FORD 2000 Focus - Manual (Page 129)

Driving
129
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
(if equipped)
Onvehicles equipped with an
antiĆlock braking system (ABS), a
noise from the hydraulic pump
motor and pulsationinthe pedal
may be observed during ABS
braking events. Rapid pedal
pulsationcoupled with noise while
braking under panic conditions or
onloose 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
vibrationor shudder inthe 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 (ontop) during
hard braking with loss of front
braking traction.