Tires

1988 Nissan Sentra Tires & Services


1988 Nissan Sentra Tires

Recommended Tires | Tire Information

1988 Nissan Sentra Tires Sizes, Speed Ratings, and Inflation

Not sure about your 1988 Nissan Sentra tire size? Use the following chart to find information on tire size, speed rating, and inflation.

Trim Level Speed Rating Inflation in PSI F/R Tire Size
1988 Nissan Sentra GXE None 29 PSI/26 PSI P175/70R13
1988 Nissan Sentra SE H 29 PSI/26 PSI 185/60R14
1988 Nissan Sentra XE S 29 PSI/26 PSI 175/70SR13
1988 Nissan Sentra E None 29 PSI/26 PSI P155/80R13
1988 Nissan Sentra Base* None 29 PSI/26 PSI P155/80R13
1988 Nissan Sentra Base* None 29 PSI/29 PSI P175/70R13

1988 Nissan Sentra GXE

P175/70R13

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/26 PSI

1988 Nissan Sentra SE

185/60R14

Speed Rating: H

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/26 PSI

1988 Nissan Sentra XE

175/70SR13

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/26 PSI

1988 Nissan Sentra E

P155/80R13

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/26 PSI

1988 Nissan Sentra Base*

P155/80R13

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/26 PSI

1988 Nissan Sentra Base*

P175/70R13

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/29 PSI

* Note: these models have different tire sizes depending on vehicle options.

Recommended Tires for Your 1988 Nissan Sentra

What tires are best for a 1988 Nissan Sentra? Check out the following tire brands and types.

SUREDRIVE ALL-Season
ALL-Season

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
SUREDRIVE Touring A/S
Touring A/S

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires

1988 Nissan Sentra Tire Information

Other than getting the proper tire size, you also want to think about a couple of other things when getting new Nissan Sentra tires like which tire brands you like most and where you drive. When evaluating your driving conditions, think about where you live (countryside vs. city vs. mountains) and the kind of unexpected weather you're likely to experience. Many drivers who live in states that experience all four seasons choose to purchase two sets of tires: one for winter and one for summer. Other drivers prefer to purchase one all-season set to limit trips to the tire shop and make sure their vehicle is prepared in the rain, sleet, snow, or sun!

Driving style is next on the list to think about when buying tires. If you're a big off-roading fan who forges paths where others can't, you have very different needs than a long-distance commuter who sticks to the highway. Browse Nissan Sentra tires online or come to your nearby Firestone Complete Auto Care for help selecting the tire that's right for you.

Nissan Sentra Installation and More

We sell tires, but we also service them and care for all the around-the-wheel components. We're a tire store that also offers professional tire installation, maintenance, and rotation, along with complete auto care. Shop 1988 Nissan Sentra tires online and schedule an installation appointment.

1988 Nissan Sentra Tire Q&A

  • Why does Nissan tire inflation matter? A small decrease in tire pressure can have a big impact on your driving. Maintaining proper tire pressure can help improve braking time, increase fuel economy, and boost tire lifespan.
  • What do the numbers on my Nissan Sentra tires mean? The numbers on your tire sidewall give you information about tire speed rating, traction, treadwear, tire size, and load carrying capacity. Chat with a tire technician to learn how to read the numbers on your Nissan tires!
  • Is there an easy way to check Nissan tire tread depth? Stay on top of your tire tread depth to help avoid a dangerous drive. You can check tread depth with a penny. Hold the penny so that Abraham Lincoln is facing you, then place your penny into a tread groove upside down. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Nissan Sentra tires. Grab a penny. Hold the so that Abe Lincon's head is facing you and his hair is pointing toward the ground. Then, place the penny into a tread groove. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Nissan Sentra tires.

About 1988 Nissan Sentra Repairs

For most drivers, the words “car repair” don’t exactly spark excitement. But we work to provide you with a different experience at Firestone Complete Auto Care. Bring your 1988 Nissan Sentra in for repair services and rest easy knowing that your Sentra is in capable hands. We'll work to evaluate the scope of repairs needed and explain your options. We’ll never recommend a repair we don’t think is necessary for your safety or the performance of your Nissan.

