When the ABS begins to operate, your immediate reaction should be?
- Release the brake pedal
- Continue applying pressure as before (Hold the pressure) ✓
- Press harder on the brake pedal
- Pump the brake pedal
Answer: B. Continue applying pressure as before (Hold the pressure)
Continue applying pressure as before and hold the brake pedal when the ABS begins to operate.
Why this is the answer
The handbook warns that ABS can make the brake pedal pulsate, and says you should expect this so you are not distracted or tempted to lift off the pedal during an emergency stop. That leads to keeping steady pressure on the brake rather than releasing it. The general braking guidance also favours steady pressure and warns against fanning the brakes, which supports holding the pedal instead of changing your braking action when ABS starts working.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Release the brake pedal — Releasing the brake pedal is exactly the reaction the handbook warns against when you feel the pulsation during emergency braking.
- C. Press harder on the brake pedal — The passages do not tell you to add extra pressure when ABS operates; they emphasize not releasing the pedal and avoiding fanning or pumping.
- D. Pump the brake pedal — Pumping the brake pedal is wrong because the handbook says not to pump the brakes and warns that fanning serves no useful purpose on dry pavement.
Remember it
When the pedal pulses, think hold steady, not let go.
Official handbook: Official MTO Truck Handbook, Driving at night and in bad weather – Skids