Subaru Repair: see 4-17-07 post CEL running poorly with rain, mass air flow sensor, mass air flow

Question
I have a 99 Forester automatic that is behaving EXACTLY like Aleks described in his post on 4/17/07. When it sits overnight and it is rainy or even misty, it will start right up, but will run terribly until the temperature gauge shows it has warmed. Normally the rpms are around 2000, but during one of these fits, it will rise up to 3K or 4K before seemingly shifting gears. CEL will flash and then go out, or sometimes will stay on for days. It seems to put out a lot of white smoke out the exhaust when this goes on.  I have replaced the fuel filter and that didn't do anything. I've had two mechanics suggest to replace the spark plug wires, thinking that moisture is getting in, but everything looks fine. My gas mileage seems to take a big hit as well, from the problems with acceleration.  I never have any trouble at all if the weather is dry. It is ONLY on rainy days. Please help.

Answer
When the CEL flashes that indicates a misfire .When it comes on and stays on it could mean many things.Here is what is common secondary ignition failure plugs,wires,coil pack and also make sure the wires aren't oily from leaky plug well seals.Next that year forester is prone for  the mass air flow sensor to fail.Hope that helps and good luck.

Justin
All Wheel Drive Auto