While it’s true that all auto maintenance is deemed equally important, there are certainly some systems and parts of your BMW that are especially important to look after. One of these systems is the anti-lock brake system (ABS). when the ABS system fails, it can cause serious and concerning symptoms to occur in your BMW that should absolutely be checked out by a professional mechanic with urgency. If you’re not sure where to begin, have no fear – this article will go over the basic information about the ABS, including how to diagnose and attend to ABS failure.

In a nutshell, what is the anti-lock braking system?

Anti-lock brake systems are a benchmark in the historical development and evolution of the automotive industry. Designed to help cars be safer on the roads, giving the driver more control over the car, anti-lock brake systems were a solution to the excess of auto accidents caused by inefficient braking capabilities back in the day.

The ultimate responsibility and goal of the ABS is to prevent the wheels from seizing when brakes are utilized in an abrupt fashion. This keeps the car stabilized as it comes to a quick, effective stop. Avoiding an auto accident is the primary goal of the ABS, and it does a good job of that, even in adverse weather conditions where roads can be especially slippery or unstable. The ABS system is more complex than people think, and entails several other parts and components to help it run optimally.

ABS warnings and driver alerts

The ABS system is similar to other systems in your car in that is controlled by an on-board computer, module, or control unit (whichever term you prefer). In other words, it has the capability to alert the driver via a series of intermediary channels when something isn’t functioning properly.

If you notice that the ABS warning light comes on into your dashboard, it’s time to have the problem checked out immediately – don’t wait to have your car diagnosed, otherwise your safety could be in jeopardy. Although it’s normal for the ABS light to come on initially when you start your car, it should not remain on for any extended period of time. Luckily, the engine control unit (ECU) will emit a code associated with the problem that professionals can read with special equipment, allowing them to accurately find the source of the issue faster and more efficiently.

How to prevent ABS system issues

The ABS system is comprised of multiple components that drivers should be aware of, as providing ongoing services to these components can directly impact the rate at which parts wear or become ineffective. Here are the main ones you should know about:

• Brake pads, calipers, and rotors
• Motor
• Wheel sensors
• Release valves
• ABS computer/module

Each of these components plays a direct role in brake effectiveness. A good general rule of thumb is to have your brakes thoroughly inspected each time you replace your car’s tires or have them rotated. Keep in mind that not all vehicles’ braking systems are designed the same way, so it’s best to have an automotive shop that specializes in your particular vehicle attend to maintenance and repairs.

Addressing the issue preventively

Especially when it comes to brake health, it is important to proactively maintain the system on a routine basis. If you have trouble sticking to an automotive care routine, it’s important to consult with professionals on the best route of care. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Don’t wait to address troublesome brake symptoms
• If your ABS light comes on, bring it to a specialist immediately
• Follow your car’s designated maintenance plan found in your owner’s manual
• Adjust your driving habits to go easier on your brakes – this will slow down the rate of wear of certain parts, such as brake pads, rotors, and calipers

The European import specialists at Das European Autohaus provide maintenance and servicing to vehicles such as: Porsche, MINI, BMW, Mercedes, and Audi. As experts in these specific brands, the residents of Spring, Cypress, North Houston, Tomball, and The Woodlands, TX, put their faith and confidence in us to accurately address issues such as ABS failure in a timely, efficient, and affordable manner. Your safety is most important to us, and we value your trust. To make an appointment for a brake inspection, please contact us today.

* BMW Steering image credit goes to: annopk.