1996 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 231

Driving Your Villager Four-Wheel Anti-lock Brakes The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) prevents wheels from completely locking up by automatically releasing and re-applying the brakes. During ABS braking, slight brake pedal pulsations may be felt on the driver's foot. These pulsations represent the rapid cycling of the ABS valves. The pedal pulsations are considered normal ABS operation, and will stop when normal braking is resumed or when the vehicle comes to a stop. During ABS activation, a mechanical noise may be heard as the ABS system cycles. This is normal ABS operation. The ABS system has self-check capabilities. The system turns on the ABS warning light each time you start the engine. After the engine is started and the ABS warning light turns off, the system performs another test the first time the vehicle reaches 4 mph (6 km/h). A mechanical noise may be heard as the ABS system performs a self test. This is a normal part of the self test feature. If a malfunction is found during this check, the ABS warning light will come on. You should always be careful when braking, even if your vehicle has the ABS system. Heavy braking on roads with loose surfaces such as snow or gravel, or roads with severe pavement irregularities could also cause you to lose control of your vehicle. RWARNING If the anti-lock brake system warning light remains on or comes on while driving, have the braking system checked by a qualified service technician as soon as possible. NOTE: If a fault occurs in the anti-lock system, and the brake warning light is not lit, the anti-lock system is disabled but normal brake function remains operational. 235