Sounds like the 4 flashes relates to some code...might pay to see if you can get that code, if it still exists in the
ECU memory, pulled by somebody!
EDIT: This from another forum (how applicable it is, I dont really know
)
"In the owners manual it says that a flashing check engine light means that there has been a misfire in one of the cylinders. This happened on my car and it was indeed a cylinder misfire. I just put in new plugs and wires so I think its the coils"
http://www.thesubaruforum.com/forums...ead.php?p=1935
EDIT2: You should be able to get the code pulled, according to this:
"A constantly flashing MIL is a sign of a major problem which can cause serious damage if the engine is not stopped immediately. In all cases a "freeze frame" of all sensor readings at the time is recorded in the central computer of the vehicle. "
http://www.geocities.com/dtmcbride/h...ck-engine.html