When inspecting the parking brake, what should you ensure there is no sign of?

When inspecting the parking brake, it is essential to ensure there is no sign of forward creep. This term refers to the tendency of a parked vehicle to roll or move forward even when the parking brake is engaged. If there is forward creep, it indicates that the parking brake is not holding the vehicle securely in place, which can pose a significant safety hazard. A properly functioning parking brake should effectively prevent the vehicle from moving in either direction when parked.

Forward creep can be indicative of wear or failure within the braking system, such as insufficient engagement or a malfunctioning brake mechanism, which would necessitate further inspection or repair. The absence of forward creep is a critical indicator of the parking brake's effectiveness in providing secure parking capability.