Why does my Thunderbird’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 Thunderbird testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Why is my Ford Thunderbird making engine noise?

Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Ford Thunderbird engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. A high-pitched whistle could signal an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate 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 Thunderbird 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. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

Can I add water to my Ford Thunderbird radiator?

It’s not recommended you put water in your Thunderbird radiator unless it’s an emergency. Under normal circumstances, use a 50/50 mix of water and coolant or a pre-mixed coolant. But, if you need to keep driving while out of coolant, using water is better than driving with an empty coolant reservoir.

What could cause my Thunderbird engine to suddenly stop?

Reasons your Thunderbird car engine may suddenly stop include engine overheating, electrical troubles, mechanical issues, ignition system problems, faulty sensors, and low fuel.

Where can I go for Ford Thunderbird repair?

For Ford Thunderbird 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.

1989 Ford Thunderbird Engine Repair

Learn about

1989 Ford Thunderbird Trim Options

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

V6/3.8L

Ford Thunderbird Repairs and Services

Nothing stays the same forever. Even your Ford Thunderbird’s engine parts and components will change. We’re here to help when something stops working. Select a service or repair below to learn more about what we can do for your 1989 Ford Thunderbird.

We Care for Ford Thunderbird Engines

Ford Thunderbird engines are known for their reliability. That might be why you bought it in the first place. However, the wear-proof engine has yet to be invented! Sometimes plans go sideways. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1989 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 Thunderbird engines. Schedule an appointment if you're experiencing problems that could require engine repair. Firestone Complete Auto Care is a top choice for professional engine diagnosis, service, and repair at an affordable price.

Illuminated Check Engine Light on 1989 Ford Thunderbird

If your Thunderbird 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 fuel injection, Causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged 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 Thunderbird in for an on-board diagnostic check and we'll determine exactly why your check engine light is on. engine rattling, essential fluid leaks, or misfiring.

Ford Thunderbird Engine Repair

If your 1989 Thunderbird engine needs repairs, our technicians will provide you with a thorough explanation beforehand. We make recommendations, but you make the final decision. 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 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 1989 Thunderbird engine repairs and you can feel good knowing that we only use Ford-compliant replacement parts such as the timing belt, oil gasket, ignition coil, or other parts.

Engine Q&A 1989 Ford Thunderbird

Why does my Thunderbird’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 Thunderbird testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Why is my Ford Thunderbird making engine noise? Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Ford Thunderbird engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. A high-pitched whistle could signal an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate 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 Thunderbird 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. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.
Can I add water to my Ford Thunderbird radiator? It’s not recommended you put water in your Thunderbird radiator unless it’s an emergency. Under normal circumstances, use a 50/50 mix of water and coolant or a pre-mixed coolant. But, if you need to keep driving while out of coolant, using water is better than driving with an empty coolant reservoir.
What could cause my Thunderbird engine to suddenly stop? Reasons your Thunderbird car engine may suddenly stop include engine overheating, electrical troubles, mechanical issues, ignition system problems, faulty sensors, and low fuel.
Where can I go for Ford Thunderbird repair? For Ford Thunderbird 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.