Why does my F-150’s check engine light come on when I start it?

It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. This is just your F-150 testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Are Ford F-150 engine noises bad?

Unusual noises can signal a problem with your Ford F-150 engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can be traced back to a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

What could damage my Ford F-150 engine?

Certain driving habits can hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

Can I put water in my Ford F-150 radiator?

While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your F-150 radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What can cause a F-150 engine to suddenly stop?

Reasons your F-150 car engine may suddenly stop include engine overheating, electrical troubles, mechanical issues, ignition system problems, faulty sensors, and low fuel.

Who repairs Ford F-150 engines?

For Ford F-150 engine repair, trust your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. You can make an appointment today at any of our thousands of locations across the U.S.

Reliable Repairs for 1989 Ford F-150 Engines

Learn about

1989 Ford F-150 Trim Options

Select your Ford F-150 trim level to learn more about Ford-recommended engine repair. Even Ford F-150 parts will get older and change.

L6/4.9L

V6/3.8L

V8/5.0L

V8/5.8L

Ford F-150 Repairs and Services

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Ford F-150's many parts and pieces. When something breaks or fails, we’re ready to help. Select a service or repair below to learn more about what we can do for your 1989 Ford F-150.

We’re Trained to Care for Ford F-150 Engines

The Ford F-150 is respected for its reliability. That might be why you bought it in the first place. However, the wear-proof engine has yet to be invented! Sometimes plans go sideways. When they do, you might find yourself searching for 1989 Ford F-150 engine repair or replacement parts. Luckily, you won’t have to look far, since Firestone Complete Auto Care has 1,700+ locations across the country. We've serviced more than 500 million vehicles since 1926, and our technicians know Ford F-150 engines. Schedule an appointment if you're experiencing problems that could require engine repair. Firestone Complete Auto Care is a top choice for professional engine diagnosis, service, and repair at an affordable price.

Check Engine Light on 1989 Ford F-150

As soon as your F-150 check engine light turns on, it’s time to get an expert’s opinion. A check engine light that’s on or flashing could be a symptom of a serious problem in your combustion, Possible causes can include a failing oxygen sensor, worn spark plug, a problem with your catalytic converter, or a leaking engine vacuum, to name a few potential sources. Bring your F-150 in for an on-board diagnostic check and our expert techs will get the root of the problem. Other signs it's time for Ford F-150 engine service might include oil leaks, or engine misfiring.

Ford F-150 Engine Repair

When your Ford F-150 engine needs repairs, our expert techs will let you know what needs to be done and why before they get started. We make recommendations, but you make the final decision. If a service can wait, we’ll make sure you know. But if immediate repairs are necessary for your safety, we’ll make sure that's clear, too. We seek to give you all the info you need to make a smart decision about our services. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for Ford F-150 engine repairs and you can drive easy knowing that we use Ford-approved parts and fluids — timing chain or belt, valve guide seal, ignition coil, or other parts.

1989 Ford F-150 Engine Q&A

Why does my F-150’s check engine light come on when I start it? It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. This is just your F-150 testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Are Ford F-150 engine noises bad? Unusual noises can signal a problem with your Ford F-150 engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can be traced back to a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage my Ford F-150 engine? Certain driving habits can hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.
Can I put water in my Ford F-150 radiator? While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your F-150 radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What can cause a F-150 engine to suddenly stop? Reasons your F-150 car engine may suddenly stop include engine overheating, electrical troubles, mechanical issues, ignition system problems, faulty sensors, and low fuel.
Who repairs Ford F-150 engines? For Ford F-150 engine repair, trust your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. You can make an appointment today at any of our thousands of locations across the U.S.