Market Position:
The Isuzu Amigo, particularly the 1999-2000 models, was positioned as a compact, body-on-frame SUV offering robust off-road capability and utility. It competed in a segment with vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler, Suzuki Vitara, and early models of the Toyota RAV4, though the Amigo leaned more towards traditional ruggedness.
Competitive Analysis:
While competitors like the RAV4 offered a more car-like ride and unibody construction, the Amigo's ladder frame chassis and available 4WD provided superior off-road prowess. Its styling was distinctive, and it appealed to buyers seeking a no-nonsense, capable utility vehicle for adventuring and towing.
Key Features:
Body-on-frame construction for durability, available part-time or full-time 4WD systems, rugged exterior styling, practical interior, good towing capacity for its class, and a focus on off-road performance over on-road refinement. The 1999-2000 models often featured updated styling and improved powertrains compared to earlier generations.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Body & Chassis, HVAC, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Interior and Exterior Trim, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance Schedules, Wiring Diagrams.
Page Count:
Extensive (specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive for workshop procedures)
Manual Type:
Digital Workshop Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF or similar digital format)
Searchability:
Digital format typically allows for keyword searching of repair topics and component names.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel Injection System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Intake System, Exhaust System, Clutch (if applicable), Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case, Driveshafts, Axles, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Power Steering, Braking System (ABS, Drums, Discs), Parking Brake, Electrical System (Battery, Charging, Starting, Lighting, Ignition, Body Electrical), HVAC System, Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Frame and Chassis Components, Wheels and Tires.
Chassis And Body:
Covers repair and maintenance for the frame, body panels, doors, windows, convertible top (if applicable), bumpers, and interior components.
Procedures Included:
Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Removal and Installation, Disassembly and Reassembly, Repair Procedures, Overhaul Procedures, Replacement Procedures, Adjustment Procedures, Torque Specifications, Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Special Tool Usage, Emission Control System Diagnosis and Repair, Air Conditioning System Servicing, Brake System Bleeding and Adjustment, Suspension Alignment Specifications.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes step-by-step guides for diagnosing common faults using symptom-based troubleshooting charts and referencing specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable, especially for the engine control system.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of critical torque values for engine components, chassis fasteners, suspension parts, and body bolts, ensuring proper assembly and tightening.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive workshop-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and component replacements to in-depth engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and complex electrical system diagnostics.
Technical Depth Electrical:
Detailed electrical schematics, wiring harness routing diagrams, component locations, and pin-out data for all major electrical systems.
Primary Engine:
2.2L (2157cc) DOHC Inline-4 Cylinder (GM 4XE1-TC)
Horsepower Rpm:
Approx. 130-140 hp @ 5400-5600 rpm (depending on exact configuration and market)
Torque Rpm:
Approx. 135-145 lb-ft @ 2800-3200 rpm (depending on exact configuration and market)
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 87.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 9.0:1
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transfer Case:
Available part-time or full-time 4WD systems with selectable low-range gearing.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent GM specification)
Manual Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 2.0 - 2.2 liters
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 - 7.0 liters
Wheelbase:
Approx. 97.4 inches (2474 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 169.7 inches (4310 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 65.6 inches (1666 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3200 - 3500 lbs (1450 - 1588 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4500 - 4700 lbs (2041 - 2132 kg)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approx. 18.0 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:
Approx. 41.0 cubic feet
Wheel Size:
Typically 15 or 16 inches
Tire Size:
Common sizes include P235/75R15 or P245/70R16
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 139.7 mm (5 x 5.5 inches)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Likely 3 out of 5 stars for 2WD, 4 out of 5 stars for 4WD (typical for SUVs of this era and design)
Active Features:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (4W-ABS) typically optional or standard on higher trims.
Passive Features:
Driver and passenger front airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cage.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for exact recommendations)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (engine is a timing chain engine)
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for climate/seasonal recommendations)
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Isuzu coolant type.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent GM specification)
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (or 75W-140 for towing/heavy use, check manual)
Transfer Case Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific Isuzu or GM recommendation)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 liters (with filter)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 - 7.5 liters
Known Issues:
Potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pan. Exhaust manifold cracks can occur. Some instances of interior trim wear and tear. Automatic transmission valve body issues can arise with higher mileage. Check for proper operation of the 4WD system, especially vacuum actuators if equipped.
Brand Heritage:
Isuzu has a long history of producing robust trucks and commercial vehicles, and this expertise translated into their SUVs, which were often built with durability and utility as primary considerations.
Model Evolution:
The Amigo (also sold as the Rodeo Sport in some markets and based on the TF Rodeo platform) evolved from the earlier Isuzu Amigo. The 1999-2000 models represent the second generation, featuring updated styling, improved interior amenities, and powertrain enhancements over its predecessor.
Rebadging:
The Isuzu Amigo platform was also sold as the Isuzu Rodeo Sport and in some markets as the Honda Passport (first generation).
Production Years:
1997-2004 (for the second generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan and/or assembled in other locations.