How Much Does Nissan Sentra Repair Cost?

The cost to repair your 1988 Nissan Sentra depends on which repairs are needed, costs of replacement parts or repair supplies, the labor involved, and where you live. And check back often — we update our deals regularly!

A few different aspects can influence repair costs for your 1988 Nissan Sentra, like

1988 Nissan Sentra Auto Repair Questions

  • Do I need to follow Nissan's maintenance schedule? Don’t neglect scheduled maintenance. Sure, you could skip out on a few recommended maintenance services, but you may pay the price later. Bring your vehicle to Firestone Complete Auto Care at recommended service intervals to address minor issues before they get out of hand and keep your car running newer, longer.
  • Should I bring my Nissan in even if I can't pinpoint the problem? You know your vehicle. You also know when something feels 'off' with your vehicle. Pay attention when things don't run like they used to and stop by for a Courtesy Check when you notice an unusual sign, smell, or sensation. We might be able to help you prevent Nissan Sentra repairs!
  • Are the repairs you recommend for my Nissan actually needed? Trust is more than just a saying on the wall. It’s a window underneath it. That’s why we won’t recommend services or repairs for your 1988 Nissan Sentra unless we think they’re vital to your safety on the road.

Brake Repair for Your 1988 Nissan Sentra

You might have a strong and reliable engine in your Nissan  Sentra. But if you can't stop it, then it's scrap metal. Don't wait if you're experiencing brake squeaks or a loss of braking power. Safe driving is difficult when your brakes are anything but their best. Plus, ignoring your brake problems can result in more damage and higher brake repair bills. Go to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care for 1988 Nissan Sentra brake repairs. We offer many affordable brake repairs like brake pad/shoe removal and replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing, brake fluid exchange/bleeding, and brake caliper and wheel cylinder installation.

Answers to Your Sentra Brakes Questions

  • What is causing my Sentra to shake when I brake? Feeling shaking or vibrating in your Sentra as you brake might indicate a few different problems, including worn brake pads or rotors, loose suspension components, damaged brake calipers, or warped rotors. Book an appointment for a free brake inspection as soon as you notice a problem with your brakes.
  • How long can I expect my Sentra brake pads to last? Brake pads generally last between 30,000 and 40,000 miles. Your driving can affect how long your Sentra brake pads last, though. For example, mainly driving on highways and gradually braking can help increase the lifespan of your brake pads, and carrying hefty loads or riding your brakes can shorten it.
  • Does brake fluid leak when the car is off? Your Sentra has a closed hydraulic brake system, meaning you should not have a brake fluid leak under normal conditions. However, parts of your brake system can wear out over time or become damaged, which can lead to a brake fluid leak.

When to Get Nissan Sentra Drivetrain Repairs

Drivetrains for front, rear, and all-wheel-drive and 4WD vehicles are quite different, so you don't want to go to just anyone for drivetrain repair. You want to come see the technicians at Firestone Complete Auto Care. We can take care of most 1988 Nissan Sentra drivetrain components Your Nissan Sentra may need driveshaft attention if you feel heavy vibrations in your floorboards, clunks when shifting, resistance when turning, or vibration as your vehicle accelerates.

Questions About 1988 Nissan Sentra

  • What are the symptoms of a damaged Nissan drivetrain system? Noises toward the back of your Nissan Sentra, leaking fluid, trouble turning — these could all be signs of drivetrain damage you want to address. Take action before something more severe happens.
  • Why is the malfunction indicator light (MIL) on in my Sentra?  The malfunction indicator light — also known as the check engine light — on your Sentra can illuminate for a variety of reasons, including engine issues, electrical problems, damaged sensors, transmission problems, misfires, and faulty connections.
  • Is a drivetrain malfunction in my Sentra serious? A drivetrain malfunction in your Sentra should never be taken lightly. Driving with a malfunctioning drivetrain can put you in danger and lead to further vehicle damage, so it's essential to have a qualified mechanic assess and repair the problem as soon as possible.

