🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Isuzu

Model:

VehiCROSS

Generation:

First Generation (JSX)

Body Style:

2-Door SUV

Market Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-Road Focused

👋 Introduction

Market Positioning:

Unique, rugged, niche off-road oriented compact SUV with distinctive styling.

Brand Heritage Relevance:

Leveraged Isuzu's heritage in robust, off-road capable vehicles, building on the Trooper platform's capabilities.

Design Philosophy:

Asymmetrical hood bulge, unique body cladding, and aggressive stance emphasizing off-road prowess and distinctive styling.

Buyer Profile:

Enthusiasts seeking a capable, stylish, and somewhat unconventional off-road vehicle. Individuals valuing unique design and functional capability.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Page Count:

Approximately 2000+ pages (estimated for comprehensive factory manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM/ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain (4WD/AWD), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic, ABS), Climate Control System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Body Control Modules, Lighting System, Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts), Body & Frame, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical Schematics, Wiring Diagrams

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service Intervals, Component Diagnosis, Component Removal & Installation, Repair Procedures, Overhaul Procedures, Electrical Troubleshooting, Mechanical Adjustments, Fluid Checks & Changes, Torque Specifications, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation & Resolution

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive Factory Level. Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to in-depth engine teardown, transmission overhaul, electrical system diagnosis, and body repair. Includes detailed schematics and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

Digital Rights:

Licensed for single-user digital access

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

3.5L V6 (6VE1)

Engine Type:

DOHC 24-Valve V6

Horsepower Hp:

215 hp @ 5400 rpm (approximate for model years covered)

Torque Lb Ft:

230 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approximate for model years covered)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)

Cooling System Type:

Liquid-Cooled

Oil Capacity Qts:

5.5 qts (with filter change, verify in manual)

Emission System:

California Emission Standards Compliant (where applicable)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (4L30-E)

Optional Transmission:

None offered for North American market during these years.

Transfer Case:

Torque-On-Demand (TOD) 4WD System (Standard)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent, verify in manual)

1St Gear Ratio:

2.805:1 (typical for 4L30-E)

2Nd Gear Ratio:

1.471:1 (typical for 4L30-E)

3Rd Gear Ratio:

1.000:1 (typical for 4L30-E)

4Th Gear Ratio:

0.724:1 (typical for 4L30-E)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase In:

104.7 inches

Length In:

168.1 inches

Width In:

71.7 inches

Height In:

67.3 inches

Ground Clearance In:

8.5 inches

Curb Weight Lbs:

4210 lbs (approximate)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:

5620 lbs (approximate)

Cargo Volume Cu Ft:

24.4 cu ft (behind rear seats)

Max Cargo Volume Cu Ft:

50.2 cu ft (with rear seats folded)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4-Star (when equipped with specific tires/configurations)

ABS:

Yes (Standard)

Traction Control:

Yes (Optional or standard depending on trim/market)

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Front Airbags (Standard)

Seatbelts:

3-Point Inertia Reel Seatbelts (Front & Rear)

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH System (Rear)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional premium sound system.

Climate Control:

Manual or Automatic Climate Control (depending on trim level).

Cruise Control:

Standard

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Not typically equipped on these model years.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard; aftermarket solutions available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

3,750-7,500 miles or 6 months (verify in manual based on driving conditions)

Engine Air Filter Replacement Miles:

15,000-30,000 miles (verify)

Transmission Fluid Change Miles:

30,000-60,000 miles (verify)

Spark Plug Replacement Miles:

60,000-100,000 miles (depending on type, verify)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API Service SG, SH, SJ, or ILSAC GF-2)

Coolant Type:

Isuzu Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (Green/Yellow, verify in manual)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4, verify in manual)

Common Wear Items:

CV Axle Boots, Ball Joints, Tie Rod Ends, U-Joints (especially on off-road usage), Oxygen Sensors.

Engine Specific Concerns:

Potential for head gasket issues (though less common than some other V6s of the era), oil leaks from valve covers and oil pan.

Transmission Specific Concerns:

Check for shifting issues, potential solenoid failures in the 4L30-E transmission; ensure proper fluid maintenance.

Electrical Concerns:

Window regulators, power lock actuators, and ABS sensor failures can occur with age and mileage.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Isuzu has a long history of producing robust, off-road vehicles, including military vehicles and iconic SUVs like the Trooper and Rodeo.

Concept Origin:

Developed from the Isuzu VX-1 concept vehicle, showcasing extreme off-road capabilities and futuristic styling.

Production Timeline:

First generation produced from 1997 (Japan) and 1999 (North America) through 2001.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Sales Performance:

Niche vehicle with limited production numbers, highly regarded by off-road enthusiasts and collectors.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Capability Acclaim:

Consistently praised by off-road publications for its robust chassis, independent front suspension, and excellent 4WD system, making it a capable platform for modifications.

Design Award:

While not a specific award, the VehiCROSS's unique and polarizing design was a significant talking point and a defining characteristic, influencing automotive design trends.