Tires

1988 Toyota Tercel Tires & Services


1988 Toyota Tercel Tires

Recommended Tires | Tire Information

1988 Toyota Tercel Tires Sizes, Speed Ratings, and Inflation

Not sure about your 1988 Toyota Tercel 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 Toyota Tercel DLX* S 26 PSI/26 PSI 175/70SR13
1988 Toyota Tercel DLX* S 32 PSI/32 PSI 155SR13
1988 Toyota Tercel DLX* None 26 PSI/26 PSI 155R13
1988 Toyota Tercel SR5 S 26 PSI/26 PSI 175/70SR13
1988 Toyota Tercel STD* None 32 PSI/32 PSI P145/80R13
1988 Toyota Tercel STD* S 26 PSI/26 PSI 155SR13
1988 Toyota Tercel EZ* None 32 PSI/32 PSI P145/80R13
1988 Toyota Tercel EZ* S 26 PSI/26 PSI 155SR13
1988 Toyota Tercel DX* None 28 PSI/28 PSI 155/80R13
1988 Toyota Tercel DX* S 32 PSI/32 PSI 155SR13

1988 Toyota Tercel DLX*

175/70SR13

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 26 PSI/26 PSI

1988 Toyota Tercel DLX*

155SR13

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 32 PSI/32 PSI

1988 Toyota Tercel DLX*

155R13

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 26 PSI/26 PSI

1988 Toyota Tercel SR5

175/70SR13

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 26 PSI/26 PSI

1988 Toyota Tercel STD*

P145/80R13

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 32 PSI/32 PSI

1988 Toyota Tercel STD*

155SR13

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 26 PSI/26 PSI

1988 Toyota Tercel EZ*

P145/80R13

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 32 PSI/32 PSI

1988 Toyota Tercel EZ*

155SR13

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 26 PSI/26 PSI

1988 Toyota Tercel DX*

155/80R13

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 28 PSI/28 PSI

1988 Toyota Tercel DX*

155SR13

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 32 PSI/32 PSI

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

Recommended Tires for Your 1988 Toyota Tercel

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

SUREDRIVE ALL-Season
ALL-Season

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires

Choosing 1988 Toyota Tercel Tires

Apart from finding the right tire size, there are a couple of other factors to consider when buying Toyota Tercel tires like where and how you drive, and what tire brand you trust most. Think about where you live (countryside vs. city vs. mountains) and the kind of unexpected weather you're likely to experience when evaluating your driving conditions. Many drivers who live in states that experience all four seasons choose to purchase two sets of tires: one set for winter, one set for summer. Other drivers buy one set of all-season tires instead. That way they don't have to return to the tire shop and their vehicle is always ready for sun, rain, and light snow!

Next, consider your driving style. If you're an avid off-roader who yearns to pioneer new paths, you have very different tire needs than a highway commuter who doesn't hit the hills very often. Visit your local Firestone Complete Auto Care for help selecting the tire that's right for you, or get started by browsing tires that fit your Toyota Tercel.

1988 Toyota Tercel Tire Installation & Rotation

Firestone Complete Auto Care has been a leading tire provider for more than a century. We're your one-stop shop for tire installation, rotation, and ongoing maintenance! Buy 1988 Toyota Tercel tires online and schedule your installation when it's convenient for you.

Questions About 1988 Toyota Tercel Tires

  • Why does Toyota 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 tire sidewall numbers mean for my Toyota Tercel? 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 Toyota tires!
  • Can I check the tread depth on my Toyota tires at home? 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 Toyota Tercel 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 Toyota Tercel tires.

Get Repairs for Your 1988 Toyota Tercel

Car repairs: for many drivers, that phrase is a dreadful one. But we work to provide you with a different experience at Firestone Complete Auto Care. When you come to us for 1988 Toyota Tercel repair services, our technicians will take care of your Tercel like it was their own. We'll work to evaluate the scope of repairs needed and explain your options. We value your trust, so we recommend only the repairs we think are necessary for your safety on the road.

