When adjusting a Parking Brake, what is the final step you should take?

When adjusting a Parking Brake, ensuring that the brakes do not drag when the Parking Brake is released is a crucial final step. This step is essential because if the brakes drag, it can lead to premature wear of the brake components, overheating, and compromised braking performance. By confirming that the brakes are fully released, you ensure that the system is functioning correctly and safely. This also verifies that the adjustment has been done properly and that the vehicle will perform optimally when the Parking Brake is not in use.

Other options, while they may be relevant steps during the overall adjustment process or maintenance checks, do not serve as the final confirmation of a successful brake adjustment. Checking for kinks or binding cables or cleaning the friction surfaces addresses issues that could affect functionality but does not confirm that the adjustment was successfully completed without causing drag on the brakes. Using the Parking Brake to stop the vehicle from a speed of 15 mph might test the operational effectiveness of the brake but does not directly relate to ensuring that the adjustment has been properly implemented without dragging. Thus, ensuring that the brakes do not drag is indeed the final validation of an effective Parking Brake adjustment.