Segment:
Compact and Mid-size SUV/Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, owners seeking to maintain their vehicles
Competitors 1988-2002:
Toyota Hilux/4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder/Hardbody, Mitsubishi Montero/Pickup, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Blazer, Jeep Cherokee
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers users to perform repairs and maintenance confidently, reducing reliance on expensive dealerships
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust construction, capable off-road performance (especially 4x4 models), reliability
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain (4WD systems)
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, climate control, SRS (Airbag) system
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis frame
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit diagrams and testing
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, adjustment procedures for all major systems
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) code interpretation and troubleshooting (for applicable models/years), sensor testing
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, clearance measurements, wiring diagrams
Engine Code:
C223 (2.2L Diesel), 4ZD1 (2.3L Petrol), 4ZE1 (2.6L Petrol)
Engine Code:
4JX1 (3.0L Turbo Diesel - common in some markets), LG4 (2.2L EcoTec - Chevrolet/GM rebadge), L43 (3.2L V6 DOHC - GM 6VD1)
Primary Engine Displacement
Most Common Petrol Displacement:
2.6L (4ZE1)
Common Diesel Displacement:
2.2L (C223), 3.0L Turbo (4JX1)
Horsepower:
Approx. 120-130 hp
Torque:
Approx. 140-150 lb-ft
Horsepower:
Approx. 175-190 hp
Torque:
Approx. 180-200 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane 87 recommended, check manual for specific grades)
Configuration:
Inline-4 cylinder, V6 cylinder
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft for V6)
Standard Transmission Early Models
Optional Transmission Early Models
Standard Transmission Later Models
Type:
5-speed manual (MUA5, MYD)
Optional Transmission Later Models
Type:
4-speed automatic (RE4R01A)
Type:
Part-time 4WD with manual or electronic engagement (4H, 4L, 2H)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., Isuzu Gear Oil 75W-90 or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for specific PN)
Typical Length:
Approx. 176-195 inches (depending on wheelbase and body style)
Typical Width:
Approx. 66-70 inches
Typical Height:
Approx. 64-68 inches
Common Wheelbases:
106.4 inches (short), 118.1 inches (long)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500-4300 lbs (depending on configuration)
Rear Cargo Volume:
Variable, depends on passenger configuration and body style (e.g., long bed truck vs. SUV)
NHTSA Ratings Early Models:
Varies by model year and configuration, often not rated or lower scores compared to modern vehicles
IIHS Ratings Early Models:
Generally marginal to poor in frontal offset tests for earlier models
Anti Lock Brakes:
Available on higher trims and later model years
Four Wheel Drive:
Optional on most models, a key active safety and capability feature
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard on later models, passenger airbag optional/standard depending on year and trim. SRS system covered in manual.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts (3-point rear belts on most models)
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM/Cassette or CD players. Optional premium sound systems on some trims.
Display Technology:
Analog gauges, basic digital displays for odometer/trip meter.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Traction Control:
Rarely available on early models, may appear on later models or specific GM rebadges.
Usb Aux Inputs:
Not available on early models, potential for aftermarket installation.
Bluetooth:
Not factory equipped, aftermarket solutions required.
Service Intervals Oil Change
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific engine and oil type)
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid And Filter:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (check manual)
Service Intervals Coolant
Coolant Flush And Replacement:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 10W-40 commonly recommended for gasoline engines (consult manual for exact specification and temperature range)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, typically green or orange (use specified type, consult manual)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (check manual for confirmation)
Engine Common Concerns:
Oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), intake manifold gasket leaks (V6), camshaft/crankshaft position sensor issues, timing belt replacement interval crucial on some engines
Transmission Common Concerns:
Clutch wear (manual), torque converter shudder or internal wear (automatic), transfer case actuator issues (4WD models)
Suspension Common Concerns:
Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, shock absorbers, leaf spring fatigue (rear)
Electrical Common Concerns:
Alternator failure, starter motor issues, power window motor failure, interior light failures
Isuzu Focus:
Long history in commercial vehicles and diesel engines, known for durability and utility vehicles
First Generation Ua Kb:
Shared platform with Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon cousins (early iterations), focused on utility and off-road capability.
Second Generation Tf:
More refined design, introduction of V6 engines, increased passenger comfort. Widely rebadged by GM (e.g., Isuzu Hombre, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon).
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, Thailand, United States (via GM partnerships)
Market Life Span:
Over 14 years, indicating a successful and adaptable platform
