FORD 2001 Focus - Manual (Page 134)

Driving
134
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
(if equipped)
On vehicles equipped with an
antiĆlock braking system (ABS), a
noise from the hydraulic pump
motor and pulsation in the pedal
may be observed during ABS
braking events. Rapid pedal
pulsation coupled with noise while
braking under panic conditions or
on loose gravel, bumps, wet or
snowy roads is normal and indicates
proper functioning of the vehicle's
antiĆlock brake system. The ABS
performs a selfĆcheck at 17 km/h
(10 mph) after you start the engine
and begin to drive away. A brief
mechanical noise may be heard
during this test. This is normal. If a
malfunction is found, the ABS
warning light will come on. If the
vehicle has continuous vibration or
shudder in the steering wheel while
braking, the vehicle should be
inspected by a qualified service
technician.
The ABS operates by detecting the
onset of wheel lockup during brake
applications and compensating for
this tendency. The wheels are
prevented from locking even when
the brakes are firmly applied. The
accompanying illustration depicts
the advantage of an ABS equipped
vehicle (on bottom) to a nonĆABS
equipped vehicle (on top) during
hard braking with loss of front
braking traction.