Car warning lights play a crucial role in letting drivers know if there are any faults with their vehicle. One of such warning lights is the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) warning light.
In this blog, we’ll explore what Anti-lock brakes do, how to use them in an emergency and what you need to do if the ABS warning light turns on.
What are Anti-lock brakes?
Anti-lock brakes are a safety feature installed on most vehicles to prevent a car from skidding during braking, especially in slippery conditions. This allows for better vehicle control and decreases stopping distances on both dry and slippery surfaces.
How should you use anti-lock brakes when you need to stop in an emergency
Anti-lock brakes are activated automatically when you press the brake pedal with force.
Ever been in a position where you need to perform an emergency stop? That slight judder you feel when braking is a sign that your Anti-lock brakes are in use. Here are 3 things you should keep in mind when using the Anti-lock brakes:
What can cause the ABS warning light to turn on
The ABS warning light, typically represented by the letters 'ABS' inside a circle, is a dashboard warning light related to your vehicle's Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS).
When functioning normally, the ABS light will illuminate when you start your car, but should turn off after a few seconds. This is the system performing a self-check to ensure it is working properly.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) light can turn on due to several issues, ranging from minor to more severe. Here are 3 common causes:
Get your Anti-lock Braking System checked by trusted mechanics near you
Is it safe to drive with the ABS warning light on
If the ABS light turns on, it is still safe to drive your car if there aren’t unusual sounds coming from the wheels. This is because your car should still have its normal braking function. However, without the ABS, your wheels can lock up during hard braking, reducing your ability to steer.
If the ABS light and the brake warning light are both on at the same time, it indicates a serious fault with your car’s braking system and your vehicle is no longer safe to drive. You must stop in a safe place immediately.
What should you do if your Anti-lock brakes (ABS) warning light stays on
Although it may still be safe to drive with the ABS light on, we recommend getting your vehicle checked by a professional mechanic so they can identify the issue that’s causing the light to turn on.
There are a few things you can do yourself before taking your car to a garage. These are:
Remember, the Anti-lock Braking System is a critical safety feature of your vehicle. Always prioritise safety and take your vehicle to a professional if you're unsure.