The principle of operation of the anti-lock braking system (Opel Kadett E)

If, when braking the vehicle, there is a sharp decrease in the rotation speed of one of the wheels, which indicates the beginning of its locking, the sensor installed on this wheel sends a signal to the electronic control unit. which sends a control signal to the corresponding electromagnetic valve of the distribution hydraulic unit, which acts in such a way as to stop further increase in the fluid pressure in the brake mechanism of this wheel or reduces it until the maximum reduction in the peripheral speed of the wheel without locking is ensured. After this, the pressure of the brake fluid. supplied to the brake mechanism of the wheel, increases and the regulation cycle is repeated.

During braking of a vehicle with an active ABS system, such control cycles can be repeated at a frequency of up to ten cycles per second.

If the ABS system is faulty, a warning light comes on on the instrument panel, the vehicle brakes in the normal way, and its full efficiency is ensured by the pressure regulator.