🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Isuzu

Model:

VehiCross

Year:

2000

Vin Prefix:

JAA

Engine Code Primary:

393

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Isuzu VehiCross was a unique compact SUV, positioned as a niche, style-oriented, and capable off-road vehicle with a distinctive 'futuristic' design, targeting buyers seeking something unconventional.

Competitors 2000:

Competed with models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and Jeep Cherokee, though its radical styling and limited production volume set it apart.

Design:

Radical asymmetrical body design, prominent fender flares, unique rear-mounted spare tire carrier, and a two-tone paint scheme. Often described as 'transformer-like' or 'steampunk'.

Off Road Capability:

Segment-leading off-road prowess for its class, featuring a robust body-on-frame construction (though shared platform with Trooper), advanced 4WD system (TOD), and good approach/departure angles.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, ignition system, emission control, intake and exhaust, cooling system, lubrication system, manual transmission, automatic transmission, drivetrain, front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, brake system, wheels and tires, body, exterior, interior, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), electrical system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, chassis electrical, body electrical, diagnostics, troubleshooting, maintenance, repair procedures, specifications.

Total Pages:

Approximately 1200

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Comprehensive coverage of the 3.5L V6 engine, including disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all major components. Detailed information on the 4-speed automatic transmission (4L30-E) operation, maintenance, and repair.

Chassis:

In-depth coverage of the 4-wheel drive (4WD) system, including the electronically controlled Torque-On-Demand (TOD) transfer case and front/rear differentials. Detailed procedures for suspension, steering, and braking system diagnosis and repair.

Electrical:

Extensive electrical schematics for all circuits, including engine control, body control modules, lighting, comfort systems, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Troubleshooting guides for common electrical issues.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid replacement procedures (engine oil, transmission fluid, differential fluid, coolant), filter changes, spark plug replacement, and inspection points.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for major component repairs and overhauls, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, and body panel repair.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving mechanical, electrical, and performance-related issues. Includes symptom-based troubleshooting trees and wiring diagram interpretation.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Provides detailed torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic trouble codes, and wiring diagrams essential for professional-level repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

High-resolution PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick access to specific topics and procedures.

Quality:

Clear, crisp images, diagrams, and text for easy readability and accurate interpretation.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3475 cc)

Engine Code:

6VE1

Bore X Stroke:

93.4 mm x 85.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 24 Valves (4 valves per cylinder)

Horsepower Ps:

205 PS @ 5400 rpm

Horsepower Hp:

202 hp @ 5400 rpm

Torque Lb-Ft:

213 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Model:

4L30-E

Optional Transmission:

None (Only Automatic Available)

Drive System:

Torque-On-Demand (TOD) 4-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Transfer Case:

Electronically Controlled Transfer Case with variable torque distribution.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III

📐 Dimensions

Length:

174.0 inches (4420 mm)

Width:

71.7 inches (1821 mm)

Height:

66.1 inches (1679 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.7 inches (2659 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.3 inches (211 mm)

Seating Capacity:

4

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

21.1 cubic feet (597 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

54.4 cubic feet (1540 L)

Curb Weight:

4101 lbs (1860 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

5313 lbs (2409 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Not Rated

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Not Rated

IIHS Small Overlap Frontal:

Not Rated

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags Driver:

Standard Driver Airbag

Airbags Passenger:

Standard Passenger Airbag

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners in front, three-point seatbelts in rear.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional premium audio systems were available from the factory or dealer.

Navigation:

No factory integrated navigation system offered for the 2000 model year.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Connectivity Options:

Limited to basic audio input. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity was standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions recommend every 2,500 miles (4,000 km) or 3 months.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months. Inspect more frequently under towing or severe use.

Coolant Change:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Platinum tipped recommended.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 API SG or higher

Engine Oil Capacity:

5.1 US quarts (4.8 L) with filter change

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

7.9 US quarts (7.5 L) (initial fill)

Coolant Type:

Isuzu Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant with silicate

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

Differential Fluid Type:

GL-5 SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil

Engine Issues:

Some reports of valve cover gasket leaks, occasional intake manifold gasket issues, and potential for head gasket failure at high mileage, although generally robust.

Transmission Issues:

The 4L30-E transmission can experience delayed shifting or slipping if fluid and filter are not maintained regularly. Torque converter issues are also occasionally reported.

Electrical Issues:

Common issues can include failing power window motors, sunroof regulators, and intermittent issues with the ABS/TCS warning lights due to sensor or module failures.

Body Issues:

Rust can form on the lower body panels, wheel arches, and frame, especially in areas with road salt. The plastic body cladding can also become brittle and fade over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Isuzu Heritage:

Isuzu Motors Ltd. is a Japanese commercial vehicle and diesel engine manufacturing company. Historically known for rugged, reliable vehicles, including the Trooper and pickup trucks.

Vehicross Development:

Originally shown as a concept vehicle in 1993, the VehiCross was brought to production with minimal changes, reflecting Isuzu's desire for a distinctive halo vehicle. Based on the chassis of the Isuzu Trooper.

Production Years:

1997-2001

Production Location:

Japan

Sales Volume:

Limited production, with approximately 5,900 units sold in North America over its lifespan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Awards:

While not laden with traditional awards, the VehiCross was consistently praised by automotive journalists for its unique styling and surprising off-road capability, often earning it a cult following.

Jdpwr Initial Quality:

Isuzu vehicles generally ranked in the lower half of J.D. Power initial quality studies during this era, though specific VehiCross data is scarce due to low sales volume.