumps, speed sensors, and the electronic control unit, or ECU. When you press down on the brake pedal, your car’s speed sensors will monitor the decreasing rotation of its wheels. When the brake rotations are about to stop, the sensors will send signals to the ECU, slowly releasing the brake pads from the wheels through pumps and valves, allowing them to continue to spin. The anti-lock braking system lets the wheels rotate, helping you maintain complete control over your car, even during emergency braking situations.
ABS ensures that your vehicle’s wheels do not lock up or stop spinning as soon as you apply pressure to your brake pedal. This keeps your car from skidding due to the sudden change in velocity, drastically increasing your safety and security.
As with all of your car’s other systems, you must take great care of your anti-lock brakes. If you fail to do so, it can jeopardize your safety behind the wheel.
Does Your Car Need Brake Repair?
You will notice a few key symptoms if something is wrong with your ABS. These can include:
- An illuminated ABS warning light on your dash
- Your brake pedal is locking up
- Grinding or squealing noises coming from your brakes
- A soft or spongy brake pedal
- Reduced stopping power
- Leaks
If you notice any of these red flags, call the ASE-certified brake repair experts at Knox Horizon Complete Auto Care in Knoxville, Tennessee, today. We will closely inspect your ABS and quickly and efficiently make the necessary repairs or replacements.
Contact Knox Horizon Complete Auto Care in Knoxville, Tennessee, for all your European auto repairs and maintenance services.