BMW 2-SERIES
Parking brake switch
► I am not really a fan of electric parking brakes. I know it frees up space on the centre console, and there is no need for cables running the length of the vehicle, but electric can be just as troublesome and certainly isn’t without its problems.
The parking brake on this 2015 BMW 2-series Active Tourer had been playing up for a while, and the saving grace for the owner was that the parking brake automatically released as the vehicle was driven off. But with no emergency release on the parking brake system, the owner was concerned if the problem wasn’t resolved, they could end up stuck.
The parking brakes on these BMW’s are known to have software problems but in this case the fault could be firmly connected to the switch which had a little wobble when operated.
Removing the centre console to access and replace the switch was quite straightforward, but it is always a concern levering up interior trim panels. This one went OK, and the new switch was soon in place and working well.
PEUGEOT 208
Winter cooling needed
► Even though the temperature outside was not high, the owner of this 2016 Peugeot 208 1.2 VTi was concerned because the A/C was not operating. His main concern was not that the interior of his Peugeot was getting too hot, but without the assistance of the A/C he
