Check engine light 260e
 

My cel comes on periodically for a short burst... usually within a minute of start-up ... then goes out..

does the CEL gradually give out? (EDIT) Does the 02 sensor gradually give out?

Car is running fine.. as stated before it does need new valve stem seals.

UNLESS it is a California version only a bad O2 sensor can cause that lamp to come on...

When I got my 1989 260e with 100,000 miles on it, the check engine light would go on and off all the time. The spark plugs, wires, distributor cap, rotor and fuel sensor were replaced and it hasn't come on since. It still has the original O2 sensor.