2001 Ford Focus Owner Guide 4th Printing - Page 134

Driving 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. 134