How Much Does Toyota Tercel Repair Cost?

The cost to repair your 1988 Toyota Tercel depends on what kind of repair you need, prices of appropriate replacement parts, how much labor the repair will take, and your locale. No matter what state you’re in, be sure to look through our offers and online coupons for repairs.

A few different aspects can influence repair costs for your 1988 Toyota Tercel, like

Questions About 1988 Toyota Tercel Auto Repairs

  • Do I need to follow Toyota'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.
  • What's wrong if something feels 'off' in my Toyota? You’re in your car, day in and day out. So, it’s only expected that you know your car better than anyone else! If you notice mysterious smells, strange engine noises, or other out-of-the-ordinary symptoms while driving, trust your instincts and stop into Firestone Complete Auto Care for a Courtesy Check. Catching a potential issue early could help prevent Toyota Tercel repairs.
  • Are the repairs you recommend for my Toyota actually needed? We won’t recommend a service or repair for your 1988 Toyota Tercel unless we think it’s necessary to keep you safe. Want to know more about a specific recommended repair? Ask! We’re here to help.

1988 Toyota Tercel Brake Repair

Your Toyota Tercel may be powered by a strong engine. 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, waiting can lead to more expensive parts wearing out and requiring replacement. Visit Firestone Complete Auto Care for the right brake repair for your 1988 Toyota Tercel. Our brake repair services include pad/shoe replacement, brake rotor/drum machining, brake fluid exchange/bleeding, and brake caliper and wheel cylinder installation.

Questions About Your Toyota Tercel Brakes

  • What is causing my Tercel to shake when I brake? Feeling shaking or vibrating in your Tercel 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.
  • What is the average lifespan of Tercel brake pads? Brake pads typically last about 30,000 to 40,000 miles. However, driving conditions can affect this range. Sticking to highway driving and braking smoothly can help extend the life of your brake pads, while towing heavy loads or frequently riding your brakes can shorten it.
  • Should my Tercel be leaking brake fluid when the car is off? Your Tercel 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.

1988 Toyota Tercel Drivetrain Repairs

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

1988 Toyota Tercel Drivetrain Questions

  • How do I know if my Toyota drivetrain is damaged? Hear noises toward the back of your Toyota Tercel? See fluid leaking? Having issues turning? These could all be signs of drivetrain damage you don't want to ignore. Take action quickly to catch repairs or replacements before something more severe happens.
  • What triggers the malfunction indicator light (MIL) in a Tercel? If your Tercel has its malfunction warning light (more commonly called the check engine light) illuminated, it could indicate engine troubles, problems with the transmission, electrical issues, malfunctioning sensors, connector problems, or misfire issues.
  • How concerning is a drivetrain malfunction in my Tercel? If your Tercel has a drivetrain malfunction, don't wait. Get it checked out by a professional mechanic. Identifying the underlying cause and performing the appropriate repairs right away can help prevent further damage and avoid unsafe driving conditions.

1988 Toyota Tercel Alignment Services

With an alignment service, adjustments are made to your Toyota Tercel’s suspension system, which connects the wheels with the rest of the vehicle. During the service, your tire angles are adjusted according to measurements recommended by Toyota. Why? So that your tires can make contact with the road at the best possible angle. When you bring in your 1988 Toyota Tercel, we’ll perform an alignment check first. After that, we can adjust your wheel alignment angles until they match Toyota’s recommended measurements.

Toyota Tercel Alignment Questions

  • Are there road conditions that can hurt my Toyota Tercel alignment? Potholes and uneven roads can knock your car out of alignment, so stay aware of the road ahead and adjust your speed (or avoid these obstacles whenever it’s safely possible).
  • How often does your Tercel need a wheel alignment? Typically, your alignment should be checked every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Double-check your Tercel owner’s manual for Toyota's exact recommended schedule.
  • Does getting new Tercel tires mean you need an alignment?  It’s not mandatory to get an alignment after installing new tires on your Tercel, but it can be a smart decision! Proper alignment from the jump can help improve handling, fuel efficiency, and tire wear.

