The ABS system allows in any specific conditions (when driving in a straight line, on a bend, on an asphalt, icy or wet road, etc.) reduce braking distance to a minimum.
In principle, with each braking, ABS must solve two problems, ensuring trajectory stability on roads of different surface types (asphalt, concrete) and in different states (on icy, muddy, snowy or wet roads) reliable handling and maneuverability of the car under the above conditions.
These requirements require significant comments.
ABS does not override the laws of physics. The system cannot prevent the consequences of braking when there is insufficient distance from the vehicle in front, when cornering at unacceptably high speeds, or when there is a risk of aquaplaning. These consequences still remain on the conscience of the driver. The presence of ABS, which provides increased safety potential, should not provoke you to unnecessarily risky driving.
Features of driving with ABS
After starting the engine, the ABS warning light on the instrument panel goes out.
The system is automatically activated only after reaching a speed of about 8 km/h. When it falls below 3 km / h, ABS is turned off, so theoretically at the very last stage of braking the wheels can lock up, but in practice this is no longer of fundamental importance.
ABS implements the regulation process in a fraction of a second. Pulsation of the pedal under the foot means that braking is under ABS control, in other words, that the driver is driving in the limit mode. In addition, the crackling caused by the ABS process reminds the driver to adjust the speed to the actual driving conditions that have changed due to a decrease in (for example, due to ice) friction coefficient (or clutch) between tires and road.
On loose roads (e.g. rubble or snow) over a base with good traction, the braking distance may be longer than when the wheels are blocked. The same applies to driving with snow chains. Much more important, however, is the gain in trajectory stability and vehicle handling.
To keep the ABS in full working order, do not make any changes to it. Work on the system must only be carried out by authorized specialists.
Driving on dissimilar tires, for example. after installing the spare wheel (in combination with the other three wheels. on which tires with a winter tread pattern are mounted) may limit the functionality of the ABS. Therefore, the removed wheel must be reinstalled as soon as possible. A malfunction signal is the inclusion of the ABS warning light on the instrument panel (refer to Section 1). In this case, the brake system continues to operate normally, as on vehicles without ABS. However, have the brake system checked by a BMW workshop as soon as possible. Otherwise, it may cause malfunctions that are difficult to detect.
Power steering
If the steering is heavy, check the oil level as recommended in Chapter 1.
If you are having difficulty turning the steering wheel quickly, you should definitely contact a BMW workshop to have it checked.
If the hydraulic booster fails, the force required to turn the steering wheel increases.