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Home >> Mercury >> 2009 >> Mariner Base, 2.5 7, AWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 123 (Parking Brake System - Parking Brake & Actuation) >> Diagnostic Tests >> Parking Brake >> Pinpoint Tests >> Pinpoint Test C: The Parking Brake Will Not Release Using the Automatic Parking Brake Release

Pinpoint Test C: The Parking Brake Will Not Release Using the Automatic Parking Brake Release

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Mercury Grand Marquis and 2009 Ford Crown Victoria. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Normal Operation 

Vacuum is supplied to the vacuum switch at all times (a vacuum reservoir supplies the vacuum when the engine is not running). When the transmission selector lever is placed in DRIVE, a tab on the selector lever actuates the vacuum switch which supplies vacuum to the vacuum actuator. When vacuum is supplied to the actuator, it moves a lever that is connected to the parking brake control and releases the parking brake.

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:

PINPOINT TEST C: THE PARKING BRAKE WILL NOT RELEASE USING THE AUTOMATIC PARKING BRAKE RELEASE 

  1. C1 CHECK THE RELEASE HANDLE OPERATION 
    • Pull the parking brake release handle.
    • Does the parking brake release? 
    1. YES  : Go to  C2.
    2. NO  : Go to Pinpoint Test B .
  2. C2 CHECK THE VACUUM ACTUATOR LEVER 
    • Verify that the vacuum actuator lever is connected to the parking brake control.
    • Is the actuator lever connected? 
    1. YES  : Go to  C3.
    2. NO  : CONNECT the actuator lever and TEST the system for normal operation.
  3. C3 CHECK THE VACUUM ACTUATOR OPERATION 
    • Disconnect the vacuum tube from the vacuum actuator.
    • Connect the special tool to the actuator and apply approximately 34 kPa (10 in Hg) of vacuum.
    • Does the vacuum actuator operate? 
    1. YES  : Go to  C4.
    2. NO  : INSTALL a new parking brake control. REFER to PARKING BRAKE CONTROL . TEST the system for normal operation.
  4. C4 CHECK FOR VACUUM AT THE VACUUM ACTUATOR 
    NOTE: When checking for vacuum leaks, look for cracks or holes in the tubes and connections.
    • Connect a vacuum gauge to the actuator vacuum supply tube.
    • Block the wheels, start the engine and run at idle speed.
    • Press and hold the brake pedal.
    • Select DRIVE.
    • Is the vacuum approximately 34 kPa (10 in Hg)? 
    1. YES  : The system is operating correctly at this time. The concern may have been caused by a loose tube or fitting. CONNECT all tubes and fittings. TEST the system for normal operation.
    2. NO  : INSPECT the actuator supply tube for leaks, INSTALL a new tube as necessary. If no leaks are found, go to  C5.
  5. C5 CHECK FOR VACUUM AT THE VACUUM SWITCH 
    NOTE: The vacuum supply to the vacuum switch can be checked at the in-line tube connector below the instrument panel.
    • Select PARK.
    • Key in OFF position.
    • Remove the cap from the in-line connector and connect the vacuum gauge.
    • Start the engine and run at idle speed.
    • Press and hold the brake pedal.
    • Select DRIVE.
    • Is the vacuum approximately 34 kPa (10 in Hg)? 
    1. YES  : INSTALL a new vacuum switch. TEST the system for normal operation.
    2. NO  : REPAIR the vacuum supply. TEST the system for normal operation.