1988 Toyota Tercel Engine Services

When your Toyota Tercel 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. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for Toyota Tercel engine repairs and you can feel good knowing that we only use Toyota-compliant replacement parts such as the cambelt, valve guide seal, fuses, or other parts.

1988 Toyota Tercel Engine Q&A

  • Why does the check engine light in my Tercel 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 a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The light should go off shortly. Bring your vehicle in if it doesn't.
  • Are Toyota Tercel engine noises bad? Unusual noises can signal a problem with your Toyota Tercel engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.
  • What could damage my Toyota Tercel 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 accelerating too quickly, too soon. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.

Tire Repair for Your 1988 Toyota Tercel

If the road has been rough on your 1988 Toyota Tercel 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 start by evaluating the state of wear, the location of damage, type of damage, and the size of the damage.

If we determine that your 1988 Toyota Tercel tire can be safely repaired, we’ll get to work on the steps to fix it: (1) Take the tire off the wheel for easy inspection, (2) fill in the area that’s been punctured to prevent damage from moisture, and (3) seal the inner liner with a repair unit to prevent air loss.

Toyota Tercel Tire Repair Questions

  • How soon should I have my flat tire repaired? A flat tire that’s not addressed can take a terrible toll on the rest of your car. Until you have it repaired or replaced, drive your Tercel as little as possible to reduce your risk of damage to the wheels and alignment – or further damage to that already struggling tire!
  • Is temporary sealant bad for my Toyota's tires? Fast fixes are a mixed blessing. They’ll help you get your Toyota Tercel to Firestone Complete Auto Care, but don’t count on them to keep you on the road for very long. Using a temporary sealant may also void a Bridgestone or Firestone tire warranty.
  • Why do my Tercel tires keep losing air?  If your Tercel tires are always losing air, you may have a puncture, damaged wheel, or leaking valve stem.

1988 Toyota Tercel Maintenance Information

It can be overwhelming, but fortunately, there’s a resource that takes the guesswork out of routine Tercel maintenance. Rely on the recommended maintenance schedule that’s been created just for your 1988 Toyota Tercel! This recommended maintenance schedule is written by the auto manufacturer, Toyota themselves. Driving conditions, climate variations, and other variables can affect which scheduled maintenance services you’ll need; however, recommended maintenance usually includes 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 Tercel running for longer, decrease your risk of dangerous malfunctions on the road, and help you avoid expensive repairs caused by 1988 Toyota Tercel problems later.

Overview of Essential Toyota Tercel Maintenance Needs

Come to Firestone Complete Auto Care for manufacturer-recommended routine maintenance on your 1988 Toyota Tercel and an expert technician will begin by performing a Courtesy Check. This Courtesy Check can establish a baseline of what may need to be addressed during your service appointment. Each Courtesy Check includes a free battery test and an inspection of your Tercel's windshield wiper blades, head and tail lights, filters, fluid levels, tires, and alignment.

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

1988 Toyota Tercel Maintenance Q&A

  • What should I do after hitting a pothole in my Toyota Tercel?  You know your Toyota Tercel 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 switch my Toyota Tercel to high mileage oil?  Do you have more than 75,000 miles on your Toyota Tercel? If so, request to switch to high mileage oil at your next oil change. This type of oil is specially formulated to keep aging engine parts in the best possible condition.
  • Can Toyota dashboard warning lights wait?  It's better to get them addressed as soon as possible. An illuminated dashboard light means something in your vehicle isn't functioning like it should. Letting problems linger can mean bad news for your Toyota Tercel, so be sure to take your car in for service as soon as you notice an illuminated dashboard light.

1988 Toyota Tercel Battery Replacement & Size

Need more info about Toyota Tercel batteries?

