What is the impact of a faulty ABS on braking?
3 Answers
A faulty ABS can affect the anti-lock braking function of the car, which does not have a significant impact on driving but does influence the braking system to some extent. For example, during emergency braking, the system cannot prevent wheel lock-up, posing a significant safety hazard. Below is an introduction to the car's braking system: 1. The car's braking system: The braking system consists of a control system, hydraulic system, and power assist system. The car relies on the braking system to stop when driving on the road. The braking system generates friction between the brake pads and the wheel hub or disc, converting the kinetic energy of the moving car into heat energy during the friction process. 2. Brake pump: The brake pump is an important component of the hydraulic system. It can be divided into the master brake pump and the wheel brake pump, serving as a crucial part of the hydraulic braking system. When the piston inside the cylinder is acted upon by the push rod of the brake pedal, the brake fluid in the cylinder is transmitted to the wheel cylinders of each tire through the brake pump.
A faulty ABS system can cause wheels to lock up and skid during braking, especially on slippery roads or during sharp turns. I once experienced a sudden stop in the rain, and the car nearly spun out of control, almost hitting a wall—it was terrifying. Normally, ABS prevents wheel lock-up, maintaining traction and steering control. Without it, braking distances increase, and the risk of skidding rises. Emergency stops at high speeds become particularly dangerous, significantly raising the chance of an accident. Every time I drive now, I remind myself to check the dashboard warning lights. If the ABS light is on, I avoid taking risks and head straight to a professional repair shop. Delaying repairs only increases safety hazards. It’s also important to monitor tire condition regularly, as low tire pressure can further contribute to loss of control.
ABS failure can degrade braking performance. As a car enthusiast who enjoys studying mechanical principles, I can explain that ABS is an anti-lock braking system that regulates brake pressure through pumps and sensors. When it malfunctions, braking force becomes uneven, potentially causing wheels to lock completely and skid. On wet or snowy roads, stopping distances may increase by 1-2 times. In actual driving, you'll feel stiff pedal feedback, heavier steering, and possible tail swing during turns - requiring cadence braking as remedy, though this carries significant risk. For prevention, I recommend regular maintenance checks on ABS modules and wiring harnesses, rather than waiting until problems emerge.
