Segment:
Mid-size SUV, positioned as a comfortable and capable family vehicle.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Differentiators:
Unique '4-Mode, 4-Wheel Drive' system, refined V6 engine, and comfortable ride quality for its class.
Audience:
Families seeking a reliable, comfortable, and versatile SUV with off-road or all-weather capability.
Engine Mechanical:
Full engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and component testing for the 3.5L V6 engine.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (EFI), sensors, actuators, ECU, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Detailed coverage of the 4-speed automatic transmission, including operation, removal, installation, overhaul, and diagnostic procedures.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear drive axles, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, and 4WD system (4-Mode, 4-Wheel Drive).
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (double wishbone), rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, pump, and troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, parking brake, hydraulic components, bleeding procedures, and specifications.
Electrical Body:
Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, door locks, mirrors, mirrors, wipers, horn, and body control modules.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant, and troubleshooting.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, and related sensors.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid flushes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, and inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and common issue resolutions.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Overhaul:
Complete overhaul procedures for the engine and transmission.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, scan tool usage, sensor data interpretation, and fault code diagnosis.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and clearly labeled electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
From basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
V6, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3494 cc)
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5,500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.7 Quarts (8.2 Liters)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4L30-E)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Only Automatic Available for these years)
Drivetrain Options:
RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III/VI ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Quarts (7.1 Liters) for the 4L30-E
Length:
188.8 inches (4795 mm)
Width:
72.4 inches (1839 mm)
Height:
67.3 inches (1709 mm)
Wheelbase:
109.1 inches (2771 mm)
Curb Weight Rwd:
Approx. 4,060 lbs (1,842 kg)
Curb Weight 4Wd:
Approx. 4,290 lbs (1,946 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:
Approx. 37.2 cu ft (1,053 Liters)
Cargo Volume With Second Row Folded:
Approx. 81.5 cu ft (2,308 Liters)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating:
3 Stars (for 2003 model, representative of era)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, available side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 50,000 miles or 48 months under normal driving conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API SJ or higher (check manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.3 Quarts (5.0 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Isuzu Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent HOAT).
Common Wear Items:
CV joint boots, front sway bar links, rear main seal leaks, and potential valve cover gasket leaks.
Engine Issues:
Some reports of minor oil consumption or oil leaks from seals. The 6VE1 engine is generally robust.
Transmission Issues:
The 4L30-E transmission can be sensitive to fluid condition; regular maintenance is key. Occasional solenoid issues may arise.
