Anti-Lock Braking System: Abs - Renault Espace Driver's Handbook Manual

ANTI-LOcK BRAKING SYSTEM: ABS

Under heavy braking, the essential re-
quirements are to limit the stopping
distance and keep your vehicle under
control. However, there is a risk that
roadholding and directional control
may be lost and the wheels may lock
under braking, depending on the nature
of the ground, weather conditions and
your reactions. The Anti-lock Braking
System (ABS) has been designed to
combat this danger.
The safety enhancement is that the
brake control system prevents the
wheels from locking, even if the brakes
are applied too sharply, and allows the
vehicle to be steered and thus its direc-
tion to be controlled. Under these cir-
cumstances it is quite possible for the
driver to steer the vehicle and to avoid
an obstacle whilst at the same time ap-
plying the brake.
This system also allows you to optimise
stopping distances when the grip of one
or more wheels may be lost (wet roads,
slippery or varying road surfaces).
Although this system allows you to ben-
efit from optimum stopping distances,
even with the ABS you must still take
account of the actual condition of the
road surface. It is still essential to follow
the rules of good driving practice (such
as driving at a safe distance from the
vehicle in front). The fact that the ve-
hicle's safety has been increased
should not encourage you to take
risks.
You will feel pulsing through the brake
pedal each time the system is activated.
These tangible signs will warn you that
the adhesion between the tyres and the
ground has reached its limit and enable
you to adapt your driving style to suit
the road conditions.
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