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

Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The light should turn off in a bit, but come see us if it doesn't.

Why is my GMC Safari making engine noise?

Unusual noises can signal a problem with your GMC Safari engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can be traced back to a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

What could damage my GMC Safari 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. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.

Can I add water to my GMC Safari radiator?

Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What could cause my Safari engine to suddenly stop?

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

Who repairs GMC Safari engines?

For GMC Safari 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.

Engine Repairs for Your 1986 GMC Safari

Learn about

1986 GMC Safari Trim Options

Select your GMC Safari trim level to learn more about GMC-recommended engine repair. Even GMC Safari parts will get older and change.

L4/2.5L

V6/4.3L

GMC Safari Repairs and Services

Stuff wears out. Even your GMC Safari's many parts and pieces. When something breaks, we're ready. Click on a repair below to learn more about 1986 GMC Safari repairs.

We Know GMC Safari Engines

GMC Safari drivers trust that their Safari will take them near and far. You may have even been thinking about that when you bought it. Even so, pieces and parts can break down over time. Sometimes plans go sideways. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1986 GMC service center — quick! 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 GMC Safari engines. If you think something’s wrong with your engine, schedule an appointment at your convenience. After all, Firestone Complete Auto Care is one of the most popular picks for professional engine repairs thanks to its service and affordability.

Check Engine Light on 1986 GMC Safari

An illuminated check engine light on your GMC Safari 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, Possible causes can include a failing oxygen sensor, bad spark plug, a clogged catalytic converter, or a leaking engine vacuum, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Bring your Safari to Firestone Complete Auto Care to get computerized diagnostics and our expert techs will get the root of the problem. engine pinging noises, essential fluid leaks, or misfiring.

GMC Safari Engine Repair

If your 1986 GMC Safari needs engine repair, our expert techs will let you know what needs to be done and why before they get started. We don't start working until we have your approval. If a repair can wait, we'll let you know. But if immediate repairs are necessary for your safety, we’ll make sure that's clear, 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 Safari engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use GMC-approved parts and components like the serpentine belt, engine oil seal, ignition coil, or other parts.

Engine Q&A 1986 GMC Safari

Why does the check engine light in my Safari turn on when I start my car? Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The light should turn off in a bit, but come see us if it doesn't.
Why is my GMC Safari making engine noise? Unusual noises can signal a problem with your GMC Safari engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can be traced back to a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage my GMC Safari 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. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.
Can I add water to my GMC Safari radiator? Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What could cause my Safari engine to suddenly stop? Your Safari car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.
Who repairs GMC Safari engines? For GMC Safari 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.