Why does my Tempo’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 Tempo testing its circuits. The light should go off shortly. Bring your vehicle in if it doesn't.

Why does my Ford engine sound different?

Unusual noises can signal a problem with your Ford Tempo engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can be traced back to a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.

What could damage a Ford engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Ford Tempo 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 accelerating too quickly, too soon. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.

Can I use water in my Ford Tempo 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 Tempo when you’re out of coolant, having water in the coolant reservoir is better than nothing.

What could cause my Tempo engine to suddenly stop?

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

Where can I go for Ford Tempo repair?

For Ford Tempo 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 1988 Ford Tempo Engines

Learn about

1988 Ford Tempo Trim Options

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

L4/2.3L

Repairs for Your 1988 Ford Tempo

Stuff wears out. Even your Ford Tempo’s engine parts and components will change. We’re here to help when something stops working. Select a repair or category to learn more about 1988 Ford Tempo services.

We Care for Ford Tempo Engines

The Ford Tempo is respected for its reliability. You may have even been thinking about that when you bought it. Even so, pieces and parts can break down over time. Things can go wrong on the road. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1988 Ford service center — quick! That’s where Firestone Complete Auto Care comes in. We've serviced more than 500 million vehicles since 1926, and our technicians know Ford Tempo engines. Schedule a courtesy inspection at the first sign of engine trouble. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers both trustworthy and affordable engine repairs.

My 1988 Ford Tempo Check Engine Light Is On

An illuminated check engine light on your Ford Tempo is one of the first signs it's time to 'brake' for engine service. A check engine light that’s flashing or steadily illuminated could point to problems with your fuel injection, Potential causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, worn spark plug, a problem with your catalytic converter, or a leak in the engine vacuum, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Bring your Tempo to Firestone Complete Auto Care to get computerized diagnostics and we'll determine exactly why your check engine light is on. Other signs it's time for Ford Tempo engine service might include oil leaks, or misfiring.

1988 Tempo Engine Services

If your 1988 Ford Tempo needs engine repair, our technicians will provide you with a thorough explanation beforehand. We don't start working until we have your approval. If a repair can wait, we'll let you know. If it's necessary for your safety, we'll make sure you understand that, too. We want to provide you with the information you need to make an informed engine repair decision. By choosing Firestone Complete Auto Care for Tempo engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use Ford-approved parts and components like the timing belt, motor oil seal, fuses, or other parts.

Engine Q&A 1988 Ford Tempo

Why does my Tempo’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 Tempo testing its circuits. The light should go off shortly. Bring your vehicle in if it doesn't.
Why does my Ford engine sound different? Unusual noises can signal a problem with your Ford Tempo engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can be traced back to a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.
What could damage a Ford engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Ford Tempo 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 accelerating too quickly, too soon. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.
Can I use water in my Ford Tempo 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 Tempo when you’re out of coolant, having water in the coolant reservoir is better than nothing.
What could cause my Tempo engine to suddenly stop? If your Tempo car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.
Where can I go for Ford Tempo repair? For Ford Tempo 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.