Which of the following would be a reason for rejecting a parking brake during an inspection?

A reason for rejecting a parking brake during an inspection would indeed be the presence of oil or grease on the cables. This contamination can severely impact the performance and reliability of the parking brake system. When oil or grease is present, it can prevent the cables from functioning properly, leading to inadequate braking force when the parking brake is engaged. This raises safety concerns, as the vehicle may not remain stationary when parked, creating risks for both the vehicle and surrounding pedestrians or property.

Proper operation of the parking brake relies on the cables being clean and free from any substances that could inhibit their movement. Clean cables ensure that the mechanism can engage and disengage effectively. In contrast, factors like the brake engaging smoothly, having well-attached cables, or the brakes functioning under normal temperature do not directly indicate a failure or issue with the parking brake system. These points actually demonstrate that the system is functioning as intended, which would not warrant a rejection. Thus, the presence of lubricant contaminating the parking brake cables is a clear reason for rejection during an inspection.