Anti-Lock Braking System - Renault Clio Manual

ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS)
When braking sharply, the two main
aims are to reduce the stopping
distance and to keep the vehicle
under control. However, depending
on the nature of the ground, the
atmospheric conditions and your
reactions, dangers due to loss of
adherence may exist: the wheels
may lock and directional control
may be lost. To avoid these risks,
your vehicle has been fitted with
the anti-lock braking system (ABS).
The safety enhancement is that the
brake control system prevents the
wheels from locking, even if the
brakes are applied too sharply,
allowing the vehicle to be steered
and thus its direction to be controlled.
Under these circumstances, it is quite
possible for the driver to steer the
vehicle and avoid an obstacle whilst
at the same time applying the brake.
This system also allows stopping
distances to be improved, especially
when adhesion is limited (wet roads,
slippery or uneven road surface).
The braking modulation provided by the ABS system is independent of the force applied at the pedal. In an
emergency, apply firm, continuous pressure at the brake pedal - there is no need to pump it repeatedly.
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Although this system allows this
optimisation, the ABS system in no
way increases performance which is
physically related to the local
adherence conditions between the
tyres and the ground. You must still
follow the rules of good driving
practice (driving at a safe distance
from the vehicle in front etc.). The
fact that the vehicle's safety has been
increased should not encourage you
to take risks.
Each time the system is activated,
you will feel a certain degree of
pulsation at the brake pedal. 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.
Operating incidents
Two situations must be considered:
1 - The warning light
illuminated on the instrument
panel.
Braking is still assured, but
without the action of the ABS
system. Consult a Renault Dealer
as soon as possible.
2 - The warning lights
are illuminated on the instrument
panel.
This indicates a fault in one of
the ABS braking components.
Braking may be partially assured.
It is however dangerous to brake
sharply, so you must stop
immediately as soon as traffic
conditions allow. Call for the
assistance of a Renault Dealer as
soon as possible.
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