Classic Toyota’s Automotive Terminology Decoder: Antilock Brake System

Feb 27, 2022

We love to keep our customers happy, and that means arming you with all the knowledge you’ll need when it comes to buying and maintaining your new or preowned vehicle. Our Automotive Terminology posts are here to keep you informed so you can stay in the loop of industry terms and vocabulary.

Whether your car is coming in for routine maintenance, a minor or major repair, or you’re just looking for more insight, we’re here to give you some guidance. Today we’re covering some of the key factors with the standard Antilock Braking System, a safety feature in modern vehicles.

What is the ABS or Antilock braking system? ABS is a computer-controlled system that prevents brakes from locking up and tires from skidding during hard braking.

The ABS uses electronic sensors and high-pressure pumps to measure your car’s speed and the force with which you apply the brakes. If you stop suddenly on a slick roadway or surface, the ABS improves traction by preventing wheels from locking up and prevents skidding. The sensors detect when your wheels are skidding, and the system is enabled with an ability to calculate and pump the brakes faster than the human driver.

Sometimes you’ll feel a slight shudder or pulse during sudden stops or in wet and slippery conditions, this is the ABS system doing its job! Just keep your foot on the brake until your vehicle comes to a stop. If the movement feels uncomfortable, bring your car in for a service check immediately. You should never dilly-dally on repairs to your brakes, because braking safely is a matter of life and death situations.

What do you do if your ABS light turns on?

If your ABS light is on there may be a few different things happening. If the light is briefly flickering on at startup, you don’t need to be alarmed as that’s normal. But if it remains on it could be:

-Malfunctioning ABS Computer Module

– Damaged ABS Sensors

– Faulty Wheel Bearings
– Low Car Battery
Or it could be related to several other electrical problems and brake system issues.

Although it is still safe to drive with the ABS light on, there’s an increased risk of not being able to stop in time without this assistive device. If your car also experiences a Brake Service Light as well as the ABS light, you should not drive your vehicle as it will be unsafe if needed to stop short.

Your best option is to call one of our experienced service technicians and speak with them about your next step and scheduling an appointment. They’ll help guide you through the process and get you back on the road safely in no time! We’re here to help keep you safe and happy.