Our vehicles are safer than they have ever been! Modern ABS and traction control systems give drivers enhanced control over their cars. ABS or Anti- Lock Braking Systems help us in emergency stops. When ABS is activated your vehicle sends a pulsed flow of brake fluid to help keep your wheels from locking up and going into a skid. But what happens when something goes wrong? Is it ok to drive with your ABS light on?
What does the ABS light mean?
Any vehicle equipped with Anti-Lock Braking Systems has either a red or amber light that reads ABS. When your ABS warning light is lit this means your ABS system is experiencing a failure. When your ABS light is lit the system is disabled. This could be one of many problems including a module, pump, wiring or sensor problem. A lit ABS light means that one of your vehicles safety features is having a problem and is turned off. It does NOT mean that your braking system will not work.
Can You drive with the ABS light on?
The short answer is yes, but with caution. A vehicle with a lit ABS light that does NOT have a red brake light on is probably safe to use on a limited basis. The driver must understand that the vehicle is experiencing a failure and does not currently have ABS enabled. This means that the car could have a greater stopping distance than expected and the traction control system will not perform. Greater following distances should be used as well as extreme caution in wet conditions.
What should you do when the ABS light comes on?
What should you do when the ABS light comes on?If your ABS light comes on best practice is to have a professional auto repair shop test your vehicle as soon as possible. While there is probably no need to have your vehicle towed to the shop it is better to have your ABS repaired in a timely manner.
If you are in the New Orleans area, let our mechanics help you with any ABS and Traction Control problems you are having!
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