Wheel Alignment for 1988 Nissan Sentra

An alignment involves making adjustments to your Nissan Sentra's suspension system, which connects the wheels with the rest of the vehicle. During the service, the individual angles of your tires are adjusted so that they come into contact with the road in just the right way — the way Nissan intended them to. Bring your 1988 Nissan Sentra in for a wheel alignment and we'll start with an alignment check. After that, we can adjust your wheel alignment angles until they match Nissan’s recommended measurements.

Nissan Sentra Alignment Questions

  • How can I avoid knocking my Nissan Sentra out of alignment? Hitting a pothole or curb can alter your wheel alignment. So can general wear and tear over time.
  • How often should you get a wheel alignment for your Sentra? Typically, your alignment should be checked every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Double-check your Sentra owner’s manual for Nissan's exact recommended schedule.
  • Do you need to get your Sentra wheels aligned when you get new tires?  It’s not mandatory to get an alignment after installing new tires on your Sentra, but it can be a smart decision! Proper alignment from the jump can help improve handling, fuel efficiency, and tire wear.

1988 Nissan Sentra Engine Repair

When your Nissan Sentra 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 repair can wait, we'll let you know. We'll also tell you if it's necessary for your safety. We seek to give you all the info you need to make a smart decision about our services. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for Nissan Sentra engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use Nissan-approved parts and components like the timing chain or belt, valve guide seal, sensors, or a different component.

Questions About 1988 Nissan Sentra Engines

  • Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Sentra? It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is just your Sentra testing 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 Sentra. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. A high-pitched whistle could signal an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can be traced back to a loose fan belt, and grinding might be a sign of brake problems rather than engine issues.
  • What could damage my Nissan Sentra engine? Certain driving habits can hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

Get Your Nissan Sentra Tire Repaired

If the road has been rough on your 1988 Nissan Sentra tires, Firestone Complete Auto Care can help. In some cases, a tire doesn’t have to be replaced – it can be plugged and patched with a simple repair. Depending on the damage, though, a repair might not be the right move. Our technicians can determine which option is best for your situation. We’ll begin by taking a look at where the damage is, the type and extent of the tire damage, and how all of your tires are wearing.

If a repair on your 1988 Nissan Sentra tire is feasible and safe, the repair process is actually fairly simple: (1) Take the tire off the wheel for easy inspection, (2) fill the puncture to keep the moisture out, and (3) secure and seal the inner tire liner to ensure the tire is airtight.

Nissan Sentra Tire Repair Questions

  • What happens if I drive my Nissan on a flat tire? Driving on a flat tire is not a good idea. Your Sentra engine will keep running with a flat tire, but you could damage your wheel by continuing to drive on a flat.
  • Is temporary sealant bad for my Nissan's tires? A temporary sealant may be able to help you get to a repair location safely. But temporary or emergency sealants could possibly damage TPMS sensors, and in some cases may even void the warranty on your Bridgestone or Firestone tires. If your tire needs extensive repair, sealant can add time and labor costs to the process.
  • What can cause Sentra tires to keep losing air? Your Sentra tires might keep losing air due to a leaking valve stem, puncture or hole in the tire tread or sidewall, or damaged wheel.

1988 Nissan Sentra Maintenance Information

Instead of waiting for an issue to arise with your Sentra, you can stay ahead of problems before they even begin. Rely on the recommended maintenance schedule that’s been created just for your 1988 Nissan Sentra! Nissan knows your vehicle inside and out (they made it, after all!), so they’ve designed this schedule with your car’s unique needs in mind. Scheduled maintenance services can vary depending on driving conditions, climate, and other factors; in most cases, though, recommended maintenance will consist of services like oil changes, tire rotations, brake pad replacement, filter changes, and fluid checks and exchanges. Keeping up with routine service appointments is a great way to keep your Sentra running for longer, keep you safer on the road, and prevent common 1988 Nissan Sentra problems.

