Antilock Brakes / Traction Control Systems: Description and Operation

Location Of Main Components:

The ABS system consists of the following main components: hydraulic modulator, sensors, control unit, cables and a warning lamp on the dashboard which lights up if the ABS system becomes inoperative.

On vehicles equipped with the ABS system the brake circuit division has been changed to axle-split. The rear piston in the master cylinder serves the front axle and the front piston serves the rear axle.

When the brakes need to be applied, the ABS braking system supplies full directional stability and steering control combined with optimum stopping distance. This is achieved through a combination of precision hydraulics and digital technology.

The system is designed to sense the amount of friction operating between the road surface and the tires on all wheels. The system automatically regulates the hydraulic system so that the correct pressure is always applied to each brake caliper. If the system senses that any wheel is about to lock, hydraulic pressure to the brake caliper on that wheel will be reduced temporarily.

A warning lamp in the combined instrument lights up if the ABS system is inoperative.

Note! Normal brake function is present all the time.

Note! The system checks itself every time the engine is started and the vehicle drives off. If the driver applies the brakes at this stage, while parking for example, the hydraulic modulator may start up, resulting in pedal vibrations.