Anti-Lock Brakes If you don't already own a car or truck equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), chances are you will soon. A potential lifesaver, ABS helps keep your car under control should you jam on the brakes in an emergency. (Ordinary brakes are likely to cause one or more wheels to lock up, usually resulting in a skid. To avoid skids, expert drivers rapidly "pump" the brake pedal - releasing and re-applying- it when they sense wheel lockup.) An ABS automatically provides a pumping action similar to manual pumping. Unlike letting go of the brake pedal and stepping back on it, ABS can pump much faster, and the system senses impending skids, directing its `modulated braking' to whichever wheel, or wheels, would have otherwise locked." The Do's and Don'ts of ABS: DO keep your foot on the brake. Maintain firm and continuous pressure on the brake while steering to enable four-wheel ABS to work properly. DO allow enough distance to stop. Follow three seconds or more behind vehicles when driving in good conditions. Allow more time if conditions are hazardous. DO practice driving with ABS. Become accustomed to pulsations that occur in the brake pedal when ABS is activated. DO consult the vehicle's owner's manual for additional driving instructions on the anti-lock brake system. DON'T pump the brakes. Pumping the brake turns the system on and off. This decreases braking efficiency and increases stopping distance. ABS pumps the brakes for you automatically at a much faster rate and allows better steering control. DON'T forget to steer. ABS enables drivers to steer in emergency braking situations.

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