When should a vehicle be rejected if the parking brake is concerned?

A vehicle should be rejected during inspection if the parking brake is inoperative or not originally equipped, as the parking brake is a critical safety feature required to secure the vehicle when parked. The purpose of the parking brake is to prevent the vehicle from rolling, especially on inclines, and it must function correctly to ensure safety.

If the parking brake is inoperative, this means it cannot be used effectively, which poses a significant risk to both the vehicle and surrounding property. Additionally, vehicles must have a parking brake if they were originally equipped with one when they were manufactured, as it is a requirement for compliance with safety regulations.

The other options may suggest conditions related to the parking brake, but they do not directly address the fundamental requirement for the parking brake to be operational. For example, a hydraulic system or manual application might not inherently affect the validity of the parking brake as long as it functions as intended. However, the clear and immediate reason for rejection is the inoperability or absence of the parking brake itself.