Abs & Traction Control
All vehicles are equipped with the Bosch III Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), which is manufactured by Robert Bosch Corporation of Germany. See Fig 1. The purpose of the Anti-Lock Brake System is to prevent wheel lock-up under heavy braking conditions on virtually any type of road surface. Anti-Lock braking is desirable because a vehicle which is stopped without locking the wheels will normally stop in a shorter distance than a car with locked wheels, while retaining directional stability and some steering capability. This allows the driver to retain greater control of the vehicle during heavy braking.
In addition to the Anti-Lock Brake System, vehicles are also equipped with the Bosch Traction Control System (TCS). See Fig 1. The purpose of the Traction Control System (TCS) is to prevent wheels from spinning excessively during acceleration or when turning corners at higher speeds. The Traction Control System also prevents wheel slip on slippery surfaces such as wet or ice-covered roads. Traction control is desirable because the vehicle will be able to maintain the road surface better while allowing improved acceleration ability and improved stability while driving.
The Anti-Lock Brake System and the Traction Control System (ABS/TCS) are both part of the same hydraulic and electrical system. Both systems use many of the same components and a problem in either of the systems usually will disable the other system until it is repaired. Anti-Lock braking controls wheel slip when braking; traction control controls wheel slip when accelerating.