Positioning:
The Isuzu Impulse was positioned as a sporty, stylish compact coupe, often competing with models like the Honda CR-X and Toyota MR2, offering a unique design and engaging driving experience.
Competitors 1991:
Honda CR-X, Toyota MR2, Nissan 240SX, Mazda MX-3.
Manual Features:
Officially licensed, factory-derived OE materials, licensed by RepairSurge, instant online access, year-long subscription, comprehensive coverage.
Customer Benefit:
Cost savings on repairs, empowerment for DIYers, access to accurate and reliable service information, convenience over printed manuals.
Manual Scope:
Comprehensive Service and Repair
Estimated Page Count:
Detailed (specific count not provided, but OE quality implies thousands of pages of information when compiled)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software/Web-Based Access
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control systems, engine management, diagnostics.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission systems, clutch, drive axles, differentials.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, component inspection and replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, linkage, alignment procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, charging system, starting system, accessories, body electronics, diagnostics.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, components, and service.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis, corrosion protection.
Maintenance:
Recommended maintenance schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for applicable systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, component removal and installation.
Overhaul:
Detailed overhaul procedures for engine, transmission, and other major components.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical values.
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Code:
G200Z (1.6L DOHC Non-Turbo)
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1588 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 16 valves
Horsepower:
Approximately 125-130 hp @ 6500 rpm (specific rating may vary slightly)
Torque:
Approximately 105-110 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (specific rating may vary slightly)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (refer to manual for specific mix ratio and part number, e.g., ACDelco 10-4035 or equivalent)
Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity and API service classification)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition with Distributor
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Fluid Spec:
GL-4 Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific viscosity, e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Automatic Fluid Spec:
Dexron II or equivalent (refer to manual for precise specification and part number)
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate diaphragm spring clutch.
Length:
Approximately 162.2 inches (4120 mm)
Width:
Approximately 66.7 inches (1695 mm)
Height:
Approximately 50.4 inches (1280 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 94.3 inches (2395 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2300-2500 lbs (1043-1134 kg) depending on trim and transmission.
NHTSA Rating:
No specific NHTSA ratings readily available for this model year and region. Consult manual for any manufacturer-specific safety data.
Active Safety:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some trims, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc on higher trims).
Passive Safety:
Seat belts, reinforced body structure, energy-absorbing steering column. Airbags were not standard or common for this era.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control with heater and ventilation. Air conditioning was an optional feature.
Driver Assistance Features:
Minimal by modern standards. Primarily focused on the core driving dynamics and chassis tuning. Optional ABS was the primary advanced feature.
Connectivity Features:
N/A - No factory connectivity features such as Bluetooth or USB were available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Interval:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (refer to manual).
Spark Plug Interval:
Approximately every 30,000 miles (refer to manual for type and specific interval).
Timing Belt Interval:
Critical item. Typically around 60,000 miles or 4-5 years. Consult manual for exact interval and replacement procedure. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific type and part number).
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type, likely a power steering fluid or ATF Dexron II equivalent.
Common Problems General:
Potential for rust in certain climates, aging electrical components (sensors, wiring), worn suspension bushings, timing belt wear. Transmission synchros in manual transmissions can wear over time.
Engine Specific Issues:
While generally reliable, the 1.6L DOHC engine can experience issues related to aging fuel injectors, ignition components (distributor cap, rotor, coil), and crankcase ventilation systems.
Isuzu Heritage:
Isuzu Motors is a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a long history, known for its trucks, SUVs, and reliable diesel engines. In passenger cars, they collaborated with other manufacturers and produced distinctive models.
Impulse Evolution:
The first generation Impulse (1981-1989) was a joint venture with General Motors (as the Isuzu Piazza). The second generation (1990-1994), codenamed JT, was a more modern design, influenced by Lotus, featuring sharp lines and a focus on sporty handling. It was sold as the Impulse in North America and as the Piazza in other markets.
Production Period:
Second Generation: 1990-1994. This manual covers the 1991 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
