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Is the stopping distance shorter with ABS?
No! From early commercials, it may have looked like you could stop on a dime. That instantaneous stop is not realistic. When braking on dry or wet roads your stopping distance will be about the same as with conventional brakes.
You should allow for a longer stopping distance with ABS than for conventional brakes when driving on gravel, slush, and snow. This is because the rotating tire will stay on top of this low traction road surface covering, and effectively "float" on this boundary layer.
A non ABS braked vehicle can lock its tires and create a snow plow effect in front of the tires which helps slow the vehicle. These locked tires can often find more traction below this boundary layer.
ABS warnings!
My ABS light comes on. What should I do?
When you start your vehicle an ABS indicator light will illuminate on the instrument panel for a few seconds. This is normal.
My ABS light stays on. What should I do?
This means the ABS is not working. However, the conventional braking system is working. We recommend that you take your vehicle to your nearest dealer for servicing as soon as possible.
My ABS light and my brake warning light both stay on. What should I do?
DO NOT DRIVE THIS VEHICLE! You have no brakes. Have it towed to your nearest dealer.
Road surfaces and ABS
Road hazards that will cause the ABS to function unexpectedly are gravel, sand, ice, snow, mud, railway tracks, potholes, manhole covers, and even road markings when it is raining.
The ABS cannot make up for road conditions or bad judgment. It is still the driver’s responsibility to drive at reasonable speeds for weather and traffic conditions. Always leave a margin of safety. |
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