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

Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. This is just your F-150 testing its circuits. The light should turn off in a bit, but come see us if it doesn't.

Why is my Ford F-150 making engine noise?

Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Ford F-150. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

What could damage a Ford engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Ford F-150 engine?

Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.

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

An emergency is the only time you should consider putting water in your radiator. Outside of that, it’s recommended you use a pre-mixed coolant or a 50/50 blend of water and coolant. However, if you need to continue driving your F-150 when you’re out of coolant, having water in the coolant reservoir is better than nothing.

What could cause my F-150 engine to suddenly stop?

If your F-150 car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.

Who fixes Ford F-150 engines?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care fixes Ford F-150 engines. Book an appointment today! We have thousands of locations across the country.

Engine Repairs for Your 1996 Ford F-150

Learn about

1996 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

V8/5.0L

V8/5.8L

Repairs for Your 1996 Ford F-150

Nothing stays the same forever. Even your Ford F-150’s engine parts and components will change. We’re here to help when something stops working. Click on a repair below to learn more about 1996 Ford F-150 repairs.

We Care for Ford F-150 Engines

Ford F-150 engines are known for their reliability. That might be why you bought it in the first place. Even so, pieces and parts can break down over time. Things can go sideways sometimes. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1996 Ford service center — quick! Luckily, you won’t have to look far, since Firestone Complete Auto Care has 1,700+ locations across the country. We've serviced millions of vehicles since 1926, and our professional technicians are trained to service Ford F-150 engines. If you think something’s wrong with your engine, schedule an appointment at your convenience. After all, Firestone Complete Auto Care is one of the most popular picks for professional engine repairs thanks to its service and affordability.

My 1996 Ford F-150 Check Engine Light Is On

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 car’s starter, Causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, bad spark plug, issues with your catalytic converter, or an engine vacuum leak, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Bring your F-150 to Firestone Complete Auto Care to get computerized diagnostics and our expert techs will get the root of the problem. engine pinging noises, burning smells, or a sinking feeling that something’s wrong.

Ford F-150 Engine Repair

If your 1996 F-150 engine needs repairs, our technicians will provide you with a thorough explanation beforehand. We don't start working until we have your approval. 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. By choosing Firestone Complete Auto Care for F-150 engine repairs and you can drive easy knowing that we use Ford-approved parts and fluids — timing belt, oil gasket, sensors, or a different component.

1996 Ford F-150 Engine Q&A

Why does my F-150’s check engine light come on when I start it? Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. This is just your F-150 testing its circuits. The light should turn off in a bit, but come see us if it doesn't.
Why is my Ford F-150 making engine noise? Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Ford F-150. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage a Ford engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Ford F-150 engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.
Can I use water in my Ford F-150 radiator? An emergency is the only time you should consider putting water in your radiator. Outside of that, it’s recommended you use a pre-mixed coolant or a 50/50 blend of water and coolant. However, if you need to continue driving your F-150 when you’re out of coolant, having water in the coolant reservoir is better than nothing.
What could cause my F-150 engine to suddenly stop? If your F-150 car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.
Who fixes Ford F-150 engines? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care fixes Ford F-150 engines. Book an appointment today! We have thousands of locations across the country.