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Should I buy a Meriva B or Mercedes-Benz B-Class with a push-button handbrake?
I have driven a Vauxhall Meriva since 2005 and have been contemplating a change, perhaps to a Meriva B or possibly a Mercedes B-Class. These both have push button parking brakes. Am I being foolishly old fashioned in my reluctance to go for a car without a conventional lever handbrake?
Asked on 10 June 2012 by CL, Wirral
Answered by
Honest John
There is a bit of a rebellion against electric parking brakes. In theory, they clamp brake discs more securely than a lever and cable system ever can, but they can be subject to moisture ingress and can fail. However, all cars must now have dual circuit brakes so if one circuit fails the car will still stop conventionally. I have not heard of complete brake failure for years. For the easiest access, a decent drive and a conventional handbrake, think Ford B-Max.
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