Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Stability Control: Overview
The ABS and stability control system is comprised of the following subsystems which assist the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle:
- ABS
- EBD
- Traction control
- ESC
- RSC®
- Trailer sway control
- Hill start assist
The ABS helps maintain steering control by preventing the wheels from locking up during hard braking. The ABS also includes a brake assist function that provides maximum brake system pressure during a severe braking situation.
The EBD system helps maintain vehicle control by keeping a balanced braking condition between the front and rear wheels.
The traction control system helps prevent loss of traction by reducing drive-wheel spin during acceleration.
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 ESC system helps prevent skids or lateral slides by modulating brake fluid pressure to the brake calipers and reducing engine torque.
The RSC® system helps prevent excessive vehicle roll by modulating brake fluid pressure to the brake calipers and reducing engine torque.
The hill start assist system is designed to assist the driver during hill-starts. Using the ABS, the hill start assist system holds the vehicle on an incline for a short time, allowing the driver to release the brake pedal and press the accelerator pedal without needing to use the parking brake.
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.