1988 Porsche 944 Owners Manual

The 1988 Porsche 944 is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car featuring a 2.5L inline-4 engine with balance shafts, producing 158 horsepower, 5-speed manual transmission, independent suspension, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, ventilated disc brakes, and classic Porsche design. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Controls and Instruments 3. Starting and Driving 4. Technical Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Fluid Capacities 7. Electrical System 8. Brake System 9. Suspension and Steering 10. Emergency Procedures 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 2.5-liter inline-4 engine, 5-speed manual transmission, independent suspension, power brakes, climate control, and Porsche-specific instrumentation.

FeatureDescription
Engine2.5L inline-4 with balance shafts
Transmission5-speed manual
Power Output158 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque140 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
SuspensionIndependent front and rear
BrakesVentilated discs all around
SteeringPower-assisted rack-and-pinion
Fuel SystemBosch K-Jetronic fuel injection
WeightApproximately 2800 lbs
Top Speed130 mph

Controls and Instruments

Dashboard layout: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights, and Porsche-specific controls.

  1. Ignition switch: Located on right side of steering column.
  2. Climate controls: Center console with temperature, fan speed, and vent selection.
  3. Lighting controls: Left stalk for headlights, right stalk for wipers.
  4. Audio system: AM/FM cassette stereo with optional equalizer.

WARNING! Always fasten seat belts before driving. Ensure all controls are familiar before operation.

Starting and Driving

Proper starting procedure and driving techniques for optimal performance.

  1. Starting: Depress clutch, turn key to start position.
  2. Shifting: Smooth clutch engagement with precise gear changes.
  3. Braking: Progressive pressure on brake pedal for controlled stops.
  4. Cornering: Balanced weight distribution for excellent handling.

CAUTION! Allow engine to warm up before aggressive driving. Avoid high RPM when cold.

Technical Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

ServiceIntervalDescription
Oil Change7,500 milesReplace engine oil and filter
Spark Plugs30,000 milesReplace spark plugs
Timing Belt45,000 milesReplace timing belt and tensioner
Brake Fluid2 yearsFlush and replace brake fluid
Coolant2 yearsDrain and replace coolant
Air Filter15,000 milesReplace air filter element

Fluid Capacities

Recommended fluid types and capacities for all systems.

  1. Engine Oil: 5.3 quarts (5.0L) - 15W-50 synthetic
  2. Coolant: 11.5 quarts (10.9L) - Porsche-approved antifreeze
  3. Transmission: 2.1 quarts (2.0L) - GL-4 gear oil
  4. Brake Fluid: DOT 4
  5. Fuel: 16.9 gallons (64L) - Premium unleaded

Tip: Use only Porsche-approved fluids for optimal performance.

Electrical System

12-volt electrical system with battery, alternator, and comprehensive wiring.

  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

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical work. Avoid short circuits.

Brake System

Power-assisted dual-circuit brake system with ventilated discs.

  1. Front Brakes: 11.3-inch ventilated discs
  2. Rear Brakes: 11.0-inch ventilated discs
  3. Parking Brake: Mechanical rear brake actuation
  4. Brake Pad Wear: Visual inspection every 15,000 miles

CAUTION! Brake fluid absorbs moisture; replace regularly. Inspect brakes annually.

Suspension and Steering

Independent suspension with torsion bars and power steering.

ComponentSpecification
Front SuspensionMacPherson struts with torsion bars
Rear SuspensionTrailing arms with torsion bars
Steering TypePower-assisted rack-and-pinion
Turning Circle34.8 feet
Shock AbsorbersGas-filled, replace in pairs

Emergency Procedures

Procedures for common emergency situations.

  1. Flat Tire: Use jack points specified in owner's manual
  2. Overheating: Turn off A/C, turn on heater, stop safely
  3. Brake Failure: Downshift gradually, use parking brake carefully
  4. Electrical Fire: Disconnect battery immediately

WARNING! Keep emergency kit in vehicle. Know your exact location when calling for assistance.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery/ignition/fuelCheck battery charge, spark plugs, fuel pump
Rough idleVacuum leaks/spark plugsInspect vacuum hoses, replace spark plugs
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsResurface or replace brake rotors
OverheatingCoolant/thermostatCheck coolant level, replace thermostat
Electrical issuesBattery/alternatorTest battery and alternator output

Service: Contact authorized Porsche dealer for professional service

Support: Porsche Customer Service for technical assistance

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