The rules have become stricter since November 14th, and it goes back 24 months; when they put your passport on the immigration tablet, they will see that you have exceeded the limit.
As a tourist, you need an international driving permit, which is valid for 90 days in Thailand. After 90 days, you are no longer a tourist and therefore need a visa or residency permit.
Yes, that's normal because you can't stay in Thailand for more than 90 days; after that, you have to return to your country. So, staying for four months wasn't legal.