How can a driver confirm they are driving a vehicle equipped with anti-lock brakes?

A driver can confirm they are operating a vehicle equipped with anti-lock brakes by observing the yellow ABS malfunction lamp on the dashboard. When the vehicle is started, the ABS light should illuminate briefly as part of a self-check system. If the light remains lit after starting the vehicle, this could indicate a malfunction in the ABS, or it may not be equipped with those brakes at all.

This indicator is critical for safety, as understanding whether the vehicle has functioning anti-lock brakes can influence how the driver handles braking in different conditions. During an emergency stop, for instance, knowing that anti-lock brakes are present enables drivers to apply firm pressure to the brakes instead of pumping them, which is essential for maintaining steering control.

The other options do not provide a reliable basis for confirming the presence of anti-lock brakes. For example, a green ABS light usually indicates that the system is functioning properly, while noises from the brakes or a perception of smooth driving do not serve as definitive indicators of the braking system's configuration.