Brake Systems After 2013

Do you know what kind of braking system you have on your vehicle?  It matters.  Do you think you should pump your brakes to get them to stop better on a slippery surface? Or are they the new computerized ones that pump the brakes for you?

The most common brakes on today’s vehicles are anti-lock braking systems, or ABS for short.  They employ a computer and sensors in the wheels to give you a big edge over the older systems.  ABS began to be regularly installed on vehicles in the 1970s but weren’t mandated until 2004 in the European Union and 2013 in the United States.

Let’s go back to the “old” days when there were no computerized brakes.  The driver pushed down the pedal that then sent pressure to all four wheels at once. Unfortunately, all four tires aren’t gripping the road the same way; some have more traction than others because of the varying road surface, so stopping and steering can be compromised.  In older systems, pumping the pedal made sense since a driver was letting off the brakes when the tires skidded in an attempt to regain traction.

ABS changed all that.  Sensors in each wheel now can determine which ones are turning faster than others and adjust brake pressure accordingly, maintaining maximum grip.  They automatically “pump the brakes” up to 20 times a second.  That helps a driver’s stopping distance and steering control, both important in avoiding obstacles.

ABS is designed for the driver to apply steady pressure on the pedal since the computer can do things not humanly possible.  If you have ABS, pumping the brakes can defeat the technology that’s trying to help you maintain control.

Remember the three S’s: Stomp. Stay. Steer.  Stomp your brakes, stay on the brakes, and steer as needed.

Now you see how important it is to know which system your vehicle has. If you’re not sure, consult your NAPA AutoCare Center Service Advisor.  That’s also a good time to go over your vehicle’s brake system and maintenance schedule.  ABS is sophisticated technology and needs to be maintained so it will work the way it is designed. Remember that stopping and going are both important when it comes to vehicle safety.