[matthewdmueller]

Hey ya'll,
Here is what I am dealing with...
2003 Forester 2.5X N/A
Engine has never been rebuilt (that we know of) and has 225k on it
Oil level is good, check engine light is on with a 0420 Code
Oil level low (off the dip stick), little rod bearing tap, check engine light turns off without a CPU reset (which is usually my que to fill the oil)
Burning about 1 qt every 500-1000 miles, no visible leaks

My thoughts...
Oil ring froze up or cylinder scoring is allowing oil to get by and burn off just slow enough to trip the code, not enough to blow blue smoke.

I have a long block sitting on a stand that needs overhauled (shredded rod bearing) and decked. I've been itching to get that done, but no time or $$$$.

Thoughts? Does this sound like an upcoming emergency? This is my daily and I put about 500 miles a week on this ride to get me to and from the office.

 

[matthewdmueller]

Topped off the gas tank last night and the check engine light had switched off so I figured I would check the oil. Now I have a new CEL/Oil configuration.
CEL off oil right in the middle of E/F
Last I filled the oil the level was right at the divot on the edge of the dip stick above full, 425 miles later its centered between E and F holes

 

[cdherman]

As long as you dutifully fill the oil tank and check the gas levels, you might make it a long time. Joking.... You might be able to survive the oil consumption for a long time, but you are causing environmental damage and wasting money too. And.....

The knocking that you had when the oil level was quite low is ominous. You are putting 500 miles on an engine weekly that has only a few thou more in it. You are wise to have acquired the long block. Get cracking.... Hope you have a good work space and engine stand.