Why does my Ranger’s check engine light come on when I start it?

It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The light should go off shortly. Bring your vehicle in if it doesn't.

Why is my Ford Ranger making engine noise?

Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Ford Ranger. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. A high-pitched whistle could signal an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can be traced back to a loose fan belt, and grinding might be a sign of brake problems rather than engine issues.

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

Certain driving habits can hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.

Is it okay to put water in my Ford Ranger radiator?

While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your Ranger 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 the engine in my Ranger to suddenly stop?

There are different reasons your Ranger vehicle engine could suddenly stop. You may be looking at a lack of fuel, faulty sensors, issues with the ignition system, engine overheating, electrical problems, or mechanical troubles.

Who repairs Ford Ranger engines?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has you covered with expert Ranger engine repair. Schedule an appointment today and see us at one of our thousands of locations.

Reliable Repairs for 1988 Ford Ranger Engines

Learn about

1988 Ford Ranger Trim Options

Select your Ford Ranger trim level to learn more about Ford-recommended engine repair. Use the following chart to find information.

L4/2.0L

L4/2.3L

V6/2.9L

Ford Ranger Repairs and Services

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Ford Ranger’s engine parts and components will change. When something breaks, we're ready. Select a service or repair below to learn more about what we can do for your 1988 Ford Ranger.

We’re Trained to Care for Ford Ranger Engines

Ford Ranger drivers trust that their Ranger will take them near and far. You probably thought about that when you got it. However, even your trustworthy engine is subject to wear and tear. Things can go wrong on the road. When they do, you might find yourself searching for 1988 Ford Ranger engine repair or replacement parts. That's when it's time to head to Firestone Complete Auto Care. We've serviced more than 500 million vehicles since 1926, and our technicians know Ford Ranger engines. Schedule a courtesy inspection at the first sign of engine trouble. After all, Firestone Complete Auto Care is one of the most popular picks for professional engine repairs thanks to its service and affordability.

Illuminated Check Engine Light on 1988 Ford Ranger

If your Ranger check engine light is on, it’s time to get it looked at. A check engine light that’s on or flashing could be a symptom of a serious problem in your car’s starter, Possible causes can include a failing oxygen sensor, bad spark plug, a problem with your catalytic converter, or a leak in the engine vacuum, to name a few potential sources. Stop by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to get your Ranger issues diagnosed and our expert techs will get the root of the problem. Other signs your Ford Ranger engine needs some TLC are oil leaks, or engine misfiring.

Ford Ranger Engine Repair

When your Ford Ranger 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 repair isn’t urgent right now, we’ll let you know. If it's necessary for your safety, we'll make sure you understand that, too. We want to give you all the details you need to make an informed decision about your engine repairs. Turn to Firestone Complete Auto Care for your 1988 Ranger engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use Ford-approved parts and components like the timing chain or belt, engine oil seal, ignition coil, or a different component.

1988 Ford Ranger Engine Q&A

Why does my Ranger’s check engine light come on when I start it? It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The light should go off shortly. Bring your vehicle in if it doesn't.
Why is my Ford Ranger making engine noise? Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Ford Ranger. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. A high-pitched whistle could signal an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can be traced back to a loose fan belt, and grinding might be a sign of brake problems rather than engine issues.
What could damage a Ford engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Ford Ranger engine? Certain driving habits can hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.
Is it okay to put water in my Ford Ranger radiator? While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your Ranger 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 the engine in my Ranger to suddenly stop? There are different reasons your Ranger vehicle engine could suddenly stop. You may be looking at a lack of fuel, faulty sensors, issues with the ignition system, engine overheating, electrical problems, or mechanical troubles.
Who repairs Ford Ranger engines? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has you covered with expert Ranger engine repair. Schedule an appointment today and see us at one of our thousands of locations.