1988 Ford Ranger Radiator Service

Get Started

Service Your Ford Ranger Radiator

Keeping your cool is easier when your engine is cool. Schedule your 1988 Ford Ranger radiator repair or service today.

Schedule an Appointment

Is It Time for Service on My 1988 Ford Ranger Cooling System?

It can be tough to know when to have your Ford Ranger radiator serviced if you don't know what it does, but it’s vital to know what to look for. The radiator is in the cooling system of your car, and it helps your engine temperature stay within a safe range. So, what happens when the radiator isn’t working quite like it should? You guessed it – your engine overheats, and it may even break down completely.

Keeping up with regular radiator maintenance in your 1988 Ford Ranger is crucial to keep your engine in the best possible shape for years to come. Ford recommends that you replace coolant (also called antifreeze) at certain intervals, but it’s a good idea to keep your eyes open for any indication that your radiator is failing. Your radiator could be close to causing an engine breakdown if you see coolant leaks under your car, high engine temperatures, or a dashboard light that indicates low coolant. As soon as you see one of these symptoms, come to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care for a Courtesy Check.

What to Expect from Ford Ranger Radiator Repair

What happens during a radiator repair service? If you bring your vehicle to Firestone Complete Auto Care, we start with a comprehensive inspection of your Ford Ranger’s cooling system. We’ll do a machine-powered coolant exchange on the system, and then we’ll top off or replace the fluids that were removed (like chemicals, lubricants, and sealants). Lastly, we’ll perform a pressure check to look for leaks.

Issues with your radiator often coincide with a malfunctioning water pump. Of all the parts in your 1988 Ford Ranger engine, the water pump is one that needs to be addressed ASAP once an issue is identified. The role of the water pump is to keep coolant circulating in your engine, radiator, and hoses. Without it, your engine won't maintain its optimal temperature. Our technicians can take a look at your radiator’s components to help you stay ahead of any potential engine problems. From the radiator cap to the heater core, we’re here to give your 1988 Ford Ranger the top-notch service it needs. Every job we do is backed by our Triple Promise: Fixed Right, Priced Right, Right on Time.

Questions About Ford Ranger Radiators

Take care of your 1988 Ford Ranger radiator and it will last. Check out our top questions and answers about Ford radiators below, and visit your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care at the first sign of an overheating engine.

  • What does an illuminated coolant temperature light mean for my Ford? Pay attention to the temperature gauge and lights on your dashboard. If a low coolant warning light comes on or your dashboard temperature gauge keeps rising, it’s likely that your engine is about to overheat (and could leave you stranded on the road). Wait for the engine to cool down, then have your coolant system checked immediately at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care.
  • Is an antifreeze leak dangerous? Notice a leaking fluid that's green, bright orange, or pink and feels sticky? It might be antifreeze. Antifreeze is toxic but has a sweet smell and taste that's attractive to many cats and dogs. Do your pets a favor and have an antifreeze leak investigated ASAP. Then hose down the driveway or garage floor!
  • Can Ford Ranger radiators be cleaned? To keep your Ford Ranger radiator running well, it’s wise to get it cleaned out a few times a year.
  • My Ranger overheated! What can cause that? One of the main reasons your Ford Ranger engine might overheat is because you don’t have enough coolant. Other causes include a clogged radiator, a damaged cooling fan, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a faulty water pump.
  • Why does the radiator in my Ranger sound like it’s rumbling or boiling? There could be air pockets in your Ranger’s cooling system. You might also have a clogged radiator or faulty radiator cap (this last one is an easy fix!).
  • There’s rust in my Ranger radiator. Should I be worried? Yes. If you have rust in your Ford Ranger radiator, it could cause leaks, negatively impact cooling efficiency, and eventually lead to radiator failure. Left unaddressed, radiator rust can erode the cooling passages, creating cracks or small holes. Properly maintaining your radiator system can help stop it from rusting.