🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Isuzu

Model:

Axiom

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

RJ1

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size SUV.

Target Audience:

Isuzu Axiom owners, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts.

Competitors 2002:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Vehicle Features Highlighted In Manual:

Intelligent Suspension System, Torque-On-Demand (TOD) transfer case, robust V6 engine, available AWD.

Value:

Essential for accurate part ordering and efficient repairs, saving time and money compared to dealership service. Provides complete teardown and rebuild information.

📋 Manual Details

General Information:

Maintenance and Lubrication, Heating, Ventilation And Air Conditioning (HVAC System), Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Wheel and Tire System, Intelligent Suspension System, Differential, Driveline Control System, Drive Shaft System, Transfer Case (TOD), Brake Control System, Anti-Lock Brake System, Power-Assisted Brake System, Parking Brake System (4WD model), Parking Brake System (2WD model)

Engine:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Cooling, Engine Fuel, Engine Electrical, Ignition System, Starting and Charging System, Driveability and Emissions, Engine Exhaust, Engine Lubrication, Engine Speed Control System, Induction

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission, Transmission Control System

Body And Accessories:

Lighting System, Wiper/Washer System, Entertainment, Wiring System, Meter and Gauge, Body Structure, Seats, Security and Locks, Sun Roof/Convertible Top, Exterior/Interior Trim

Total Pages:

2100

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows/macOS

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, cooling, fuel, electrical, ignition, starting/charging, emissions, exhaust, lubrication, speed control, induction systems. Automatic transmission and control systems.

Chassis:

Front and rear suspension, wheels and tires, differential, driveline control, drive shafts, transfer case (TOD), brake control, ABS, power brakes, parking brakes (2WD/4WD).

Body And Electrical:

Lighting, wipers/washers, HVAC, entertainment, wiring, meters/gauges, body structure, seats, security, locks, sunroof, exterior/interior trim.

Maintenance:

Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics.

Repair:

Complete tear-down and rebuild procedures for all major components, including engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and body systems.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing parts such as engine components, transmission, suspension parts, brake assemblies, sensors, and body panels.

Depth:

Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete vehicle overhaul. Includes detailed explanations, step-by-step instructions, and critical technical data.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

Digital Adobe PDF format, printable pages, likely includes searchable text for ease of use.

Visuals:

Contains numerous pictures and diagrams for visual guidance during repairs.

Binding:

Digital download, not a physical binding.

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format, pages are printable)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

3UZ-FE (shared with Toyota Land Cruiser/Lexus LX)

Configuration:

4.3L V8 DOHC 32-valve

Horsepower:

Approximately 250 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual ignition coils.

Coolant Type:

Isuzu recommended coolant or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water.

Oil Viscosity:

Refer to manual for specific climate-based recommendations, likely SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30.

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.7 US quarts (6.3 liters) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Drive Type:

Available in 2WD and 4WD (with Torque-On-Demand system).

Transfer Case:

Intelligent Torque-On-Demand (TOD) system, automatically adjusts power distribution between front and rear axles.

Fluid Type:

Isuzu Genuine ATF or equivalent Dexron-III (or newer compatible spec).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 187.2 inches (4755 mm)

Width:

Approx. 72.4 inches (1839 mm)

Height:

Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 111.0 inches (2820 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,233 - 4,400 lbs (1920 - 2000 kg)

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 39.2 cu ft with rear seats up, 81.1 cu ft with rear seats folded.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

4 stars (driver), 4 stars (passenger) - 2002 model

NHTSA Side Impact Test:

4 stars (front), 4 stars (rear) - 2002 model

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) linked to the 4WD system.

Airbags:

Standard front driver and passenger airbags. Available front side-impact airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD audio system. Higher trims may have premium sound systems. Manual covers basic troubleshooting and component replacement for infotainment system.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system, covered in the manual for operation and diagnostics.

Vehicle Systems:

The manual details the vehicle's complex wiring system and interconnected electronic modules for powertrain, chassis, and body control.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require shorter intervals.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as per manual, especially under heavy use.

Coolant Change:

Initial change at 5 years or 50,000 miles, then every 2 years or 30,000 miles thereafter.

Spark Plugs:

Long-life spark plugs, typically recommended for replacement around 60,000-100,000 miles (refer to manual for exact type and interval).

Engine Oil Spec:

API SJ or ILSAC GF-2 certified, viscosity SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations).

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Dexron-III automatic transmission fluid or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Problems:

Some reports of minor electrical gremlins, potential for water pump or radiator leaks over time, rear differential seals can occasionally leak. The TOD system is generally robust but requires proper fluid maintenance.

Diagnosis Challenges:

Due to its relatively niche status and shared components with other vehicles (e.g., engine with Toyota), sourcing specific Isuzu-branded parts or finding technicians deeply familiar with the Axiom can sometimes be a challenge.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Isuzu is known for its robust trucks and SUVs, often focusing on utility and durability. Historically, Isuzu vehicles were often manufactured in collaboration with other automakers.

Generation:

First Generation (2002-2004). The Axiom was Isuzu's primary mid-size SUV offering in North America during this period.

Manufacturing Location:

LaFayette, Indiana, USA (at the Subaru-Isuzu Automotive, Inc. plant, a joint venture).

Production Years:

2002-2004

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Reception:

The Isuzu Axiom was generally considered a competent but unremarkable entry in the mid-size SUV segment. It offered good utility and a refined ride for its class.