Market Position:
Compact Pickup Truck. Competed in a segment with strong offerings from GM (S-10/Sonoma), Ford (Ranger), Toyota (Tacoma), and Nissan (Hardbody).
Competitive Analysis:
The Isuzu Hombre was a rebadged version of the Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, built by General Motors. This provided a strong platform but relied on Isuzu's branding and dealer network for sales.
Key Features:
Offered in regular cab and extended cab configurations, with 2WD and 4WD options. Known for its robust build and practicality as a workhorse pickup.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and Isuzu Hombre owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Covered Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software (Online Access)
Source Of Information:
Officially Licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.
Format:
Online Software (Web Browser Accessible)
Engine Systems:
Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Engine Control System (ECM/PCM)
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case (4WD), Drive Axles, CV Joints
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (Independent), Rear Suspension (Leaf Spring), Steering System, Wheel Alignment
Brake System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, Parking Brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical HVAC:
Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Body Control Modules
Body And Trim:
Exterior body panels, bumpers, trim pieces, interior components, seats, dashboard, door panels.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Tire Rotation, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Gear Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting Charts, Symptom-based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing Procedures
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, frame straightening (if applicable), door and glass repair, interior trim component replacement.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Lists of OBD-I or OBD-II codes (depending on engine and emissions regulations for the year) and procedures for reading and clearing them.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, component-level repairs, advanced diagnostics, and detailed specifications. Includes factory-level procedures and specifications.
Wiring Diagrams:
Extensive and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including engine control, lighting, accessories, and chassis electronics.
Engine Options:
2.2L (2198cc) L4 SOHC (Isuzu 4XA1) and 4.3L (4300cc) V6 OHV (GM Vortec)
Horsepower 2 2L:
Approx. 118 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque 2 2L:
Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Horsepower 4 3L:
Approx. 160-180 hp @ 4000-4400 rpm
Torque 4 3L:
Approx. 235-245 lb-ft @ 2800-3200 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Isuzu Engine Code:
4XA1 (2.2L)
Gm Engine Code:
Vortec 4300 (4.3L)
Cooling System Capacity:
Approx. 7-8 quarts (verify with manual)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag or Isuzu design)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (GM 4L60-E)
4Wd Transfer Case:
Manual or Electronic Shift Transfer Case (New Process NP233 or NP236)
Transmission Fluid Capacity
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 11-12 quarts (dry fill, verify with manual)
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Likely received ratings consistent with GM GMT325 platform vehicles of the era. Manual would detail specific tests.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Often optional on rear-wheel-drive models, standard on 4x4.
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and Passenger Airbags, Seat Belts
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player, optional CD player. Simple analog controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to ABS and possibly cruise control on higher trims. No modern driver-assistance systems.
Connectivity Options:
No integrated connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs typically every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type); air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically Dex-Cool or equivalent for GM platforms, but verify with manual).
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual, e.g., 75W-90).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or dedicated power steering fluid (check manual)
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 Gear Oil (SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, verify with manual)
Common Issues:
Catalytic converter failure, heater core leaks, interior trim degradation, minor electrical gremlins, potential for rust in certain climates, intake manifold gasket leaks on V6 engines.
Oil Filter Example:
AC Delco PF1218, Fram PH3500, Wix 51515 (verify with manual for exact fitment)
Air Filter Example:
AC Delco A1073C, Fram CA3980, Wix 42357 (verify with manual for exact fitment)
Isuzu Heritage:
Isuzu Motors Ltd. is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for its commercial vehicles, trucks, and SUVs. They had a long-standing relationship with General Motors.
Model Evolution Hombre:
The Isuzu Hombre was introduced for the 1996 model year as a rebadge of the second-generation Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma. It was part of Isuzu's strategy to expand its light-duty truck offerings in North America.
Production Location:
Assembled in the United States by General Motors facilities.
Production Years:
1996-2000