The check engine light has been on for a while but the mechanic said it was not a priority. Tonight, in 10 degree weather my 2003 Forester decided not to start. Could there be a connection? I had to leave it in the parking lot and will have to have it towed to a shop tomorrow.

I can imagine one possible scenario where it Might cause a problem but it's very very unlikely.

 

Something like a bad ECT or crankshaft position sensor or a dead fuel pump are more likely.

It's off to the shop today so we'll see what it is.

Well, it's the dreaded intermittent start problem. Started right up after sitting in below zero weather all night. Drove it to the shop and they will see if it's anything obvious. Possible connection problem somewhere. The headlights didn't come on last night when it wouldn't start, but the interior lights did.

Don't think a faulty oxygen sensor can cause a no start problem. Sounds like an electrical problem, since head lights didn't come on, unless you cranked the motor until the battery was dead, or near dead.

 

How long since spark plugs been replaced??

I think it was right after I bought the car in late 2010. Haven't put a lot of miles on it since then as I work about 8 blocks from home! Not sure if plugs are a time thing or a miles thing.

Edited February 6, 201511 yr by terryb52

Shop just called and said battery tested low so I will replace that and see what happens.

I think it was right after I bought the car in late 2010. Haven't put a lot of miles on it since then as I work about 8 blocks from home! Not sure if plugs are a time thing or a miles thing.

spark plugs are really a miles thing. If they are not used much, then there is not much wear.

And they said my oil looked like a milkshake! Just had it changed 300 miles ago. I told em to change it (it had been done by a different place).

Oil looking like milkshake usually means coolant in the oil.