Disconnect ABS in Rally Cars – What You Need to Know
When you hear "ABS off" in a rally garage, it usually means the driver wants more direct brake feel. Anti‑lock Braking System (ABS) is great on road cars, but on loose surfaces it can stop the wheels from locking when you need them to. Turning it off lets the driver modulate brake pressure by feel, which can shave seconds off a stage.
Why Rally Drivers Turn ABS Off
First, ABS interferes with the natural slip of a tire on gravel or snow. When the system catches a wheel that is about to lock, it pumps the brakes and reduces the force you’re applying. On a dusty mountain stage, that can mean the car slides longer than you want. Without ABS, you can lock the front wheels to steer the car into a corner and then release the pressure to pull out.
Second, many classic rally cars were built before ABS existed. Drivers grew used to a raw brake pedal that gives instant feedback. Modern cars with electronic ABS can be re‑programmed, but the feel is still different from a pure mechanical system. Some crews simply prefer the old‑school feel because it matches their driving style.
How to Safely Disconnect ABS
Disabling ABS isn’t just a switch you flip on the dashboard. Most rally‑spec cars have a dedicated relay or a software setting that cuts power to the ABS module. The steps are:
- Locate the ABS control unit – usually near the engine bay or under the dash.
- Identify the relay or fuse that powers the module.
- Remove the relay or pull the fuse. Some teams use a quick‑release connector for fast changes.
- Test the brake pedal. It should feel firmer and have a quicker response.
Always do this in the service area, not on the road. Check local rally regulations – some events require ABS to be on for safety reasons. If you’re unsure, ask the race officials before you start the stage.
After the stage, many crews put ABS back on for road sections. The switch back is the same process in reverse. Keeping a spare relay in your kit saves time and avoids a surprise if the car needs to re‑enter a public road.
Finally, practice makes perfect. Spend time on a dry gravel track with ABS off so you can feel the difference. Learn how to modulate pressure without the system stepping in. The more you train, the less likely you are to lock up unintentionally.
Remember, turning off ABS gives you more control, but it also puts more responsibility on you. If you’re new to rally, start with a car that has a simple switch and work with an experienced co‑driver. Together you can develop the timing and feel that makes a fast, safe run.
In short, disconnecting ABS is a common rally tweak that can boost performance on loose surfaces. Do it with the right tools, follow safety rules, and practice the feel. That’s how you turn a standard brake system into a rally‑ready weapon.
- Maverick Throttleworth
- Jul, 23 2023
- 0 Comments
Why do so many amateur rally racers disconnect their ABS?
In the world of amateur rally racing, it's quite common to see racers disconnecting their ABS, or Anti-lock Braking System. They do this mainly because ABS can interfere with the driver's control over the vehicle, particularly in off-road conditions. Rally racing often involves loose surfaces like gravel and dirt, where ABS can hinder the car's ability to slide or drift, which is crucial for fast cornering. Moreover, ABS is designed for safety on normal roads, but in racing, it can actually delay braking response. Therefore, many racers prefer to rely on their own skills and judgement, rather than a computerized system.