ABS stands for the anti-lock braking system, which all cars have nowadays. The ABS light comes on when there’s a problem with the ABS in your car, so make sure you understand what it means before you take your vehicle in to be serviced. Here are four of the most common reasons why you might see the ABS light blinking on your dashboard.
1) Low Brake Fluid
One of the most common reasons your ABS light blinks is that you have low brake fluid. When your brake fluid levels are low, it can cause your brakes to feel spongy when you press down on them. Additionally, your car may take longer to stop than usual. If you notice either of these issues, it’s essential to check your brake fluid levels and top them off as soon as possible.
2) Malfunctioning ABS Sensor
Your car’s ABS light may be blinking because the sensor isn’t reading your wheels correctly. This can be caused by a build-up of dirt and grime on the sensor or by a problem with the wiring. These sensors are what relay information about the speed of your wheels to the ABS, and if they’re damaged, the system can’t do its job correctly. If you suspect this is the problem, take your car to a mechanic to have it checked out.
3) Air In Brake Lines
If your car has trouble stopping, it could be another issue with your brakes. Another common problem that can cause an active ABS light is if there is air in the brake lines. This can occur over time as the brake pads in your car wear down. You may also notice that your car’s brakes feel spongy and less responsive.
4) Something Else…
If you’re driving and your ABS light starts blinking, it can be pretty alarming. After all, the last thing that you want is for your brakes to go out when driving. Some other causes of an active ABS light could be a blown fuse or abnormal signals from your car’s wheels.
Your car’s braking system is probably the last system you want to fail unexpectedly. So please don’t ignore your car’s ABS warning light; instead, get it checked out by a mechanic immediately.
