ABS Standard Safety Feature on all Suzuki Passenger Models

ABS Explained

Bassonia Webmaster 2019-03-05

Change direction while you brake to avoid a hazard in the road.

The anti-lock braking system (ABS) comes as a standard safety feature in all Suzuki passenger cars. But how does it work?

Swift Sport - superior braking performance
Image from https://suzukiqld.com.au

Even if you’re an experienced driver, unexpected obsticles sometimes get in the way. You then, to avoid having an accident, jump on the brake, fast and hard.

This is where ABS assists you, known as anti-lock braking system for the sole purpose of safety. ABS brakes prevents your car wheels from locking, when jumping on the brake pedal.

The main benefit/feature is you can steer, turn the wheel, out of danger whilst you pressing the brake hard.

ABS was first introduced as an anti-skid system for aircraft use in the 1950s. And in the 1970s, Ford and Chrysler proved that it can also be used in cars.

How does it work?

ABS is part of an overall stability system, commonly known as electronic stability control, which monitors wheels’ under heavy braking. Each wheel has a sensor attached to it.

If the intelligent sensors detect that a wheel is about to lock up and stop moving, the system will release the brake. The release is only for a moment.

ABS then continuously and repeatedly applies optimum braking pressure to each wheel, meaning the system will brake just enough to not lock the wheels.

When ABS is active you may feel pulsation through the brake pedal as you’re pressing it. The anti-lock system helps the driver remain in control of the vehicle rather than bringing the car to a stop.

It reduces the risk of skidding even when undertaking excessive evasive manoeuvres. This is why it’s important to remember that the car’s braking distance may increase.

So, if you keep driving ahead straight into an obstacle, the car may not stop in time even if your instincts dictate otherwise. It’s a common misconception that ABS helps reducing stopping distance.

How effective is it?

It is a very effective safety feature:

Cars fitted with ABS are less likely be involved in a fatal crash.
ABS decreases the chance of frontal collision on wet and dry roads.
Cars with ABS rarely stray from the road ahead.

It’s worth keeping in mind that ABS works best on solid stable surfaces, and your experience on icy or gravel roads can be different.

Suzuki Swift Sport Car - Braking performance can be even more important at times than driving performance, the Swift Sport employs 16-inch ventilated front disc brakes and 15-inch solid rear disc brakes for superior braking power and feel.
Image from https://suzukiqld.com.au

You never want to see this symbol flashing red on your dashboard - get it repaired.