1988 Porsche 928 Owners Manual

The 1988 Porsche 928 is a luxury grand tourer featuring a front-mounted V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, and advanced engineering for its time. This manual covers vehicle operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for the 1988 model year. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and technical specifications.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Cluster 3. Controls and Operation 4. Technical Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Fluid Capacities 7. Driving Instructions 8. Safety Systems 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 4.7L V8 engine, automatic or manual transmission, power steering, ABS brakes, climate control, power windows, and premium audio system.

FeatureDescription
Engine4.7L V8 with electronic fuel injection
Transmission4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual
BrakesFour-wheel disc with ABS
SuspensionIndependent front and rear with Weissach axle
Fuel System85-liter fuel tank
Electrical12-volt system with 70-amp alternator
InteriorLeather seats, power adjustments, climate control
ExteriorPop-up headlights, aerodynamic design
Performance0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds
Top Speed155 mph (electronically limited)

Instrument Cluster

The instrument cluster provides vital driving information and warning indicators.

  1. Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h
  2. Tachometer: Engine RPM with redline at 6000 RPM
  3. Fuel Gauge: Monitors fuel level with low fuel warning
  4. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
  5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, brake system, ABS
  6. Odometer: Total distance traveled with trip meter

WARNING! Address warning lights immediately to prevent vehicle damage.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all vehicle controls before driving.

  1. Ignition: Turn key to start position; release when engine starts
  2. Transmission: Select gear with shift lever; use parking brake when parked
  3. Climate Control: Set temperature and fan speed as desired
  4. Lights: Rotate switch for parking, headlights, and fog lights
  5. Wipers: Adjust speed and use washer fluid as needed
  6. Cruise Control: Set and adjust speed with steering column controls

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake on inclines.

Technical Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Every 10,000 miles: Oil and filter change, tire rotation

Every 20,000 miles: Air filter replacement, brake inspection

Every 30,000 miles: Spark plugs, fuel filter, coolant flush

Every 60,000 miles: Timing belt, transmission fluid

Annual: Brake fluid flush, overall vehicle inspection

Fluid Capacities

Use only recommended fluids for optimal performance.

  1. Engine Oil: 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) with filter
  2. Coolant: 14 liters (with heater)
  3. Transmission: 3.5 liters (manual), 9.5 liters (automatic)
  4. Brake Fluid: 0.5 liters (DOT 4)
  5. Power Steering: 1.2 liters
  6. Fuel Tank: 85 liters

Tip: Check fluid levels monthly or before long trips.

Driving Instructions

Proper driving techniques enhance safety and performance.

  1. Starting: Depress clutch (manual), shift to neutral, turn ignition
  2. Shifting: Smooth gear changes; avoid excessive RPM
  3. Braking: Progressive pressure; ABS will pulsate during hard braking
  4. Cornering: Smooth steering inputs; vehicle has excellent grip
  5. Highway: Use cruise control for consistent speed
  6. Parking: Apply parking brake; turn wheels toward curb on hills
  7. Emergency: Steer and brake smoothly; avoid sudden movements
  8. Winter: Use winter tires; drive cautiously in slippery conditions

WARNING! Always wear seatbelts and obey traffic laws.

Safety Systems

The 928 incorporates multiple safety features for occupant protection.

Care & Cleaning

Proper care maintains vehicle appearance and value.

Exterior: Wash with automotive soap; wax every 3 months

Interior: Vacuum regularly; use leather conditioner

Windows: Clean with automotive glass cleaner

Wheels: Clean brake dust regularly to prevent damage

CAUTION! Avoid abrasive cleaners; use Porsche-approved products.

Warranty Information

Original warranty: 2 years/unlimited mileage. Porsche Assistance available 24/7. For service, contact authorized Porsche dealership. Genuine Porsche parts recommended for all repairs. Technical support available through Porsche Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignitionCheck battery connections; ensure proper gear selection
OverheatingCoolant/fanCheck coolant level; inspect radiator and fan operation
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsHave brakes inspected; replace rotors if necessary
Electrical issuesAlternator/batteryTest charging system; check battery voltage
Transmission issuesFluid levelCheck transmission fluid; have system diagnosed

Service: Contact authorized Porsche dealership for professional service.

Emergency: Porsche Roadside Assistance available 24/7

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