Current vehicles have many advantages capable of achieving perfect performance and safe driving. One of the most important elements, especially in terms of safety, is the car’s ABS system, which will allow us to control the car during the braking process and, at the same time, reduce the risk of an accident of the road.
What is ABS in a car and why does it turn on?
ABS, that is to say the anti-lock braking system is an active safety technology used in vehicles to prevent wheels from locking during sudden braking or in slippery conditions. Its main function, as we indicated above, is improve car control during the braking process and reduce the risk of accidents, especially in situations where road conditions are unfavorable, such as rain, snow or other weather phenomena.
ABS works thanks to a series of sensors and components which allow the system to detect when one or more wheels are about to lock, causing the vehicle to skid or lose traction. This procedure is used to modulate the braking pressure and prevent the wheels from locking. The process This happens in fractions of a second and allows you to maintain control of the vehicle and reduce the braking distance.
The ABS warning light, that is to say the yellow or orange warning light with the letters ABS on the dashboard, lights up to alert the driver that there is a problem with the anti-lock braking system and could compromise the safety of the driver himself during braking action.
If the ABS light comes on while driving, it is important slow down and stop the car in a safe place to avoid risky situations. Subsequently, it is advisable to take the vehicle as soon as possible to a specialized workshop so that they can carry out an accurate diagnosis and repair any fault affecting the system.
What happens when a car’s ABS activates? Possible causes
- Failure in speed sensors wheels
- Problems with hydraulic pump ABS
- Failure in control unit and module ABS
- Low brake fluid level
- Brake wear or brake discs
- Problems with electrical wiring
- Malfunction of the ignition switch
- General failure in the braking system
How to turn off a car’s ABS
Disabling the ABS is something that not recommendedsince this system is designed to improve safety, especially in emergency braking situations and on slippery roads, as we previously indicated. By deactivating ABS, the car loses the ability to prevent wheel locking, which could increase the risk of skidding and loss of controlespecially on wet or icy surfaces. Next, we will explain step by step how to log out.
- Disconnect the fuse: First of all, the ABS is connected to a specific fuse in the vehicle housing. If this is removed or disconnected, the system will be disabled. For that, you must identify the boxfind the fuse linked to the ABS (it appears in the vehicle manual) and remove it correctly and with the appropriate tools. It should be noted that when removing the item, the light will turn on warning on the car dashboard, in addition to losing all the advantages that this new functionality offers.
- Disable it via diagnostic scanner– A diagnostic scanner or OBD-II diagnostic tool, such as those used by mechanics, can be used to temporarily disable the system. This process must be carried out by a specialized technicianbecause it involves electronic manipulation of the vehicle system. First, you will need to connect the scanner to the vehicle’s corresponding port, usually located under the steering wheel. Later we will access the system settings and confirm that we have completely disabled ABS.
- Disable it using a button: In some high-performance vehicles, notably racing cars, it is possible to have a switch or button that allows the driver to deactivate the ABS at will. This is usually installed as a custom modification and is not a standard factory option. However, this option is only for experienced drivers who know how to control the vehicle without ABS in extreme conditions.
What can happen if we drive without ABS
- Loss of control: It should be noted that ABS is designed to prevent wheel locking and improve vehicle handling during intense braking.
- Increased risk of accidents: Without ABS, braking distances may increase and the risk of losing control of the car in an emergency is greater.
- Impact on warranty and security: Disabling ABS could affect the vehicle’s warranty and, in many places, could also be illegal if the car’s safety system is improperly modified.
