anti lock brake system Page 865

An Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) stops your wheels from locking under hard braking by rapidly modulating brake pressure using wheel-speed sensors, valves, and a pump.

The result is you can keep steering while standing on the middle pedal—less pirouette, more control—especially in the wet.

On loose gravel or sand it may not always shorten stopping distance, but it helps you avoid turning your bonnet into modern art.

Technique tip: in an ABS car, press firmly and steer; don’t pump the pedal like you’re churning butter, and get any ABS warning light checked promptly.