The ABS system is an important component of the safe driving of a car. It is known that the reason for a considerable number of traffic accidents lies in the fact that drivers incorrectly use the braking system of the car. In particular, this problem occurs in winter, when the road surface is rather slippery. Let's take a closer look at the composition of the ABS system, as well as tips on what to do if the ABS light comes on.
The ABS system is used to minimize driver errors during hard braking. The function of the system is that it simply does not allow all the wheels to lock up at the moment when hard braking occurs. Impulse braking is used, that is, the wheels start to rotate / stop in a certain order. This solution reduces the risk of skidding the car and ensures the smoothest possible decrease in the speed of the car.
The composition of the ABS system:
- Wheel rotation sensors. All wheels are equipped with separate sensors.
- Hydraulic block.
- A device that monitors the correct operation of the hydraulic unit.
- ABS light on the dashboard (on our website there is a separate article about car dashboard indicators).
If you see that the ABS light on the dashboard lights up, this is a sign of certain problems in the ABS system. If everything is working properly, the ABS light should come on when the ignition is turned on and go out after a few seconds. This is necessary so that the driver understands that the ABS system is active. If the ABS light is on and does not turn off, the reasons may be the following:
- The problem is with the cable connections.
- Failure of ABS control units.
- Lost communication with one of the sensors located on the wheels.
- Failure of sensors.
Breakage of wires can occur while driving. In addition, constant vibration often leads to the fact that the cable connection areas are weakened. You can solve these kinds of problems with your own hands without much difficulty.
If the ABS light is on for a reason related to the sensors on the wheels of the car, the problem may be debris or dirt getting into them. In addition, it often happens that the wheels are repaired at the service station, the ABS sensors are disconnected and forgotten to be connected back. Another option is incorrect wheel installation, which also causes the ABS light on the panel to light up.
If the ABS light comes on due to the system control units breaking down, it is very difficult to establish the cause on your own. Often, the task can be simplified by an on-board computer that displays an error code, but in such cases you need to clearly understand how it stands for and where exactly the problem arose.
If the ABS light comes on and turns off and on again, it's most likely a loose connection somewhere. In order to solve the problem, you need to inspect all contacts. However, if the indicator is constantly on, it can be very difficult to identify a malfunction.
You can try to restore the normal functioning of the ABS by accelerating on a flat stretch of road and depressing the brake pedal sharply. However, if after performing this procedure, the light does not turn off, and all efforts are in vain, we recommend visiting a specialized service. There, experts will be able to diagnose the car's ABS system and "cure" it. You should not spare money for such services, as your safety, and maybe even life, depends on it.
