CEL after winter storage. Low mileage 986
 

Started my low mileage base Boxster after winter hibernation.
CEL came on but running seemed ok.
Thinking a short ride would clear it I went out gently. After a minute or so the CEL began blinking and engine became noticeably tougher.
Thoughts?
Thanks, Pete

What codes did you get when you scanned it?

Unfortunately my scan too is at another location.

Maybe cracked coil packs taking on moisture during storage and misfiring, though that is just a wild guess without codes.

IME a blinking CEL light means don't drive unless you want to do additional damage.

I think blinking CEL is indicating misfiring that could destroy CAT.

check coils and spark plugs

Had something similar happen to me last year. Ran like crap, CEL blinking. Towed it home. Ended up being the hydraulic chain tensionners. I had all 3 replaced and all is good. But you definitely want to pull the codes and consider other possibilities like coil packs, O2 sensor, MAF sensor or engine timing sensors.

The year makes a difference. On my 03 I had a blinking CEL due to misfire because the electrical connector fell off the variocam. Hooking the variocam back up solved the problem.