Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Firebird?

It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The light should go off shortly. Bring your vehicle in if it doesn't.

Why does my Pontiac engine sound different?

Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Pontiac Firebird. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. A high-pitched whistle could signal an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.

What could damage my Pontiac Firebird engine?

Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.

Can I use water in my Pontiac Firebird radiator?

It’s not recommended you put water in your Firebird radiator unless it’s an emergency. Under normal circumstances, use a 50/50 mix of water and coolant or a pre-mixed coolant. But, if you need to keep driving while out of coolant, using water is better than driving with an empty coolant reservoir.

What can cause a Firebird engine to suddenly stop?

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

Who fixes Pontiac Firebird engines?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has you covered with expert Firebird engine repair. Schedule an appointment today and see us at one of our thousands of locations.

Reliable Repairs for 1996 Pontiac Firebird Engines

Learn about

1996 Pontiac Firebird Trim Options

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

V6/3.8L

V8/5.7L

Repairs for Your 1996 Pontiac Firebird

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Pontiac Firebird’s engine parts and components will change. When something breaks, we're ready. Select a repair or category to learn more about 1996 Pontiac Firebird services.

We Know Pontiac Firebird Engines

Pontiac Firebird engines are known for their 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird engine repairs. That’s where Firestone Complete Auto Care comes in. We've serviced more than 500 million vehicles since 1926, and our technicians know Pontiac Firebird engines. Schedule a courtesy inspection at the first sign of engine trouble. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers both trustworthy and affordable engine repairs.

Check Engine Light on 1996 Pontiac Firebird

An illuminated check engine light on your Pontiac Firebird 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 or emission control system that won’t go away on its own. Possible causes can include a failing oxygen sensor, worn spark plug, issues with your catalytic converter, or a leaking engine vacuum, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Bring your Firebird in for an on-board diagnostic check and we’ll figure out why that check engine light is giving you grief. Other signs your Pontiac Firebird engine needs some TLC are oil leaks, or engine misfiring.

Engine Repairs for Your 1996 Firebird

If your 1996 Firebird 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 Firebird engine repairs and you can drive easy knowing that we use Pontiac-approved parts and fluids — serpentine belt, oil gasket, ignition coil, or a different component.

1996 Pontiac Firebird Engine Q&A

Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Firebird? It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The light should go off shortly. Bring your vehicle in if it doesn't.
Why does my Pontiac engine sound different? Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Pontiac Firebird. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. A high-pitched whistle could signal an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.
What could damage my Pontiac Firebird engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.
Can I use water in my Pontiac Firebird radiator? It’s not recommended you put water in your Firebird radiator unless it’s an emergency. Under normal circumstances, use a 50/50 mix of water and coolant or a pre-mixed coolant. But, if you need to keep driving while out of coolant, using water is better than driving with an empty coolant reservoir.
What can cause a Firebird engine to suddenly stop? Your Firebird car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.
Who fixes Pontiac Firebird engines? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has you covered with expert Firebird engine repair. Schedule an appointment today and see us at one of our thousands of locations.