Segment:
Compact SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners seeking to maintain or repair their Isuzu Rodeo.
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Chevrolet Tracker.
Utility:
Known for its ruggedness, off-road capability (especially 4WD models), and practical utility.
Design:
Body-on-frame construction offered a more traditional truck-like feel and durability compared to unibody competitors.
Engine Options:
Offered both 4-cylinder and V6 engine options, catering to different power and efficiency needs.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including diagnosis, repair, overhaul, and specifications for all engine variants.
Transmission:
Detailed repair procedures for both automatic and manual transmissions, including troubleshooting and component replacement.
Drivetrain:
Coverage of front-wheel drive (FWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) systems, including differentials, transfer case, and driveshafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including independent front suspension (IFS), leaf springs, shock absorbers, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum brake systems, including ABS operation, component replacement, bleeding procedures, and hydraulic system diagnosis.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, including steering rack, pump, and hoses.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse/relay identification, starting and charging system diagnostics, lighting, and accessory circuits.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, chassis component repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and structural integrity checks.
HVAC:
Air conditioning and heating system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement, and blower motor circuits.
Emissions Control:
Diagnosis and repair of emissions-related components, including oxygen sensors, catalytic converters, and EVAP systems.
Maintenance:
Detailed step-by-step procedures for routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, and fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive troubleshooting guides with symptom-based diagnostics to identify and resolve common and complex issues.
Repair:
Complete repair procedures for all major vehicle components, from minor adjustments to major overhauls.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic charts and explanations for various systems, including OBD-II trouble codes.
Installation:
Guidance on the installation and replacement of various parts and accessories.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Transmission Type 4Cyl:
5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type V6:
4-speed automatic transmission (with overdrive)
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD system with 2WD, 4WD High, and 4WD Low range selector.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific GL rating and capacity (typically GL-4 or GL-5).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent. Capacity typically around 7-9 quarts for a fluid change and filter replacement.
NHTSA Driver Side Impact:
Not readily available for specific model year in a summarized format; refer to NHTSA archives for detailed reports.
IIHS Crash Test Ratings:
Varied by year and test. Early models may not have extensive IIHS data. Refer to IIHS website for specific reports.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models, particularly 4WD.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD or cassette player, with optional premium sound systems. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.
Navigation:
No factory navigation system offered during these model years.
Cruise Control:
Available on most trim levels.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; requires aftermarket adapter or head unit replacement for modern device connectivity.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:
Approx. 60,000 miles (platinum plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles (platinum plugs).
Engine Oil Spec:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 viscosity recommended for most temperatures. Check manual for specific engine/climate recommendations.
Coolant:
Isuzu specified long-life coolant or equivalent (typically a silicate-free, OAT or HOAT coolant). Capacity approx. 6-7 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent power steering fluid.
Engine Noise:
Potential for timing chain noise or rattle on the 3.2L V6, especially as mileage increases. Requires inspection and potential replacement.
Transmission Slipping:
Automatic transmission may exhibit slipping or delayed engagement, often related to fluid condition or valve body issues.
Rust And Corrosion:
As with many vehicles of this era, particularly those in rust-prone climates, frame and body panel rust can be a concern.
Cv Axle Boots:
Torn CV axle boots can lead to joint damage and require replacement.
Manufacturer:
Isuzu Motors Ltd., a Japanese automobile manufacturer known for commercial vehicles and SUVs.
Generation:
Second Generation Isuzu Rodeo.
Design Influence:
Based on the same platform as the Honda Passport and Isuzu Amigo.
Production Location:
Lafayette, Indiana, USA (by Subaru-Isuzu Automotive Inc., SIA)
Production Years Model:
1998-2004 (Second Generation)
