Anti-Lock Brake Systems (ABS) prevent
your wheels from locking up and losing
traction so you are better able to steer in
emergency situations. ABS is standard on vehicles
model year 2012 and newer. If you are not sure
you have them, you can consult your owner's
manual, or turn on your vehicle and you will see a
circle with the letters "ABS" light up on the
dashboard.
If you have not experienced using ABS before, it
is important to know what to expect. You may
experience a pulsing on the brakes as if the brakes
are pushing back, or the pedal may even drop
suddenly. The ABS controller may make a loud
grinding or buzzing noise and you may feel some
vibration. That means the brakes are working. Be
sure to keep your foot on the brake pedal when
this occurs and continue to apply firm pressure.
The ABS provides stability and control during
emergency or skid situations so you can steer in
the direction you want to go.
YOU CAN REMEMBER THIS WITH 3 KEY WORDS:
STOMP Firmly depress the brake pedal.
STAY Stay on the brakes.
Do not pump them.
STEER Steer where you want the
vehicle to go while still braking.
www.aarp.org/drive Smart Driver Participant Guidebook 31
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