Braking system
102
ABS in action!
Under normal driving conditions (where
sufficient road surface friction exists to
reliably bring the vehicle to a halt without the
wheels locking), ABS will not be brought into
operation.
However, should the braking force exceed the
available adhesion between the tyres and the
road surface, then ABS will automatically
come into operation; brake pedal ’feel’ will
harden, and the sound of solenoid cycling
may be heard as the ABS regulates braking
pressure to ensure wheel rotation.
Little further pedal travel will be possible at
this point, but effort on the pedal can be
varied to influence braking while the ABS
retains control.
During braking, some vibration may be felt
through the brake pedal. This is a normal
result of the system regulating braking
pressure. However, frequent vibration
indicates a hazardous surface under the road
wheels and is a warning to the driver to adjust
speed to suit the road surface and traffic
conditions.
When ABS stops operating, extra initial pedal
travel will be experienced and the ’feel’ of the
brake pedal will revert to its non-ABS
condition.
WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal at any time, as
this will interrupt ABS operation and may
increase braking distance.
Ensure there are no obstructions beneath
the brake pedal, which may prevent full
travel, ie. additional floor mats.
Drivers who become accustomed to driving
a vehicle equipped with ABS, should
exercise caution when driving a non-ABS
vehicle.