Can I drive my Ford on a flat tire?

A flat tire that’s not addressed can take a terrible toll on the rest of your car. Until you have it repaired or replaced, drive your Tempo as little as possible to reduce your risk of damage to the wheels and alignment – or further damage to that already struggling tire!

Can I use an emergency/temporary sealant to fix my Ford's flat tire?

Fast fixes are a mixed blessing. They’ll help you get your Ford Tempo to Firestone Complete Auto Care, but don’t count on them to keep you on the road for very long. Using a temporary sealant may also void a Bridgestone or Firestone tire warranty.

What’s the harm in using my spare tire for a while?

For starters, your spare tire is designed to go short distances at low speeds. It’s not built to withstand the rough toll that the road can take from everyday driving! Putting off tire repair can also cause uneven tire wear in the long run – which could lead to a potentially costly toll on your steering and suspension system.

Where can I get my Ford Tempo tires repaired?

Your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care is equipped to handle most Ford Tempo tire repairs, but it depends on how severe the damage is.

What can cause Tempo tires to keep losing air?

Tire punctures, damaged wheels, and leaking valve stems are possible reasons for your Tempo tires continuously losing air.

Do all four tires on a Ford Tempo have to be replaced at the same time?

While it may not always be necessary to replace all four tires on your Tempo, it’s advised you replace them in pairs or all at once to ensure optimal safety and performance. Having two new tires and two worn tires can put you at risk since the worn tires might not have as good of traction as the new ones. Reference your owner’s manual to see if you will need to replace all four tires due to a large difference in tread.

Tire Repair for Your 1988 Ford Tempo

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Shop for Ford Tempo Tires

It’s best to introduce yourself to new roads with a firm grip. Find the best tires for your Ford Tempo at Firestone Complete Auto Care, and schedule your installation appointment online in minutes.

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Get Your Ford Tempo Tire Repaired

Cities are growing. New roads are being built, and old ones are getting a face lift. There's construction around every corner! New progress is exciting, but the road debris it leaves behind may mean trouble for your tires. If the road has been rough on your 1988 Ford Tempo tires, Firestone Complete Auto Care can help. There’s a chance your tire could be plugged and patched (rather than replaced). Our technicians can inspect your tire and let you know if it is safe to repair. We'll start by evaluating the state of wear, the location of damage, type of damage, and the size of the damage.

If your 1988 Ford Tempo tire puncture can be repaired, we’ll get to work on the steps to fix it: (1) Take the tire off the wheel for easy inspection, (2) use a filler to close up the puncture (this is to keep moisture from getting in), and (3) secure and seal the inner tire liner to ensure the tire is airtight.

Tire Replacement for Your Ford Tempo

Sometimes, 1988 Ford Tempo tire damage calls for more than a repair. Even if your tire damage is minor, if your tires have less than 2/32nd inch of tread remaining, a repair isn’t possible (or safe). This tread depth indicates that the tire is worn out, and needs to be replaced. Other tire damage that can't be safely repaired includes a tire puncture with a diameter bigger than ¼ inch; a puncture in the tire sidewall (or anywhere else that’s not within the tread area); multiple punctures that are too close together (less than 16 inches between them); and a tire with cuts or tread separation.

Sometimes, it's in your best interest to buy one, two, or four new tires depending on Ford's recommendation. For example, it’s usually recommended that you replace all four tires at the same time on AWD vehicles. Why? Because having four identical tires is vital for the AWD system to perform like it’s supposed to. Just replaced your tires and only one is damaged? You may not need to buy another new full set after all. You might be able to replace one tire as long as it's the same brand, type, and size as the other three. Your tire technician can help you decide how many tires to replace and the kind of tire to purchase.

Ford Tempo Tire Inspection

Some tire issues can cause you to have a flat, but other damage isn't so noticeable right away. Bent tire rims, bulging tire sidewalls, leaks under your car, or noise from your exhaust system can all point to tire-related damage that should be addressed quickly. Stop tire damage in its tracks. Start with a tire inspection on your 1988 Ford Tempo.

Ford Tempo Tire Repair Questions

Can I drive my Ford on a flat tire? A flat tire that’s not addressed can take a terrible toll on the rest of your car. Until you have it repaired or replaced, drive your Tempo as little as possible to reduce your risk of damage to the wheels and alignment – or further damage to that already struggling tire!
Can I use an emergency/temporary sealant to fix my Ford's flat tire? Fast fixes are a mixed blessing. They’ll help you get your Ford Tempo to Firestone Complete Auto Care, but don’t count on them to keep you on the road for very long. Using a temporary sealant may also void a Bridgestone or Firestone tire warranty.
What’s the harm in using my spare tire for a while? For starters, your spare tire is designed to go short distances at low speeds. It’s not built to withstand the rough toll that the road can take from everyday driving! Putting off tire repair can also cause uneven tire wear in the long run – which could lead to a potentially costly toll on your steering and suspension system.
Where can I get my Ford Tempo tires repaired? Your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care is equipped to handle most Ford Tempo tire repairs, but it depends on how severe the damage is.
What can cause Tempo tires to keep losing air? Tire punctures, damaged wheels, and leaking valve stems are possible reasons for your Tempo tires continuously losing air.
Do all four tires on a Ford Tempo have to be replaced at the same time? While it may not always be necessary to replace all four tires on your Tempo, it’s advised you replace them in pairs or all at once to ensure optimal safety and performance. Having two new tires and two worn tires can put you at risk since the worn tires might not have as good of traction as the new ones. Reference your owner’s manual to see if you will need to replace all four tires due to a large difference in tread.

Repair Services for Your 1988 Ford Tempo

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Ford Tempo's many parts and pieces. When something breaks, we're ready. Click on a repair below to learn more about 1988 Ford Tempo repairs.