Overview of Essential Nissan Sentra Maintenance Needs

Bring your 1988 Nissan Sentra to Firestone Complete Auto Care for factory-recommended maintenance services and an expert technician will begin by performing a Courtesy Check. The Courtesy Check helps us see what we’re working with under the hood, and allows us to alert you to any potential problems before they worsen. During a Courtesy Check, we’ll always check your battery, then we’ll move on to inspect your Sentra’s head and tail lights, tires, fluid levels, alignment, and windshield wipers.

Firestone Complete Auto Care is your spot for 1988 Nissan Sentra maintenance. So visit us regularly, or visit us urgently. Many locations are open on weekends and in the evening.

1988 Nissan Sentra Maintenance Questions

  • What should I do after hitting a pothole in my Nissan Sentra?  You know your Nissan Sentra better than anyone else, so you’ll know if something doesn’t feel right while driving. Have your alignment checked (and adjusted if necessary) as soon as you notice a pulling steering wheel to prevent suspension damage or uneven tire wear.
  • When should I use high mileage oil in my Nissan Sentra?  Got 75,000+ miles on the odometer? Consider high mileage motor oil. High mileage oil is formulated to address the specific problems encountered by high mileage vehicles, or those with more than 75,000 miles. It can help reduce oil consumption, smoke, and emissions from older Nissan Sentra engines.
  • Can Nissan dashboard warning lights wait?  Don't ignore dashboard warning lights! Bring your Nissan Sentra in for a diagnostic code scan as soon as a dashboard warning light flashes on, whether it's your check engine or battery light. Dashboard lights alert you to trouble under the hood.

1988 Nissan Sentra Battery Replacement & Size

Not sure what battery to get for your Nissan Sentra?

Battery Engine Warranty Cold Cranking Amps
24F-3 L4/1.6L Replacement 24 months Performance months 650
35-2 L4/1.6L Replacement 36 months Performance months 640
24F-RP L4/1.6L Replacement 48 months Performance months 750

1988 Nissan Sentra Car Batteries

The average car battery lasts three to five years. You want to replace your 1988 Nissan Sentra battery before it fails and leaves you stranded. Look out for symptoms of a faulty car battery. A slow engine crank, a blinking battery or check engine light, swollen battery case, corroded battery terminals, or dim headlights can all be signs that your battery needs attention.

Plus, at Firestone Complete Auto Care, we’ll test your battery for free. Visit us for a complimentary battery check and, if necessary, a battery replacement to help keep your 1988 Nissan Sentra running! Car batteries are one of our many specialties! Our technicians are well-acquainted with Nissan’s service specs for Sentra battery CCAs and reserve capacity. Get help choosing the battery size that matches your vehicle, and schedule an appointment today for a quick car battery replacement.

Commonly Asked Nissan Sentra Battery Questions

  • Why doesn’t my Nissan Sentra battery stay charged?  A battery that won't hold a charge is almost as good as dead. The battery might be old. Or, you may have a habit of leaving your car doors open and the lights on overnight. Stop by for a free battery test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to learn more about the state of your battery.
  • What is the average lifespan of a car battery? The typical 12-volt car battery may last three to five years, depending on the type of battery, the driving conditions, and how well the battery is maintained.
  • What is the white, crusty stuff around my Sentra’s battery post?  If you notice white, crusty stuff around the battery terminals of your Sentra, it's likely corrosion. A chemical reaction between battery acid and the air can create a white, powdery substance that builds up over time on the terminals. This buildup can interfere with the electrical connection between the battery and your Sentra’s electrical system, potentially leading to poor performance, difficulty starting, and other issues.

