Thanks you M.B.Doc for this quick reply.

Do I understand correctly that the signal is coming from the brake light in the tail? or do you mean the stop switch on the break pedal?

Is there any electric device on the lever? Is it easily accessible?

Have you any description of the manual release? I assume that the european cars have the same device?

Thanks and regards

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Keep us posted especially if your problem is solved
Present cars:
My car: E-class 420CDI, 2008, W211, V8, 180 000km

Wife's one: C-class 220CDI Sport Coupé, Euro, 2002, W203. 345 000km

Son's one: GLK class, 220CDI, 2009, W204

Sold: E-class 260E, 1988, W124, Wonderfull car sold after 489 000 kilometres of reliable services (engine M103, clutch, brake system and 5 speed manual gear box all original).

Sold: E-class, 320CDI, W210, 2000, 225 000km