Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV, unique styling and off-road capability.
Competitors:
Jeep Wrangler, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra (though the VehiCROSS was more niche).
Design:
Asymmetrical windshield, body-color exterior trim, distinctive front and rear styling, short wheelbase for off-road agility.
Off Road Systems:
Torque-on-demand (TOD) 4WD system, independent front suspension, solid rear axle (on some configurations/years), skid plates.
Powertrain Electrical:
Engine control wiring, fuel injection system, ignition system, starter system, charging system.
Transmission Electrical:
Automatic transmission control unit (TCU), gear position sensors, shift indicator.
Chassis Electrical:
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) wiring, Anti-theft system wiring, cruise control wiring (if equipped).
Body Electrical:
Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, door locks, interior illumination.
HVAC Electrical:
Automatic A/C controls, blower motor circuit, compressor clutch control, temperature sensors, air delivery actuators.
Instrumentation:
Instrument cluster wiring, warning lights, gauges, speedometer, tachometer.
Audio Visual:
Radio wiring, speaker circuits, antenna wiring, power antenna control.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system wiring, seatbelt pretensioner wiring (if applicable).
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of electrical faults, circuit testing, component testing procedures, use of diagnostic tools.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete system schematics, component locations, wire harness routing, connector pinouts, color coding.
Component Replacement:
Guidance on locating and identifying electrical components for replacement.
Connector Identification:
Detailed diagrams of electrical connectors, including pin assignments and terminal types.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive electrical system diagnostics, repair, and component troubleshooting. Essential for technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Codes:
While not a diagnostic manual per se, it provides the electrical basis for understanding and troubleshooting DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes).
Length:
Approx. 167.5 inches (4255 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.9 inches (1800 mm)
Height:
Approx. 69.3 inches (1760 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3700-3900 lbs (1678-1769 kg)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3-star rating (for 2000 model)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Brake System)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on these models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with 6-speaker system (typically).
Navigation:
Not typically available from the factory for these model years.
ABS:
Standard ABS for enhanced braking control.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trims, electrically controlled.
Bluetooth:
Not available from the factory.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for this era).
Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years (typical for ethylene glycol coolant).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km), or as per severe service schedule.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 API SJ/SL (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations).
Coolant:
Isuzu Genuine Long Life Coolant (or equivalent IAT/OAT coolant meeting specs).
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III ATF (or equivalent).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common in vehicles of this age; wiring harness degradation, sensor failures (ABS, O2), power window/lock mechanisms.
Hvsc:
HVAC blower motor issues, climate control actuator problems (directly related to systems covered in this manual).
Powertrain:
While the V6 is generally robust, occasional issues with timing belt tensioners or oil leaks can occur. The wiring manual is critical for diagnosing related electrical control issues.
Suspension:
Wear on ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings, particularly if used off-road. Electrical aspects of ABS sensors are crucial here.
Manufacturer Focus:
Isuzu has a long history in trucks, commercial vehicles, and SUVs, known for ruggedness and diesel engines.
Production Span:
1997-2004 (globally), 1999-2001 (North America)
Design Origin:
Based on the Isuzu MU Wizard platform, but with a highly distinctive and polarizing design.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Fujisawa Plant)
Market Reception:
Cult following due to its unique styling and off-road capabilities, but limited sales volume.
