1988 Honda Accord LX Repair Manual

The 1988 Honda Accord LX is a front-wheel drive sedan featuring a 2.0L fuel-injected engine, 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, power steering, front disc/rear drum brakes, and comprehensive electronic systems. This repair manual covers maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, component replacement, and specifications for the complete vehicle system. Below are key sections for maintenance schedules, engine repair, transmission service, brake systems, electrical systems, and troubleshooting.

1. Maintenance Schedule 2. Engine Repair 3. Transmission Service 4. Brake Systems 5. Electrical Systems 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Cooling System 8. Fuel System 9. Exhaust System 10. Specifications 11. Troubleshooting

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Service Required
Every 3,000 miles	Oil and filter change
Every 7,500 miles	Rotate tires, inspect brakes
Every 15,000 miles	Replace air filter, check spark plugs
Every 30,000 miles	Replace fuel filter, inspect timing belt
Every 60,000 miles	Replace timing belt, coolant flush
Every 100,000 miles	Transmission fluid change, major inspection

Engine Repair

Procedures for 2.0L F20A engine maintenance and repair.

Oil change: Drain plug under oil pan, replace filter (part #15400-PM5-004).
Spark plugs: NGK BPR6ES-11, gap 0.039-0.043 inches.
Timing belt: Align marks on cam/crank sprockets; tension properly.
Valve adjustment: Cold engine, intake 0.005-0.007 in, exhaust 0.007-0.009 in.

WARNING! Disconnect battery before service. Use jack stands for safety.

Transmission Service

Manual and automatic transmission maintenance procedures.

Manual transmission fluid: Honda MTF, 2.1 quarts capacity.
Automatic transmission fluid: Honda ATF-Z1, 2.8 quarts capacity.
Clutch replacement: Adjust pedal free play to 0.4-0.8 inches.
Shift linkage: Lubricate with white lithium grease.

CAUTION! Use correct fluid type to prevent damage.

Brake Systems

Front brakes: Disc brakes, pad replacement when worn to 1mm.
Rear brakes: Drum brakes, adjust when pedal travel excessive.
Brake fluid: DOT 3, replace every 2 years.
Bleeding sequence: RR, LR, RF, LF.
Parking brake: Adjust cable when lever travel exceeds 6 clicks.

Electrical Systems

Battery, alternator, starter, and wiring diagnostics.

Battery: 12V 45Ah, clean terminals regularly.

Alternator: Output 65A, test voltage 13.5-14.5V at 2000 RPM.

Starter: Draw current 130-180A, check solenoid operation.

Fuses: Main fuse 80A, under-hood fuse box.

Suspension & Steering

Front MacPherson struts, rear double wishbone suspension.

Strut replacement: Support vehicle, remove wheel, disconnect sway bar.
Ball joints: Check for play, replace if movement exceeds 0.125 inches.
Tie rods: Adjust toe-in to 0 ± 1/8 inch.
Power steering: Use Honda power steering fluid, check for leaks.

Tip: Always replace suspension components in pairs.

Cooling System

Radiator, thermostat, water pump maintenance.

Coolant capacity: 6.3 quarts (with heater).
Thermostat: Opens at 180°F (82°C).
Radiator cap: 13 psi pressure rating.
Water pump: Replace with timing belt service.

WARNING! Never open radiator when hot. Use 50/50 coolant mix.

Fuel System

Fuel injection system maintenance and repair.

Fuel pressure: 35-38 psi (key on, engine off).

Fuel filter: Replace every 30,000 miles.

Injectors: Test resistance 1.5-2.5 ohms.

Fuel pump: Located in tank, check operation with pressure test.

Exhaust System

Manifold, catalytic converter, muffler inspection.

Check for leaks at manifold gasket and pipe connections.

Catalytic converter: Replace if clogged or damaged.

Muffler hangers: Inspect for deterioration.

Specifications

Engine: 2.0L F20A4 inline-4, 98 hp @ 5500 RPM
Torque: 109 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM
Compression: 8.8:1
Fuel system: Multi-point fuel injection
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 102.4 inches
Curb weight: 2,635 lbs
Fuel capacity: 15.9 gallons

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, spark	Check battery voltage, fuel pressure, spark plugs
Overheating	Coolant, thermostat	Check coolant level, test thermostat operation
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace front brake rotors
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, worn clutch	Check fluid level, inspect clutch wear
Electrical issues	Alternator, grounds	Test alternator output, clean ground connections

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset ECU.

Service: Refer to Honda dealership for complex diagnostics.