Brake assist is a safety feature that helps you stop faster in an emergency. It works with ABS to apply full braking when it senses a panic stop. Here is what brake assist is and how it works.
The problem it solves
Studies found that many drivers hit the brake quickly in an emergency but do not press hard enough to reach maximum braking. Brake assist detects that panic - a fast, hard jab at the pedal - and boosts the braking force to the maximum the tires and ABS allow.
How it works
Sensors watch how fast and hard you hit the pedal. If it looks like an emergency, brake assist rapidly increases hydraulic pressure to full braking, then lets ABS modulate it to prevent lock-up; see how ABS works. It does not brake for you - it amplifies your emergency input.
Brake assist vs automatic braking
Brake assist boosts a stop you initiate. It differs from automatic emergency braking, which can apply the brakes on its own if it detects an imminent collision. Both rely on the same electronic brake hardware as ABS and traction control.
Healthy brakes make it work
Brake assist can only deliver its shorter stop if the friction brakes and tires are in good shape; worn pads lengthen even an assisted stop; see how long pads last. Fit quality pads and hardware.