How to Perform Emergency Braking in a Car Equipped with ABS System?
2 Answers
For vehicles equipped with an ABS system, emergency braking requires firmly pressing the brake pedal. The ABS braking system, or "Anti-lock Braking System," initiates braking once the brake pedal is pressed. Just before the wheels are about to stop rotating, the ABS automatically releases the brakes. Immediately after releasing, the system reapplies the brakes, and this cycle repeats before the wheels come to a complete stop again. Functions of ABS: Maximize the effectiveness of the brakes, reducing braking time and distance. Effectively prevent vehicle skidding and fishtailing during emergency braking, ensuring excellent driving stability. Allow steering during emergency braking, providing good maneuverability. Reduce tire wear by minimizing intense friction between the tires and the road. Working Principle: During braking, the ABS quickly determines if a wheel is about to lock based on signals from each wheel speed sensor. It closes the normally open input solenoid valve for the wheel at risk of locking to maintain braking force. If the wheel continues to lock, the system opens the normally closed output solenoid valve, rapidly reducing braking pressure on that wheel by diverting brake fluid to the reservoir, preventing complete wheel lockup. This ensures the braking state remains optimal (with a slip ratio S of 20%), achieving the best braking performance and maximum driving safety.
I've been driving for many years, and the first time I experienced the ABS system working in an emergency was on a snow-covered road. Suddenly, a car cut in front of me, and I immediately stomped on the brake pedal all the way down, feeling it vibrate—this was the ABS preventing wheel lock-up. The key is to maintain firm pressure, not to lift your foot or attempt to pump the brakes. This way, the car remains steerable, and I was able to turn in time to avoid a collision. ABS is particularly useful on slippery surfaces as it helps reduce braking distance. I recommend practicing emergency braking a few times in an empty parking lot to develop instinctive reactions. Remember, the core of safe driving is quick reactions but steady movements, and ABS simplifies all of this.
