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Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Anti-lock Braking System

Anti-lock Braking System
Anti-lock Braking System

Anti-lock Braking System

This article is about your anti-lock braking system. Thus, the ABS fitted to your car is an additional safety feature. Hence, this is now found on many modern cars. Your car’s ABS system For this reason, it is designed to help prevent your wheels from locking. Especially during heavy braking situations, such as cornering on a wet or snowy road,

The importance of understanding how the Anti-lock Braking System works cannot be overstated. By offering a detailed explanation of its components, we can gain insights into its functionality. The system comprises several key parts, including sensors that monitor wheel speed, a control module that processes this data, and hydraulic valves that adjust brake pressure. This intricate relationship between these components serves as the backbone of the ABS, allowing it to respond effectively in real-time.

Importantly, your ABS will  prevent your car from skidding

or aquaplaning. Your ABS system is made up of the ABS module and has sensors fitted on each of your wheels. As a result, these sensors detect your wheel speed. Hence, this will send a message to the ABS module. This reacts by rapidly pumping the brakes when detected. Especially when the car is skidding and has lost traction on a wet or icy road.

Furthermore, it’s essential to highlight the warning signs of a malfunctioning ABS. Common indicators include the ABS warning light illuminating on the dashboard, unusual noises during braking, or a feeling of the brake pedal pulsating. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further complications and ensure your safety on the road.

If your car is not fitted with an ABS system, you may lose traction due to a loss of traction. On slick roads, skidding or aquaplaning might be the cause of this. When you have to apply your brakes, then, without ABS, you could lose control of the car. As a result, your ABS system on your vehicle will give you plenty of warning signs when there are any problems with the ABS brake system.

The ABS system modulates brake pressure-Anti-lock Braking System

Additionally, the sensors are critical for detecting any discrepancies in wheel speed. For example, if one wheel begins to spin faster than the others, the ABS system can recognise this as a potential lock-up situation. It is fascinating to note that modern ABS systems can adjust brake pressure up to 15 times per second, showcasing their advanced technology and capability to enhance vehicle safety.

Moreover, ABS has paved the way for additional safety features, such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control Systems (TCS), which further enhance the overall safety of modern vehicles. Understanding the connection between these systems helps drivers appreciate the advances in automotive safety technology.

In order to keep track of speed and wheel spin, anti-lock brakes require a number of sensors. The technology detects when the wheels start to lock up and delivers pressure to each wheel at a different rate to stop the vehicle. By doing this, the wheels won’t lock up.

For instance, during adverse weather conditions, ABS proves invaluable. When driving on icy or wet roads, the system helps maintain steering control by preventing wheel lock-up. In scenarios where a driver needs to make a sudden stop, such as when an obstacle appears, ABS allows the driver to steer away from danger while still applying the brakes firmly.

The advantages of having an Anti-lock Braking System extend beyond emergency situations. For example, in everyday driving, it can improve stopping distances on slippery surfaces. Studies have shown that vehicles equipped with ABS can stop shorter than those without in similar conditions. Thus, the presence of ABS not only aids in accident prevention but also enhances overall driving performance.

Brake pressure is regulated to maintain optimal stopping force and control when ABS is on. When the vehicle slows down or stops, the ABS regulates brake pressure by pressing harder on the brake pedal. The opposite is also true when the vehicle slows down or stops.

In conclusion, the Anti-lock Braking System represents a significant advancement in automotive safety. By preventing wheel lock-up during braking, it allows for better control and stability, especially in challenging driving conditions. Understanding how this system functions and its benefits can empower drivers to utilise it effectively, enhancing their safety on the road. As vehicles continue to evolve, the role of technologies like the ABS will remain pivotal in fostering safer driving practices.

For commercial vehicles, ABS was first created. After it was shown to increase vehicle safety, it was later adopted for automobiles in the 1980s. It is now a standard feature on all new cars to increase safety.

Need advice or assistance regarding your Anti-lock Braking System? Contact Pellon Tyres Halifax on 01422 351314 for expert guidance and services tailored to your braking needs.

Anti-lock Braking System
Anti-lock Braking System

Your car will slow down using hydraulic pressure-Anti-lock Braking System

and the ABS. The purpose of this device is to stop the wheels from locking up during braking, which could result in an accident. Additionally, it aids you in keeping control of your vehicle when stopping on unsteady or wet and muddy ground.

I think it is important for the driver to be aware of the warning signs. By knowing about the problems and correcting them, you are more likely to be able to address the problem should one occur. As I have said previously,

ABS works by detecting individual wheel locks and momentarily releasing the brakes on that particular wheel. Hence, by cutting out the amount of brake fluid, which is supplied to the wheel via the master cylinder. Therefore, allow the wheel to regain traction and then carry on driving in safety.

