Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615
By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor for Cobb Tire and Auto Repair
My ABS light is on, is that serious?
If you are driving on the road and suddenly you see the ABS light turn on, you might feel worried and confused about what it means and what you should do about it. This warning light can take any driver off guard and cause them to panic, especially if they have no idea what it means. So, is the ABS light something that should concern you? The short answer is yes, and in this post, we will try to explain why.
First, let’s understand what ABS means. ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System which is a system designed to improve the safety of a vehicle by preventing the wheels from locking up during braking. This system works by detecting an impending wheel lock and then quickly releasing and reapplying brake pressure several times per second, ensuring that the wheels don’t lock up and the driver doesn’t lose control of the car.
When the ABS warning light appears on the dashboard of your car, it indicates that there is something wrong within the ABS system. It could mean that the system is malfunctioning, there is a problem with the sensors, or other components in the system. If the ABS system is not working correctly, it may not engage when you are stopping or driving on slippery surfaces, which could lead to a loss of vehicle control, a collision, or an accident.
One common cause of the ABS light coming on is a fault with the ABS sensor. ABS sensors are located on the wheels and they detect the rotation of the wheel. The computer then uses this information to determine if a wheel is about to lock up. If the sensor or the wiring that connects it to the computer has become damaged, it may cause the ABS light to turn on. Other causes may include low brake fluid, a faulty or damaged brake master cylinder, or a problem with the brake system’s hydraulic valves.
While it is possible to continue driving without ABS functioning properly, it may not be safe to do so. If your ABS light turns on, it is essential to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic at the earliest opportunity. They will be able to diagnose the problem, identify the cause, and fix the problem before it becomes a more severe problem. Continuing to drive with the ABS light on could lead to additional damage to your vehicle or cause dangerous driving conditions.
The bottom line is that the ABS warning light is not something you should ignore or take lightly. It is better to be safe than sorry. Suppose you see your ABS light on. In that case, you should have your car inspected as soon as possible by your trusted, qualified mechanic to determine the cause and figure out what needs to be done to get your ABS working correctly. Don’t take the risk of driving without the essential safety mechanisms that are built into your car, and always remember to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to avoid unexpected issues and stay safe on the road.
