Currently, nearly 99% of cars on the market, whether gasoline or electric, are equipped with an Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS). However, many people are unfamiliar with ABS until the ABS light on the dashboard turns on, revealing that ABS is not only quite delicate but also can be a significant issue, potentially affecting vehicle operation. Here’s a guide from Kwiksure on the principle of ABS, what to do when the ABS light comes on, and how to handle the situation.

What is ABS?

ABS stands for Anti-Lock Brake System. It was first proposed in the early 20th century to reduce the risk of railway carriages breaking at connecting points. In 1920, French engineer Gabriel Voisin applied a flywheel-based brake control system to aircraft, which was later adapted for railways and aviation. In the early 1970s, Mario Palazzetti at the Italian Fiat Research Center improved it with electronic control, naming it Antiskid, laying the foundation for modern ABS. Bosch later acquired this patent and named it Anti-Lock Brake System.

Mercedes-Benz was the first car manufacturer to use electronically controlled hydraulic ABS in 1978 on the S-Class, and today, ABS is a standard safety feature in all vehicles.

What Does ABS Do?

When braking, if excessive force is applied, the wheels may lock up, causing the vehicle to slide while still in motion, potentially leading to brake system failure or loss of control. ABS intervenes automatically by rapidly releasing and reapplying the brakes to maintain control and shorten braking distances.

How Does ABS Work?

ABS is a simple design but operates on a complex principle. It relies on sensors in the braking system, an electronic control unit (ECU) in the vehicle, and an ABS pump to detect wheel rotation. It involves extensive and precise calculations, requiring high reliability of sensors and the computer’s signal processing ability.

Four Reasons the ABS Light Might Turn On

1. Sensors: ABS sensors can be covered with dust or dirt, or they might shift position, affecting signal transmission and causing the ABS light to come on.

2. Wiring: ABS wiring is similar to standard electrical wiring but is often covered with plastic. Exposure to sunlight, rain, and dust can cause it to age and crack. Wiring connectors can also become loose and need careful inspection.

3. Electronic Control Unit: The ABS ECU is a circuit board responsible for processing data. Errors in programming or water damage can trigger the ABS light. Reprogramming might solve the issue, but water damage may require a complete ECU replacement.

4. ABS Pump: The ABS pump is crucial for providing braking power. Problems with the pump can disable the entire ABS system. Generally, ABS pumps are durable and rarely fail unless exposed to severe water damage or collisions.

Repair Costs for ABS Light

If there’s an issue with the ABS sensors or wiring, a simple cleaning or adjustment might solve the problem. If not, replacement of sensors or wiring typically costs around HKD 1,000 to 2,000, including parts and labor.

If the problem involves the ECU or ABS pump, repairs can be more costly. Replacing the ABS pump, which may include the ECU, can exceed HKD 10,000.

Is It Dangerous to Drive with the ABS Light On?

The ABS light indicates a potential failure in the ABS system, primarily due to the inability to detect wheel rotation and perform accurate calculations. If the ABS light is on, the ABS system might have stopped working. You should reduce your driving speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoid hard braking to prevent wheel lock and loss of control.

While you can still drive with the ABS light on, the vehicle’s computer may not receive accurate ABS signals, which could cause other issues. It is essential to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible to ensure safety.