Dodge Nitro: Anti-lock brake system - Starting and operating - Dodge Nitro Owner's ManualDodge Nitro: Anti-lock brake system

The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) is designed to aid the driver in maintaining vehicle control under adverse braking conditions. The system operates with a separate computer to modulate hydraulic pressure, to prevent wheel lock-up and help avoid skidding on slippery surfaces. All vehicle wheels and tires must be the same size and type, and tires must be properly inflated, to produce accurate signals for the computer.

WARNING: Significant over or under-inflation of tires or mixing sizes of tires or wheels on the vehicle can lead to loss of braking effectiveness.

The ABS conducts a low-speed self-test at about 12 mph (20 km/h). If you have your foot lightly on the brake while this test is occurring, you may feel slight pedal movement. The movement can be more apparent on ice and snow. This is normal.

The ABS pump motor runs during the self-test at 12 mph (20 km/h) and during an ABS stop. The pump motor makes a low humming noise during operation, which is normal.

WARNING:
• Pumping of the Anti-Lock Brakes will diminish their effectiveness and may lead to an accident. Pumping makes the stopping distance longer. Just press firmly on your brake pedal when you need to slow down or stop.
• The ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking or steering efficiency beyond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction afforded.
• The ABS cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from excessive speed in turns, following another vehicle too closely, or hydroplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents.
• The capabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner, which could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of others.

CAUTION: The ABS is subject to possible detrimental effects of electronic interference caused by improperly installed aftermarket radios or telephones.

NOTE: During severe braking conditions, a pulsing sensation may occur and a clicking noise will be heard. This is normal, indicating that the ABS is functioning.
• Do not “ride” the brakes by resting your foot on the pedal. This could overheat the brakes and result in unpredictable braking action, longer stopping distances, or brake damage.
• When descending mountains or hills, repeated braking can cause brake fade with loss of braking control. Avoid repeated heavy braking by downshifting the transmission or locking out overdrive whenever possible.
• Engines may idle at higher speeds during warm-up, which could cause rear wheels to spin and result in loss of vehicle control. Be especially careful while driving on slippery roads, in close-quarter maneuvering, parking, or stopping.
• Do not drive too fast for road conditions, especially when roads are wet or slushy. A wedge of water can build up between the tire tread and the road. This hydroplaning action can cause loss of traction, braking ability, and control.
• After going through deep water or a car wash, brakes may become wet, resulting in decreased performance and unpredictable braking action. Dry the brakes by gentle, intermittent pedal action while driving at very slow speeds.

    Parking brake
    Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the parking brake is fully applied. Also, be certain to leave the transmission in PARK. The parking brake lever is located in the center console. To ...

    Electronic brake control system
    Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced electronic brake control system that includes an Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Roll ...

    See also:

    Headlight indicator light
    This indicator light illuminates when the headlight switch is placed in the “” or “” position. ...

    Temperature Grades
    The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat, when tested under controlled conditions on ...

    Glass Surfaces
    All glass surfaces should be cleaned on a regular basis with MOPAR Glass Cleaner or any commercial household-type glass cleaner. Never use an abrasive type cleaner. Use caution when cleaning the ...