What is the function of the ABS system?

[VanLucia]

ABS system functions include: Maximizing the effectiveness of the brakes, reducing braking time and distance; effectively preventing vehicle skidding and fishtailing during emergency braking, ensuring excellent driving stability; allowing steering during emergency braking, providing good steering control; avoiding intense friction between tires and the ground, reducing tire wear. During braking, the ABS system rapidly determines the wheel lock-up state based on speed signals from each wheel speed sensor, closing the normally open input solenoid valve for the wheel that begins to lock up to maintain constant braking force. If the wheel continues to lock up, the normally closed output solenoid valve is opened, causing the braking pressure on that wheel to rapidly decrease due to the direct connection to the brake fluid reservoir, preventing complete wheel lock-up from excessive braking force. This keeps the braking state at the optimal point (slip rate S of 20%), achieving the best braking effect and maximum driving safety.

[IsabelAnn]

The core function of the ABS system is to prevent wheel lock-up and loss of control during emergency braking. Having driven for so many years, my most direct experience is emergency braking on slippery roads. In older cars without ABS, pressing the brake pedal too hard would cause skidding and fishtailing. Now, in newer cars, you can feel the brake pedal pulsing underfoot during emergency braking, and the steering wheel remains responsive, allowing you to safely avoid obstacles. This system uses wheel speed sensors to monitor in real-time, automatically applying intermittent braking (up to dozens of times per second) when a wheel is about to lock. Don’t underestimate this feature—on the highway, encountering a sudden animal darting out or a car abruptly stopping ahead, having ABS could mean the difference between an accident and safety.

[McSamuel]

The most amazing thing about ABS is that it allows you to maintain steering control during emergency braking. I remember once on the highway when the road was slippery, the car in front suddenly braked hard. I instinctively stomped on the brake pedal, feeling it vibrate rapidly, but the car decelerated steadily while the steering remained responsive, allowing me to successfully change lanes and avoid a collision. This system actually uses multiple sensors to monitor the speed of each wheel. The moment it detects a wheel about to lock up, it instantly releases brake pressure to restore the tire's grip. Many experienced drivers talk about the pumping brake technique, but no human reaction can match the operating frequency of ABS.

[VanAlan]

Once you've driven a car with ABS, you'll understand why it's standard on all new vehicles now. During emergency braking, the wheels don't lock up completely but maintain slight rotation, which actually improves tire grip. Unlike old-style brakes where slamming the pedal would lock the wheels and cause skidding—especially dangerous in rain or snow—ABS uses solenoid valves to rapidly adjust brake pressure. This ensures both braking effectiveness and steering control. I once tested it on icy roads by intentionally stomping on the brakes: though the car screeched to a halt, it didn't veer off course at all. While it's unnoticeable in daily driving, ABS can truly be a lifesaver in critical moments.

[AngelaLee]

The real brilliance of the ABS system lies in its predictive capability. Each wheel is equipped with sensors that instantly determine if it's about to lock up, then precisely regulate braking force via a hydraulic pump. It's particularly useful on highways—emergency braking at 120 km/h won't cause fishtailing or veering. This technology has even trickled down to e-bikes now, operating on similar principles albeit at lower frequencies. I remember coaching a novice driver when a stray cat suddenly darted across; she panicked and slammed the brakes. Without ABS intervention, the car would've probably plowed into the roadside greenery.

[EmmanuelLee]

Many people think ABS is designed to shorten braking distance, but its primary function is actually to maintain steering control. When tires lock up completely, grip decreases and steering capability is lost. The ABS system can pulse the brakes over a dozen times per second, keeping tires at optimal slip ratio. I've encountered car owners with ABS failures during repairs - just a light brake tap in rainy conditions would cause tail slides, which is extremely dangerous. Modern ABS systems also integrate with vehicle stability control. When sensors detect oversteer or understeer, the system adjusts vehicle attitude by braking individual wheels, making driving much more secure.