What does ABS mean on the car dashboard?
2 Answers
ABS, short for Anti-lock Braking System, functions by automatically controlling the braking force during vehicle braking to prevent wheel lock-up. It maintains the wheels in a state of rolling and sliding (with a slip ratio of about 20%) to ensure maximum adhesion between the wheels and the road surface. The ABS sensor is located on the inner side of the car tire and can be seen when the car is lifted. The ABS system mainly consists of four components: wheel speed sensor, electronic control unit (ECU), hydraulic unit, and ABS warning light. The wheel speed sensor detects the motion state of the wheel, emitting a sinusoidal electronic pulse AC signal. This signal is then processed by a modulator, converted into a digital signal, and transmitted to the electronic control unit. The electronic central control unit (ECU) receives input signals from the wheel speed sensor, calculates the wheel speed, vehicle speed, and slip ratio based on these parameters, and determines the wheel state according to the slip ratio. It then issues control commands to the hydraulic unit. The hydraulic unit adjusts the pressure in the brake lines according to the control commands, with the adjustment process including pressure holding, pressure increase, and pressure decrease. The ABS warning light alerts the driver to any system malfunctions. If the ABS warning light is on, it is recommended not to continue driving. An illuminated ABS light indicates a malfunction in the vehicle's anti-lock braking system. During emergency braking, if the wheels lock up, the vehicle may skid uncontrollably, making it difficult for the driver to slow down or adjust the vehicle's trajectory, posing significant safety risks.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I remember being completely baffled the first time I saw the ABS light come on. ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System, which prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the vehicle to maintain steering control and avoid skidding. When the ABS light illuminates on the dashboard, it indicates the system has detected a fault—possibly due to dirty sensors, aged wiring, or a faulty hydraulic pump. In such cases, drive cautiously, avoid sudden braking, and visit a repair shop as soon as possible. Regular maintenance should include cleaning the brake system, as dust buildup can easily cause issues. ABS failure increases accident risks, especially on wet or slippery roads, where braking distance lengthens and steering is compromised. Therefore, regular inspection of brake components is crucial—don't wait until the light comes on to panic.