Battery Engine Warranty Cold Cranking Amps
26-3 L4/1.5L Replacement 24 months Performance months 525
35-2 L4/1.5L Replacement 36 months Performance months 640
35-AGM L4/1.5L Replacement 36 months Performance months 650

1988 Toyota Tercel Batteries

On average, auto batteries last anywhere from three to five years. Don’t get stranded by your Tercel’s car battery. Replace it regularly instead! Pay attention to clues that your battery is on its way out. A lagging starter, an illuminated check engine light or battery signal, swollen battery case, corroded battery terminals, or dim headlights may all indicate that your battery is on its last leg.

You can also get a Free Battery Test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. Stop by for a free battery test and, if necessary, a battery replacement to help keep your 1988 Toyota Tercel running! Car batteries are one of our many specialties! Our technicians are familiar with Toyota-specific recommendations for Tercel car batteries’ reserve capacities and cold cranking amps. Get help identifying the type and size of battery that's best for your Tercel, and schedule a weekday or weekend battery replacement service for your car.

Top Toyota TercelCar Battery Questions

  • Why won't my Toyota Tercel battery stay charged?  A car battery that needs to be jump-started every time is as good as dead. It may be getting old. Or, you’ve been leaving the doors slightly open and the dome lights on during the night. Stop in for a free battery check at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care and learn more about your battery's charge.
  • How long can I expect my car battery to last? 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 substance accumulating on my Tercel’s battery post?  The white, flaky stuff that can build up around your Tercel’s battery terminals is known as corrosion. Acid leaking from your vehicle’s battery post can have a chemical reaction with the air, leading to an accumulation of the white, powdery substance over time. Corrosion can affect the flow of electricity between your battery and the electrical system in your Tercel, possibly causing issues with electrical performance and starting. If left unaddressed for long enough, it may even cause your battery to prematurely fail.

1988 Toyota Tercel Oil Change Service

Toyota recommends having your 1988 Toyota Tercel’s motor oil changed at regular intervals. Your Tercel 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 see an excess amount of vehicle exhaust. You may also need an oil change more frequently than Toyota recommends if you haul heavy loads, frequent dusty roads, 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 Toyota Tercel motor oil at Firestone Complete Auto Care. Consult Toyota's recommendations to select the right  1988 Tercel 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, a technician will change your Tercel's oil, replace and recycle your used oil and oil filter, inspect the rest of your car’s filters, top-off essential fluids, and perform a free inspection on the rest of your vehicle. Let the experts take care of your Tercel’s engine by making an oil change appointment today.

1988 Toyota Tercel Oil Change Q&A

  • Why is my Toyota Tercel oil light illuminated?  The oil change light in your Toyota Tercel 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 Toyota Tercel 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 Toyota Tercel exhaust smoke grayish or blue?  You could have an oil leak and have a case of burning oil. Looks like it’s time for a professional to take a look. The leak could be the result of worn valve seals, fried piston rings, or old cylinder walls.

1988 Toyota Tercel Engine Tune-Ups & Maintenance

Periodic tune-ups can bring more power back to your Tercel’s engine. Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care offers a range of engine tune-up services for your 1988 Toyota Tercel. The first is the standard Firestone Tune-Up. It includes a complete visual inspection of engine components, installation of new spark plugs, and a lifetime warranty on parts*. The second service focuses on your Tercel's filters, specifically replacing the air filter and fuel filter. The third tune-up option is a fuel system cleaning service, which is a three-step process that removes varnish, dirt, and carbon deposits on your Tercel's fuel injectors, throttle body, and throttle plate. This goes a long way in boosting your fuel system’s overall performance. Here’s something to remember when choosing services: the mileage and service history of your Tercel can determine what kind of service it needs. Talk to a technician about your driving style, mileage, and service history to learn more about your vehicle's specific needs.

*Check with a teammate at Firestone Complete Auto Care for complete terms and conditions regarding warranties.

