Segment:
Mid-size SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts.
Competitors:
Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot.
Vehicle Features:
Body-on-frame construction (initially), available AWD, spacious interior, reliable V6 engine.
Engine:
3.5L V6 (6VE1), including diagnostics, repair, and overhaul
Transmission:
4-speed automatic (4L30-E), including service, repair, and diagnostics
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including differentials and drive axles
Suspension:
Front independent suspension, rear multi-link suspension, including components and adjustments
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, hydraulic circuits, and components
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, and linkage
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, including wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, starting and charging system
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including components and refrigerant service
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, and related hardware
Chassis:
Frame, subframes, and structural components
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, lines, and injection system
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and coolant passages
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, and pipes
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, and related control modules
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), testing procedures
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Specifications:
Torque specifications, tolerances, clearances, and assembly instructions
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems
Recalibration:
Procedures for recalibrating electronic modules and sensors
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 5-star passenger (for some model years/configurations).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for some model years/configurations).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific mileage/severe conditions).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum type, recommended replacement at 100,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (or refer to manual for specific coolant type).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 API SM or higher (consult manual for exact viscosity and capacity).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (consult manual for exact specification and capacity).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent (consult manual for exact specification and capacity).
Engine Component:
Potential for head gasket leaks on some 6VE1 engines under high mileage or stress.
Transmission Component:
Occasional transmission shifting issues or solenoid problems, often addressable with fluid changes or valve body service.
Suspension Component:
Wear in control arm bushings and ball joints over time, common for SUVs of this era.
Electrical Component:
Can experience issues with power windows, door locks, or instrument cluster illumination.
Brand Origin:
Isuzu Motors Ltd., a Japanese automobile manufacturer.
Generation:
First Generation (2002-2004).
Development:
Developed in conjunction with General Motors, sharing the GMT360 platform with the Chevrolet TrailBlazer and GMC Envoy.
Production Period:
2001 (as 2002 model year) - 2004.
Assembly Location:
Isuzu plant in Lafayette, Indiana, USA.
