1988 Porsche 944 Owners Manual PDF

The 1988 Porsche 944 Owners Manual provides comprehensive information for operating and maintaining the Porsche 944 sports car. This manual covers vehicle specifications, operating instructions, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and technical data for the 1988 model year Porsche 944 featuring the 2.5L inline-4 engine, rear-wheel drive, and Porsche's signature handling characteristics.

Vehicle Overview

The 1988 Porsche 944 is a front-engine, rear-wheel drive sports car featuring Porsche's transaxle design for optimal weight distribution.

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with the dashboard controls and warning indicators.

1. Speedometer: 0-160 mph scale with odometer and trip meter
2. Tachometer: 0-7000 rpm with redline at 6300 rpm
3. Fuel Gauge: Monitor fuel level regularly
4. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, brake system
6. Indicator Lights: Turn signals, high beam, parking brake

WARNING! Never ignore warning lights; stop immediately if red warning lights illuminate.

Operating Instructions

Proper operation ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Starting Procedure: Depress clutch (manual), turn ignition to start position
2. Shifting: Smooth clutch engagement for manual transmission
3. Braking: Progressive pressure on brake pedal
4. Steering: Power-assisted rack and pinion
5. Climate Control: Three-zone manual climate system
6. Lighting: Headlight switch on left dashboard

CAUTION! Allow engine to warm up before aggressive driving.

Technical Specifications

• Engine Type: 2.5L inline-4, water-cooled
• Displacement: 2479 cc
• Compression Ratio: 9.5:1
• Fuel Requirement: Premium unleaded (91 octane)
• Transmission: 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
• Final Drive Ratio: 3.89:1
• Wheelbase: 94.5 inches
• Length: 168.9 inches
• Width: 68.3 inches
• Height: 50.0 inches

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance is essential for Porsche performance and reliability.

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change, tire rotation

Every 7,500 miles: Air filter inspection, brake fluid check

Every 15,000 miles: Spark plug replacement, valve adjustment

Every 30,000 miles: Timing belt replacement, coolant flush

Every 60,000 miles: Major service including all fluids and filters

Fluid Capacities

Use only Porsche-approved fluids for optimal performance.

1. Engine Oil: 5.3 quarts (with filter)
2. Coolant: 11.1 quarts (total system capacity)
3. Transmission Fluid: 2.1 quarts (manual)
4. Brake Fluid: DOT 4
5. Fuel Tank: 16.9 gallons
6. Windshield Washer: 1.3 gallons

Tip: Check fluid levels weekly when vehicle is on level surface.

Electrical System

The 944 features a comprehensive electrical system with multiple safety features.

1. Battery: 12V, 60Ah located in front trunk
2. Alternator: 90 amp output
3. Fuses: Located in dashboard and engine compartment
4. Lighting: Halogen headlights with separate high/low beams
5. Wiring: Color-coded for easy identification
6. Central Locking: Optional power door locks

WARNING! Disconnect battery before performing electrical work.

Brake System

Four-wheel disc brakes with optional ABS provide excellent stopping power.

Front Brakes: 11.3 inch ventilated discs, single piston calipers

Rear Brakes: 11.0 inch solid discs, single piston calipers

Parking Brake: Mechanical rear brake actuation

Brake Fluid: DOT 4, replace every 2 years

Troubleshooting

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset computer.

Warranty Information

1988 Porsche 944 came with 3-year/50,000 mile limited warranty. Contact Porsche for specific warranty details and transfer information.

Service Contacts

For service assistance and genuine Porsche parts, contact authorized Porsche dealers. Porsche Cars North America: 1-800-PORSCHE. Online resources available at Porsche.com for technical information and service bulletins.