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Need ABS help? Call Pellon Tyres Halifax on 01422 351314

Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem

Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem

Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem
Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem

Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem


Peugeot 207 Brake Warning Light – When an ABS Fault Is the Real Problem

Yesterday here at Pellon Tyres & Autocentre in Halifax, we had a Peugeot 207 brought in with a brake warning light glowing on the dashboard. The driver was understandably concerned — and quite right too — because when a brake warning light comes on, it’s never something to ignore.

After a full inspection, it turned out the car had developed a fault with the ABS unit on one side of the braking system, a problem we see fairly regularly on Peugeot 207s here in the UK.

This article explains what that warning light really means, what can cause ABS faults, why Peugeot 207s are prone to it, and what drivers around Halifax and Calderdale should look out for.

Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem
Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem

Understanding the Brake Warning Lights in a Peugeot 207

Modern cars like the Peugeot 207 don’t just have one brake warning light — they have several, and each means something slightly different.

In the Peugeot 207 cabin you’ll usually see:

  • A red brake warning light
  • An amber ABS warning light
  • Sometimes both lights together

Each tells a different story.

Red Brake Warning Light

This usually relates to:

  • Low brake fluid
  • Worn brake pads
  • A serious braking system fault

If this light stays on while driving, the car needs checking immediately.

Amber ABS Warning Light

This points directly to the Anti-lock Braking System.
When this light comes on:

  • Normal braking still works
  • ABS assistance is disabled
  • Emergency braking and wet-road safety are reduced

This is exactly what we found on the Peugeot 207 that came into the workshop.

Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem
new unit in place

What Is the ABS System, and Why Does It Matter?

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) prevents the wheels from locking under heavy braking. Instead of skidding, the wheels continue to rotate, allowing the driver to steer while braking.

This is especially important in:

  • Heavy Calderdale rain
  • Steep Halifax hills
  • Slippery winter roads
  • Emergency stop situations

Without ABS:

  • Wheels can lock
  • Steering control is reduced
  • Stopping distances can increase

The Peugeot 207 ABS Problem – What We Found

On this particular Peugeot 207, diagnostic testing showed a fault within the ABS unit on one side of the braking system.

Common causes include:

  • Internal ABS pump failure
  • Failed solenoid valves
  • Corrosion inside the ABS module
  • Electrical failure within the unit

Unfortunately, these units can’t usually be repaired once they fail internally and often require replacement.

Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem
Old unit to show customer

Why ABS Units Fail on Peugeot 207s: Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem

We see this problem more often than people realise, especially on UK-used Peugeot 207s.

1. Age and Mileage

Many 207s are now:

  • 12–18 years old
  • Well past 100,000 miles

ABS components simply wear out over time.

2. Moisture and Road Salt

Here in Halifax and Calderdale, cars are exposed to:

  • Constant rain
  • Winter road salt
  • Damp conditions year-round

Moisture can seep into ABS units and connectors, causing corrosion and electrical faults.

3. Wheel Speed Sensor Issues

Sometimes the fault starts with:

  • A failed wheel speed sensor
  • Broken wiring near the hub
  • Corroded sensor rings

If ignored, this can overload and damage the ABS unit itself.

4. Battery or Charging Problems

Low voltage can confuse ABS modules. A weak battery or alternator issue can trigger faults that eventually become permanent.

Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem
New boxed unit ready to be fitted

What the Driver Might Notice: Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem

When ABS faults appear on a Peugeot 207, drivers often report:

  • Brake warning lights staying on
  • ABS light appearing after starting the car
  • Warning lights coming and going
  • ABS activating unexpectedly
  • MOT failure due to warning lights

In this case, the car would not pass an MOT with the ABS warning light illuminated.


Is the Car Safe to Drive?

This is a question we’re asked all the time.

The honest answer is:

In everyday gentle driving, the car may feel normal.
In an emergency stop — especially on wet Halifax roads — braking performance is reduced.

For us at Pellon Tyres, brakes are not something we gamble with.


Repair Options – What Can Be Done? Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem

For this Peugeot 207, the correct fix was:

  • Replacing the faulty ABS unit
  • Re-bleeding the braking system
  • Clearing fault codes
  • Road-testing to confirm proper operation

In some cases:

  • Used or reconditioned ABS units can reduce costs
  • Sensors or wiring may be repairable if caught early

Every car is assessed individually to keep costs sensible.


Local Advice for Halifax & Calderdale Drivers

We understand that cars are essential around here. Steep hills, narrow roads, and poor weather mean braking systems work harder than average.

If you see:

  • Brake warning lights
  • ABS lights
  • “Brake Fault” messages

Don’t leave it. Early diagnosis often saves money.

At Pellon Tyres & Autocentre, we deal with these faults daily and always explain the problem plainly and honestly — no scare tactics, no pressure.


Final Thoughts: Peugeot 207 with Brakes Problem

The Peugeot 207 is a popular, practical car in the UK, but like all vehicles, it has known weaknesses as it ages. ABS faults are one of them.

Brake warning lights are the car’s way of asking for help — and listening early can make all the difference.

If you’re unsure, we’re always happy to take a look.