Is it normal for ABS to activate when braking at low speed?
2 Answers
The reasons for ABS activation during low-speed braking are as follows: Reason 1: The ABS wheel speed sensor's sensing part is covered by mud, sludge, or other contaminants, affecting the sensor's ability to detect the corresponding vehicle speed signal. This prevents the ABS computer from determining the vehicle speed and the wheel slip rate, thus failing to issue appropriate commands to adjust braking. Solution: Clean the dirt from the wheel speed sensor and adjust the gap between the sensor and the signal gear ring to restore normal function. Reason 2: Poor signal quality due to loose connections between system wires or poor contact in the ABS relay can cause system failure. The most common issue is a loose connection in the wheel speed sensor wiring, which can also be indicated in the ABS computer's fault memory as a poor wheel speed sensor signal. Solution: Check the wiring connections and reconnect any loose parts.
I think it's completely normal for the ABS to activate when braking at low speeds. For example, in rainy or snowy weather, or on gravel roads, even a slight wheel slip can trigger the system to prevent lock-up. I often encounter this situation while driving in the city—during traffic jams, when I brake hard, the ABS intervenes quite frequently, but this ensures no loss of control. The key point is that the ABS mechanism doesn’t depend on speed but rather on changes in wheel rotation speed; once there's a risk of lock-up, it releases braking force. However, if the ABS frequently activates at low speeds without reason, especially on dry and smooth roads, it might be due to misjudgment caused by sensors covered in mud or uneven tire pressure. I recommend paying attention to cleaning the areas around the tires during regular maintenance. If any abnormalities occur, promptly visit a professional repair shop to check the wiring and fuses, preventing minor issues from escalating. Driving safety is the top priority.
