🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Isuzu

Model:

Axiom

Model Years Covered:

2001, 2002, 2003, 2004

Vin Code Engine:

T for 3.5L V6 (6VD1)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)

Launch Era Context:

Competed in the burgeoning SUV market of the early 2000s, emphasizing utility and a unique design.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder

Design Philosophy:

Unique, polarizing styling; robust construction.

Drivetrain Offering:

Available in 2WD and 4WD (Active Transfer Case - ATC) configurations.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Workshop Service and Repair

Intended Audience:

Professional Dealership Technicians & Advanced DIYers

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain (4WD/AWD)

Chassis:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Accessories, Powertrain Control, Body Control Modules, Instrumentation

Body:

Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Roof, Bumpers

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Troubleshooting Flowcharts

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-Ups

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Component Replacement, Body Repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnosis of mechanical and electrical faults, symptom-based diagnostics

Installation:

Component installation and removal procedures

Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to full component rebuilds

Diagrams:

Detailed step-by-step diagrams and illustrations

Factory Quality:

Authentic dealership-level technical information

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

6VD1

Engine Type:

V6, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3498 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

94.3 mm x 85.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Horsepower 2001-2002:

215 hp @ 5300 rpm

Torque 2001-2002:

230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Horsepower 2003-2004:

200 hp @ 5400 rpm (slight detuning for emissions)

Torque 2003-2004:

225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (slight detuning for emissions)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended

Oil Capacity:

5.2 US Quarts (4.9 Liters) with filter change

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG, SH, SJ or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (4L30-E variant)

Transmission Type:

N/A (Automatic transmission was standard)

Drivetrain Management:

Active Transfer Case (ATC) on 4WD models, offering automatic engagement or full-time 4WD modes.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III / Dexron-III H (or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 US Quarts (6.2 Liters) for a fluid and filter change.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

185.1 inches (4702 mm)

Width:

73.0 inches (1854 mm)

Height:

68.3 inches (1735 mm)

Wheelbase:

108.7 inches (2761 mm)

Front Track:

61.2 inches (1554 mm)

Rear Track:

60.8 inches (1544 mm)

Curb Weight 2Wd:

Approx. 4,012 lbs (1820 kg)

Curb Weight 4Wd:

Approx. 4,194 lbs (1902 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5,500 lbs (2500 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 40.3 cubic feet (1141 Liters)

Cargo Volume With 2Nd Row Folded:

Approx. 77.0 cubic feet (2180 Liters)

Towing Capacity:

3,500 lbs (1588 kg)

Standard Tire Size:

P245/65R17

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

6 x 139.7 mm (6 x 5.5 inches)

Wheel Size:

17 x 7.0 inches

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Driver:

Five Star (for 2001-2003 models)

NHTSA Front Crash Test Passenger:

Five Star (for 2001-2003 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

Four Star (for 2001-2003 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

Four Star (for 2001-2003 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

Five Star (for 2001-2003 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

Five Star (for 2001-2003 models)

IIHS Roof Strength:

Acceptable (for models tested)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional (available on some trims)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags; available side-impact airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems (Bose), optional rear-seat entertainment on some trims.

Navigation:

Optional GPS navigation system on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Parking Assist:

Rear parking sensors available on some later models.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard, aftermarket solutions common.

Onboard Diagnostics:

OBD-II compliant for emissions and diagnostic scanning.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect/replace annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).

Transmission Fluid And Filter:

Replace fluid and filter every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal driving conditions. Inspect more frequently for severe use.

Coolant Flush:

Replace coolant every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Long-life iridium type).

Engine Coolant:

Isuzu Specified Long Life Coolant or Dex-Cool compatible (e.g., ethylene glycol-based)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron-III / Dexron-III H (or equivalent)

Differential Fluid Front:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90

Differential Fluid Rear:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90

Transfer Case Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90

Common Problems:

Timing chain rattle (though less common than some contemporaries), occasional HVAC blower motor resistor failure, early generation ABS sensor issues, power steering leaks.

Durability Perception:

Generally considered a robust vehicle, especially the powertrain, though specific issues can arise with age and mileage.

📚 Vehicle History

Isuzu Legacy:

Isuzu has a long history in producing robust trucks and SUVs, known for durability and off-road capability (e.g., Trooper, Rodeo).

First Generation:

The Isuzu Axiom was introduced for the 2001 model year as a replacement for the Isuzu Rodeo Sport and to fill a gap above the Rodeo. It shared its platform with the Isuzu VehiCROSS and Isuzu Trooper.

Design Inspiration:

The Axiom featured a unique, angular design that was polarizing but distinctly Isuzu, setting it apart from more conventional SUV designs of the era.

Facelift Updates:

A minor refresh occurred for the 2003 model year, including revised styling, interior enhancements, and a slight power reduction in the engine for emissions compliance.

Production Period:

2001-2004

Manufacturing Plant:

LaFayette, Indiana, USA (by Subaru-Isuzu Automotive Inc. - SIA)

Discontinuation:

Production ceased after the 2004 model year as Isuzu phased out its passenger vehicle presence in North America.