When ABS detects a tendency for wheels to lock, what is the intended outcome?

When ABS detects a tendency for wheels to lock, what is the intended outcome?

• A. The computer reduces braking pressure to prevent lock while allowing the wheel to continue turning.
• B. The computer locks all wheels to maximize deceleration.
• C. The computer shuts off braking entirely.
• D. The computer increases steering effort to correct drift.

Answer: (A)

Anti-lock braking systems are designed to keep the wheels turning during hard braking so you can still steer. When the system senses a wheel is about to lock, it quickly eases off brake pressure on that wheel just enough to let it rotate again. It may reapply pressure once grip returns, and it often does this in rapid pulses. The result is a controlled stop with maintained steering ability, rather than a skid. So, the intended outcome is to prevent wheel lock while keeping the tire in contact with the road and the driver able to steer. This is not about locking all wheels, shutting braking off, or increasing steering effort—it's about modulating braking pressure to preserve control.

Anti-lock braking systems are designed to keep the wheels turning during hard braking so you can still steer. When the system senses a wheel is about to lock, it quickly eases off brake pressure on that wheel just enough to let it rotate again. It may reapply pressure once grip returns, and it often does this in rapid pulses. The result is a controlled stop with maintained steering ability, rather than a skid.

So, the intended outcome is to prevent wheel lock while keeping the tire in contact with the road and the driver able to steer. This is not about locking all wheels, shutting braking off, or increasing steering effort—it's about modulating braking pressure to preserve control.