Oil Changes for 1988 Nissan Sentra

Nissan recommends having your 1988 Nissan Sentra’s motor oil changed at regular intervals. Your Sentra may need an oil change right away if your check engine/oil change light is on, you hear knocking sounds coming from the engine, smell oil inside the car, or notice excess vehicle exhaust. You might need an oil change more frequently than what’s recommended by Nissan if you regularly haul heavy loads, drive in dusty areas, go off-roading a lot, or drive at low speeds for long distances.

Whether you need high mileage oil, synthetic oil, or conventional oil, you'll find the right 1988 Nissan Sentra motor oil at Firestone Complete Auto Care. Consult Nissan's recommendations to select the right  1988 Sentra oil and talk with a teammate to learn more about our oil options: Quaker State® Advanced Durability™ conventional oil, Pennzoil® High Mileage Vehicle® motor oil, Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic motor oil with PurePlus™ Technology, and Shell Rotella® heavy-duty engine oil. During your oil change service, an auto technician will change your Sentra’s oil, replace and recycle your used oil and filter, check all of your other filters, top-off essential fluids, and visually inspect the rest of the vehicle. Make an appointment for an oil change service today and let the oil experts take care of your Sentra's engine.

Oil Change Q&A for Your 1988 Nissan Sentra

  • Why is the oil light on in my Nissan Sentra?  The oil change light in your Nissan Sentra could be triggered by an overdue oil change. However, if the oil pressure light is on, you may be dealing with low engine oil, a failing oil pump, a clogged oil filter, or a malfunctioning oil pressure sensor.
  • How hard is it to change Nissan Sentra oil at home?  First off, changing your own oil isn’t as easy as you’d think. You’ll have to buy special tools and figure out a way to recycle the old oil properly. Getting a professional oil change reduces the risk of something going wrong during the service, but also helps your car perform down the road.
  • Why is my Nissan Sentra exhaust smoke grayish or blue?  Your engine could be burning oil due to a leak.  It may be time for a pro to take a look. A leak can be caused by a variety of issues including faulty valve seals, blown piston rings, or damaged cylinder walls.

1988 Nissan Sentra Engine Tune-Ups & Maintenance

Regular engine tune-ups can optimize your Sentra’s power on the road. Your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care location has several options to choose from when it comes to Nissan Sentra engine tune-up services. The standard Firestone Tune-Up is one service option. This includes the installation of new spark plugs and a visual inspection of your engine’s components, plus a lifetime warranty on parts*. A second service option replaces the air and fuel filter in your Sentra. Yet another service is a fuel system cleaning process, which involves removing varnish, dirt, and carbon deposits that have built up inside the fuel injectors, throttle body, and throttle plate in your Sentra. The result? Restored fuel system performance. Keep in mind that your Sentra's mileage and maintenance history can uniquely impact its tune-up needs. Ask one of our technicians what your vehicle needs, based on your driving habits and your car’s current condition.

*Talk to a Firestone Complete Auto Care teammate for full terms and conditions on warranties.

1988 Nissan Sentra Engine Tune-Up Q&A

  • When should Nissan Sentra spark plugs be replaced?  Replace spark plugs on time or about every 30,000 miles or so. Spark plugs are small but mighty. The spark of electricity that the plug emits across a small gap creates the ignition for the combustion needed to start your car. Without that spark, your car won't start.
  • What should I do if I see leaks under my Sentra? Don't ignore puddles of fluid under your Nissan Sentra. It could signal a coolant leak, brake fluid leak, or an oil leak. Let any one of these leaks linger and it could cause engine damage.
  • How frequently do the fuel injectors in my Nissan Sentra need to be cleaned? There is no hard and fast rule on how often fuel injectors should be cleaned, and it can vary based on driving habits and fuel type. Some manufacturers may suggest including a fuel system cleaning in your regular maintenance schedule. Or you may need to clean your fuel injectors as needed if you notice signs of a fuel system problem.

