Antilock Brakes / Traction Control Systems: Description and Operation: Overview

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:
- Base ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System)
- EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution)
- Traction Control
- ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
- Hill Start Assist

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

The EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) 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 (Electronic Stability Control) system helps to prevent skids or lateral slides by activating portions of the base ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System).

The Hill Start Assist system is designed to assist the driver during hill-starts. Using the ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) it can hold 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.