Do cars with anti-lock braking systems stop more quickly those without?

Anti-lock braking system, or ABS, is designed to help the driver maintain control of the vehicle during emergency braking situations, and it does not necessarily shorten braking distance.

In vehicles without ABS, the wheels lock up during emergency braking, and the driver loses steering control.

ABS may shorten braking distances, but the improvement is not always consistent. For instance, on loose gravel, ABS-equipped cars may take a longer distance to stop than non-ABS cars.

Always make sure you drive more carefully on wet or slippery roads. Do keep a safe distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you, and maintain a speed consistent with the road condition.

Automobile Association of Singapore