How do anti-lock braking systems (ABS) work?
By Kijiji Autos
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) sits up there with seatbelts and airbags in terms of its widespread adoption in the automotive world. It's one of the most common and essential safety feature in cars.
But did you know ABS is actually quite old in car terms? We’re going to cover the brief history of this defining piece of tech, and how it keeps you safe on the road.
When and how did ABS become popular?
The modern ABS can trace its roots as far back as the early 20th century, with mechanical anti-skid systems for airplanes. ABS aimed to prevent the lock-up of the wheels during hard braking, which extends stopping distances and minimizes steering control.
The first electronic anti-skid system showed up on the Ford Thunderbird in 1969, but it only worked on the rear wheels. It would be two more years before the market saw a four-wheel ABS.
How does it work?
It was 1971’s Chrysler Imperial that offered the first four-corner ABS. Called Sure-Brake, it featured a speed sensor on each wheel and an electronic control box in the trunk. The system doesn’t pump the brakes as a driver would during hard stops: instead, it incrementally releases pressure as it detects lock-up.
This basic premise is how modern ABS work, too. It results in a noticeable pulsing feeling and sound from the brake pedal, which can surprise those unaware of the trait. That’s why it’s recommended to get to know your car’s braking capabilities in a safe environment when you first get it.
Modern ABS are interwoven into a car’s more advanced driver assist systems. In fact, starting in 2012 it technically became mandatory on all new cars sold in Canada. That’s because Transport Canada made electronic stability control (ESC) required on all light-duty vehicles, and ESC requires ABS to function.
Okay, so how does ABS help me?
ABS offers a few key advantages, especially in Canada. For one, it provides more consistent emergency stop distances, since the driver doesn’t have to worry about applying too much brake and locking the wheels. Remember that 1971 Chrysler Imperial? When Popular Science tested it at the time, it found the stopping distances were as much as 40% shorter on slippery surfaces.
There aren’t many countries that see slippery surfaces during more of the calendar than Canada. Winter can be full of nasty surprises on the road, including black ice. ABS can’t stop a slide from starting, but it allows a driver to focus on steering the car while the computer control unit handles the braking.
ABS is also central to another modern car feature: emergency brake assist. On cars so equipped, the computer can detect a potential accident and apply the brakes to avoid it. With ABS, the reaction time and maximum braking potential can be the difference between a crash and a safe stop.
Well-versed in the ABS advantage? Don’t miss nine other winter safety features you should look for when browsing Kijiji Autos for your next car.
Easily find your next ride on Kijiji Autos
Search nowHow to take care of your hybrid or electric vehicle
Hybrid and electric vehicles have proven to work wonders when it comes to lowering greenhouse gas emissions, but they still need proper care and maintenance to run properly. If you own or are considering buying an eco-friendly car, here are some ways to keep your vehicle in peak...How to plan a classic Canadian road trip in your hybrid or electric car
From the Atlantic seaboard to the vast expanse of the Pacific ocean, the beauty of Canada's landscape has beckoned drivers to explore the country, inspiring some of the most epic road trips. If you want to add your name to the growing list of cross-country travelers, here's how you can prepare...5 simple things to check before your next winter road trip
Whether you're planning your family's next big winter road trip or simply want to prepare your car for winter driving, it's important to know what to look for. Make sure to check these five frequently overlooked elements to ensure that your car is ready to complete a winter journey safely. Your...Tackling your first winter of driving in Canada
To say Canada has some pretty drastic weather changes over one calendar year is an understatement. Summer driving here is much like the rest of the world, but our winters are a whole different experience. If the upcoming winter driving season is your first, here are some tips on how to make the...How to prepare for driving in the snow
Whether you've recently moved provinces or are gearing up for your first winter behind the wheel, driving in the snow can often be an unnerving experience. It takes a special approach and lots of patience to get comfortable driving on slippery surfaces. These tips are designed to help you master...How to maintain your car's engine during the winter
If you want a safe and smooth driving experience during the harsh winter months, a well-maintained engine is essential. Fortunately, a little bit of effort goes a long way. Here are our top tips to help you keep your engine running smoothly through the snowy months. Your well-being remains our...Tips to lengthen your car's lifespan without overspending
Whether you're saving up for something special or trying to be more wary of daily costs, living on a budget can be difficult. Owning a vehicle can make matters even more complicated thanks to rising fuel costs and potential repairs. Is there an easy way to guarantee that your car operates...What are glow plugs and what do they do?
You might hear the term glow plug and immediately think that it's just a fancy name for ""spark plug"", and a mechanic is trying to make your car trouble sound worse than it is. But don't be misled: spark plugs and glow plugs (also spelled ""glowplugs"" or ""glow-plugs"") are actually different.How does your car's electrical system work?
Cars have been so integral to our lives that we tend to take for granted how they work. We know a car needs gas, but we barely spend any time learning about the very thing that keeps the car running: the car's electrical system. Your well-being remains our top priority. Please seriously consider...What do my car’s safety features actually do?
With every passing year, safety systems in vehicles continue to become increasingly complex. New cars now come standard with a number of safety features that would have been considered premium add-ons only a few years prior. While some newly developed innovations are still optional—for the time...