ABS operation

[willobmw]

I have hade my 1990 535i since November. Great car. On two ocassions, I have had to hit the brakes to avoid the sound of twisted metal, i get no pulse sensation on the brake pedal and I have actually skidded. The ABS light comes on at start up. Is this common . I have new tires all around and new brake pads. :(
Thanks,
Will Ollison

[Mr Project]

Well, you mentioned that the light comes on at startup, but does it turn off? It should only be on for a second or two, if it stays on that indicates that there is a problem.

[Anton CH.]

Were you cornering while hitting the brakes? I've locked up my brakes couple of times on dry surfaces while cornering for a couple of seconds before the ABS kicked in. On wet surfaces or the car going in a straight line (hitting a railroad track), I find the ABS kicks in right on time all the time though.