Why does my Safari’s check engine light come on when I start it?

Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. This is just your Safari 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 GMC Safari making engine noise?

Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your GMC Safari. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing may be caused by 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 hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, revving the engine while still in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

Is it okay to put water in my GMC Safari 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 Safari when you’re out of coolant, having water in the coolant reservoir is better than nothing.

What can cause the engine in my Safari to suddenly stop?

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

Who fixes GMC Safari engines?

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

1987 GMC Safari Engine Repair

Learn about

1987 GMC Safari Trim Options

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

L4/2.5L

V6/4.3L

1987 GMC Safari Repair

Nothing stays the same forever. Even your GMC Safari's many parts and pieces. When something breaks or fails, we’re ready to help. Select a service or repair below to learn more about what we can do for your 1987 GMC Safari.

We Care for GMC Safari Engines

The GMC Safari is respected for its 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 1987 GMC 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 GMC Safari engines. If you think something’s wrong with your engine, schedule an appointment at your convenience. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers both trustworthy and affordable engine repairs.

Illuminated Check Engine Light on 1987 GMC Safari

As soon as your Safari check engine light turns on, it’s time to get an expert’s opinion. A check engine light that’s flashing or steadily illuminated could point to problems with your combustion, Potential causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged spark plug, issues with your catalytic converter, or a leak in the engine vacuum, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Stop by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to get your Safari issues diagnosed and we’ll figure out why that check engine light is giving you grief. Other signs it's time for GMC Safari engine service might include burning smells, or misfiring.

1987 Safari Engine Services

If your 1987 GMC Safari needs engine repair, our expert techs will let you know what needs to be done and why before they get started. We never do any work without your sign-off. 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. By choosing Firestone Complete Auto Care for Safari engine repairs and you can feel good knowing that we only use GMC-compliant replacement parts such as the serpentine belt, valve guide seal, sensors, or other parts.

Engine Q&A 1987 GMC Safari

Why does my Safari’s check engine light come on when I start it? Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. This is just your Safari 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 GMC Safari making engine noise? Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your GMC Safari. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing may be caused by 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 hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, revving the engine while still in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.
Is it okay to put water in my GMC Safari 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 Safari when you’re out of coolant, having water in the coolant reservoir is better than nothing.
What can cause the engine in my Safari to suddenly stop? If your Safari car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.
Who fixes GMC Safari engines? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care fixes GMC Safari engines. Book an appointment today! We have thousands of locations across the country.