Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road Utility Vehicle
Target Demographic:
Individuals seeking a rugged, capable, and relatively simple off-road vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Jeep Wrangler, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Suzuki Samurai.
Off Road Capability:
Body-on-frame construction, robust suspension, available 4WD (often with low range).
Utility:
Removable roof (soft or hardtop), versatile interior, good towing capacity for its class.
Durability:
Known for Isuzu's reputation for building durable diesel engines and robust drivetrain components.
Engine:
Disassembly, assembly, inspection, troubleshooting, and repair of all gasoline and diesel engines (C190, C223, C223T, 4ZD1, 4ZE1).
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (EFI), carburetion (early models), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel tank, lines, and evaporative emission control.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, ignition control module (ICM), and troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan clutch, and troubleshooting.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, lubrication passages, and oil pressure checks.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes, and emissions control components.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, repair, adjustment, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Clutch system, driveshafts, U-joints, differential, axle shafts, and wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (e.g., torsion bars, leaf springs, control arms, shock absorbers, ball joints), alignment specifications.
Steering:
Steering gear, power steering pump, hoses, linkages, and steering wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum brake systems, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, hydraulic system components, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass, convertible top mechanisms, frame straightening and repair procedures.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant, troubleshooting, and repair.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), tune-up procedures, belt replacement, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing, multimeter usage, and diagnostic tool procedures.
Rebuilding:
Complete disassembly, cleaning, inspection, measurement, and reassembly procedures for engines and transmissions.
Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures for front and rear suspension.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams with detailed component locations, circuit testing, and troubleshooting common electrical faults.
Depth:
In-depth mechanical and electrical repair, including internal component specifications, tolerances, and torque values.
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Gasoline Engine 1:
2.3L (2254cc) Inline-4 SOHC (4ZD1)
Gasoline Engine 2:
2.6L (2607cc) Inline-4 SOHC (4ZE1)
Diesel Engine 1:
1.9L (1817cc) Inline-4 Diesel (C190)
Diesel Engine 2:
2.2L (2254cc) Inline-4 Diesel (C223)
Diesel Engine 3:
2.2L (2254cc) Inline-4 Turbo Diesel (C223T)
Performance Gasoline 4Zd1
Horsepower:
Approx. 96 hp @ 4300 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 127 lb-ft @ 2200 rpm
Performance Gasoline 4Ze1
Horsepower:
Approx. 120 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 145 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Horsepower:
Approx. 68 hp @ 4000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 112 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
Horsepower:
Approx. 83 hp @ 4000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
Injection Type Gasoline:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Injection Type Diesel:
Indirect Injection (IDI)
Gasoline:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 105.1 inches (2670 mm)
Length:
Approximately 164.2 inches (4170 mm)
Width:
Approximately 66.5 inches (1690 mm)
Height:
Approximately 64.4 inches (1635 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,200 - 3,600 lbs (1451 - 1633 kg), varies by configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Refer to vehicle placard, typically around 4,600 - 5,000 lbs.
Cargo Volume:
Varies with seating configuration and roof type, generally a utilitarian space.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and engine type (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with every oil change.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed or every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for conventional plugs; platinum/iridium plugs may last longer (refer to manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000-30,000 miles (38,000-48,000 km) or 2 years.
Timing Belt:
If equipped with the 4ZD1 or 4ZE1 engine, timing belt replacement is critical around 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-145,000 km). Diesel engines use timing chains.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Diesel engines may specify different weights. Always consult manual.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based, permanent type antifreeze. Consult manual for specific Isuzu coolant type or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III.
Engine Coolant Leaks:
Leaking head gaskets, particularly on higher mileage 4ZD1/4ZE1 gasoline engines due to heat.
Diesel Glow Plugs:
Diesel models may experience issues with glow plug operation, affecting cold starts.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear out, especially with off-road use.
Rust:
Common on body panels, frame rails, and exhaust systems, particularly in areas with road salt.
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related issues with wiring, grounds, and connectors can cause intermittent problems.
