What should be done if the parking brake lever does not hold?

When the parking brake lever does not hold, it is crucial to address the issue properly as a malfunctioning parking brake can compromise vehicle safety. The correct response is to notify the user and mark it as a fail. This approach ensures that the driver is aware of a potentially serious issue that could affect the vehicle's ability to stay stationary when parked, particularly on inclines.

Marking it as a fail during inspection emphasizes the importance of rectifying the fault before the vehicle can be deemed safe for use. This maintains high safety standards and encourages the owner to seek necessary repairs, thereby preventing potential accidents caused by an ineffective parking brake.

Other options, such as ignoring the issue or applying more force during the test, do not address the safety concern and could lead to ignoring a critical malfunction. Resetting the system and retesting without informing the user also fails to ensure the driver knows about the problem, which could result in unsafe driving conditions. It is essential for safety inspectors to adhere to proper inspection protocols to protect drivers and the general public.