Good day everyone! thank you for taking the time to help out a new owner!

I own a 1988 230E here in the Philippines and I have recently encountered an issue regarding my E-brake

It does not release completely.

The footbrake is strong and works perfectly, but when I want it not to work I have to pull the footbrake pedal while pulling the release lever too.

If I just pull the release lever the footbrake pedal only comes up 10% and the E-brake indicator is still on, on my dashboard.

Any help would be appreciated thank you so much!

I find spring return on the brake cable might be missing see picture Also other information tell you to replace front brake cable ..

Thank you so much sir! I will look into this!

It does sound like it's a mechanical issue. To add to Trevor's comment, if you seem to still have trouble, it is NOT uncommon for e-brake cables to corrode internal. The rust build up can make it difficult for the springs to retract. If the spring doesn't fix or help, just try working the cable by hand when it's disconnected to ensure there is no internal binding.

Great response and attachments. Helps us all, thanks.

I have resolved this issue! Turns out the rust build up on the footbrake itself was causing the slow return when releasing. Just some good old WD-40 and everything was loose again