Suspension Service & Repair for 1988 Nissan Sentra

During the first few years you had your 1988 Nissan Sentra, the ride was probably so smooth that you didn’t even think about it! Lately, though, your ride’s been feeling a little bumpy. Maybe your Sentra bounces, drifts to one side, or makes noise whenever you turn or drive over a speed bump. The first sign of problems is a good time to bring your 1988 Nissan Sentra in for steering and suspension repairs. We’ll get to the root of the issue and, if your car needs steering and suspension repairs, we'll explain all of your options and the potential cost.

Questions About 1988 Nissan Sentra Steering & Suspension

  • Why does my Nissan Sentra bounce so much?  If your shocks or struts are in bad shape, they can’t dampen road bumps like they should. This can cause your Sentra to bounce more than usual.
  • Why does my Sentra's nose dive down when I hit the brakes?  The forward dip in the front end of your Sentra when you brake is caused by the weight and momentum transferring to the front wheels. If your suspension system is in bad shape, it can fail to distribute this force, leading your front end to dip further downward.
  • What role do tire pressure and tread depth play in my Nissan's suspension?  Keeping your tires properly inflated can help reduce strain on the suspension, and also help you notice when you need new tires. A tire that doesn't have an adequate amount of tread can't grip the road or function as well as the manufacturer intended.

A/C Service for Your 1988 Nissan Sentra

Our trained technicians will do what they can to solve your 1988 Nissan Sentra A/C problems. In this A/C performance inspection, we’ll check out the current condition of your 1988 Nissan Sentra A/C system to evaluate what repairs are necessary (if any). This check will include an examination of system pressure, a visual inspection, and a leak test.

Let's say we repair your 1988 Nissan Sentra A/C system. We will also perform an A/C evacuation and recharge. To start this process, a technician will flush out the old refrigerant from your vehicle’s A/C system. Then, they’ll use Nissan’s specifications to evacuate the system. Finally, we’ll recharge the A/C system with new refrigerant.

Questions About 1988 Nissan Sentra A/C Systems

  • Why do I get hot air from my Sentra A/C? If your car’s air conditioning isn’t blowing cold air at all (or it tries, then turns warm), you could have a clogged expansion valve, a faulty compressor clutch, a leak, or a malfunctioning fuse in the system.
  • What can cause an A/C system leak? To put it simply, age and moisture are some of the main causes of leaks in your A/C. Over time, rubber gaskets and seals can wear out, which pushes much-needed refrigerant out of your Sentra’s A/C system — and lets outside moisture get in, which can take a toll on internal A/C components.
  • Why does my Sentra’s A/C only work when the car is moving? There could be issues with one or more components in the air conditioning or electrical system. Your Sentra may have a faulty cooling fan or low refrigerant.

1988 Nissan Sentra Transmission Service

Your transmission carries power from the engine to the wheels so that you can drive at the speed you desire. Because of the transmission’s responsibility to translate the right dose of power into the right amount of speed, a tiny transmission issue can take a major toll on your car’s performance. Nissan Sentra transmission problems can present themselves as shifting delays, grinding when accelerating, the car shaking on the road, or whistling noises and a burning smell coming from under the hood. If you don’t pay attention to Nissan Sentra transmission trouble your could suffer a loss in fuel efficiency or discover that your Sentra’s not even driveable. Our technicians know how to service your 1988 Sentra up to Nissan-recommended standards. Schedule an appointment at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care at the first sign of transmission problems to help keep your Nissan running for miles and miles.

1988 Nissan Sentra Transmission Q&A

  • When should I have my Sentra's transmission fluid checked or exchanged?  Caring for your Nissan Sentra’s transmission fluid is a great way to help it perform. About every 30,000 to 60,000 miles is a good timeframe for having your transmission fluid inspected and perhaps changed. Service intervals can vary depending on how you use your Nissan, so check with your technician first. Luckily, leaks and low fluid levels are easy to spot and inexpensive to fix.
  • Is it possible for transmission fluid to leak from my Nissan Sentra? Yes, your Nissan Sentra can develop a transmission fluid leak. As your Sentra ages, parts of the transmission system might wear out or break down, leading to a leak and possible transmission issues. Common causes of transmission fluid leaks include worn seals, a damaged transmission housing, a loose or cracked transmission pan, an overfilled transmission, or faulty transmission lines.
  • Can I drive my Nissan Sentra with a transmission fluid leak?  It’s not advisable to drive your Sentra if it’s leaking transmission fluid. Your transmission system needs transmission fluid to function properly, and a leak can lead to significant problems, such as overheating or reduced performance. You might even experience transmission failure.

