The innovations in car safety have been numerous over the decades, and have no doubt saved millions of lives on the road. An average modern family car is fitted with all manner of safety features, including airbags, crumple zones, and safety belts. One such innovation is the anti-lock braking system, or ABS.
In this article:
- What are anti-lock brakes?
- How does ABS work?
- When was ABS invented?
- Does my car have ABS?
- Using ABS in winter
- How to check if my ABS is broken?
What are anti-lock brakes?
A car travelling at speed carries a lot of momentum, meaning that bringing it to a safe stop can be tricky. When you press the brake pedal, brake pads press against a disc on each wheel. Normal, gentle braking allows the pads to bring the car to a safe stop.
But if you need to stop suddenly, pressing the brake hard can make the wheels lock up. When a wheel locks, it stops turning and the car goes into a dangerous skid, resulting in longer stopping distance and less steering in control. That's why anti-lock braking systems, or ABS, were made.
How does ABS work?
ABS stops all four wheels from locking up. It uses a sensor to check each wheel’s speed. If a wheel’s about to lock, the system quickly releases and presses the brakes again, up to 20 times a second. The car then slows quickly and safely, ensuring you can still steer while braking.
Frequently asked questions on ABS
When was ABS invented?
ABS has been around longer than many think. The problem was first recognised in the railway industry, with various anti-slip systems being used from 1908. Come 1920, French aviation engineer Gabriel Voisin created a system for aircraft landing.
Car ABS, as we know it, was developed by Chrysler in the early 1970s. Many brands like Mercedes Benz, Nissan, Honda and General Motors.
Does my car have ABS?
Cars have had ABS since the 1960s, but it wasn’t required by law in the UK until 2004. So, if your car was made after then, it should have ABS. You can tell if it’s working by pressing the brake suddenly. You might feel a judder or vibration. That’s the system working to stop skidding.
If you want to test your car’s ABS, make sure you test it on a quiet road, well away from other road users. Your sudden braking could cause an accident!
Using ABS in winter
ABS will help you stop if you skid while driving in icy conditions. But in snow, it’s best to brake gently. ABS isn’t as effective in snow and the car’s braking distance will be reduced if you gently apply the brake, instead of quickly engaging ABS. It’s prudent to brake slowly in snowy conditions and use the right seasonal tyres.
How to check if my ABS is broken?
Your anti-lock braking system is an important safety feature. There are ways you can check it’s working:
- ABS warning light
It’s the obvious place to start, but if you see the ABS warning light appear on your car’s dashboard, then see a mechanic quickly. - Brake pedal feels different
Change can happen gradually, so be aware of how responsive your brake pedal is. If it feels spongy or you have to push your foot right down on the pedal for the brakes to kick in, it might be wear and tear. The same goes if you hear grinding or grating noises when you brake. You might need new brake pads, or there could be an issue with the braking system. - Brakes lock up
If your car’s prone to skidding when you brake heavily, then your ABS mightn’t be working right – time to ask your mechanic to check things over.
Safety features like ABS has saved many lives. We’ll continue to see advancements in road safety, but no matter what, having car insurance is a necessity to stay protected.
