🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Isuzu

Model:

Rodeo

Model Years Covered:

1988-2002

Chassis Codes:

UBS17, UBS12, UBS13, UBS16, UBS17, UBS19, UBS25, UBS26, UBS55, UBS69, UBS73

Engine Codes:

C190, C223, C223T, 4ZD1, 4ZE1, 4JX1, 4JG2

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Mid-size SUV

Target Audience:

Off-road enthusiasts, families, individuals seeking utility and versatility in an SUV.

Key Competitors:

Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Ford Explorer, Mitsubishi Montero.

Body Styles:

2-door (short wheelbase) and 4-door (long wheelbase) configurations.

Drivetrain Options:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) with selectable or automatic systems.

Notable Attributes:

Robust chassis, capable off-road performance, relatively simple mechanicals (especially earlier models), available diesel engines (outside North America primarily).

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair for all gasoline and diesel variants. Includes cylinder head, block, crankshaft, camshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection systems (MPI, DFI), ignition systems, emissions control systems (EGR, catalytic converter), turbocharger systems (where applicable), diagnostics for engine performance issues.

Transmission Manual:

Disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, and adjustment of manual transmissions, including clutch operation, gear selection, and drivetrain component synchronization.

Transmission Automatic:

Diagnosis, overhaul, repair, and adjustment of automatic transmissions, including valve body operation, torque converter service, and transmission control modules.

Drivetrain:

Four-wheel drive (4WD) system operation, transfer case service, front and rear axle assembly, differential repair, driveshaft and CV joint maintenance and replacement.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (independent front, solid rear axle configurations). Includes ball joints, control arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, and wheel alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering column service, steering linkage and gear maintenance, rack and pinion replacement.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system overhaul (disc and drum). Includes brake pedal assembly, master cylinder, brake booster, hydraulic lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake pads, brake shoes, and parking brake system.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting system, accessories, fuses, relays, and basic electrical troubleshooting.

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim service, chassis repair and alignment specifications, rust repair guidance.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, compressor service, blower motor, and climate control components.

Maintenance Tasks:

Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and replacements (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (where applicable for later models), electrical circuit testing.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems.

Component Rebuilds:

Comprehensive instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, differentials, brake calipers, and power steering pumps.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine bearing clearances, valve lash adjustments, piston ring gaps, ignition timing, and critical component measurements.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electronic control units (ECUs), and transmission control modules (TCMs). Includes troubleshooting flowcharts and component testing.

Rebuild Instructions:

Full engine and transmission rebuild specifications, including machining data, assembly clearances, and critical torque values.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed and accurate electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including component location and harness routing.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for easy navigation and information retrieval.

Readability:

High-resolution scans ensuring clear text and legible diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Gasoline 1:

2.6L 4-Cylinder (4ZD1)

Engine Gasoline 1 Displacement:

2559 cc

Engine Gasoline 1 Bore X Stroke:

92.4 mm x 95.0 mm

Engine Gasoline 1 Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Engine Gasoline 1 Horsepower:

120 hp @ 4700 rpm (approx.)

Engine Gasoline 1 Torque:

144 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (approx.)

Engine Gasoline 2:

3.2L V6 (4JX1)

Engine Gasoline 2 Displacement:

3165 cc

Engine Gasoline 2 Bore X Stroke:

88.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Engine Gasoline 2 Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Engine Gasoline 2 Horsepower:

175 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

Engine Gasoline 2 Torque:

190 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) or Direct Fuel Injection (DFI) for later V6 models.

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (for gasoline engines)

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, EGR system, Oxygen sensors.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard 1:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Optional 1:

4-Speed Automatic

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD system with 2H, 4H, and 4L (Low Range) settings for most 4WD models.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity dependent on application, refer to manual for exact spec, e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III/Mercon compatible automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Wb:

Approx. 98.0 inches (2489 mm)

Wheelbase Long Wb:

Approx. 103.2 inches (2621 mm)

Length Short Wb:

Approx. 165.0 inches (4191 mm)

Length Long Wb:

Approx. 176.0 inches (4470 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3500 - 4200 lbs (1588 - 1905 kg) depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg), varies by engine and configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA crash test data may vary by model year and specific vehicle configuration. Generally, older SUVs of this era had less stringent testing protocols compared to modern vehicles.

ABS:

Available on some later models, often as an option or standard on higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags became standard on later models. Early models may not have airbags.

Seat Belts:

Front and rear seat belts, with three-point belts in the front.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player or CD player (on later models). Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Navigation:

Not typically available on models from this era; aftermarket navigation systems were the primary option.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trim levels, especially on 4-door models.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were optional or standard on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for precise interval).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 24,000-36,000 miles or 24 months.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles for automatic, 50,000-75,000 miles for manual and transfer case/differentials (check manual).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

4-Cylinder: 30,000-60,000 miles; V6: 50,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

10W-30 or 5W-30 API Service SG/SH/SJ (check manual for specific engine/climate recommendations).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically green (consult manual for specific type and mix ratio).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for specific requirement).

Engine Oil Leaks:

Common on higher mileage engines, particularly valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets.

Transmission Hard Shifting:

Can occur in automatic transmissions due to worn solenoids or internal wear; manual transmissions can develop clutch or synchro issues.

Suspension Wear:

Ball joints, bushings, and tie rods are common wear items, especially with off-road use.

Rust:

Frame and body rust can be a significant issue in regions with road salt, particularly on older models.

Rear Main Seal Leaks:

Can occur on both 4-cylinder and V6 engines, requiring transmission removal for repair.

📚 Vehicle History

Isuzu Reputation:

Isuzu has a long history in manufacturing commercial vehicles and robust diesel engines, with a growing presence in passenger vehicles and SUVs.

First Generation:

Launched in 1988 in North America, based on the Isuzu Faster/Isuzu D-Max platform, with body-on-frame construction. Initially offered with a 4-cylinder gasoline engine. Rebadged as the Chevrolet LUV in some markets.

Second Generation:

Introduced in 1997, featuring a more modern design and the introduction of the 3.2L V6 engine option. Retained body-on-frame construction. Offered in both 2-door and 4-door configurations. Continued to be rebadged by GM (e.g., Chevrolet Rodeo Sport, Holden Rodeo).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan by Isuzu and assembled in various locations worldwide through partnerships with General Motors.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Capability Recognition:

The Isuzu Rodeo was generally well-regarded for its off-road capabilities, especially when equipped with the 4WD system and suitable tires, often being a favorite among budget-conscious off-roaders.

Consumer Reports Rankings:

Consumer Reports reviews and reliability ratings varied throughout the production run, with some model years receiving average to below-average ratings for reliability, particularly concerning powertrain and electrical components in later years.