Get a 1988 Nissan Sentra Vehicle Inspection

When you bring your vehicle to Firestone Complete Auto Care for any service, we’ll automatically do a multi-point Courtesy Check. The technician will begin by testing your Nissan Sentra's battery to determine how much charge remains. We’ll follow the battery inspection with a visual check of your Nissan Sentra’s lights, windshield wipers, filters, fluid levels, belts, hoses, tires, and alignment.

Every service performed at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care will include a Courtesy Check, but you can also request a Complete Vehicle Inspection for your 1988 Nissan Sentra if you suspect there may be a bigger problem. In addition to a visual check of everything that's included in a Courtesy Check, a Complete Vehicle Inspection also includes an examination (by hand!) of your steering and suspension system, brakes, and exhaust components. The goal of this type of inspection is to unearth significant issues that might need immediate attention in order to prevent further damage.

Depending on your location, you may be able to take care of your state inspection or safety test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. Specific requirements for these types of inspections vary by state.

1988 Nissan Sentra Vehicle Inspection Q and A

  • When does my Nissan Sentra need an inspection? You drive your car, day in and day out, so you know it best. If you notice unusual engine noises or you can’t shake the feeling that something is 'off,' start with a Courtesy Check to stay ahead of potential issues.
  • Can you fix my 1988 Nissan Sentra so it will pass a state inspection test? There's a good chance we can. Stop by for a full system inspection and we'll get to the root of the issue.
  • When should I get a complete vehicle inspection for my Nissan Sentra?  You should bring your Nissan Sentra in for a full vehicle inspection if something weird happens and you can’t find the problem. A new dashboard light might come on, you may hear strange sounds under the hood, or your steering might feel off. A complete inspection is also a great idea before a road trip for added peace of mind.

1988 Nissan Sentra Radiator Repair & Service

Staying on top of routine radiator maintenance for your 1988 Nissan Sentra is crucial to keep your engine in the best possible shape for years to come. To keep your radiator functioning, Nissan recommends replacing your antifreeze or coolant at scheduled intervals but it’s also wise to keep an eye out for signs of a failing radiator. You might be driving around (or about to be stranded) with a failing radiator if you notice a low coolant light or higher-than-normal engine temperatures on your dashboard, or if you spot coolant leaks coming from your car.

At Firestone Complete Auto Care, we start by performing a thorough inspection of your Nissan Sentra cooling system. Then, we’ll move on to a machine-powered coolant exchange. Finally, we’ll refill the flushed sealants, lubricants and chemicals, then do a pressure check to catch any possible leaks. If you’re about to lose your cool over a too-hot engine, rest assured that we’re here to give your 1988 Nissan Sentra the top-notch service it needs.

1988 Nissan Sentra Radiator Q&A

  • What does an illuminated coolant temperature light mean for my Nissan?  Your engine might be about to overheat. If your low coolant light is on, pull over in a safe area and wait for your engine temperature to go down. Once it’s safe to do so, bring your car to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care to have the coolant system inspected.
  • What is causing my Sentra to overheat?  If your Nissan Sentra engine overheats, it could be because of a clogged radiator, a damaged thermostat, a faulty cooling fan, a malfunctioning water pump, or low coolant levels.
  • My Sentra radiator sounds like it's rumbling or boiling! What's up?  Air pockets in your Sentra’s cooling system may cause a rumbling or boiling noise. You could also have a clogged radiator or simply need to replace the radiator cap.