A new driver’s worst fear is turning on their car only to discover that a dashboard light has turned on. However, more experienced drivers might not take these concerns seriously. After all, most people think of a car’s dashboard lights as a warning than an actual issue. While this is very often the case, it doesn’t mean you should go on a road trip without taking your car to the mechanic first.
Your ABS light is an often overlooked component on your car’s dash. This acronym stands for “anti-lock braking system,” and this system will pulse your brakes when they’re in danger of seizing up. Basically, this system helps you in the event you need to make an emergency stop. The warning light will come on when your car is experiencing a few different issues. For more information about your ABS light and the role it plays in your car, rely on this helpful link https://www.sinspeed.co.uk/category/abs-ecus/ from SInspeed.
Here are some of the top reasons that you should never drive when your ABS light comes on.
It can point to more than one problem.
Your ABS light is specifically tied to your car’s anti-lock braking system, but there are a number of reasons that your system might be having an issue. It might have turned on because your car is low on brake fluids. However, it might also turn on if there’s a wiring issue, a problem with a pump, or if it’s time to check your car’s bulb.
Unless you get your car checked out by an experienced mechanic, there’s no way to tell which issue your car might be experiencing. As such, you should avoid driving until it’s checked out.
You won’t be safe in inclement weather.
One of the main purposes of your ABS is to stop your car from skidding. If you live in a snowy or particularly rainy area, your anti-lock brake system could save your life. Without this important tool, you could be setting yourself up for a crash. While you’re less likely to need it in sunny weather, it’s a literal life-saver in the winter and rainy season.
It sets a bad precedent.
Older drivers become relaxed about their car’s warning lights because they get into the habit of pushing off trips to the mechanic. Unfortunately, this bad habit could cost you more than just money if you get into an accident. The best thing you can do is bring your car into the shop as soon as a light turns on. This will prevent you from getting lazy and also showcase to your friends and family that they should do the same with their cars.
Sudden stops also become dangerous.
Your car’s ABS is key for driving on slippery surfaces, but it’s also important when it comes to sudden stops. If you live in a hilly environment or heavily trafficked area, you might have to stop more suddenly than the average person. Investing in your car’s ABS is the best way to keep you—and the drivers around you—safe.
Most people don’t know when to pump their brakes.
Your anti-lock brake system is designed to reduce human error. This tool is amazing, however, it’s also created a world where people don’t know when it’s appropriate to pump their brakes. Some people think that pumping your brakes will make them last longer but this couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s only necessary to pump your brakes when you’re at risk of having your brakes lock up. Determining when that kind of issue will occur is not easy if you’ve always relied on your anti-lock brakes.
At the end of the day, you should only drive with your ABS light on if it means you’re going right to the mechanic. As soon as you see a light on your dash start to glow, visiting your auto repair technician is the best thing you can do.