Segment:
Mid-size SUV / Sport Utility Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, automotive repair shops, and Isuzu Rodeo owners.
Competitors:
Honda Passport, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust chassis, capable 4WD system, spacious interior for its class.
Manual Benefit:
Inexpensive way to perform maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs.
Engine:
V6 (3.5L 6VE1, 6VD1), 4-Cylinder (2.2L C22SE)
Engine Management:
Fuel Injection (EFI), Ignition System, Emission Controls (OBD-II)
Transmission:
Automatic (4L30-E), Manual (MUA5)
Drivetrain:
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) System (TOD - Torque-On-Demand), Differentials, Axles
Suspension:
Front Independent Torsion Bar, Rear Multi-Link Solid Axle
Brakes:
Front Disc (Vented), Rear Disc, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Steering:
Power Rack and Pinion
Electrical:
12V System, Battery, Charging System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, ECUs
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Frame
Chassis:
Frame Construction, Mounting Points
Safety Systems:
Airbags, Seatbelts, ABS
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks, Belt Inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Lookup, Circuit Diagrams
Repair:
Engine Overhauls, Transmission Rebuilds, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Service
Overhaul:
Complete Engine and Transmission Rebuild Procedures
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed steps for component removal and installation
Specifications Data:
Torque Values, Clearances, Alignment Specifications, Electrical Resistance
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Troubleshooting Charts:
Flowcharts for diagnosing common faults
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions with detailed illustrations and diagrams.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and testing methods for all electronic and mechanical systems.
Standard Type:
5-Speed Manual (MUA5) for some 4-cyl models
Optional Type:
4-Speed Automatic (4L30-E)
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, Idle Neutral Skip, Torque converter lock-up
Manual Features:
Standard 5-speed gear ratios
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron III / Mercon (or equivalent)
Manual Fluid Type:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Wheelbase:
Approx. 108.3 inches (2750 mm)
Length:
Approx. 179.1 inches (4550 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.7 inches (1795 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.1 inches (1705 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3900-4400 lbs (1769-2000 kg), varies by trim and drivetrain
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg) for properly equipped models
Payload Capacity:
Approx. 1000-1300 lbs (454-590 kg)
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 40.2 cubic feet (behind rear seats)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
Good (2002 model year, consistent for subsequent years)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
Good (2002 model year, consistent for subsequent years)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (2002 model year, consistent for subsequent years)
ABS:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners in front
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for automatic, Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for manual
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 depending on climate)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.0 US Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter for V6
Coolant Type:
Isuzu Genuine Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol based)
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, rear main seal leaks (V6), intake manifold gaskets (V6)
Engine Concerns:
Head gasket failures on earlier 6VD1 engines, timing chain rattle on high mileage 6VE1 engines.
Transmission Concerns:
Transmission solenoid issues or torque converter shudder in the 4L30-E automatic.
Electrical Concerns:
Window regulator failures, ABS sensor failures, alternator issues.
Brand Focus:
Isuzu is historically known for its robust trucks, SUVs, and diesel engines.
Second Gen Intro:
The second generation Rodeo was introduced for the 2003 model year, featuring a significant redesign.
Platform Sharing:
This generation shared its platform with the second-generation Honda Passport.
Production Location:
Lafayette, Indiana, USA (by SIA - Subaru-Isuzu Automotive)
Production End:
Production of the Isuzu Rodeo ceased after the 2004 model year in North America, but the manual covers up to 2008 due to continued availability and potential import variants or specific market continuations.
