Check Engine Light/Parking Brake Problem On 98 Jetta GLX

[John Kiekhaefer <jonnk@execpc.com>]

98 Jetta GLX Red  60K

Initially the parking brake became very loose.
The parking brake light goes on and off with engaging and disengaging as
it should.
When driving at slow speeds there is no coast.
Car will not roll down hill when in neutral with parking brake off.
Shortly after this occurred, check engine light came on and stayed on.
Dealer says can't look at it until Jan 9 -  Ok to drive in meantime.

Any comments?

John Kiekhaefer