1988 Toyota Tercel Engine Tune-Up Q&A

  • Will it hurt my Toyota Tercel to drive with old spark plugs?  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 Tercel? Don't ignore puddles of fluid under your Toyota Tercel. 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 often do Toyota Tercel fuel injectors need to be cleaned? Factors like fuel type and driving conditions can affect how frequently you need to clean your Tercel fuel injectors. Some manufacturers recommend a fuel system cleaning as part of routine maintenance, or as needed if your vehicle is showing signs of poor fuel system performance.

Suspension Service & Repair for 1988 Toyota Tercel

During the first few years you had your 1988 Toyota Tercel, the ride was probably so smooth that you didn’t even think about it! But these days, things are starting to feel a bit rough. Perhaps your Tercel feels bouncy, leans to one side, or makes an unusual noise when going over a speed bump. The first sign of trouble is the best time to bring your 1988 Toyota Tercel in for suspension and steering service. We’ll get to the root of the issue and, if your Tercel suspension system needs repair, we’ll go over the services you need and how much they will cost before we do any work.

1988 Toyota Tercel Steering & Suspension Questions

  • Why is my Toyota Tercel bouncing so much?  If your shocks or struts are in bad shape, they can’t dampen road bumps like they should. This can cause your Tercel to bounce more than usual.
  • Why does my Tercel tilt forward when I hit the brakes?  When you brake, the forward momentum combined with your vehicle's weight sends a lot of force to the vehicle's front end. A bad suspension can cause all that weight and force to push the front end downward.
  • What role do tire pressure and tread depth play in my Toyota's suspension?  Maintaining your tires can help reduce strain on the suspension, nd also let you know when it's time to replace your tires. A faltering steering and suspension system could lead to uneven tire wear.

Convenient & Local 1988 Toyota Tercel A/C Service

Technicians at Firestone Complete Auto Care are ready to help you address your 1988 Toyota Tercel A/C problems. In this A/C performance inspection, we’ll check out the current condition of your 1988 Toyota Tercel A/C system to evaluate what repairs are necessary (if any). We’ll test overall system performance, check for any leaks, and measure the system pressure.

When we perform an A/C repair on your 1988 Toyota Tercel, we’ll also do an A/C evacuation and recharge. During this process, a technician will remove the old refrigerant from the A/C system. Then, they’ll use Toyota’s specifications to evacuate the system. To finish, we’ll add new refrigerant to recharge the A/C system.

Questions About 1988 Toyota Tercel A/C Systems

  • What’s making my Tercel A/C put out warm air? Maybe your A/C starts cool but then gets warm. Or maybe it never gets cold in the first place. Either way, your A/C troubles could be traced back to a clogged expansion valve, faulty compressor clutch, blown fuse, or leak.
  • What causes A/C system leaks?  A/C system leaks are often due to a combination of age and moisture. Rubber seals and gaskets naturally degrade over time, allowing refrigerant to exit and moisture to enter your Tercel's A/C system.
  • Why won’t my Tercel’s A/C cool the vehicle when the car is stopped? There could be issues with one or more components in the air conditioning or electrical system. Your Tercel may have a faulty cooling fan or low refrigerant.

1988 Toyota Tercel Transmission Service & Repairs

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. 1988 Toyota Tercel transmission issues could include shifting delays, grinding when accelerating, the car shaking on the road, or a burning smell or whistling sounds coming from under the hood. If you ignore Toyota Tercel transmission issues you could see your fuel economy decrease or discover that your Tercel’s not even driveable. Our expert techs are familiar with 1988 Tercel services and perform them according to Toyota-recommended specifications. Schedule an appointment at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care at the first sign of transmission problems to help diagnose, treat, and prevent major transmission issues.

