Anti-Lock Braking System: Abs - Renault Scenic 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
make maximum use of stopping dis-
tances, even with the ABS you still have
to 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
vehicle's safety has been increased
should not encourage you to take
risks.
You will feel a pulsation through the
brake pedal each time the system is ac-
tivated. 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 driv-
ing style to suit the road conditions.
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