What is the purpose of anti-lock brakes (ABS)?

Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are designed specifically to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking. When a driver applies the brakes forcefully, without ABS, the wheels can stop rotating entirely, leading to a loss of traction between the tires and the road surface. This can result in the vehicle skidding, making it difficult to steer and increasing the likelihood of an accident.

With ABS, a system of sensors and electronic controls modulates brake pressure during an emergency stop. This allows the wheels to continue rotating while the brakes are applied, maintaining traction and allowing the driver to steer the vehicle more effectively. The result is improved control and stability, especially on slippery surfaces such as wet or icy roads. The primary function of ABS, therefore, is to enhance safety by minimizing the risk of skidding during sudden stops.