The parking brake often does not release when it should. The driver is REQUIRED to abide by a strict procedure to release the parking brake. Any deviation from the procedure will prevent you from moving the vehicle, even in an emergency. Mazda make no provision for the driver to release the brake unless the brake pedal is depressed and the seat belt is buckled. There is no override and no reported TSB. Even if the driver perceives an immediate danger to life and limb and needs to allow the vehicle to coast a few feet to avoid a collision, it cannot be done.

The parking brake is not a parking brake as conventionally understood. It is an immobilization scheme. The scheme requires the driver to be in the car, seat belt on, foot on brake and depressing the release button. That being said, the brake will not release even if the procedure is followed on a few occasions. It is very annoying and dangerous and unnecessary.