What does the ABS light indicate?
2 Answers
ABS light indicates that the anti-lock braking system is in operation. The ABS system consists of: ABS module, ABS master cylinder, oil pipes, wheel speed sensors, etc. ABS automatically controls the braking force during vehicle braking to prevent wheel lock-up, keeping the wheels in a state of rolling and sliding, ensuring the adhesion between the wheels and the ground. During braking, ABS quickly determines the lock-up state of each wheel based on the speed signals from the wheel speed sensors, and closes the normally open input solenoid valve on the wheel that begins to lock up, keeping the braking force constant. Good braking performance plays a crucial role in improving the average speed of the vehicle and ensuring driving safety. A vehicle with excellent braking performance is required to reduce speed or stop promptly within a short time and distance through braking measures at any speed.
I was quite nervous when I first saw the ABS light come on shortly after I started driving, as it indicates a fault in the anti-lock braking system. I later learned that ABS prevents wheels from locking up during hard braking, and the light means the system has detected an abnormality, such as dirty wheel sensors or poor wiring connections. The most common scenario is after driving through puddles in the rain, where mud and water can dirty the sensors and trigger false alarms, but sometimes it could also mean the brake module itself is damaged or a fuse has blown. If ABS fails, wheels are more likely to lock up and skid during emergency braking, especially on slippery roads. I remember a friend telling me that as soon as the light comes on, you should find time to get it checked at a repair shop—don’t push your luck, safety comes first. It’s best to read the fault codes directly to identify the issue; replacing a small part doesn’t cost much but can save you a lot of trouble.
