Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Vehicle Purpose:
Capable off-road vehicle with comfortable on-road manners, suitable for families and adventurers
Key Competitors:
Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Blazer
Drivetrain Options:
Part-time 4WD, optional Full-Time 4WD (based on specific trims and market)
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for robust chassis, strong 4WD systems, and good ground clearance
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, diagnosis, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting and charging system, ECU and sensors, wiring diagrams
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (if applicable to specific trims), clutch, gearbox overhaul
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission diagnosis, repair, fluid and filter service, torque converter
Drivetrain 4Wd:
Transfer case operation and repair, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS diagnosis and repair, brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack/gearbox, tie rods, steering column
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure testing, emissions control
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes, emissions components
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, coolant specifications and capacity
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant, components
Electrical Body:
Lighting, interior electronics, power windows, locks, mirrors, wiper system
Bodywork Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, structural components, chassis maintenance, rust prevention
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections
Component Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing major components (e.g., starter, alternator, water pump, brake calipers)
Engine Rebuild:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures
Transmission Overhaul:
Step-by-step guides for complete transmission rebuilds
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, pin-out charts, testing procedures for sensors and actuators
Suspension Alignment:
Alignment specifications and procedures
Brake Service:
Brake bleeding, caliper replacement, rotor turning/replacement
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant handling, leak detection, component replacement
Depth Level:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic information
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers procedures requiring specialized diagnostic tools and equipment
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners
Clearances Tolerances:
Precise clearances and tolerances for engine and driveline components
Engine Code Gas:
3.5L V6 (6VD1-W)
Engine Displacement Gas:
3.5 Liters (3494 cc)
Engine Configuration Gas:
SOHC V6
Horsepower Gas:
Approx. 215-230 hp (depending on specific tune and market)
Torque Gas:
Approx. 230-240 lb-ft (depending on specific tune and market)
Engine Code Diesel:
3.0L 4-Cylinder Turbo Diesel (4JX1-TC)
Engine Displacement Diesel:
3.0 Liters (2999 cc)
Engine Configuration Diesel:
DOHC 4-Cylinder, Turbocharged, Intercooled
Horsepower Diesel:
Approx. 130-150 hp (depending on specific tune and market)
Torque Diesel:
Approx. 240-260 lb-ft (depending on specific tune and market)
Fuel Injection Gas:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type Gas:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Injection Diesel:
Direct Injection, Common Rail (CRDI)
Length:
Approx. 187.0 - 191.0 inches (4750 - 4851 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74.5 inches (1892 mm)
Height:
Approx. 70.5 - 72.0 inches (1791 - 1829 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 111.2 inches (2824 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,300 - 4,800 lbs (1950 - 2177 kg), varies by configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 5,800 - 6,200 lbs (2630 - 2812 kg)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions
Spark Plug Replacement Gas:
Approx. 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Timing Belt Replacement Gas:
N/A (6VD1-W uses a timing chain)
Timing Belt Replacement Diesel:
N/A (4JX1-TC uses a timing chain)
Engine Oil Gas:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SJ or higher, ILSAC GF-2 or higher)
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CI-4 or CH-4, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 (synthetic recommended for colder climates)
Coolant:
Isuzu Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with demineralized water (50/50 mix)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Head Gasket Failure Gas:
Some earlier models of the 6VD1 V6 engine experienced head gasket issues. The 1999-2002 models may have had improvements, but it's a known area for inspection.
Diesel Injector Problems:
The 4JX1-TC diesel engine's high-pressure fuel injectors can be sensitive to fuel quality and can be costly to replace if they fail.
Transmission Shifting Issues:
Occasional reports of hesitant shifting or solenoid issues in the 4L30-E automatic transmission.
Rust Underbody:
As with many body-on-frame SUVs of this era, rust on the frame and underbody components can be a concern, especially in areas with road salt.