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2002 Ford Focus LX Base 4dr Sedan

2002 Ford Focus
Trim Info:
Front Wheel Drive, 4 Door Sedan, Compact
28 mpg city / 36 mpg hwy
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November 1, 2012, 10:38 am

Janet M
 

Question: What could cause my car to skid when braking

Sometimes when I brake my car skids and both red brake light and abs light flash briefly, my radio also cuts in and out at the same time. It all happens at the same time but not every time I stop.


November 9, 2012, 3:46 pm

Ron W
Expert Mechanic

Sounds like the ABS system is activating. If it is on uneven pavement and it is a quick/hard stop that may be normal. If it is just normal braking, it probably isn't. You may have a wheel or bearing dragging and causing the system to activate incorrectly. Different size tires on the same vehicle can cause this as well.

You should have a shop inspect your brakes and make sure you explain to them what is going on.

It could also be a defective battery (but it isn't very common)so you should have the battery tested as well.


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