hi guy my X5 2001 3.0l p has just failed its mot on the handbrake being at 14% its 15% or over to pass

do you think i could clean it up or some thing to get it over the 1 % as i need the car for work. then get it looked at when i get paid.

any ideas? can it be tighten? there are two bolts under the gaitor but they felt tight, i read you can drive in reverse while pulling the hand up slowly can clean it but im not sure, bloody 1% urrr! lol!

thanks Jon