Contents: Handbrake ↡ Foot brake (pedal) ↡ Steering wheel and steering column ↡ Windshield and rear view mirrors ↡ Seat belts and seats ↡ Doors ↡
Handbrake
Check the operation of the handbrake.
Excessive movement (too many clicks) indicates a faulty brake or incorrect cable adjustment.
Make sure that the handbrake does not release when the lever is pressed from the side. Check that the lever is securely fastened.
Foot brake (pedal)
Press the brake pedal and make sure that the pedal does not "creep" to the floor, which would indicate a malfunction of the master brake cylinder. Release the pedal, wait a few seconds, and then press the pedal again. If the pedal has time to drop almost to the floor before strong resistance appears from the pedal, then the brakes need to be adjusted or repaired. If the pedal is "soft", then there is air in the hydraulic system that needs to be bled.
Make sure the pedal is securely fastened and in good condition. Also check for leaks on the pedal, floor or carpets, which, if present, would indicate faulty seals in the master cylinder.
Check the brake booster (if it is installed), for which, by pressing the pedal several times and then holding it down, start the engine. As soon as the engine starts, the pedal should drop down slightly. If this does not happen, then there may be a defect in the vacuum hose or in the booster itself.
Steering wheel and steering column
Inspect the steering wheel for cracks, loose hub, spokes or steering wheel rim.
Rock the steering wheel from side to side and then up and down. Make sure the steering wheel does not wobble on the column, which would indicate wear or a loose lug nut. Continue rocking the wheel in the same manner as before, but turn it slightly to the right and left.
Make sure the steering wheel does not wobble on the steering column and there is no unusual movement of the steering wheel that would indicate wear in the column bearings or joints.
Windshield and rear view mirrors
There should be no cracks or other visible damage on the windshield in the driver's field of vision. Small chips caused by stone impacts are acceptable. Rearview mirrors should be securely fastened, undamaged, and easily adjustable.
Seat belts and seats
Note: The following checks apply to all seat belts, both front and rear.
Inspect the fabric of all seat belts (including rear seat belts if fitted) for cuts, severe wear or damage. Fasten and unfasten each belt several times to check the buckles. Check the self-retracting mechanism, if equipped. Check the security of all seat belt anchorages that are accessible from inside the vehicle.
The front seats themselves must also be securely fastened, and the seatbacks must be securely locked in the up position.
[Material borrowed from an online resource mercedesman]
Doors
Both front doors must open and close from the outside and from the inside and, when closed, must be securely locked.