Black plate (5,1)Cadillac STS Owner Manual - 2011Antilock Brake System (ABS)This vehicle has the Antilock Brake System (ABS), anadvanced electronic braking system that helps preventa braking skid.When the engine is started and the vehicle begins todrive away, ABS checks itself. A momentary motor orclicking noise might be heard while this test is going on,and it might even be noticed that the brake pedalmoves a little. This is normal.If there is a problem withABS, this warning lightstays on. See AntilockBrake System (ABS)Warning Light onpage 4‑59.Let us say the road is wet and you are driving safely.Suddenly, an animal jumps out in front of you. You slamon the brakes and continue braking. Here is whathappens with ABS:A computer senses that the wheels are slowing down.If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, thecomputer will separately work the brakes at each wheel.ABS can change the brake pressure to each wheel, asrequired, faster than any driver could. This can help thedriver steer around the obstacle while braking hard.As the brakes are applied, the computer keepsreceiving updates on wheel speed and controls brakingpressure accordingly.Remember: ABS does not change the time needed toget a foot up to the brake pedal or always decreasestopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle infront of you, there will not be enough time to apply thebrakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Alwaysleave enough room up ahead to stop, even with ABS.Using ABSDo not pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedaldown firmly and let antilock work. The antilock pump ormotor might be heard operating and the brake pedalmight be felt to pulsate , but this is normal.5-5
