Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Stability Control - Overview: Overview
The ABS and stability control systems are comprised of the following subsystems and features which assist the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle:
- Anti-lock braking
- EBD
- EPB control
- ESC
- Hill start assist
- Launch control
- Line lock
- Selectable drive mode
- Supplemental braking assist
- Supports adaptive cruise control
- Supports collision avoidance
- Traction control
Anti-lock braking helps maintain steering control by preventing the wheels from locking up during hard braking.
The EBD system helps maintain vehicle control by keeping a balanced braking condition between the front and rear wheels.
The ABS module is the ECU for the electric parking brake system. For information on the electric parking brake,
The ESC feature helps prevent skids or lateral slides by modulating brake fluid 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.
The launch control feature works in conjunction with the ABS and the PCM to maximize traction from a standing start acceleration in a straight line. Launch control enables a unique "drag start" traction control calibration designed for high grip surfaces.
The line lock feature allows the rear wheels to spin freely while the front brakes are applied. This allows the rear tires to be "conditioned" to allow maximum traction. This feature is intended for use at race tracks only and should not be used on public roads.
The selectable drive mode system helps maintain vehicle traction by adapting the responses of the engine, transmission, EPAS and stability control system to the demands of the current selected driving mode; normal, snow-wet, sport and track.
The supplemental braking assist feature uses the hydraulic pump motor and HCU to provide additional braking assist in the event of severe vacuum loss at the brake booster or during a severe braking event.
The ABS supports the adaptive cruise control system by applying the brakes as necessary to maintain the distance gap set by the driver. For information on the adaptive cruise control system, Refer to: Cruise Control - System Operation and Component Description .
The ABS supports the collision avoidance system by monitoring information and precharging the brake system allowing the vehicle to stop in the shortest distance possible. For information on the collision avoidance system, Refer to: Collision Warning and Collision Avoidance System - System Operation and Component Description .
The traction control system helps prevent loss of traction by reducing drive wheel spin during acceleration.
Some noise from the system and pulsations in the brake pedal are normal conditions during most ABS and stability control events. Also, longer than normal brake pedal travel may be experienced immediately following an ABS or stability control activation.