United Tire and Service News

It’s happened to all of us at least once, we’re driving along and an unexpected hazard causes us to slam on our brakes to avoid danger. But stopping a vehicle suddenly can be a dangerous challenge, especially if the roads are slippery or wet. That’s where anti-lock braking systems (ABS) come into play. Anti-lock braking systems take a lot of the challenge out of stopping unexpectedly, especially on slippery roads. 

Anti-lock brakes help drivers have better control of their vehicle in dangerous road conditions. In vehicles without anti-lock brake systems, drivers who encounter slippery conditions have to pump their brakes to make sure they do not spin out of control because of locked up wheels. Vehicles with ABS have a wheel sensor that detects when your car’s tires begin to lock. This sends off a response that rapidly applies and releases pressure to the brakes to prevent skidding. 

Advantages of Anti Lock Brakes

• • Stopping on ice: An ABS prevents lock-ups and skidding, even in slippery conditions. Anti-lock brakes have been proven to save lives in some situations by helping drivers keep control of a vehicle.
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• • Lower insurance costs: Because it is a thoroughly tested safety device with a track record of effectiveness, insurers often give customers specific discounts for having an ABS system on their vehicle.
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• • Higher resale value: As a feature on a car or truck, an ABS raises the market value of the vehicle. Nowadays, where ABS technology has become standard on many vehicles, not having it could result in a lower price for resale.
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• • Traction control: An ABS shares some of the infrastructure of a traction control system, where new technology helps ensure that each wheel has traction on the road. That makes it easy for manufacturers to install both of these features at the factory.

If your vehicle doesn't have auto-lock brakes, or the ABS isn’t working properly, make sure you pump the brakes if your car starts to slide or skid. Common causes of ABS failure include:

• • Worn brake linings
• • Air or dirt in the brake fluid
• • Faulty sensors or wiring

Your vehicle’s ABS is designed to notify you, as the driver, if there is a malfunction in the system. Common warning signs are:

• • Unresponsive brake pedal
• • Brake pads require more effort to push
• • Your ABS light is on
• • Your brakes are locking up

Because your ABS is designed to help prevent wheel skid during a sudden stop, it undergoes significant strain due to the amount of force needed to control your vehicle in dangerous situations. The cost to repair your anti-lock brake system varies based on the make, model, and year of your vehicle along with how serious your damage is.

Read about some other common brake problems if your vehicle is experiencing different symptoms.

Schedule Service at Our Auto Repair Shop

If you are experiencing any of these warning signs, or you just want to make sure your ABS is ready for the dangerous roads of winter, you can rely on the team at United Tire and Service to perform premier brake repair. We uphold a high standard for the level of care we offer each of our customers. We are your neighbors, and your safety is our priority. Call us today or schedule an appointment online any time here. Thank you for making United Tire and Service your preferred automotive repair shop, and always remember, with us, you never drive alone. You Drive United.