1988 Toyota Tercel Transmission Questions & Answers

  • When should I have my Tercel's transmission fluid checked or exchanged?  Maintaining your Toyota Tercel transmission fluid is one of the best ways to maintain your transmission's health. A general rule of thumb is to have your transmission fluid checked and changed about every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but that timeline can change if you're hard on your Toyota. Leaks or low transmission fluid are easy to spot and affordable to repair.
  • Is it possible for transmission fluid to leak from my Toyota Tercel? Yes, your Toyota Tercel can develop a transmission fluid leak. As your Tercel 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.
  • Should I avoid driving my Toyota Tercel if there is a transmission fluid leak?  Driving your Tercel with a transmission fluid leak is highly discouraged. Transmission fluid is vital to the smooth operation of your transmission system, and a leak can put the entire system at risk. A transmission fluid leak may lead to decreased performance, overheating, and possibly even transmission failure.

Get a 1988 Toyota Tercel Vehicle Inspection

At Firestone Complete Auto Care, we perform a multi-point Courtesy Check during any vehicle service. First, a technician will pop the hood on your Toyota Tercel and test the battery to determine how much charge remains. After we’ve inspected your Toyota Tercel’s battery, we’ll visually inspect your windshield wiper blades, lights, filters, fluid levels, belts, hoses, tires, and alignment.

While every visit to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care includes a Courtesy Check, we can also dig deeper and perform a Complete Vehicle Inspection on your 1988 Toyota Tercel if you prefer. A Complete Vehicle Inspection includes everything in a Courtesy Check, plus a thorough manual inspection of your steering, suspension, brakes, and exhaust system. This inspection is aimed at informing you of any major problems that could need immediate attention in order to prevent further damage.

Depending on your location, you may be able to complete your vehicle’s safety tests or state inspection at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care. Inspections are performed on a state-by-state basis and requirements vary.

Common 1988 Toyota Tercel Vehicle Inspection Questions

  • How do I know if I should have an inspection on my Toyota Tercel? It needs a check-up if something feels 'off' to you, the driver. Your Toyota Tercel could benefit from a Courtesy Check if it has any illuminated dashboard lights, you hear weird noises coming from any part, the engine doesn't start sometimes, or your vehicle pulls to one side.
  • Help! My 1988 Toyota Tercel failed the state inspection test. Can you get it to pass? Did your vehicle fail a recent state inspection test? We can help. Come in for a checkup and we’ll diagnose the issue.
  • What's the ideal timing for a full vehicle inspection on my Toyota Tercel?  It’s generally a good idea to get a complete vehicle inspection for your Toyota Tercel before a road trip and/or when something strange occurs and you are unable to find the cause. Signs something is up include dashboard lights illuminating, odd noises coming from the engine, and your steering feeling loose or tight.

Radiator Service & Repair for 1988 Toyota Tercel

Keeping up with regular radiator maintenance in your 1988 Toyota Tercel is essential for long-term engine health. In fact, Toyota recommends replacing coolant/antifreeze at specific 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 Toyota Tercel cooling system. We’ll do a machine-powered coolant exchange on the system, and then we’ll top off or replace the fluids that were removed (like chemicals, lubricants, and sealants). Lastly, we’ll perform a pressure check to look for leaks. From the radiator cap to the heater core, we’re here to give your 1988 Toyota Tercel the top-notch service it needs.

Common Toyota Tercel Radiator Questions

  • Why is the coolant light on my Toyota dashboard on?  Pay attention to the temperature gauge and lights on your dashboard. If a low coolant warning light comes on or your dashboard temperature gauge keeps rising, it’s likely that your engine is about to overheat (and could leave you stranded on the road). Wait for the engine to cool down, then have your coolant system checked immediately at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care.
  • My Tercel overheated! What can cause that?  One of the main reasons your Toyota Tercel engine might overheat is because you don’t have enough coolant. Other causes include a clogged radiator, a damaged cooling fan, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a faulty water pump.
  • What is making my Tercel radiator sound like it’s boiling or rumbling?  Your Tercel’s cooling system could contain air pockets or your radiator might be clogged. Another possibility is a faulty radiator cap, which is an easy fix!