1988 Honda Civic Service Manual PDF Download

The 1988 Honda Civic Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintaining and repairing the 1988 Honda Civic models. This manual covers engine specifications, transmission systems, electrical systems, suspension, brakes, steering, and body components. Below are key sections for vehicle specifications, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and repair instructions.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission & Drivetrain 5. Electrical Systems 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Brake Systems 8. Body & Interior 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Safety Precautions 11. Download Information

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for 1988 Honda Civic models including engine, transmission, and chassis details.

Specification	Details
Engine Type	1.5L 4-cylinder SOHC
Horsepower	76 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque	84 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Transmission	4-speed manual, 3-speed automatic
Fuel System	Carburetor (DX/LX), Fuel Injection (Si)
Brake System	Front disc, rear drum
Suspension	Front MacPherson strut, rear independent
Wheelbase	96.5 inches
Curb Weight	1,900-2,100 lbs
Fuel Capacity	11.9 gallons

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
Air Filter: Every 15,000 miles
Spark Plugs: Every 30,000 miles
Timing Belt: Every 60,000 miles
Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Brake Fluid: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Transmission Fluid: Every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use Honda-approved fluids and follow torque specifications.

Engine Systems

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.

Engine Removal: Step-by-step disassembly instructions
Cylinder Head: Valve adjustment and head gasket replacement
Fuel System: Carburetor adjustment and fuel pump replacement
Ignition System: Distributor timing and spark plug wiring
Cooling System: Radiator flush and thermostat replacement
Exhaust System: Manifold and muffler installation

Transmission & Drivetrain

Manual and automatic transmission service procedures.

Manual Transmission: Fluid change and clutch replacement
Automatic Transmission: Band adjustment and fluid service
Drive Axles: CV joint replacement and boot inspection
Differential: Gear oil change and seal replacement

CAUTION! Use proper jack stands when working under vehicle.

Electrical Systems

Wiring diagrams and electrical component service.

Component	Service Procedure
Battery	Testing and replacement guidelines
Alternator	Output test and replacement
Starter	Bench testing and installation
Ignition System	Timing adjustment and component testing
Lighting	Headlight adjustment and bulb replacement

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension service procedures.

Strut Replacement: Front and rear strut assembly
Ball Joints: Inspection and replacement criteria
Tie Rods: Replacement and alignment procedures
Wheel Bearings: Packing and adjustment
Alignment: Camber, caster, and toe specifications

Brake Systems

Disc and drum brake service and repair.

Front Brakes: Pad replacement and rotor resurfacing
Rear Brakes: Shoe replacement and drum machining
Master Cylinder: Bench bleeding and installation
Brake Lines: Flushing and line replacement
Parking Brake: Cable adjustment and service

Body & Interior

Body panel replacement and interior component service.

Door Panels: Removal and window regulator service
Seats: Removal and track repair
Dashboard: Component access and cluster removal
Exterior Trim: Moldings and emblem replacement

Tip: Use proper trim removal tools to avoid damage.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common problems and diagnostic procedures.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression issue	Check fuel pressure, spark, compression test
Poor fuel economy	Dirty air filter, bad O2 sensor	Replace air filter, test O2 sensor
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace rotors
Electrical issues	Bad ground, corroded connections	Clean connections, check grounds
Overheating	Thermostat, radiator, water pump	Test components, flush system

Safety Precautions

Important safety information for working on your vehicle.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before electrical work. Use jack stands when lifting vehicle. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in well-ventilated area.

Download Information

This service manual is available in PDF format for easy access and printing. The manual includes detailed illustrations, wiring diagrams, and step-by-step repair procedures.

File Format: PDF

File Size: Approximately 45 MB

Pages: 350 pages

Language: English

For technical support or additional Honda service information, contact Honda Customer Service at 1-800-999-1009 or visit www.techinfo.honda.com