Why does the check engine light in my S15 turn on when I start my car?

Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. It’s just your S15 firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Are GMC S15 engine noises bad?

Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your GMC S15 engine. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be a sign of brake problems rather than engine issues.

What could damage a GMC engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your GMC S15 engine?

Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.

Can I put water in my GMC S15 radiator?

While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your S15 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 could cause my S15 engine to suddenly stop?

Your S15 car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.

Where can I go for GMC S15 repair?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care fixes GMC S15 engines. Book an appointment today! We have thousands of locations across the country.

Reliable Repairs for 1988 GMC S15 Engines

Learn about

1988 GMC S15 Trim Options

Select your GMC S15 trim level to learn more about GMC-recommended engine repair. Use the following chart to find information.

L4/2.5L

V6/2.8L

V6/4.3L

1988 GMC S15 Repair

Nothing stays the same forever. Even your GMC S15's many parts and pieces. We’re here to help when something stops working. Select a repair or category to learn more about 1988 GMC S15 services.

We Care for GMC S15 Engines

The GMC S15 is respected for its reliability. You may have even been thinking about that when you bought it. However, even your trustworthy engine is subject to wear and tear. Things can go sideways sometimes. If the unexpected strikes, you may search the internet frantically for quick and affordable 1988 GMC S15 engine repairs. That's when it's time to head to Firestone Complete Auto Care. We've serviced millions of vehicles since 1926, and our professional technicians are trained to service GMC S15 engines. Schedule an appointment if you're experiencing problems that could require engine repair. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers both trustworthy and affordable engine repairs.

Check Engine Light on 1988 GMC S15

As soon as your S15 check engine light turns on, it’s time to get an expert’s opinion. A check engine light that’s on or flashing could be a symptom of a serious problem in your car’s starter, Causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged spark plug, issues with your catalytic converter, or an engine vacuum leak, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Bring your S15 to Firestone Complete Auto Care to get computerized diagnostics and our expert techs will get the root of the problem. Other signs your GMC S15 engine needs some TLC are oil leaks, or a sinking feeling that something’s wrong.

GMC S15 Engine Repair

When your GMC S15 engine needs repairs, our technicians will make sure you understand what’s going on before they start working on your engine. We don't start working until we have your approval. If a service can wait, we’ll make sure you know. If it's necessary for your safety, we'll make sure you understand that, too. We seek to give you all the info you need to make a smart decision about our services. By choosing Firestone Complete Auto Care for S15 engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use GMC-approved parts and components like the timing chain or belt, oil gasket, ignition coil, or a different component.

Questions About 1988 GMC S15 Engines

Why does the check engine light in my S15 turn on when I start my car? Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. It’s just your S15 firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Are GMC S15 engine noises bad? Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your GMC S15 engine. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be a sign of brake problems rather than engine issues.
What could damage a GMC engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your GMC S15 engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.
Can I put water in my GMC S15 radiator? While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your S15 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 could cause my S15 engine to suddenly stop? Your S15 car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.
Where can I go for GMC S15 repair? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care fixes GMC S15 engines. Book an appointment today! We have thousands of locations across the country.