Segment:
Compact SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle
Unique Selling Proposition:
Distinctive, futuristic styling; robust chassis; capable off-road performance, unusual for its class.
Competitors:
Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Suzuki Vitara, Ford Bronco II (older models).
Design Philosophy:
Bold, avant-garde styling with a focus on visual impact and a slightly raised driving position.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a unique and capable compact SUV, often appealing to a younger or more style-conscious demographic.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Specific Systems:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Fuel System, Suspension, Clutch, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Driveshaft/Axle, Steering, Brakes, Body Interior/Exterior, Body Electrical, Restraint System
Estimated Page Count:
Varies based on specific model year and powertrain, typically 1000+ pages for complete factory service manuals.
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual (Factory Authorized)
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, and reassembly procedures for engine components, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, and cooling.
Engine Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures for ignition, starting, charging, fuel injection, and sensor systems.
Emission Control:
Information on emissions components, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to emissions, and service procedures for catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR, and evaporative emission systems.
Fuel System:
Service for fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, and diagnostic procedures for fuel delivery issues.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment specifications, shock absorber and spring service, and troubleshooting common suspension noises or performance issues.
Clutch System:
Service procedures for clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, and hydraulic clutch system components for manual transmission models.
Manual Transaxle:
Detailed repair, disassembly, and reassembly of the manual transaxle, including gearsets, synchronizers, and shift mechanisms. Fluid capacity and type.
Automatic Transaxle:
Service and diagnostic procedures for the automatic transmission, including valve body, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM), and fluid/filter changes. Fluid capacity and type.
Driveshaft And Axle:
Service for CV joints, driveshafts, and axle shafts, including boot replacement and U-joint service.
Steering System:
Repair of power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering column, and tie rod ends. Includes steering angle sensor calibration if applicable.
Brake System:
Service for brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, master cylinder, ABS system components, and bleeding procedures. Includes parking brake service.
Body Interior Exterior:
Procedures for body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, upholstery, and external components.
Body Electrical:
Wiring diagrams for lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, and other body-related electrical systems.
Restraint System:
Service and diagnostic procedures for airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and related control modules.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake pad inspection, and tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic trees and troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon vehicle issues, including electrical gremlins.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, system repair, and adjustments for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Methods for identifying the root cause of problems, including use of diagnostic tools and interpretation of sensor data.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4L30-E)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (RFS6)
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD with electronically controlled transfer case (Torque-On-Demand - TOD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Atf Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 - 8.0 Liters (Initial fill)
Recommended Atf:
Dexron III or equivalent (Refer to manual for exact spec)
Manual Transmission Fluid
Mtf Capacity:
Approximately 2.2 Liters
Recommended Mtf:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Refer to manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for exact interval and severe service conditions).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (typically iridium or platinum plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 45,000 miles or 48 months for automatic, refer to manual for manual transaxle. Inspect regularly.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (typically long-life coolant).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or III (verify with manual)
Common Problems Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, occasional oil pressure sensor failures, cam phaser issues (on later models, less common on these years).
Common Problems Transmission:
Rough shifting in automatics, potential for solenoid issues, clutch wear on manuals.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, and tie rod ends due to age and usage. Occasional CV joint boot splits.
Common Problems Electrical:
Corroded ground points, power window motor failures, issues with interior lighting or dashboard illumination.
Common Problems Body:
Rust on the frame (less common on this model than body-on-frame SUVs, but still possible), trim piece degradation.
Brand Origins:
Isuzu Motors Ltd. is a Japanese commercial vehicle and diesel engine manufacturer, with a history dating back to 1916.
Predecessors:
Isuzu Trooper (larger SUV), Isuzu Rodeo (more conventional compact SUV).
Successors:
Isuzu Ascender (larger SUV, primarily for North America), later models replaced by SUVs from other GM brands under badge-engineering.
Production Years:
1997-2002 (Global), 1999-2000 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (often Fujisawa Plant)
Sales Figures Na:
Limited sales in North America, approximately 2,400 units in 1999 and 1,300 units in 2000.