I have the same dreaded 'Check Parking Brake' error and have also been quoted 700 for a new computer. They suspect corrosion from the salting the roads !
The error has been cleared several times so i reckon the battery is fine.
The handbrake appears to work fine but im a little cautious about parking on a hill !
Anyone know for sure how this can be rectified without full replacement ?
Its obviously not uncommon
Paul Ryan
April 2010