Can You Drive Normally When the Car ABS Light Comes On?

[OKira]

When the ABS light in your car comes on, it is recommended not to continue driving. The illumination of the ABS light indicates a malfunction in the vehicle's anti-lock braking system. During emergency braking, if the wheels lock up, the vehicle may lose control and skid, making it difficult for the driver to slow down or adjust the vehicle's trajectory, which poses significant safety risks. Common ABS faults include the following: Intermittent Illumination of the ABS Warning Light: This phenomenon can be caused by improper adjustment of the brake light switch or poor internal contact in the brake light. Start the engine, press the brake pedal, use your finger to push the brake switch linkage all the way down, then release the brake pedal to complete the self-setting position. If the issue persists, the brake light may need to be replaced. ABS Warning Light Illuminates During High-Speed Driving: At high speeds, the ABS computer detects a significant difference between the rear wheel speed and the front wheel speed. This could be due to incorrect tire specifications or incorrect wheel rim specifications. Refer to the vehicle's tire and wheel rim specifications and replace them promptly if necessary.

[LaEmerson]

I've been driving for over a decade and encountered the ABS light coming on several times when the anti-lock braking system failed, but the basic brakes still worked. My experience is you can keep driving, especially when moving slowly on flat urban roads - just avoid sudden acceleration or hard braking. Common causes for the light include dirty sensors, aging wiring, or computer faults. Ignoring repairs may worsen the issue, leading to longer braking distances, especially dangerous during rain or snow when skidding accidents are more likely. That time I drove to the repair shop maintaining low speed, and they found the front wheel sensor was dust-clogged - a simple cleaning fixed it. Remember safety first: get a mechanic to diagnose it promptly to avoid bigger repair bills later. Routine maintenance checks on wheel speed sensors can prevent this. Bottom line: driving is possible, but don't risk highways or long trips.

[MacMariana]

As an average car owner, the ABS light always makes me a bit uneasy. It means the anti-lock braking function has failed, but the regular brakes still work, so I continue driving short commutes to work at speeds below 40 km/h. I consulted a mechanic friend who said the light often comes on due to false alarms from the ABS module or loose wheel speed sensors. Not fixing it could lead to wheel lock-up and skidding during emergency braking on slippery roads. Last time I delayed inspection for two days, and the repair cost a few hundred yuan—fortunately, no accident occurred. It's advised to turn off the radio and drive quietly when the light comes on, paying attention to changes in brake pedal feel, and avoiding overtaking or congested areas. Regular checks of brake fluid levels and wiring connections help prevent issues. You can drive but must be cautious—don’t wait for the problem to escalate and cost more.

[McJoshua]

My view on driving: The ABS light indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system, but the car's braking function remains intact, so it can still be driven normally. Just maintain a slow speed and apply the brakes gently, and everything will be fine. The light often comes on due to sensor failure or a blown fuse, but ignoring repairs can lead to skidding, especially in rainy conditions. Last time, I continued driving for a few kilometers to reach the repair shop for a fix. Just drive safely and don't panic.