When used properly, an antilock brake system (ABS) is a safe and effective braking system. ABS allows the driver to maintain directional stability, control over steering, and in some situations, to reduce stopping distances during emergency braking situation, particularly on wet and slippery road surface. To gain this safety advantage, drivers must learn how to operate their ABS correctly.

What is ABS?
An antilock braking system works with the regular or foundation brakes on your vehicle. ABS simply keeps your base brakes from locking up. In vehicles not equipped with ABS, the driver can manually pump the brakes to prevent wheel lockup. In vehicles equipped with ABS, the driver’s foot remains firmly on the brake pedal, allowing the system to automatically pump the brakes.

Why is that important?
When your brakes lock up on wet and slippery roads or during a panic stop, you lose steering control and your vehicle can spin. Rear wheel ABS prevents wheel lockup so that your car stays in a straight line. If you have steering control, it is possible to avoid a crash by steering around hazards if a complete stop cannot be accomplished in time.

How do I know whether my vehicle has ABS?
Most newer car models offer ABS as either standard or optional equipment. There are different ways to find out whether your car has an antilock brake system:
* Read your owner’s manual
* Check your instrument panel for an amber ABS indicator light after you turn on the ignition.
* When you buy, lease or rent, ask your dealer or rental car company.

Will I notice anything when the ABS is working?
In many vehicles, drivers may experience a rapid pulsation of the brake pedal—almost as if the brakes are pushing back at you. Sometimes the pedal could suddenly drop. Also, the valves in the ABS controller may make a noise that sounds like grinding or buzzing. In some cars you may feel a slight vibration—this means the ABS is working. It is important NOT to take your foot off the brake pedal when you hear noise or feel pulsations, but instead continue to apply firm pressure.

How does ABS work?
What ABS does is similar to a person pumping the brakes. It automatically changes the pressure in your car’s brake lines to maintain maximum brake performance just short of locking up the wheels. ABS does this very rapidly with electronics.

Where Can I get more information about ABS?
Call the NHTSA Auto Safety Hotline on 1-888-327-4236, 1-888-DASH-2-DOT.