The parking brake is a crucial component of your Mercedes-Benz R107, providing additional stability when the vehicle is parked. Unlike modern vehicles with electronic parking brakes, the R107 uses a manual foot-operated parking brake, which must be engaged and released correctly for optimal function and safety.
1. How to Engage the Parking Brake
- Depress the parking brake pedal (1) fully with your foot.
- Verify activation:
- When the key is in steering lock position 2, the brake warning lamp on the instrument cluster should illuminate brightly.
- This confirms that the parking brake is engaged and the warning lamp is functioning properly.
🔧 Tip: Always engage the parking brake when parking on inclines or slippery surfaces to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
2. How to Release the Parking Brake
- Pull the release knob (2) located on the instrument panel.
- Observe the parking brake pedal disengaging under spring pressure.
- Check the indicator lamp:
- The brake warning lamp should dim, indicating that the parking brake is fully released.
- If the light stays on, check that the brake is completely disengaged.
⚠️ Warning:
- Never drive with the parking brake engaged. This can cause excessive wear on the rear brake components and lead to overheating.
- Ensure the parking brake is fully disengaged before moving off, especially in cold weather when the mechanism may stick.
3. When and Why to Use the Parking Brake
Best Practices for Using the Parking Brake
✔ Every time you park: Always engage the parking brake, even on level ground.
✔ On inclines: Use in combination with the “P” (Park) position on the automatic transmission to prevent rolling.
✔ During vehicle storage: Engaging the parking brake prevents unintended movement, but for long-term storage, disengage it to avoid brake seizure.
4. Troubleshooting Common Parking Brake Issues
Brake Warning Lamp Stays On After Releasing the Parking Brake
🚨 Possible Causes:
- Parking brake not fully released
- Low brake fluid level (check the brake fluid reservoir)
- Worn brake pads triggering the warning light
✅ Solution:
- Press and release the parking brake pedal again to ensure full disengagement.
- Check the brake fluid level and top up if needed.
- Inspect the rear brake system for worn pads or cable issues.
Parking Brake Feels Loose or Doesn’t Hold the Car
🚨 Possible Causes:
- Stretched or worn parking brake cable
- Worn rear brake shoes (if applicable)
✅ Solution:
- Have the cable adjusted or replaced by a Mercedes-Benz specialist.
- Check rear brake components and service them as needed.
5. Final Tips for Proper Parking Brake Usage
✔ Do not rely solely on “P” (Park) in an automatic transmission—always use the parking brake as well.
✔ If parking on a steep incline, turn the front wheels toward the curb (right when facing downhill, left when facing uphill).
✔ If the car will be parked for an extended period, avoid leaving the parking brake engaged to prevent sticking or freezing in cold weather.
🔧 Regular maintenance of the parking brake system ensures long-term reliability and safety in your R107.
