When should the parking brake be tested?

The parking brake should be tested while moving forward slowly. This method allows the driver to confirm that the parking brake is functioning properly under real conditions that simulate the situations in which it may be engaged or disengaged. When the vehicle is in motion, albeit slowly, the driver can feel how effectively the parking brake engages and holds the vehicle in place against the forward motion. It's essential to ensure that the brake is not only holding the vehicle stationary when parked but also capable of effectively stopping and holding the vehicle when it is in motion.

Testing the parking brake while the vehicle is parked or at a complete stop won't provide information about its functionality in dynamic situations. Additionally, relying on a subjective feeling of necessity to test the brake is not a safe practice; regular testing is crucial for safety and to ensure the brake system is in good working order.