Brakes 2006 Precedent

[LJ12530]

A friend was driving his cart today when he experienced total brake failure. I got into the pedal group and discovered that the fittings that are pressed onto the brake cables, and fit into the "equalizer" bracket, both came off. The brake cables do not seem to be frozen. How can I tell if the brakes are frozen? How can I tell if the cable is working properly? Can the pressed on fittings be replaced or are new brake cables required? I tried pushing the rear brake "lever assembly" with my hands and neither brake seemed to engage since I could push the cart easily with one hand.

The owner only spends winters here and I would guess that the cart doesn't get moved in the summer.

Any idea what new brake cables would cost installed?

So many questions, so little knowledge!