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

It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. This is just your Samurai testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Are Suzuki Samurai engine noises bad?

Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Suzuki Samurai. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on 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 could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

What could damage a Suzuki engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Suzuki Samurai engine?

Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' 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.

Can I put water in my Suzuki Samurai radiator?

While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your Samurai radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What can cause a Samurai engine to suddenly stop?

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

Who can repair my Suzuki Samurai engine?

For Suzuki Samurai 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.

Engine Repairs for Your 1988 Suzuki Samurai

Learn about

1988 Suzuki Samurai Trim Options

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

L4/1.3L

1988 Suzuki Samurai Repair

Nothing stays the same forever. Even your Suzuki Samurai'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 Suzuki Samurai.

We Know Suzuki Samurai Engines

The Suzuki Samurai is respected for its reliability. That might be why you bought it in the first place. Even so, pieces and parts can break down over time. Things can go sideways sometimes. When they do, you might find yourself searching for 1988 Suzuki Samurai 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. Since 1926, we’ve taken care of 500 million+ cars, so you can rest assured knowing your Suzuki Samurai engine will be in good hands. 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.

Illuminated Check Engine Light on 1988 Suzuki Samurai

An illuminated check engine light on your Suzuki Samurai is one of the first signs it's time to 'brake' for engine service. A check engine light that’s on or flashing could be a symptom of a serious problem in your car’s starter, Potential causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged spark plug, issues with your catalytic converter, or an engine vacuum leak, to name a few potential sources. Stop by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to get your Samurai issues diagnosed and we’ll figure out why that check engine light is giving you grief. Other signs your Suzuki Samurai engine needs some TLC are burning smells, or misfiring.

Suzuki Samurai Engine Repair

If your 1988 Samurai engine needs repairs, our technicians will provide you with a thorough explanation beforehand. We never do any work without your sign-off. If a repair isn’t urgent right now, we’ll let you know. But if immediate repairs are necessary for your safety, we’ll make sure that's clear, too. We seek to give you all the info you need to make a smart decision about our services. By choosing Firestone Complete Auto Care for Samurai engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use Suzuki-approved parts and components like the cambelt, engine oil seal, sensors, or another part.

Questions About 1988 Suzuki Samurai Engines

Why does the check engine light in my Samurai turn on when I start my car? It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. This is just your Samurai testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Are Suzuki Samurai engine noises bad? Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Suzuki Samurai. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on 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 could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage a Suzuki engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Suzuki Samurai engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' 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.
Can I put water in my Suzuki Samurai radiator? While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your Samurai radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What can cause a Samurai engine to suddenly stop? Reasons your Samurai car engine may suddenly stop include engine overheating, electrical troubles, mechanical issues, ignition system problems, faulty sensors, and low fuel.
Who can repair my Suzuki Samurai engine? For Suzuki Samurai 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.