Should I turn off ABS for track days?

No — leave it on. Most drivers are slower without ABS because they under-brake to avoid lockups. ABS lets you brake harder with confidence. Only advanced drivers on very sticky tires might feel limited by it.

What's the difference between ABS and traction control?

ABS modulates brake pressure to prevent wheel lockup during braking. Traction control limits engine power to prevent wheelspin during acceleration. They're independent systems — you can disable one without the other on most cars.

Does ABS prevent trail braking?

No. ABS only activates when a wheel is about to lock. You can still modulate brake pressure through corner entry. The goal is to brake just below ABS activation — the system is your safety net, not your limit.

Should I disable stability control for track days?

Yes, for intermediate and above drivers. Stability control fights you in corners by cutting power and applying brakes when it detects slip. That's the opposite of what you want when learning car rotation and limit handling.

Will ABS wear out my brakes faster on track?

No — ABS reduces brake wear by preventing lockups (which flat-spot tires and overheat individual pads). Your brakes wear from heat and friction regardless of ABS. Proper brake fluid and pads matter more.

Learn

Understanding ABS on Track

When to leave it on, when it hurts, and why most drivers are faster with it.

Content Coming Soon

This article is in development. Check back soon for the full guide.

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Dan Sabin

Team Principal, Eighty Six Pieces Racing

Dan started with a stock 2019 BRZ and brake pads. That turned into HPDE with a coach, time attack, a blown engine, an FR-S rebuilt in a weekend from 86 pieces, and eventually door-to-door endurance racing. Every guide on this site comes from that progression — real money spent, real mistakes made, real results on track.

Published May 12, 2026•Deep Dives

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