Cydney

The low level of oil was still registering on the dipstick. As far as the overheating a few weeks prior I didn't notice until there was steam coming out the car; temp gauge was usually sits about 1/4 of the way between hot and cold when I looked after noticing the steam it was sat at about 3/4. Overheating = head gaskets. Low oil and knocking = rod bearing failue. These two are usually connected...

I have a 1999 Subaru Impreza SRX, automatic. Had been driving for about 30minutes at an average of 100km/h. When I came to a stop at an intersection the dash lights came on and the car cut out. I got the car started again and it got me home without cutting out again but it lacked power, foot to the floor and it had no guts. Checked the oil which was extremely low and has since then has been filled, the car starts like normal but there is a knocking noise coming from the engine which lasts about 3-5 seconds after initially starting the car. When I've put foot on accelerator even whilst it is in park something does not sound right; sluggish almost.. Friend thinks motor is as good as gone; partial seizure, because it had no oil in and about 3 weeks prior to this it overheated for the first time since I brought it 8 years ago, however, whenever it has been low on oil in the past the oil light has appeared on the dash, this time it didn't. I've also had suggestions it could be a blown head gasket, loose wiring or the spark plugs. Anybody any ideas on what the problem is most likely to be? Thanks.