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

It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. It’s just your Safari firing up 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 Safari. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

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

Is it okay to put water in my Pontiac Safari radiator?

It’s not recommended you put water in your Safari 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 the engine in my Safari to suddenly stop?

There are different reasons your Safari vehicle engine could suddenly stop. You may be looking at a lack of fuel, faulty sensors, issues with the ignition system, engine overheating, electrical problems, or mechanical troubles.

Who can repair my Pontiac Safari engine?

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

Engine Repairs for Your 1988 Pontiac Safari

Learn about

1988 Pontiac Safari Trim Options

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

V8/5.0L

Repairs for Your 1988 Pontiac Safari

Nothing stays the same forever. Even your Pontiac 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 1988 Pontiac Safari.

We Know Pontiac Safari Engines

Pontiac Safari drivers trust that their Safari will take them near and far. That might be why you bought it in the first place. However, the wear-proof engine has yet to be invented! Things can go wrong on the road. When they do, you might find yourself searching for 1988 Pontiac Safari engine repair or replacement parts. Luckily, you won’t have to look far, since Firestone Complete Auto Care has 1,700+ locations across the country. We've serviced more than 500 million vehicles since 1926, and our technicians know Pontiac Safari engines. Schedule an appointment if you're experiencing problems that could require engine repair. Firestone Complete Auto Care is a top choice for professional engine diagnosis, service, and repair at an affordable price.

Illuminated Check Engine Light on 1988 Pontiac Safari

As soon as your Safari check engine light turns on, it’s time to get an expert’s opinion. A steady or flashing check engine light could signal a serious issue with your fuel injection, Potential causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, bad spark plug, a clogged catalytic converter, or a leaking engine vacuum, to name a few potential sources. Bring your Safari in for an on-board diagnostic check and we'll determine exactly why your check engine light is on. engine pinging noises, essential fluid leaks, or engine misfiring.

Pontiac Safari Engine Repair

When your Pontiac Safari engine needs repairs, 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 service can wait, we’ll make sure you know. We'll also tell you if it's necessary for your safety. We want to give you all the details you need to make an informed decision about your engine repairs. Turn to Firestone Complete Auto Care for your 1988 Safari engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use Pontiac-approved parts and components like the cambelt, engine oil seal, fuses, or another part.

Questions About 1988 Pontiac Safari Engines

Why does the check engine light in my Safari turn on when I start my car? It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. It’s just your Safari firing up 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 Safari. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage my Pontiac Safari 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. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.
Is it okay to put water in my Pontiac Safari radiator? It’s not recommended you put water in your Safari 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 the engine in my Safari to suddenly stop? There are different reasons your Safari vehicle engine could suddenly stop. You may be looking at a lack of fuel, faulty sensors, issues with the ignition system, engine overheating, electrical problems, or mechanical troubles.
Who can repair my Pontiac Safari engine? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care fixes Pontiac Safari engines. Book an appointment today! We have thousands of locations across the country.