[mcrosby]

Have some one like AutoZone read the code for you, or you can purchase a ODBII code reader at Walmart for about $70.00. Anyway, that may point you to the gas smell culprit and it may be unrelated. It is a good place to start. A gas smell can usually be easily tracked down after running the car, pop the hood and look for tell tale signs of wet gas around your fuel lines and injectors. if you don't see anything check under the car for a leak.

The emergency / parking brake suddenly getting loose is curious. I would pull the back wheels and inspect the brake shoes or pads for excessive wear and replace them if they are in need. Also check the linkage and cable of the emergency brake for damage or maybe even slack.