Table of contents: Using the anti-lock device ↓ Automatic ABS system test program ↓ ABS system operation ↓ Carefully! ↓
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is designed to prevent the wheels from locking during sudden braking or braking on a slippery road. This helps the driver maintain control and minimizes the risk of skidding and spinning on a slippery road. The system monitors the rotation speed of each wheel and changes the brake fluid pressure at the moment when the wheel locks and skids.
Using the anti-lock device
Press and hold the brake pedal. Do not try to avoid locking by pressing and releasing the brake pedal, as this will only increase the braking distance.
Automatic ABS system test program
The anti-lock brake system consists of electronic sensors, electric pumps and electromechanical (solenoid type)valves controlled by the computer. The computer has a program for checking the entire system, which is automatically launched each time the engine is started and runs while the car is moving at a slow speed forward or backward. During the operation of the check program, you can hear a characteristic knocking sound and feel a "beating" of the brake pedal, which is normal and does not indicate any malfunctions. If during the check the computer recognizes any malfunction in the operation, it switches off the anti-lock brake system and turns on the "ANTI-LOCK" indicator lamp on the instrument panel. In this case, the car's brakes continue to work normally, but without the anti-lock system.
If the ABS light comes on either during the inspection procedure or while driving, contact your Nissan dealer as soon as possible to have the anti-lock brake system repaired.
ABS system operation
The ABS system does not work at speeds below 5-10 km/h. (This speed limit range may vary depending on road conditions). At the moment when the ABS system determines that the condition of one or more wheels is close to locking, a special servo mechanism (under the engine hood) begins to rapidly build up and release pressure in the hydraulic brake drive (like quickly pumping the brakes). When the servo is operating, you may feel the brake pedal vibrate and hear a noise from the servo vibration under the hood. This is normal and indicates that the ABS system is working properly. When the ABS is activated, it indicates dangerous road conditions and the need for increased attention.
Carefully!
The anti-lock braking system makes it much easier to control the car when braking on a slippery road and can prevent the wheels from locking in difficult and rapidly changing conditions. But it is important to remember that the braking distance is always longer on a slippery road, regardless of the operation of the ABS system, and the risk of a traffic accident is always higher. It is unacceptable to rely on the operation of the ABS system and be careless and inattentive when driving a car. Remember that the driver is responsible for the safety of passengers and pedestrians.
It is important to remember that braking efficiency also depends on the type and condition of the tires.
When changing tires, the same specified type of tires must be installed on all 4 wheels.
Before installing the spare tire, additionally check that its size and type correspond to those indicated on the tire label. Information on the location of the tire label is provided in Chapter "Technical information".