Positioning:
Niche off-road focused SUV with distinctive styling
Competitors:
Jeep Wrangler, Toyota FJ Cruiser (later model), Land Rover Defender (analogous concept)
Design:
Unique asymmetrical front grille and headlight design, aggressive styling
Drivetrain:
Advanced 4WD system (Torque-on-Demand with rear differential lock)
Body Style:
Three-door, short-wheelbase SUV
Engine:
Yes (detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul)
Transmission:
Yes (automatic transmission repair and maintenance)
Drivetrain:
Yes (4WD system, differentials, axles)
Suspension:
Yes (front and rear suspension components, alignments)
Brakes:
Yes (hydraulic system, ABS, component replacement)
Steering:
Yes (power steering system, steering column)
Electrical System:
Yes (wiring diagrams, component testing, ECU diagnostics)
Body And Chassis:
Yes (frame, body panels, interior trim, glass)
Climate Control:
Yes (HVAC system, refrigerant, component service)
Fuel System:
Yes (fuel pump, injectors, evaporative emissions)
Cooling System:
Yes (radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant specifications)
Exhaust System:
Yes (catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes)
Safety Systems:
Yes (airbags, seatbelts, ABS diagnostics)
Maintenance:
Yes (scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting)
Repair:
Yes (component removal, installation, adjustment, calibration)
Diagnostics:
Yes (OBD-II system, specific sensor testing, fault code interpretation)
Overhaul:
Yes (engine rebuild, transmission overhaul procedures)
Depth:
Comprehensive Factory Level
Detail Level:
Detailed specifications, torque values, repair times, wiring diagrams
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type:
None (5-Speed Manual was optional in some markets/years, but this manual specifies MY2000 retail, likely automatic dominant)
Drivetrain Control:
Active Transfer Case (Torque-on-Demand) with lockable rear differential
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter
Coolant Type:
Isuzu Genuine Long Life Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Problems:
Minor electrical gremlins, potential for valve stem seal wear (leading to oil consumption), catalytic converter issues (due to design/age)
Maintenance Focus:
Regular fluid changes and addressing minor electrical issues proactively is key for longevity
Brand Specialization:
Isuzu's reputation for robust diesel engines and off-road vehicles (e.g., Trooper, Rodeo)
Concept Origin:
Based on the Isuzu VX concept vehicle shown in the mid-1990s
Production Start:
1997 (Japan), 1999 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
