W124 Headlights dim when ABS engages?
 

During the recent winter i had the pleasure of playing with my ABS system on the snow-covered roads.
I noticed something a bit strange.. My headlights dim very noticeable when the ABS kicks in. Is that normal?

When i turn the starter with the headlights on, they almost doesn't dim at all.
Does the ABS system really require more electrical power than the starter motor?

Freestyler

One of the sysmptoms of a failing alternator (regulator) is the ABS indicator on the dash lights up. So I suspect it requires a considerable amount of current to operate.

That said, I would test your charging system...it may not be up to the task.

Sounds normal to me. If you use the ABS often enough, it will be turned off as the battery falls below a preset voltage.

While driving, push up on three of your window switches at the same time, with the windows already all the way up. I bet that will dim your lights a little too.

Mike

Pushing all four window buttons don't make the headlights dim at all.. I just tried.
But when the ABS activates, the headlights dim to about half the normal light output. -And they are dimmed for about a second after the ABS de-activates. Then they flick up to normal strength again..
I find it a bit strange..

Freestyler