Why does my D21’s check engine light come on when I start it?

Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. It’s just your D21 firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Why does my Nissan engine sound different?

Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Nissan D21. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. 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 a Nissan engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Nissan D21 engine?

Some driving habits are not so great for your engine. These include driving on a near-empty gas tank, flooring the gas pedal while the car 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.

Is it okay to put water in my Nissan D21 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 can cause the engine in my D21 to suddenly stop?

Reasons your D21 car engine may suddenly stop include engine overheating, electrical troubles, mechanical issues, ignition system problems, faulty sensors, and low fuel.

Who fixes Nissan D21 engines?

For Nissan D21 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.

1986 Nissan D21 Engine Repair

Learn about

1986 Nissan D21 Trim Options

Select your Nissan D21 trim level to learn more about Nissan-recommended engine repair. Use the following chart to find information.

L4/2.4L

V6/3.0L

Repairs for Your 1986 Nissan D21

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Nissan D21’s engine parts and components will change. When something breaks, we're ready. Select a service or repair below to learn more about what we can do for your 1986 Nissan D21.

We Care for Nissan D21 Engines

The Nissan D21 is respected for its reliability. You may have even been thinking about that when you bought it. However, the wear-proof engine has yet to be invented! Things can go sideways sometimes. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1986 Nissan 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 Nissan D21 engines. If you think something’s wrong with your engine, schedule an appointment at your convenience. Firestone Complete Auto Care is a top choice for professional engine diagnosis, service, and repair at an affordable price.

My 1986 Nissan D21 Check Engine Light Is On

An illuminated check engine light on your Nissan D21 is one of the first signs it's time to 'brake' for engine service. A steady or flashing check engine light could signal a serious issue with your combustion, Potential causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged spark plug, issues with your catalytic converter, or a leaking engine vacuum, to name a few potential sources. Stop by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to get your D21 issues diagnosed and we'll determine exactly why your check engine light is on. rattling sounds, burning smells, or engine misfiring.

1986 D21 Engine Services

If your 1986 D21 engine needs repairs, our technicians will make sure you understand what’s going on before they start working on your engine. We make recommendations, but you make the final decision. 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 want to provide you with the information you need to make an informed engine repair decision. By choosing Firestone Complete Auto Care for D21 engine repairs and you can drive easy knowing that we use Nissan-approved parts and fluids — serpentine belt, oil gasket, ignition coil, or other parts.

Engine Q&A 1986 Nissan D21

Why does my D21’s check engine light come on when I start it? Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. It’s just your D21 firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Why does my Nissan engine sound different? Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Nissan D21. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. 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 a Nissan engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Nissan D21 engine? Some driving habits are not so great for your engine. These include driving on a near-empty gas tank, flooring the gas pedal while the car 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.
Is it okay to put water in my Nissan D21 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 can cause the engine in my D21 to suddenly stop? Reasons your D21 car engine may suddenly stop include engine overheating, electrical troubles, mechanical issues, ignition system problems, faulty sensors, and low fuel.
Who fixes Nissan D21 engines? For Nissan D21 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.