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Home >> Ford >> 2012 >> Explorer Base, 2.0 9 >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Brakes >> Traction Control >> Anti-Lock Brake System And Stability Control >> Description And Operation >> Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) And Stability Control >> Overview
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Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) And Stability Control: Overview

The vehicle dynamic system is comprised of the following subsystems which assist the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle:

The base ABS helps to maintain steering control by preventing the wheels from locking up during hard braking. The base ABS also includes a brake assist function that will provide maximum brake system pressure during a severe braking situation.

The EBD system helps to maintain vehicle control by keeping a balanced braking condition between the front and rear wheels.

The traction control system helps to prevent loss of traction by reducing drive-wheel spin during acceleration.

The ESC system helps to prevent skids or lateral slides by activating portions of the base ABS.

The RSC system helps to prevent excessive vehicle roll by activating portions of the base ABS.

The Curve Control system helps to maintain vehicle stability during adverse maneuvers such as cornering or avoiding objects in the roadway.

The Trailer Sway Control system helps maintain vehicle stability while towing a trailer by detecting and aiding in the reduction of conditions that cause trailer sway.

The Hill Start Assist system prevents vehicle roll back when pulling away while stopped on an incline without the use of the parking brake.

The Hill Descent Control™ system helps to maintain a low speed while descending steep inclines in various surface conditions.

The Terrain Management System helps to maintain vehicle traction by adapting the responses of the engine, transmission, 4WD  system and the vehicle dynamic system to the demands of the terrain. For additional information on the terrain management system, REFER to ALL-WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) .

For information on the Adaptive Cruise Control system, REFER to ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC) OPERATION .

For information on the Collision Avoidance system, REFER to COLLISION AVOIDANCE OPERATION .

Some noise from the system and pulsations in the brake pedal are normal conditions during most vehicle dynamic system activations. Also, longer than normal brake pedal travel may be experienced immediately following a vehicle dynamic system activation.